Desperately Seeking Senior Living

When you're sandwiched between raising kids and caring for aging parents, the stress can feel overwhelming—especially in a state like Florida, where senior living options are vast but complex. In this episode, I'm joined by Carline Cadet Francois @FloridaALFConsulting, a dynamic healthcare entrepreneur and visionary leader in Florida's senior care scene. As the founder of Florida Assisted Living Consulting (FALC), Carline has become a trusted resource for ALF owners, caregivers, and senior care professionals across the state. We explore everything from in-home care and assisted living to respite options, adult family care homes, and Medicaid. Carline brings both compassion and clarity—reminding us that support might be just around the corner, and that you don't have to do this alone. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Need help finding senior living or care? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! We can help with your search for senior living & care wherever you live! www.clearpathsls.com Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Guest Application Email us at connect@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com with your senior living questions. www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com Hit subscribe ✅ and spread the word!

Let's be real—no one's excited to talk about death or senior living, but waiting until there's a crisis just makes it harder. In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode, Lisa Pahl and I peel back the layers of fear, guilt, and denial that so often block these conversations. With humor, honesty, and a whole lot of insight, we explore creative tools like The Death Deck, the emotional realities of caregiving, and how just starting the conversation (even at game night!) can empower families to plan with love—not panic. If you've ever felt stuck on how to talk about the end, this episode is your gentle nudge forward. Lisa Pahl, LCSW and Hospice & Emergency Medicine Social Worker @thedeathdeck CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Need help finding senior living or care? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! We can help with your search for senior living & care wherever you live! www.clearpathsls.com Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Guest Application Email us at connect@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com with your senior living questions. www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com Hit subscribe ✅ and spread the word!

Memory care can feel overwhelming—especially when you've heard horror stories or toured a community that didn't feel right. But not all memory care communities are the same, and knowing what to look for can make all the difference. In this episode, I answer Jan's question: Why do I hear so many bad things about memory care? I share real-life stories, common concerns, and most importantly—how to advocate for your loved one. We talk about creative care solutions, how to spot red flags, and why staff training is critical. You'll learn what questions to ask, when to trust your gut, and when it might be time to walk away. Dementia care is challenging, but with the right knowledge, you can find a community that truly supports your loved one's dignity and well-being.     CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Episode 62 – What a memory care community is like Episode 68 – Who to take your complaints to in a community setting Episode 99 – How to choose the right community Episode 110 – Tips for choosing a memory care community with Leslie Fuller of Inspired Senior Care Follow us on INSTAGRAM & YOUTUBE for more doable tips!   Need help finding senior living or care? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! We can help with your search for senior living & care wherever you live! www.clearpathsls.com     Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at connect@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com   ————————————— Hit subscribe ✅ and spread the word!

I'm so excited to welcome Hospice Nurse Penny back to the show! In this episode we're talking about her new book Influencing Death: Reframing Dying for Better Living. In this episode, we discuss: 10:26 Advanced Planning 13:28 Cultural Traditions & Prayer 26:44 Misconceptions About Hospice 40:24 Hospice & Humor And so much more!!!   Did you miss my previous interview with Penny? Check out EP 145 for more from Hospice Nurse Penny!   Penny Hawkins Smith aka Hospice Nurse Penny is a nationally certified hospice & palliative care registered nurse with over 18 years of experience. As a social media influencer on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram and Facebook and through her new book Influencing Death, Penny is working to dispel the mysteries and myths around dying and the stigma of hospice. @hospicenursepenny   CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help finding senior living or care? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! We can help with your search for senior living & care wherever you live! www.clearpathsls.com     Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at connect@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com   ————————————— Hit subscribe ✅ and spread the word!

