Heidi Wells - Planning for Aging Parents
There is deep bravery in choosing to begin again, especially when life has already shaped you, tested you, and taught you a thing or two about resilience. Heidi Wells knows this courage well.
As the founder of The Aging Parent Roadmap, Heidi supports adult children navigating one of life’s most emotionally complex seasons: caring for aging parents while still holding onto themselves. Her work lives at the intersection of compassion, practicality, and humanity - and it’s deeply needed.
“I assist adult children of aging parents navigate the winding and often complex road without losing themselves,” she shares. It’s a clear mission that carries enormous weight.
The Heart of the Work
Aging is something we all experience, yet few of us feel truly prepared for it especially when it’s our parents who are changing before our eyes. Heidi believes one of the most important shifts we can make is learning to meet aging with empathy rather than resistance.
“Aging is hard for everyone,” she says. “We need to accept that it will happen to us all. Treat your parents as you would want to be treated when you are their age.”
At the core of her work is a reminder many of us forget: our parents are scared, too. “They don’t want to lose who they are as they age. They’re holding on for dear life to maintain who they once were. We need to have compassion for that.”
It’s this perspective, grounded in dignity and deep understanding, that defines Heidi’s approach and sets her apart in an industry that often focuses solely on logistics, rather than humanity.
Wisdom Earned Through Experience
When asked what her journey has taught her, Heidi doesn’t point to tactics or credentials. Instead, she returns to something far more essential: openness.
“Change is your friend,” she says. “If you can stay open and flexible, good things will come your way.” It’s advice she not only offers others, but is actively living herself.
Nearly 60, Heidi has just launched this new endeavor. She’s honest about the fear that comes with that leap. “I’m scared of failure,” she admits. “But it excites me because it’s a new challenge at almost 60. And I love a good challenge.” There is something profoundly worthy about that truth.
Beyond the Work
Outside of her professional life, Heidi finds grounding in nature. “A good walk with my dog along the water can cure just about anything,” she says. It feels fitting for someone whose work is about slowing down, reconnecting, and honoring what matters most.
Her favorite quote captures the essence of her journey and the spirit of the women that we love to celebrate:
“It is not the critic who counts… The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly…”
—Theodore Roosevelt
If you are dealing with aging parents and feel overwhelmed, please consider connecting with Heidi and start on making a plan that works for your family.
You can learn more about Heidi and her work at www.theagingparentroadmap.com and follow along on Instagram.
At Beauclair Photography, we will always take time to honor women like Heidi who are evolving, leading with heart, and choosing courage over comfort. THANK YOU Heidi, for allowing us a front row seat in the arena to see that you are exactly where you belong in this chapter of your story!
