Jayne Dow Larkin

Jayne Dow Larkin is a consumer psychologist, mom, and reformed ad exec who spent decades shaping the narratives of beloved brands at some of the most celebrated creative agencies in the world. Yet, none of this prepared her for the wild, relentless ride of juggling work, family, and the ever-escalating crises that come with aging parents. When one in-law passed suddenly and the other lingered in hospice, Jayne found herself in uncharted territory thinking: There has to be a better way.

Jayne joined ranks with Heather Durenberger, a fellow warrior in the squeeze, to create People in the Squeeze -- a voice in a movement to change the way we collectively talk about and experience caring for our aging parents. With humor, heart, and a healthy dose of “It’s not you. This is hard for everyone,” their work helps people navigate the emotional and mental complexity of caring for aging parents while still, you know, having a life.

Her debut book, Thriving in Chaos: Navigating the Challenges of Aging Parents, is a must-read for anyone caught in this modern squeeze—whether you’re deep in it or just bracing for impact.

Join the movement: Follow @PeopleInTheSqueeze on Instagram and TikTok and check out the People in the Squeeze podcast wherever you get your podcasts for more real talk, laughs, and hard-won wisdom.