What If Our Approach to Aging Is All Wrong? | Heather Durenberger | TEDxMinneapolis
We recognize adolescence as a pivotal stage of human development, yet, we overlook an equally disruptive transition - the shift from independence to dependence in later life. Heather Durenberger introduces the Adolescence of Aging, a psychologically distinct stage that we must acknowledge, not only to support our aging loved ones but to prepare for our own inevitable journey.Heather Durenberger is a nonprofit strategist, mom of four, and daughter navigating the real-time demands of supporting her parents, while working to shift the national conversation around this overlooked life stage. She is the co-founder of “People in the Squeeze,” a movement and podcast amplifying the voices of those caught between raising children and supporting aging loved ones. Alongside co-founder Jayne Dow Larkin, Heather co-authored “Thriving in Chaos: Navigating the Challenges of Aging Parents,” a best-selling guide to spark change and offer practical support for adult children in the thick of caring for aging parents. A proud Twin Cities resident, Heather brings lived experience, humor, and heart to a topic that touches nearly every family - and deserves far more attention. Heather Durenberger is a nonprofit strategist, mom of four, and daughter navigating the real-time demands of supporting her parents—while working to shift the national conversation around this overlooked life stage. She is the co-founder of People in the Squeeze, a movement and podcast amplifying the voices of those caught between raising children and supporting aging loved ones.Alongside co-founder Jayne Dow Larkin, Heather co-authored Thriving in Chaos: Navigating the Challenges of Aging Parents, a best-selling guide to spark change and offer practical support for adult children in the thick of caring for aging parents. A proud Twin Cities resident, Heather brings lived experience, humor, and heart to a topic that touches nearly every family—and deserves far more attention. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
More from TED
- 8:31The Invisible Half: Unlocking women's potential | Mariyam Ismail | TEDxSolitaireGlobalSchoolsAttapurExplores the systemic barriers women face in business including funding gaps and leadership bias. A passionate advocate for gender equality and women’s empowerment in the business world. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 6:51Live, Change or Blame the Fate? | Aqila Dzakiyah Khazanaha | TEDxPribadi School DepokIs your life a story of fate or of your own making? Even small decisions can lead to big changes, and when we choose to face our fears instead of running away, we create new chances for ourselves. This speech is about how it’s not just about what happens to us, but how we respond. A speaker who lives life to the fullest. Aqila is a social and curious person who loves connecting with others and trying new things. She believes in making the most of every moment by staying active and engaged in meaningful activities that inspire both herself and those around her. Her talk is sure to spark new ideas and encourage you to live a more intentional life. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 7:26The Ripple You Can’t See | Zhafirra Rabbani Yurianto | TEDxPribadi School DepokWhat if one small moment could change everything you thought you knew about your life? What if your everyday choices were ripples, spreading far beyond what you can see? Let’s find out how the tiniest unnoticed sparks can set off storms of transformation. A true mover and shaker. Zhafirra is an 8th-grade student with a thirst for learning and a passion for challenges. With a track record of success in Olympiads, competitions, and community service, she believes in the power of experience and connection. In this talk, she proves that curiosity and a drive to grow can create incredible opportunities. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 6:26One Spark, One Change | Fakhira Zahrani Firman Masudi | TEDxPribadi School DepokThe story of two inspirational women who stood up, not with force, but with their voices. How can your voice create change? A creative soul with a passion for both art and nature, who is also a natural-born innovator. As a young, passionate soul, Fakhira once took part in the "Girl's Day" in the Netherlands, hosted by the European Patent Office. At just 11 years old, this 8th-grade student at Pribadi Depok experienced interactive workshops focusing on STEM and even had her first professional interview. In this talk, she will be as comfortable with a paintbrush as she is with a new scientific challenge. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 7:33Breaking Free from Learned Helplessness | Afni Danisa Paramesti | TEDxPribadi School DepokHave you ever felt like no matter how hard you try, you just can't succeed?That feeling of powerlessness has a name: learned helplessness. This speech will help you understand what it is, using real-life examples you can relate to. Most importantly, you'll discover simple, effective strategies to overcome it.Ready to stop feeling defeated and unlock your true potential? A young voice with a powerful message. At just 13 years old, Afni is an 8th-grade student who is already making waves. A silver medalist at the 2025 Owlypia Debate and Speech Competition, she has a passion for psychology and a talent for weaving stories. In this talk, she proves that curiosity and a passion for learning have no age limit. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 12:46The Power of Silence! | Ms. Kavya Rawal | TEDxYouth@JGISWhat if silence wasn’t a void — but a voice?In this deeply moving and introspective TEDx talk, RJ Kavya Rawal, a well-known radio jockey, explores the profound impact of silence in a world that never stops talking. As someone whose life revolves around sound and conversation, she shares how her greatest lessons didn’t come from what she said — but from what she didn’t.Through real on-air experiences and honest reflection, RJ Kavya reveals how silence can heal, connect, and humanize us. She reminds us that in the rush to say more, do more, and post more, we often forget the beauty of simply pausing — of truly listening. “Because silence isn’t the absence of sound… it’s the presence of meaning.” Kavya Rawal is an accomplished radio professional, voice artist, and content creator based in Ahmedabad. With a background in Psychology and Mass Communication & Journalism, she combines academic insight with a natural flair for storytelling. Kavya began her career as an evening show host at Fever 95 FM and now hosts the popular morning show on 104 Mirchi Love Ahmedabad, where her distinctive voice and engaging style connect with thousands of listeners every day. She has interviewed celebrated figures across film, music, sports, and digital media, and has anchored numerous high-profile events. As a seasoned voice actor, Kavya has lent her voice to thousands of ads, films, and campaigns. A guest lecturer, competition judge, and prior TEDx speaker, she continues to inspire audiences with her authenticity, resilience, and dynamic presence. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx