Susan A. Pomfret RICP®️
I am sitting at a kitchen table educating Mary (82) about how a HECM may benefit her. Once I started asking her questions about what struggles she is having, I was hit with a lot more than I thought—she is not only having difficulty financially, but also emotionally. Are you prepared for this? You better be. As a HECM expert, you need to be sure you are an all-around resource for the seniors you meet.
Mary began to tell me that when her husband passed away, learning to live on one Social Security check was frustrating. She soon realized what bills she needed to pay and what things she would have to do without. Obviously, as she aged, her health care costs increased and most of her money went toward that and her home. She said she was fine with that because she had no plans to leave the home that she had been in for more than 45 years. It is where she raised her children and where her grandchildren and great-grandchildren now enjoy playing in the beautiful backyard.
She started to tell me how, at times, she is lonely and sad, and that most of her lifelong friends have passed. I asked her if she gets involved in her local senior center and she said, “The people there are too old for me.” I responded, “That is why they need you! Have you ever considered volunteering? And it would be a good excuse to get out of the house a few hours a week.”
I always carry around my state’s Department of Elderly Affairs Pocket Manual, so I was able to give her a contact to call. I also mentioned to her that we have a program called The Friendly Visitor that she may want to look into. I told her my mom was involved with this program and developed a lovely friendship with the woman who came to visit her each week. My good old pocket manual also had that information.
From there, she was telling me that this winter had been very difficult (those of us in New England can surely relate to that). She mentioned that she had to get oil so frequently that when it was delivered, she would tell them to just fill it halfway. I informed her about our state’s heating assistance program, which she was not aware of.
And yes, you guessed it, I was able to give her the information from my pocket manual along with the number to Rhode Island Saving Energy (RISE), who will come to a senior’s home and perform a free energy-efficiency evaluation. They will even replace old light bulbs with energy-efficient ones for free, and possibly install a new, energy-efficient refrigerator at low or no cost! As I continued to help Mary with some of her difficulties, I saw that her mood picked up and she was much more optimistic than when I first arrived. As I continued to help Mary with some of her difficulties, I saw that her mood picked up and she was much more optimistic than when I first arrived.
This is just one example of how I was resourceful to Mary beyond a HECM. I was able to address her issues right on the spot. Would a HECM solve some of these issues? Absolutely, but given that these programs are available to her, why wouldn’t I share my knowledge about them with her?
So, let’s get back to the HECM. After identifying some other issues, Mary realized that the program would truly relieve some of her financial stress and she decided to move forward. A few months after closing, she called to thank me again for all my help. Best calls ever, right? As I told her before, it was my pleasure and I aim to be as resourceful as possible. She wanted me to know that she is volunteering at the senior center three hours a week and loves it. She has even met some new friends because of it. She also signed up to be a Friendly Visitor and makes weekly visits to two senior ladies who are homebound, and she is grateful to be making a difference in their lives. By doing these two things, Mary thinks she is helping others, which she is. Just as importantly, she is helping herself, without even realizing it.
Sure, I helped her with her financial struggles by helping her obtain a HECM, but I also got her out of her isolation and gave her a new purpose. By the way, she told me she took advantage of the heating assistance program and RISE. Now that spring is finally here, she is looking forward to purchasing a new swingset for her yard for the kids to enjoy.
Ironically, as I was writing this story, I received a call from a gentleman about his adult sister. She has severe disabilities, and between her mortgage and credit card debt, she is struggling each month. Unfortunately, she is only 56 years old, so I was not able to help with a HECM, but I was still able to be a resource to him by giving him information on our local housing agency that may be able to refinance her into a very low interest rate, along with a debt counseling agency that can help negotiate with her creditors to reduce her interest rate and monthly payments, making things more manageable for her. So, I guess the lesson learned here is how truly important being a resource to people really is!