All assisted living and dementia care communities have to be safe...right? In this episode, Valerie Lynn walks you through everything you need to know about evaluating safety in senior living—from essential physical features like fall prevention and security systems to medical care and emotional well-being because senior living communities are NOT created equal. With real-life stories and practical tips, you'll learn what questions to ask, what red flags to watch for, and how to trust your instincts to make the best decision. Whether you're starting your search or actively touring communities, this episode will empower you with the tools and confidence to find a place where your loved one can not only stay safe but truly thrive. Listen in... because this episode could help you go from desperate to doable!   CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM and YouTube for more doable tips!   Need help finding senior living or care? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! We can help with your search for senior living & care wherever you live! www.clearpathsls.com   Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at connect@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com   ————————————— Hit subscribe ✅ and spread the word!

Many families share that being home for the holidays prompted siblings and other family members to finally see what they were seeing all along. Mom might need more help. The holidays bring families together, making it the ideal time to start conversations about senior living. In this episode, I share why any holiday is perfect for these discussions, practical tips for approaching the topic with care, and strategies for making it a collaborative effort. From recognizing the signs of needed support to showcasing what senior living has to offer, this episode equips you with tools to navigate this journey with compassion and confidence. Listen in... because this episode could help you go from desperate to doable!   CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM and YouTube for more doable tips!   Need help finding senior living or care? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! We can help with your search for senior living & care wherever you live! www.clearpathsls.com     Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at connect@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com   ————————————— Hit subscribe ✅ and spread the word!

I was so excited to welcome back Ginni Ryan, who worked in the senior living industry has for over 25 years. She is currently with Revel Communities. We had such a great conversation in my previous episode, about making that move to an independent living community and how difficult the decision can be, but also all the benefits of making the move. It's a really great episode so be sure to check it out if you haven't already. This was one of those interviews that ended up being an interview inside an interview and that was because Ginni started sharing her own personal experiences with her parents, her in-laws and those family dynamics. I knew immediately that I had to have a separate family talk episode with Ginni. We're talking hospice, family dynamics, denial, Dementia, guardianship and self-care. Don't miss this episode!   CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM and YouTube for more doable tips!   Need help finding senior living or care? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! We can help with your search for senior living & care wherever you live! www.clearpathsls.com     Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at connect@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com   ————————————— Hit subscribe ✅ and spread the word!

I'm so excited to welcome Ginni Ryan, the Vice President of Operations for Revel Communities. At Revel Communities, Ginni is responsible for the operations of the entire portfolio of independent living communities. She has over 25 years of experience in senior living and over the course of her career, Ginni has developed a deep understanding of the needs and desires of the senior population. She uses her experience to design actionable, innovative strategies to help achieve not only company goals but to improve the lives of seniors.  I always love having industry professionals on the show because it helps give that insider view of senior living and today is no different. We're talking about making that move to an independent senior living community the complexities of making the decision and the benefits senior living has to offer.   CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM and YouTube for more doable tips!   Need help finding senior living or care? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! We can help with your search for senior living & care wherever you live! www.clearpathsls.com     Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at connect@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com   ————————————— Hit subscribe ✅ and spread the word!

You're struggling to manage caring for mom or dad. You're juggling work, trying to manage the dwindling finances that are necessary to care for your aging parent or loved one and the pressure of it all is dizzying. The push to answer questions and make decisions you're not ready to make can leave you feeling boxed into a corner. And why won't the phone stop ringing!? In this episode, we're answering a simple question that can have big consequences. Should you give out your phone number when you call or tour a senior living community? Listen in... because the answer could help you go from desperate to doable!     CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM and YouTube for more doable tips!   Need help finding senior living or care? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! We can help with your search for senior living & care wherever you live! www.clearpathsls.com     Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at connect@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com   ————————————— Hit subscribe ✅ and spread the word!

Whether it's a grocery store, a family gathering, or even the doctor's office—when your mom doesn't quite act like she used to or dad begins to get agitated, it's difficult, it's heartbreaking, and it can leave you not only feeling overwhelmed and anxious but also like maybe you should just stay home. In this episode, I'm outlining strategies for a successful outing and addressing the isolation that can come when staying home feels like the better option. No judgement here! Just ideas and tips for taking care of you... the caregiver.     CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM and YouTube for more doable tips!   Need help finding senior living or care? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! We can help with your search for senior living & care wherever you live! www.clearpathsls.com     Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at connect@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com   ————————————— Hit subscribe ✅ and spread the word!

In this episode, I tackle the financial challenges families face with senior care, stressing the importance of early planning to avoid future stress. With assisted living costs averaging $4,500 a month, many are blindsided by the expenses. Open conversations about finances and seeking help from financial advisors or elder law attorneys can make a significant difference. Remember, proactive planning not only provides peace of mind but also ensures your loved ones receive the care they deserve. Hopefully this episode makes your journey a little more doable!   CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help finding senior living or care? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! We can help with your search for senior living & care wherever you live! www.clearpathsls.com     Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at connect@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com   ————————————— Hit subscribe ✅ and spread the word!

You KNOW your mom or dad isn't safe at home alone but they are refusing to leave their home so what are you supposed to do when you truly believe it's what's best? In this episode, we're exploring one of the most difficult conversations many of us will face: convincing your mom or dad, to leave their home and transition to senior living.   CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help finding senior living or care? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! We can help with your search for senior living & care wherever you live! www.clearpathsls.com     Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at connect@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com   ————————————— Hit subscribe ✅ and spread the word!

No one wants to talk about or even think about senior living and care and I think that goes double for death and dying. I'm so excited to welcome Penny Hawkins Smith to the show. She's a nationally certified hospice & palliative care registered nurse with over 17 years of experience. You may know her as Hospice Nurse Penny on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram and Facebook where Penny is working to dispel the mysteries around dying and the stigma of hospice. In this episode we get real about Hospice and senior living!   CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help finding senior living or care? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! We can help with your search for senior living & care wherever you live! www.clearpathsls.com     Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at connect@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com   ————————————— Hit subscribe ✅ and spread the word!

You toured a few assisted living communities …you were very up front with all of them about the money situation. The community your mom chose said don't worry! When your mom runs out of money, we'll take Medicaid. No Problem! Until it was a BIG problem. I can't believe how many times this has happened to my clients and families I've met over the years. How is it possible that so many families are having the same experience? In this episode we're exploring some of these stories, discussing why it would be happening and what you can do about it.   CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help finding senior living or care? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! We can help with your search for senior living & care wherever you live! www.clearpathsls.com     Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at connect@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com   ————————————— Hit subscribe ✅ and spread the word!

Are they going to let my mom in? Is there anything that could come up that would make the community not take my dad? My mom is really nervous. She's afraid she won't pass the test. These are all statements I've heard from families when it comes to the assisted living nurse assessment. While the nurse assessment may be a requirement and yes there are lots of questions…is it a test? Could your loved one fail? Don't miss this episode!   CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help finding senior living or care? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! We can help with your search for senior living & care wherever you live! www.clearpathsls.com     Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at connect@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com   ————————————— Hit subscribe ✅ and spread the word!

I've often heard families say that moving their mom or dad into assisted living or memory care kindof felt like dropping their kids off at daycare that first time. Why would it feel that way? The first time I dropped my son off at daycare is burned in my brain. He cried...I cried…it was terrible! I think one of the reasons moving your loved one into a senior living community feels like this is because most of the time this decision comes after you've taken on the roll of caregiver and you know first hand how vulnerable your loved one has become. What's love got to do with it? Maybe...Everything. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help finding senior living or care? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! We can help with your search for senior living & care wherever you live! www.clearpathsls.com     Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at connect@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com   ————————————— Hit subscribe ✅ and spread the word!

Why do certain items get locked up in memory care communities and adult family homes? Was there a list of items like medications, vitamins, and even flowers and plants that you were told would be locked up before move-in day? It is vital to understand the importance of these "lock-up" precautions and how to adjust your routines to ensure the safety of your loved ones, and a smooth move-in process.   CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help finding senior living or care? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! We can help with your search for senior living & care wherever you live! www.clearpathsls.com     Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at connect@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com   ————————————— Hit subscribe ✅ and spread the word!

Patti LaFleur is the Lorenzo's House Youth Initiatives and Outreach Lead.  Patti is the former carepartner to her mom, Linda, who had younger-onset dementia - and a former elementary educator of over 10 years. Patti designs and leads our youth programming with intentionality, knowledge and love. Her capacity to connect with family members through lived experience and profound generosity of spirit sets the tone for how Lorenzo's House shows up for families. Patti has a Masters Degree in Instructional Leadership and is a Certified Dementia Practitioner, has spent countless hours volunteering with people living with neurocognitive disorders, and as a community educator for the Alzheimer's Association.    In this episode, Patti shares her journey, grief at losing both parents, love and finding joy when it's hard. This is Patti's story. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help finding senior living or care? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! We can help with your search for senior living & care wherever you live! www.clearpathsls.com     Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com   ————————————— Hit subscribe ✅ and spread the word!

Ana Burnes is a seasoned marketing professional with over a decade of experience forging strong community partnerships. Her extensive background includes leadership roles and a specialized focus in the medical field, where she excels in patient care and assistance. Ana is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of those she serves, and she is passionate about helping others through coaching and mentoring.  In this episode, we tackle the tough subject of denial when facing a move to memory care. How to meet our loved ones where they are on their journey and choose the right care setting.   CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help finding senior living or care? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! We can help with your search for senior living & care wherever you live! www.clearpathsls.com     Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com   ————————————— Hit subscribe ✅ and spread the word!

You're on your first tour of a memory care community and as you walk in to the common area you stop in your tracks. All the residents are lined up facing a big screen TV. You don't even remember what was on the screen because you just couldn't stop thinking… is this what they do all day? In this episode we're getting real about activities in senior living.   CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help finding senior living or care? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! We can help with your search for senior living & care wherever you live! www.clearpathsls.com     Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com   ————————————— Hit subscribe ✅ and spread the word!

Dr. Corinne Auman is a Gerontologist with over 20 years of experience. She has a Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology with a specialty in adulthood & aging. She's an author, educator, caregiving and aging expert. Corinne's passion for educating families comes from her own family's caregiving journey and years helping families through her care management company. She's on a mission to change the conversation around aging with her book Keenagers.  The term Keenagers describes an emerging demographic which includes those in their 50's,60's and beyond. Her book explores aging, ageism, caregiving and so much more. In this episode, we're tackling some of the tough caregiving topics from having that conversation to the cost of senior living and care and the lack of training and support in the healthcare industry.     CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help finding senior living or care? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! We can help with your search for senior living & care wherever you live! www.clearpathsls.com     Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com   ————————————— Hit subscribe ✅ and spread the word!

They don't give you a handbook when your mom or dad isn't safe to live alone any longer… This is what a family member recently said to me and while a complete handbook would be way more involved than this podcast episode…and probably not even possible… I'm going to share insights from families just like yours and give you some tips for creating your own handbook to hopefully help make your journey a little more doable.     CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help finding senior living or care? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! We can help with your search for senior living & care wherever you live! www.clearpathsls.com     Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com   ————————————— Hit subscribe ✅ and spread the word!

Has your loved one said they're never moving from their house but they're also refusing to let you bring in a caregiver…to help them with that shower or make that meal? Well then you do not want to miss this episode! Angela Garcia of Sunshine Care Services is here to share her secret sauce for helping seniors accept the care they need! In this episode we're exploring pain, joy, goals, getting creative in the 4th quarter of life and bringing it all together with a little sunshine!      CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help finding senior living or care? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! We can help with your search for senior living & care wherever you live! www.clearpathsls.com     Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com   ————————————— Hit subscribe ✅ and spread the word!

In this episode, Sharon opens up about her journey alongside her husband, Loyd, as they navigate life with Dementia. From those heart-sinking moments of noticing Loyd's memory and ability to communicate slip away to caregiving, strong views about skilled nursing & rehab and finding the right adult family home.    This is Sharon's story.     CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help finding senior living or care? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! We can help with your search for senior living & care wherever you live! www.clearpathsls.com     Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com   ————————————— Hit subscribe ✅ and spread the word!

