The Podcast

We don’t outgrow ADHD, we simply change with it. Join hosts Jami and Justin as we explore the intersection of ADHD and seniors.

Episode 59 – Crisis Doesn’t Make an Appointment: A Conversation with a Care Navigator on Why We Need to Pay Attention to “Not Now”

What happens when ADHD meets the complex world of healthcare planning?

In this thought-provoking episode of Grandma Has ADHD, host Jami Shapiro sits down with Brett Frankenberg, founder of Apex Health Advocates, who brings over 30 years of experience as a clinician, executive, and healthcare advocate. Together, they unpack why proactive planning is so challenging for ADHD brains—and why “crisis doesn’t make an appointment.”

From his son’s 18-month insurance battle to helping families navigate care decisions, Brett’s story highlights the emotional and practical chaos that can come when we avoid conversations about aging, health, and the future. Jami and Brett also explore how ADHD’s “now vs. not now” mindset plays a huge role in procrastination, overwhelm, and planning paralysis—and how to get unstuck with compassion, humor, and structure.

Whether you’re a caregiver, an adult child of aging parents, or someone with ADHD struggling to “adult” through healthcare paperwork, this episode is your reminder that planning ahead isn’t just responsible—it’s an act of love.

Planning Ahead When Your Brain Lives in “Now or Not Now” with Brett Frankenberg

What happens when ADHD meets the realities of healthcare, aging, and planning for the future?
 In this insightful episode of Grandma Has ADHD, host Jami Shapiro sits down with Brett Frankenberg, founder of Apex Health Advocates, to talk about what happens when life throws unexpected challenges your way—and how ADHD brains often struggle most when it comes to planning ahead.

With over 30 years in healthcare as a clinician, executive, and advocate, Brett has seen firsthand how even the most organized families can feel lost when faced with medical crises, long-term care decisions, or insurance nightmares. But through his personal experiences—helping his son through an 18-month insurance battle, rescuing his father after a medication error, and supporting a friend’s family through recovery—he learned that crisis never makes an appointment.

Together, Jami and Brett dive deep into why people with ADHD often delay big life decisions, how the “now or not now” mindset affects financial and medical preparedness, and why talking about healthcare and aging doesn’t have to feel heavy or scary.

ADHD, Planning, and the Challenge of “Later” Thinking

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by paperwork, avoided medical forms, or put off tough conversations about the future—you’re not alone. ADHD brains live in the present moment, which makes planning ahead especially hard. But as Jami and Brett discuss, waiting until “later” often leaves families making decisions under stress.

This conversation shines a light on how ADHD intersects with health, caregiving, and family communication—and how planning early can actually bring freedom, clarity, and peace of mind.

Together, they explore:

  • Why ADHD brains struggle with long-term planning and follow-through
  • How “crisis planning” can be turned into proactive care with structure and support
  • The emotional toll of healthcare decision-making—and how to reduce it
  • How exercise, nature, and connection can help ADHD adults stay grounded
  • Why planning ahead is a form of self-care for both you and your loved ones

From Healthcare Chaos to Calm: Brett’s Mission with Apex Health Advocates

Brett’s work through Apex Health Advocates helps families navigate complex medical systems, understand care options, and make decisions confidently. His approach blends compassion, expertise, and a deep understanding that emotions often cloud judgment—especially during moments of crisis.

He and Jami also talk about the importance of support networks—friends, advocates, and professionals—who can help ADHD adults stay accountable and organized when it matters most.

Whether you’re a caregiver, adult child of aging parents, or simply someone learning to plan with an ADHD brain, this episode will leave you feeling informed, encouraged, and ready to take that next step—before life forces you to.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode

Brett Frankenberg, founder of Apex Health Advocates

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