Lastly, I am fortunate that my state has various senior
nonprofit organizations, where I volunteer. Giving back is very important to
me. It not only teaches me about what is available for my clients (things that are
not in my pocket manual), but also allows me to build awareness about HECMs and
show people that HECM professionals really do care about helping our seniors.
Writer’s Note: March 2024. I
am happy to say that I am serving the Southwest FL area and can be as
resourceful given my referral partners and the Seniors Blue Book.
Reach out today for more information, 401-595-7300 or spomfret@usamortgage.com
Alzheon has reported encouraging results from its Phase 2 trial of ALZ-801, an oral treatment for early Alzheimers disease. The study showed cognitive benefits, a 28% reduction in hippocampal atrophy, and a strong safety profile, particularly for individuals with two copies of the APOE4 gene. With the Phase 3 trial now fully enrolled, topline results are expected in the near future. If successful, ALZ-801 could become the first oral anti-amyloid therapy for high-risk patients. Aqualane is proud to be part of this groundbreaking research and extend our deepest gratitude to all participants whose contributions are shaping the future of Alzheimers treatment.
At The Dubin Center, we often see the strength that blooms when families come together to care for a loved one. One such inspiring duo is Sally and her daughter, Jenna multigenerational caregiving team who have supported each other and grown together through the challenges of dementia caregiving.Sally has been a caregiver for at least four years, navigating the evolving needs of her husband with quiet strength and a fierce commitment to showing up each day. Two years ago, her daughter Jenn moved to Florida to be closerand to help. Since then, the two have become a team, blending perspectives, experiences, and love as they walk the caregiving journey together.When asked what they would say to someone who is unsure about joining a support group or getting involved with The Dubin Center, both women spoke with heartfelt conviction."Definitely come, Sally said. Anyone dealing with this sort of stuff needs support. It saved me.Jenn echoed her mothers words, adding, You are not alone. The support groups can help lift you out of the misery. You can give advice and get advice. Its a safe spaceand comforting knowing others understand.Caregiving across generations isnt always easy, but it opens the door for powerful lessons.When asked what younger and older generations can learn from each other, Sally emphasized patiencenoting that age often brings the ability to let go of the small things and focus on what really matters. Jenn reflected on the importance of respect, independence, and dignity, which shes seen modeled by her mom.So, what advice do they have for other families navigating caregiving across generations?Find support, and dont do it alone, Sally advised. Let your family know whats going on and ask for help when you need it.Jenn added, Being open, honest, patient, and kind are the most important. Dont judge, and find a middle ground to work together.Thank you, Sally and Jenn, for your inspiring words! Whether you have family to lean on or not, their words are a reminder that caregiving doesnt have to be a solitary journey. If you or someone you know is caregiving across generations or by themself, reach out. Whether it's joining a support group or simply asking questions, The Dubin Center is here for you!
As we mark Womens History Month 2025, TravelPulse is once again taking a moment to acknowledge the substantial contributions and innovations of women in the travel industry.Its hardly an overstatement to say that women play a critical role in travel and tourism, both locally and globally.The latest available data from the World Travel & Tourism Council shows that women make up nearly 40 percent of the industry. That translates to about 48 million women working in what is now the worlds ninth largest industry.Among these women are scores of trailblazers, visionaries and fearless go-getters who have set their sights on making a difference for others or for the world (or both) and are doing so in their own unique way. They are entrepreneurs, they are corporate titans, they are passionate environmentalists and they are leaders of some of the travel industrys largest brands, businesses and trade groups.This is TravelPulses fifth annual list of influential women in travel, and each year, it is a privilege reviewing the bold things that women in travel are accomplishing. The 2025 class of influential leaders makes clear that women continue to be a force to be reckoned with, even during this fraught time in our history.Women continue to bring unique approaches to addressing and resolving many of the daunting challenges facing the industry and the world at large, including finding ways to make travel more sustainable, inclusive, accessible, thoughtful, and beneficial for stakeholders at all levels.At TravelPulses request, each of the 20 women being honored this year (who were all nominated by industry peers) shared a few career accomplishments theyre most proud of, as well as thoughts on what motivates them. Their answers are a compelling and inspirational read.Heres a closer look at each of the 2025 winners and the forces that drive them.Kerri Johnson, Founder, GOMO TravelAs the founder of GOMO Travel, Kerri Johnson is transforming the way people with mobility challenges, medical conditions, or other travel limitations experience the world. A medical travel assistance agency, GOMOs medical travel companions ensure that travelers get where they need to go with safety.The assistance of GOMO companions is available whether someone has mobility issues, suffers from anxiety, or requires medical assistance.Johnsons efforts through GOMO prioritize inclusivity, ensuring every traveler no matter their circumstances receives personalized support, from booking accessible accommodations to navigating unexpected disruptions.Q: What motivates you to do what you do each day?I have a nursing background and have always been sensitive to peoples feelings and needs, says Johnson. As I have grown and matured, I have become a staunch advocate for those less fortunate. I start my day with my alarm of Andy Williams song The Impossible Dream.This is a daily reminder to accomplish my goal of alleviating fear, isolationism, andexclusion experienced by many would-be travelers, says Johnson. At GOMO Travel, we strive to make their dreams possible.Q: What are your hopes and goals related to your specific area of work and the impact youd like to have on the travel industry?We feel everyone should be free to travel on their own terms, whatever that individuallymeans for them, says Johnson. Our hope is to normalize assisted travel across the globe so they will know that resources like ours exist. Uber did not happen overnight, and we utilize every day to build our network to achieve our goal of one day becoming the Uber of assisted travel.
At USA Mortgage, we are passionate about helping seniors achieve financial flexibility through Home Equity Conversion Mortgages (HECMs) and other Reverse Mortgage solutions. With a customer-focused approach and over two decades of experience, we provide tailored mortgage options designed to meet the needs of homeowners aged 55 and older.Our dedicated local Team are experts in HECMs/Reverse Mortgages, guiding you every step of the way with a seamless loan process. Whether youre looking to access your homes equity, refinance, or explore a HECM or Reverse for Purchase option, USA Mortgage offers a wide range of solutions to help you reach your financial goals.We pride ourselves on delivering a reliable, detail-oriented, and personalized experience. From the initial consultation toloan closing, our Team is committed to finding the right product that works for you, providing peace of mind and financial freedom. Trust USA Mortgage to be your premier home loan partner, empowering you to make the most of your retirement years.We offer a wide range of mortgage options to suit your specific needs and financial goals. From conventional loans to FHA, VA, and USDA loans, HECM and Reverse Mortgage loans. USA Mortgage has the expertise to help you find the perfect mortgage solution. Susan A. Pomfret, RICP has a career spanning several decades, she is proud to be one of the trailblazers in the reverse mortgage industry, having the honor of originating one of the first HECMs in Rhode Island in 1989 and has since dedicated her career to advancing the industry, playing a pivotal role in elevating companies to new heights. Under her leadership, she has transformed HECM closings, overseen vast teams, and engineered sales strategies nationwide.Susan's passion extends beyond just professional accomplishments; she is deeply committed to the senior community. This is reflected not only in leadership roles within senior-focused non-profit organizations but also in the dedication as a volunteer and advocate. She has been published in numerous mortgage publications, covered esteemed events like the White House Conference on Aging in 2005 and 2015, and was chosen to assist in writing the first Certified Reverse Mortgage Professional (CRMP) exam for the industry's trade organization, the National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association (NRMLA).In addition to Susan professional endeavors, she holds a Bachelor Degree in Paralegal Studies, a Certificate in Gerontology from Roger Williams University and the Retirement Income Certified Professional Designation from The American College of Finance Services. Susan is driven by the mission to enrich the lives of our senior population and empower retirees to live a financially stress-free retirement.Contact Susan Pomfret, RICP at 401-595-7300 to schedule your free consultation.NMLS#1253876. Licensed in FL (License #LO125044)