Many folks love and respect their doctor this is one reason they're the first line of defense when it comes to a Dementia diagnosis, however studies show that families often aren't receiving the assistance they expected. Studies also show a lack of Dementia training for Primary Care Physicians. In this episode, we're taking a look at some strategies to help your Doctor help you and maybe even their next patient.     CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help finding senior living or care? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! We can help with your search for senior living & care! www.clearpathsls.com     Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com   ————————————— Hit subscribe ✅ and spread the word!

Last episode we talked about this same topic but we applied it to those in Independent and assisted living. We talked about getting creative and advocating ….and with Memory care I believe that's even more important …if you're listening and you're a family member looking for memory care I believe you hold the key to helping this transition to memory care be successful… If you're listening and you work in memory care… I challenge you to become curious about your residents…Who they are and what they used to love.     CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help finding senior living or care? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! We can help with your search for senior living & care! www.clearpathsls.com     Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com   ————————————— Hit subscribe ✅ and spread the word!

Some of my favorite stories in senior living have come from finding that thing…that activity…that spark.... that makes this really difficult transition… a little more personal.  Many seniors express that moving to senior living is where they're going to die or that you...their loved one or caregiver are just going to drop them off...or another phrase I've heard is you're going to dump me at a senior living community. So how do you move past these fears? Because the other thing I've heard from seniors, after sometimes years of acclimating is.... I wish I would've done this earlier. What made that shift? My guess is that making friends and finding purpose are key.  What if you could speed up this process by digging deeper….getting creative...moving past the activity calendar and advocating for those things that used to spark joy in your loved one? You just may find that you not only improve your loved one's experience...but you open the door to changing the energy, spirit and focus of the entire community.    CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help finding senior living or care? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! We can help with your search for senior living & care! www.clearpathsls.com     Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com   ————————————— Hit subscribe ✅ and spread the word!

Rehab…. Short term rehab…. Skilled nursing facility… SNF… Through the years, I've witnessed families struggle with tough decisions, particularly when it comes to transitioning to assisted-living or memory care following a crisis at home, often triggered by a fall or illness.  Unfortunately, about 90% of the families I've worked with have faced challenges with short term rehab stays… some more serious than others. So In today's episode, we'll dive into some of these stories but also explore alternatives and discuss how to advocate for your loved ones.   CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help finding senior living or care? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY!   Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com  

What is a Medicaid spend down?? Does it mean my mom is guaranteed to qualify for Medicaid after she spends down her money? If you've started your search for senior living and care and are concerned about finances… it's likely you've heard the word Medicaid and the phrases straight Medicaid and the Medicaid spend down. But what exactly does this mean for your mom or dad?? In this episode we're talking about  Medicaid and the Medicaid Spenddown and how it could affect your search for senior living and care.     CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help finding senior living or care? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY!   Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com      

Maybe you've even started to google senior living and care and maybe you're scratching your head trying to figure out why it's so confusing! I'm your host Valerie Lynn and…in this episode I'm talking with industry professional and host of the upcoming PBS North special, Inside Senior Living, Melissa Fritz. Melissa's series, Inside Senior Living, follows families on this journey. Her background working for Brookdale Senior Living as well as her personal experience navigating senior living for her father who had Alzheimer's, fueled her passion for helping families understand their options and navigate those tough decisions. We discuss why the senior living industry is so complicated and confusing, we talk about some of the traps families unknowingly fall into and we offer some tips to help.     CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help finding senior living or care? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY!   Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com

Does your state...city...county require dementia training for your Police Officers and EMT's? Many do not. In this episode, we're talking about interactions with first responders and their Dementia training or lack of dementia training and what caregivers can do to help.   CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help with your situation? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY!   Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com

When you toured a community you most likely gave them your phone number and most likely your Mom gave them hers. When you do that you're going to get follow up phone calls. That call is to check in and see where you're at in the process and how things are going. From this call the home visit is born. In this episode we're talking about what exactly a home visit is and why it can be a helpful resource for families.     CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help with your situation? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY!   Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com

