Aging Life Network

Many of us are gathering during the holidays for the first time in two years. The stress of the season and such gatherings may be exacerbated when the changing needs and challenges of elder care is put into the equation. It is common for family members to have differing views on an aging loved one's status, care needs and future planning decisions. The stress of elder care can bring up old conflicts and begin to fracture even the best of families The issues and interactions may find their way io your holiday meal. My guest, Anne deLain Clark, is an interpersonal communication expert and transformative mediator. Anne and I will discuss ways to use conscious communication to mitigate conflict…allowing for productive interactions, planning and conversation. Her experience mediating with families struggling with concerns related to an aging loved one's needs can improve your family's ability to offer your loved one the best care and decisions possible.

Many families are enjoying holiday visits after a long separation due to the pandemic. You may have visited recently or have plans to do so soon. Whether you live near or far, when you have not seen an older loved one for many months, you may notice some changes or decline. It may not be easily identified but things seem different now that you are there in person. Loved ones who may be experiencing an age-related decline do not always share their need for assistance. One can cover up problems on the phone that may be more apparent in person. It is not until a visit that we begin to notice signs that changes are occurring that may put your loved one at risk, either physically or financially. Knowing what signs to look for and understanding the impact such changes can have on your family member's well being are critical to insuring they remain safe in the future. Experienced Life Care Manager, Tina Buchanan, and I will talk about the signs to watch for during your holiday visit that indicate your loved one may be at risk. Tina will offer specific red flags and we will address various ways you might approach the problems you see developing.

In the confusing world of trusts, there is one trust that you will want to know about for your aging loved one and that is the Special Needs Trust. This trust allows your loved one to remain on, or qualify for, Federal, State and other benefits while having funds in trust to assist with approved costs. If you have a sibling or are a parent of an adult with special needs, this is important for you to learn about. If you have a parent under age 65, particularly with limited resources, this will offer an option for funds to be available later while still qualifying for benefits. Also a great tool you can use in your estate plan for a loved one. Join me and two very knowledgeable guests as we talk about the many benefits of using the Special Needs Trust now or for use in future planning.

Learning and Memory are connected to how we engage our senses in the world around us because our brain is beautifully wired to learn through our eyes, our ears, our hands, our taste, and our heart. Our brain learns through our senses because when we see, hear, taste, touch, or smell something, we create neural connections – we tell two brain cells to “connect”, to “talk”. The more these brain cells link together, we create a neural pathway. Soon, these links turn into chains and chains turn into networks and we have created new memories, new habits, and new beliefs. We use our senses to interpret and study the world around us and these sensory experiences become small neural connections that lead to memory and understanding. We have short-term, long-term, and working memory that function differently in our brains to help us focus, remember, and commit to learning new skills. Today, we will take a look at how we can use our senses to learn new things with just a little bit of effort. At first learning can seem hard or challenging, but by simply engaging our senses we create memories that link together new and old memories and soon become crystallized as a neural pathway that learns something new. For instance, if you broke your writing hand, you could learn with your non-dominant hand how to write because our brain's are neuro plastic. We are learning that neurogenesis means that we “birth” new connections by committing our senses to new experiences. In fact, our thoughts and our emotions determine how important something is and then we create neural connections that lead to networks, that connects to prior knowledge, that creates a new skill. This means that when we label something as important, we are telling our brain to FOCUS, ACTIVATE MY SENSES, LINK MEMORIES, BUILD NEW SKILLS. We will discuss this and more with learning expert Jennifer Price.

Reverse mortgages can offer seniors and those caring for a loved one the opportunity to remain in a home and age in place. Many dismiss the use of a reverse mortgage without a full understanding of the features, benefits and costs associated with this financing instrument. My guest, Millie Garcia, is a reverse mortgage expert. She and I will discuss those instances when a reverse mortgage may make sense for a senior who wants to remain in their home as they age but will need funds to do so. Some seniors use a reverse mortgage to supplement income. We will also discuss the costs and limits of a reverse mortgage; the ways in which it simply may not make sense. Join us and learn the pros and cons, the costs and variety of features for what may be a real option for you or your loved one.

Seniors considering a move to a retirement community or families managing the care and finances for a loved one so often do not look beyond the option of selling the home that has been occupied for many years. The sale of a home brings with it tax consequences and the need to re-invest proceeds. This week we will be exploring keeping the home and using the home as an income producing asset that can supplement you or your loved ones cost of living or care needs. Concerned about the headache of managing a rental? Do not live nearby? I will be talking with a property management expert as well as a certified public accountant about the many benefits of considering this option. We will look at the tax consequences of selling now vs. setting up as a rental. We will also discuss the property management role, the team required and if hiring a property management group, how to find the best one to work with.

The death of a loved one requires the distribution of that person's property, cash, retirement/investment accounts and real estate. In many instances having a personal representative, or executor, of the estate is necessary and working within the probate court is required. In some States, this can be an expensive and complex process, while in others relatively simple. My guest, Probate Judge Cristy Carbon-Gaul, will talk with us about those instances in which a probate is necessary and discuss ways to avoid it. She will also address such questions as; What if there is no will? What if the proposed executor is not appropriate? Why does it sometimes take so long? What does it mean when there is a pour-over will? How do you handle the personal property?....to name a few. A great show for those considering how they want their own estate handled and/or those named in an older loved ones estate planning documents.

Sharing your medical treatment and end of life wishes and with those you love, about what you want, or what your loved one wants, can be a difficult conversation to have. Most often we believe that because we have seen a lawyer and completed our Advance Directives that there is nothing more to do or say. Such is not the case, says our special guest this week, Joan Gibson. Joan and I will discuss the many “what if's” that such legal documents don't cover and why it's important that all of us have these conversations with those we love. Joan is a pioneer in the world of health care decision-making. This conversation is a must for all of us, regardless of age. For a free download of the “Values History Form”, go to AgingLifeNetwork.com

Are you a Guardian or Conservator for an incapacitated adult? Does what you are reading and hearing in the Britney Spears case concern you? I, your host Nancy Oriola, was introduced to the professional world of Guardianship and Conservatorship as it was developing in the late 1980's and began working directly as both a corporate Guardian and Conservator a decade later. As a nationally certified master's level guardian, I have had a front row seat to the growth of the industry and have watched as the system meant to protect incapacitated adults has increasingly come under attack as a result of the abuses by individual bad actors as well as the legal system. The many reforms now underway are a positive result of pushback by advocates and, in my view, a natural part of the maturing of an industry that continues to be needed. There is a reason the need for third party, corporate Guardians and Conservators developed in the first place. Now is not the time to overreact to the media attention of cases like Britney Spears. While on the surface it appears the basic Standards of Practice were not followed in her case, it's hard to make a full judgement without knowing all the information. This show is about why the need for Guardians and Conservators (both family and corporate) will continue to grow and what those entrusted with the responsibility need to understand about this evolving world.

Join me as I talk with one of my most lively guests! TracyB makes talking about Medicare a more enjoyable experience. When it comes to understanding all things Medicare, she is the person I turn to. She will share with us the 5 biggest Medicare mistakes people make. I guarantee you will gain a better understanding of this often confusing area of healthcare and meet the person you will want to call to help you determine the best course of action for you and your loved ones.

How do you evaluate the unique care needs of your loved one, and what systems do you have in place to assist with the management of their care? Managing care includes medications, appointments, caregiver schedules and the communication of information with other family members. Our guest, Jordan Webster, spent several years working with caregiving families and repeatedly saw their struggle to managing the many moving parts associated with caring for those with complex needs. Jordan and I will discuss the unique needs your family member may require your management and oversight, as well as a system of care that will ensure your loved one's care is managed well. Don't re-invent the wheel. Learn about a software system that will make your caregiving role simpler and safer.

Aging Life Care Professionals®, called Geriatric Care Managers for 30+ years, is a professional group that has seen exponential growth as our aging population has mushroomed. Most families in highly populated areas of the country have heard of this unique professional. At a time when many professionals begin to enter the aging world – calling themselves experts, families need to understand what assistance is available and why this particular group of professionals is best qualified to guide you on your journey with your loved ones. Aging Life Care Professionals® are experienced and licensed in a variety of related fields and their expertise can be summarized into eight knowledge areas. Join me as I talk about how an Aging Life Care Manager can benefit you and your family, with Liz Barlowe, owner of Barlowe and Associates, Aging Life Care Manager, and Board President of the national Aging Life Care Association.

Wouldn't it be fantastic if our brain function could improve as we age! We hear so much about our risk of developing dementia, let's spend some time to understand more about the science of the brain in terms of brain health and growth. One of the primary tenets of brain health is continuing to learn new things. The science of neuroplasticity and the impact of learning new things on the brain is remarkable. As the founder of Learning Foundations, a Personal Advancement Center in Denver Colorado, my guest, Jennifer Price, MS leads a team of Educational Specialists who support the diverse neurological needs of learners of all ages. Through brain-based research, Jennifer will share insight into the amazing plasticity of our brain and easy ways to take care of our brain, so it stays young and active even into our golden years. Join us to learn how important the connection between brain and gut are and to destroy the myths of an aging brain. Jennifer's knowledge and experience on priming our brain to learn, remember, and stay sharp will inspire you to take care of your brain in simple ways!

As we complete our Boomer series, I would like to end on a hopeful and uplifting topic and that is creating the life you want. Baby Boomers have been given the gift of a longer life expectancy thanks to modern medicine. For most boomers aging is not so much about getting old as it is a new time of life. Many are asking themselves, “What's next?”. When we look to what some may term our “third act” or perhaps “fourth act”, who we have become and who we might still want to become is reflected upon. My guest, Rhonda Farrah, will talk with us about aging as an opportunity to fully live the life you have always wanted. She sees this time as offering the potential for transformation and change both inside and out. Her passion for assisting and inspiring others to create the success and life you desire is her life's work. Rhonda has written several ebooks, and for the past 25 years has worked as a LIFEstyle Empowerment Coach/Alchemist, Author, Speaker, Spiritual Practitioner, and licensed Art of Feminine Presence™. Her philosophy is simple” Identify & Live you deepest Passion while striving for balancer in all areas of your life. Take the time to listen and reflect as I discuss creating the life you want through transformation and change of self with one of our leaders in inspiring and guiding others in a positive direction for betterment.

Baby boomers are the first generation to be responsible for the investment of their savings. Previous generations were mostly covered by defined benefit pension plans where employers made all the investment decisions. Today most baby boomers are invested 60/40 stocks/bonds. This is a mistake for most, says my guest Ron Surz, because baby boomers are in what Ron calls the “Risk Zone”. Ron's passion is helping his fellow baby boomers at this critical time in their lives when they are relying on their lifetime savings to support a retirement with dignity, so he wrote a book: Baby Boomer Investing in the Perilous 2020s. An industry veteran of 50 years, as well as the host of the Baby Boomer Investing Show, Ron is joining us to discuss many of the concepts and ideas in his book, including the “Four Pillars of Smart Investing” He will share his concern that investment mistakes in this perilous decade of the 2020s could be very costly, especially to baby boomers who should not be gambling their lifetime savings. Ron's concerns are related to the following: • Interest rates have never been lower • The US government has never printed more money • Stock prices have never been higher • The wealth divide in the US has never been wider It is usually not true when someone says, “It's different this time”, but Ron will tell you, it IS true this time.

Are you part of the Baby Boom generation? Or are you caring for or have a loved one who is a Boomer? As part of my series focused on Boomers I will be joined today by Daniel Zeman, an author, speaker and exercise physiologist on a mission. Dan will share his unique perspective about health and aging based on more than 40 years in the health, wellness, fitness and sports medicine arenas. His message to male Baby Boomers, captured in his recent book “You're Too Old To Die Young”, includes looking at the longevity gifted to Boomers by medical advancements that Dan calls the extra Bonus Years. He will share with us his perspective about the choices and consequences that come with those extra years; both the good and bad news for every male Baby Boomer. Join me as we discuss health and wellness of the aging male Boomer.

Are you part of the Baby Boom generation? Or are you caring for or have a loved one who is a Boomer? My guest, Rick Bava, is one of America's prominent thought leaders on the Boomer generation. His book, “In Search of the Baby Boom Generation” was the culmination of his travels and conversations with Boomers throughout the United States from all walks of life and socio-economic backgrounds. We will discuss what he learned in his travels about this unique and often talked about group of aging adults. We will talk about the issues this generation is currently facing and/or will be facing as they age in the 21st century. As a Boomer myself, and only seven days older than Rick, I am very excited to hear what Rick will share with us about my generation and what he sees in our future.

Many studies, conducted around the world, have identified the significant value and importance of connecting youth with seniors. When they serve each other, the lives of the seniors and the youth are greatly enhanced and contribute to overcoming many of the challenges these two groups commonly face, including loneliness, isolation, depression, and suicide. Through serving each other their feelings of self worth and their happiness are increased. Through the act of giving back to the other, both the older adult and the young person are enriched. This was the motivating force behind the development of the non-profit organization Seniors4Seniors. Founder and CEO, Eric Peterson joins me, along with Dr. Jason Powell, Senior Vice President to discuss this unique and innovative program that is bringing meaning to the life of those who participate. We will discuss ways your community can develop such a program that provides mentorship to our youth and offers purpose, meaning and companionship to our seniors.

Driving is probably one of the biggest challenges faced by seniors and those concerned about a loved one as they age. Driving represents independence and freedom in a way few other activities of daily living do. Seniors sometimes feel others are telling them to stop when they simply do not agree it's a problem. Families plead with primary care physicians and loved ones about safety. Adult children discuss ways of “taking the car keys”. I want to explore some of the signs that will highlight when you should be concerned, discuss ways of approaching the problem and how to determine if now is the time. I will also speak to the risks of putting off addressing the problem. I will be joined by my guest Jenny Nordine, Occupational Therapist and Certified Driver Rehabilitation Specialist, who will discuss the ways her program evaluates people's ability to drive safely. We will talk about what is being evaluated and how families can use such programs as a way to determine one's ability to continue driving.

Alzheimer's disease represents 50% of all types of dementia. The next two types most often diagnosed are Vascular dementia and Frontal-Temporal dementia. Vascular dementia can be overlooked because it does not necessarily impair memory or language, thus the observation that your loved one “presents well”. A person with Vascular dementia may score within normal range on most standardized tests given by health care professionals. Those closest to the individual with vascular dementia can be left frustrated and confused about what they are experiencing on a day-to-day basis. You know something is wrong, but you can't get a diagnosis. Or maybe you're having trouble getting on board with a family member who is concerned but you don't understand the problem. My guest, Neurologist Dr. Janice Knoefel, will share with us the science behind vascular dementia, how it is different from an Alzheimer's type dementia, the common symptoms with this type of dementia and ways of stabilizing the disease process.

Forgetfullness… Trouble finding the right word… Why did I come into this room?,,, “Is this normal?” – a common question asked by seniors and often by those who love them. As we age, there are changes seniors experience that would be defined as a normal part of the aging process. What are those normal age-related changes? When should we be concerned that the changes we are experiencing, or noticing in our loved ones, are not normal? What is Mild Cognitive Impairment and how do I know if it's dementia? Neurologist and geriatrician, Dr. Jan Knoefel will provide answers to these and other questions about the normal aging process and the signs and symptoms of a possible form of dementia. We will discuss some of the signs that there may be a problem and ways to seek help.

Family members are often the ones that oversee the care being provided to a loved one in their home. When an agency caregiver is brought in there is generally a care coordinator or supervisor that manages the schedule and periodically conducts periodic visits. Even in these instances there are actions you can take to insure that excellent care is being provided. If working with a privately hired caregiver, families have even more action they should consider doing to oversee and manage a loved one's care. My guest, Life Care Manager Chris Dunlap, spent more than 20 years in the home health and home care arena in which the last seven years included direct oversight of home care staff. Today she works with families, assisting them with that oversight, as well as other medical matters. Chris Dunlap is both a nurse and a Life Care Manager. She is a wealth of information for anyone who is working with non-medical home care providers and she will join us to discuss how best to manage those caring for your loved ones in their home.

Reverse mortgages can offer seniors and those caring for a loved one the opportunity to remain in a home and age in place. Many dismiss the use of a reverse mortgage without a full understanding of the features, benefits and costs associated with this financing instrument. My guest, Millie Garcia, is a reverse mortgage expert. She and I will discuss those instances when a reverse mortgage may make sense for a senior who wants to remain in their home as they age but will need funds to do so. Some seniors use a reverse mortgage to supplement income. We will also discuss the costs and limits of a reverse mortgage; the ways in which it simply may not make sense. Join us and learn the pros and cons, the costs and variety of features for what may be a real option for you or your loved one.

Many family members and friends are named in the role of financial fiduciary under a Durable Power of Attorney, or as a Trustee or Conservator. While there are variations based on State specific laws, there are fundamental protocols and practices that those in these roles my guest and I would recommend people adhere to. My guest, John Attwood, has been working professionally in these capacities for almost two decades. He and I will discuss the day-to-day challenges faced when working with banks and investment companies, as well as practice standards and the responsibilities of a fiduciary. If you are currently acting in any of these roles or have been named to step into such a role in the future, you will want to join us.

For the last eleven years we have had 10,000 Americans each day turning age 65. This trend will continue for another 9 years. At the same time, the fastest growing segment of the population is over the age of 95. We are living longer but with chronic medical conditions. And those over age 85 are six times more likely to need help. At the same time, the number of children and family available to assist is shrinking. In response, a growing number of services have evolved to meet those increasing needs. Continuum of care refers to a comprehensive plan of care that adjusts to the needs of those cared for over a period of time. It addresses a variety of aspects, levels and intensity of care. It includes, but is not limited to, medical needs. From a services perspective, it refers to growing levels of care. With more than 22 years of experience in this fast growing industry of continuum of care services, my guest, Melissa Spiers, will join me to discuss the continuum of care options available to older adults. We will discuss what levels of care are available, the different type of care settings and what is typically provided.

One year ago this week, in March 2020, Americans began to fully understand that a deadly virus was among us. For my guest, it was the beginning of a year of being confronted with a Stage 3 Endometrial Cancer diagnosis and what she calls her year of healing. A cancer diagnosis leaves most of us rushing to learn as much as we can about our own diagnosis, brings us face-to-face with our own mortality, forces us to make difficult treatment decisions, and for many takes us on a spiritual journey. My friend and colleague, Chris Williams, joins me to talk about what she calls her healing story. She will share those things that supported her in her journey of the last 12 months. Her story has been an inspiration to all who know her and to the many women business owners that have continued to look to her for guidance and leadership with their own challenges. Her strength has been our strength. Her year of healing, during this most challenging year, has been extraordinary. One we can all learn from.

When older adults go into the hospital, their hospital stay is most often followed by a stay in a “rehab” facility – either a skilled nursing facility or an acute care facility – with the hope of returning to their home and former life. The plan is a short stay to “get stronger” so that you, the older adult, or your loved one can return home. For many seniors, however, the transfer from hospital to rehab results in a phenomenon in which one returns to the hospital, then back to rehab, sometimes only to again be sent back to the hospital and finally becoming a permanent resident of the rehab facility, which also happens to offer custodial care for long term stays. My guest and I will discuss this merry-go-round phenomenon and offer some solutions, both in terms of policy changes, but more importantly how you, or those you love can seek a different model of care termed Palliative Care.

Nationally recognized Special Needs Trust expert, financial planner, and disability rights advocate Peter Wall from True Link Financial will provide an overview of Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act. ABLE accounts provide a fantastic planning tool and promote the independence of loved ones with disabilities. As parents of children with disabilities age, options for their loved one's success and future becomes crucial. Helping your loved one achieve their short and long-term goals as well as meet their needs is critical. While an ABLE account isn't a panacea, it is certainly a fantastic new option. Join me and Mr. Wall as we discuss all things ABLE as well as the basics of financial planning for a person with a disability and how to incorporate ABLE accounts into those plans.