Have you ever wondered what it takes to run an assisted living community? Should you ask to meet the person in charge and is there anything you should be asking them? Who exactly IS the person in charge and what should you expect from them when your mom or dad lives there? In this episode, we're talking with Executive Director Tina Nutt ... that person in charge...about what it takes to run a successful independent and assisted living community. From dining to care to a day in the life.... you don't want to miss this episode!     CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help finding senior living or care? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY!   Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com

"I'm sorry...what did you say?" After years of working in senior living, I still forget that this industry has its own language. A language most of the families I work with have never heard or know very little about. A language largely from the medical field... no doubt due to its creator Doctor Keren Wilson of Oregon.  No matter where it came from, not knowing what you're being asked or what it all means for your loved one and their care....only adds to an already stressful search. In this episode, we're talking terminology through story...   NOTE: THIS EPIODE IS NOT AN ALPHABETICAL LIST      CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help with your situation? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY!   Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com

Despite the fact that dementia is a very individual disease - and that symptoms may vary - many memory care communities will not even consider a new resident with a Lewy body, Frontotemporal, Vascular or Alcohol Related Dementia diagnosis. They won't even look at their medications or doctors notes.   This week we're looking at some of the symptoms of the different types of Dementia including Alzheimer's and why it can be more difficult to find care.     CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help with your situation? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY!   Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com

You've made so many phone calls ... gone on tours and ultimately didn't find what you were looking for. Let's be honest....maybe you're not even really sure what you're supposed to be looking for or even need. So this week we're going to talk about help you may find along the way if you or someone you know is starting this journey. We're talking about what you can expect..what should happen and what you can ask for.     CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help with your situation? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY!   Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com    

It feels like it should be easy. You search..."my mom needs help going to the bathroom".  Or "care for my elderly parent" or "help for seniors". You google and you should be able to get a straightforward answer, right? You call the places that come up during your search and none of them can help. Almost all of our clients tried to find the right fit on their own before they found us. This week we're talking about why it's so hard!       CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help with your situation? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY!   Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com

Many families struggle with disclosing their loved ones care needs especially if there are behaviors they find embarrassing or if they feel no-one could possible want to care for their loved one. Other families find financial information too private to share. Some families don't know what they should or shouldn't be sharing. In this episode we're talking about why it might not be a good idea to NOT disclose and when it might be ok.     CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help with your situation? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY!   Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com

Some families have been turned away... some were faced with frazzled, nervous staff... other families reported feeling unwelcome. So what is this tour guide position, why does everyone seem so nervous when they're not available and why it is so hard to get the information you want. Don't miss this episode!!!     CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help with your situation? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY!   Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com

There are things in life we take for granted…like driving. We jump in our car and take off to the grocery store without a thought. Loss of independence is one of the top things seniors report they fear. Not being able to drive is one of the biggest representations of that loss. So what are you supposed to do when you fear your loved one isn't safe behind the wheel? In this episode, we're talking about how to approach this conversation and what other families have done.     CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help with your situation? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY!   Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com

Has your loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's or Dementia? Or have you told their Doctor you suspect they have a cognitive impairment? Then you may have heard about this test. Many families we work with are still confused about how it works and what impact it can have on finding the right assisted living or memory care. This week we're talking about how the test is scored and how senior living communities use the information.     CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help with your situation? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY!   Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com

Caregiving is such a difficult job…It comes with so many emotions…loss, guilt, frustration, anger, sadness and fear. Despite your reasons for being a caregiver…there often comes a day when you make that move to assisted living. But what if your mom or dad are asking you to continue helping them shower? What if the cost of medication management has you asking if you can do that for your mom after she moves into assisted living?  Can you? Should you?   CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help with your situation? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY!   Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com

You know your loved one best but when it comes to a nurse assessment…The community is balancing regulations and liabilities. Yes, They are providing care but they are also a company. A company that is subject to annual inspection and protecting their license as well as the caregivers and other residents. There are so many variables to consider. So what if you disagree with their assessment of your loved one? Listen in and check out our doable download to find out!     CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help with your situation? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY!   Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com