Join me as I talk with one of my most lively guests! TracyB makes talking about Medicare a more enjoyable experience. When it comes to understanding all things Medicare, she is the person I turn to. She will share with us the 5 biggest Medicare mistakes people make. I guarantee you will gain a better understanding of this often confusing area of healthcare and meet the person you will want to call to help you determine the best course of action for you and your loved ones.

LGBT adults face many unique challenges as they age. They are generally an underserved and understudied aging population. Fear of discrimination contributes to poor health – with more than 20% reporting not having told health care providers of their sexual orientation. Social support consists of friends and partners of the same age, as most do not have children and are long estranged from families of origin. Fear of violence keeps many isolated in their homes and historical job losses have left many impoverished. The national Alzheimer's Association has expressed concern about the growing numbers of LGBT seniors living alone with developing dementia. In recent years, local and national organizations have developed to address many of these challenges. Our show will highlight one such program and one such leader working to make a difference. Karen McPhail will discuss why this work is so necessary and how you, as an individual can either find the support you need or ways to help.

Our guest believes Solo Agers have unique needs in later life that warrant greater foresight and a more robust approach to planning. Older adults without children, particularly those single with no kids, need to take the time to plan for a successful retirement and aging experience. Consideration of housing options, legal matters and financial planning will be discussed and can be found in her 2018 book for what she terms Solo Agers. Named the “best book on aging well” by the Wall Street Journal my guest, Dr. Sara Zeff Geber has been speaking about solo aging for the last decade. She will join us and share her thoughts on what solo agers need to do now!

The death of a loved one requires the distribution of that person's property, cash, retirement/investment accounts and real estate. In many instances having a personal representative, or executor, of the estate is necessary and working within the probate court is required. In some States, this can be an expensive and complex process, while in others relatively simple. My guest, Probate Judge Cristy Carbon-Gaul, will talk with us about those instances in which a probate is necessary and discuss ways to avoid it. She will also address such questions as; What if there is no will? What if the proposed executor is not appropriate? Why does it sometimes take so long? What does it mean when there is a pour-over will? How do you handle the personal property?....to name a few. A great show for those considering how they want their own estate handled and/or those named in an older loved ones estate planning documents.

Award winning author Heidi Herman's latest book “On with the Butter: Spread More Living onto Everyday Life” provides a practical how-to guide for readers to follow to add vitality to their own lives. Many of the items offered are things that can be done in safe socially-distant ways and still provide mental and physical benefits. What makes Heidi's book unique is her inspiration – in 2018, her 93-year old mother, Ieda, undertook a challenge to have 93 new experiences before her 94th birthday to prove you're never too old for something new. After Heidi helped her Icelandic mom with that year's adventure, they were working on turning the experience into a book when Ieda passed away. Heidi finished her mother's photo journal of experiences but was inspired to go one step further and inspire others to live life with that same vitality. Heidi will join us to talk about her new book which is full of wonderful ideas and information on adventures that can add vitality to all of our lives.

Sharing your medical treatment and end of life wishes and with those you love, about what you want, or what your loved one wants, can be a difficult conversation to have. Most often we believe that because we have seen a lawyer and completed our Advance Directives that there is nothing more to do or say. Such is not the case, says our special guest this week, Joan Gibson. Joan and I will discuss the many “what if's” that such legal documents don't cover and why it's important that all of us have these conversations with those we love. Joan is a pioneer in the world of health care decision-making. This conversation is a must for all of us, regardless of age. For a free download of the “Values History Form”, go to AgingLifeNetwork.com

The New Year is a time of goal setting, reflection and planning. We take great care to meet with our financial planner. We make sure our estate planning documents are in order. Life care planning for ourselves or our loved ones is not typically a type of planning we consider necessary…until a crisis occurs or the needs of our loved ones become painfully obvious. My guest and I will discuss those aspects of life care planning that will provide you as an aging adult, or those you care about the best chance of aging well. We will also talk about gathering the family – those interested in the future of an aging loved one – and holding a family meeting to develop or review the life care plan and determine how to implement the plan moving forward.

Seniors considering a move to a retirement community or families managing the care and finances for a loved one so often do not look beyond the option of selling the home that has been occupied for many years. The sale of a home brings with it tax consequences and the need to re-invest proceeds. This week we will be exploring keeping the home and using the home as an income producing asset that can supplement you or your loved ones cost of living or care needs. Concerned about the headache of managing a rental? Do not live nearby? I will be talking with a property management expert as well as a certified public accountant about the many benefits of considering this option. We will look at the tax consequences of selling now vs. setting up as a rental. We will also discuss the property management role, the team required and if hiring a property management group, how to find the best one to work with.

At a time when many, including the media, are speaking of the Covid-19 vaccine as offering Americans hope in ending the pandemic, I will interview a physician who is very concerned about the safety of the Pfizer vaccine. She is not alone in her concerns. In fact, recent surveys of health care workers indicate that nearly 50% would prefer to wait to take the vaccine and see how the vaccine affects others first. Whatever your opinion, Dr. Near will provide information about the vaccine that you will want to hear and understand. It is not simply anti-vaccers or anti-mask people in the 31% of the general population hesitant to take the vaccine. Learn more about the science as we discuss Dr. Near's concerns.

First as a long-distance caregiver and later caring for her mother in her home, Sue learned quickly that being an advocate was an important part of her role as caregiver. After spending more than 10 years caring for both parents, she later learned of the many resources, she was unaware of, that were available to her. Sue shares her story as caregiver and advocate. She will also share information on the many resources she now shares with families as a Community Educator. Join us for a conversation about caregiving, advocacy and resources.

Hospice is a Medicare benefit that is generally misunderstood. Many families wait to call hospice until the final days and weeks of their loved one's life. If eligible, specialized care can be provided, as well as medications, medical equipment and supplies months earlier. So how do you know when it's time? Sarah Crutchfield, owner of High Desert Hospice, will join me to discuss signs that it may be time to consider hospice care for your loved one. She will also answer many of the questions families frequently ask and address many of the concerns that often keep them from exploring hospice care.

Join me as I highlight the guide authored by me titled, “The Top 10 Things You Need to Know to Care for an Aging Loved One”. I will share information most important to know if you are assisting a loved one as they navigate life and the aging experience. For those aging themselves, I will offer you much to think about and an understanding of what to expect. In the world of aging, the amount of information can be overwhelming. I will simplify it for you and offer a way to prioritize what you need to know. The Top 10 guide can be found on my VoiceAmerica.com page or on my website, AgingLifeNetwork.com as a free download.

Forgetfullness… Trouble finding the right word… Why did I come into this room?,,, “Is this normal?” – a common question asked by seniors and often by those who love them. As we age, there are changes seniors experience that would be defined as a normal part of the aging process. What are those normal age-related changes? When should we be concerned that the changes we are experiencing, or noticing in our loved ones, are not normal? What is Mild Cognitive Impairment and how do I know if it's dementia? Neurologist and geriatrician, Dr. Jan Knoefel will provide answers to these and other questions about the normal aging process and the signs and symptoms of a possible form of dementia. We will discuss some of the signs that there may be a problem and ways to seek help.

The story of Lester Potts, sawmill worker turned painter following his Alzheimer's diagnosis, is a story of inspiration and hope for those with loved one's living with this terrible disease. The story of the impact Lester's life had on the people who loved and cared for him is just as inspiring. Join Lester Pott's son, Dr Daniel Potts, as he shares his father's story and the many gifts he and others received during Lester's Alzheimer's journey. Dr. Potts, a neurologist by occupation, will share his perspective on how one can use art as a way of engaging the person still with us, in spite of their dementia. We will also discuss Dr. Pott's changed perspective on Models of Care and the work he continues to do to bring Lester's experience to others.