If you've been through the search for senior living chances are the pricing got confusing. Why is it so hard to get a final price? Why is it so hard to compare and how does the cost change so quickly? This week we're answering these tough questions!   CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help with your situation? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY!   Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com

There are many reasons seniors decide to make the move to senior living…sometimes it's the yard, meals, transportation or making new friends. Many times is safety. Whatever the reason…I bet you didn't think you had to ask THIS question.   Don't miss this episode!!!     CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help with your situation? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY!   Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com  

Your mom has Alzheimer's…. And you? … Have teenagers. So what do you do when your teenagers say, "No!" to spending time with grandma? Or maybe your mom thinks your 10 year old is actually you! With everything you have on your plate…how are you supposed to handle this!? This week we're talking with Counselor and RN, Alder Allensworth and Singer/Songwriter and Music therapist Brenda Freed about their picture book and program helping families have these conversations with their children and plan activities…so that even through the tough stages of Alzheimer's…your family can continue to make memories with grandma.   CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help with your situation? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY!   Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com

In this episode, founder of Inspired Senior Care, Leslie Fuller shares her family's story. She talks about what it was like when the strong one, the caregiver....the one no one was expecting to end up in the hospital...did. What the conversation about assisted living was like and how the process of moving was for them.  Leslie has her master of social work with a focus in gerontology. She worked in senior living for many years as an executive director then a regional dementia care manager. Today, she helps senior living communities  communicate with their residents and staff to create a more resident focused, positive and welcoming community.   CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help with your situation? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY!   Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com

Have you ever toured a senior living community… and it just didn't feel right? Did you hear things or see things that made you feel like this was an institution and not a community? If you're not getting that warm welcoming feeling.. how can you be sure your mom or dad will? In this episode, we're talking with the founder of Inspired Senior Care, Leslie fuller about what language to look for when you tour a senior living community. Leslie has her master of social work with a focus in gerontology. She worked in senior living for many years as an executive director then a regional dementia care manager. Today, she helps senior living communities  communicate with their residents and staff to create a more resident focused, positive and welcoming community.     CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help with your situation? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY!   Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com

JOHN BUYS UGLY HOUSES Have you ever seen these small signs on the side of the road? Did you know that these folks get lists of homes that have been paid off or are on a reverse mortgage and call the home owner? In many cases attempting to undervalue the home and buy it for a very low price. They could be calling your mom or dad or grandma. I'm so excited to welcome Brian and Ranny Ray of Senior Home Partners…encompassing both the Real Estate and General Contractor side of home buying and selling. We're discussing the investor and wholesaler market…so listen in! And find out who this John is and why he buys ugly houses!      CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES     Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help with your situation? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY!   Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com

This is our 4th episode in our caregiver series with Carrie Alberts, a.k.a. Dementia Darling. In this episode, we're talking about all her favorite resources for caregivers. These resources are for anyone. If you know someone with Alzheimer's or any cognitive impairment or if you're a caregiver in memory care or a private duty caregiver. You'll want to check out this entire series. Just key word search Carrie or Dementia Darling! And you should definitely get to know Carrie! She's a certified dementia practitioner. She's worked in senior living for a decade, has a degree in gerontology and a passion for caregivers! So listen in and share!   CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help with your situation? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY!   Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com

This week is our third episode in our caregiver series. I'm so excited to welcome back Carrie Alberts, a.k.a. Dementia Darling and if you're listening right now and you're thinking... Oh I didn't mean to listen to a dementia episode… this episode isn't for me… Then I definitely want you to listen in because these tips are for anyone interacting with someone who has dementia not just caregivers or people you know… and of course.. If you're a caregiver or you work in senior living then you're also in the right place!  Carrie is a certified dementia practitioner She's worked in senior living for a decade, has a degree in gerontology and a passion for caregivers! So listen in and share!      CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Need help with your situation? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY!   Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com