Aging Life Care Professionals®, called Geriatric Care Managers for 30+ years, is a professional group that has seen exponential growth as our aging population has mushroomed. Most families in highly populated areas of the country have heard of this unique professional. At a time when many professionals begin to enter the aging world – calling themselves experts, families need to understand what assistance is available and why this particular group of professionals is best qualified to guide you on your journey with your loved ones. Aging Life Care Professionals® are experienced and licensed in a variety of related fields and their expertise can be summarized into eight knowledge areas. Join me as I talk about how an Aging Life Care Manager can benefit you and your family, with Liz Barlowe, owner of Barlowe and Associates, Aging Life Care Manager, and Board President of the national Aging Life Care Association.

Social connection has long been associated with good quality of life, as well as positive physical and mental health outcomes for seniors. With the COVID-19 pandemic, most seniors are struggling to balance that quality of life with life itself. Social isolation and loneliness were already prevalent in our senior population. Today even those living in retirement communities are advised to stay-at-home, which is exacerbating an already serious problem. Families and professionals are seeing a significant increase in isolation related problems such as depression, physical/cognitive decline and emotional distress. To address this growing crisis, I will be joined by Crystal Littlejohn, a Geriatric Care Manager and founder of a program specifically designed to address the need for engagement with older adults. We will discuss social isolation, its' impact on seniors and ways that thoughtfully engaging loved ones can benefit their overall well-being.

Dementia too often brings with it periods of behaviors that are mind boggling to family and caregivers. Such behaviors might include yelling, hitting or paranoia coupled with accusations. It is frightening for those witnessing these behaviors and there is much confusion about how to manage a loved one experiencing and acting out these behaviors. Many turn to psychotropic medications to manage these behaviors but find the trade off in the affects of the medication on their loved one concerning. I have brought together two highly experienced and skilled dementia professionals who will share their knowledge and understanding of effective communication tools that can de-escalate and help manage your loved one's behaviors.

Sharing your medical treatment and end of life wishes and with those you love, about what you want, or what your loved one wants, can be a difficult conversation to have. Most often we believe that because we have seen a lawyer and completed our Advance Directives that there is nothing more to do or say. Such is not the case, says our special guest this week, Joan Gibson. Joan and I will discuss the many “what if's” that such legal documents don't cover and why it's important that all of us have these conversations with those we love. Joan is a pioneer in the world of health care decision-making. This conversation is a must for all of us, regardless of age. For a free download of the “Values History Form”, go to AgingLifeNetwork.com

In the confusing world of trusts, there is one trust that you will want to know about for your aging loved one and that is the Special Needs Trust. This trust allows your loved one to remain on, or qualify for, Federal, State and other benefits while having funds in trust to assist with approved costs. If you have a sibling or are a parent of an adult with special needs, this is important for you to learn about. If you have a parent under age 65, particularly with limited resources, this will offer an option for funds to be available later while still qualifying for benefits. Join me and two very knowledgeable guests as we talk about the many benefits of using the Special Needs Trust now or for use in future planning.

Caregivers often hear, “You have to take care of yourself! “ What if you knew that a few small changes could mean less stress and exhaustion? And that while improving your own quality of life, you were also improving the quality of life for those you care for? What if those small changes could help you avoid dementia yourself? Former Alzheimer's Association Development Director turned nationally Certified Health Coach, Nika Lawrie, will join me to discuss the importance of caring for yourself when caring for others and how self-care helps in the fight against Alzheimer's. For nearly a decade, Nika had an interesting view into the world of caring for those with dementia, as well as the current understanding and research regarding prevention. She was inspired to change her career path, now coaching caregivers and others about the connection between lifestyle and dementia. She will offer tools and tips that can make a real difference.

A medical emergency is never expected and is always disruptive. COVID has families more aware of the possibility. Whether your loved one lives near or far, is in their home or assisted living, taking steps to prepare for a 911 call and visit to an emergency room can make the difference between timely and safe treatment vs. serious consequences. Are you or your loved one prepared for an emergency? I will be talking with two guests who will share what you need to know to be prepared for an emergency response scenario; Rose Martinez manages an Emergency Response Team and Dr. Naomi Grossman is an emergency room physician as well as a critical care specialist. They will be discussing the kind of information most important to have available when medical personnel are assessing and treating your loved ones. For those living at a distance, we will discuss ways you can ensure that you are engaged in decisions as necessary. You will learn what treatment documents to have in the home & more.