If you are helping out an aging family member, this is the place for you! As a family caregiver, working in the senior living industry and studying gerontology & dementia, I've learned how important our mindset is as we care for those we love. Here, you
Summary In this conversation, Michele Magner and Carrie Aalberts, known as Dementia Darling, delve into the complexities of "sundowning" in dementia care. They discuss the emotional and behavioral challenges faced by individuals living with dementia during the late afternoon and evening hours, exploring the triggers, symptoms, and effective strategies for caregivers. The importance of creating a calm environment, ensuring adequate sunlight exposure, and understanding the nuances of language used in dementia care are emphasized. The conversation also highlights the need for awareness around younger onset dementia and the unique challenges faced by families in this situation.TakeawaysSundowning often leads to increased confusion and agitation in dementia patients.Every individual with dementia experiences symptoms differently.Under-stimulation during the day can trigger sundowning behaviors.Creating a calm and supportive environment is crucial for managing sundowning.Sunlight exposure during the day helps regulate circadian rhythms in dementia patients.Perseveration refers to the repetitive looping of thoughts in dementia patients.Engaging patients with music and sensory activities can alleviate sundowning symptoms.Caregivers should document behaviors and concerns when consulting with doctors.The term 'sundowning' has historical racist roots that can be problematic.Younger onset dementia presents unique challenges that require specific support. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Sundowning and Its Challenges05:35 Understanding Sundowning: Causes and Effects10:40 Triggers of Sundowning: Understimulation and Environment15:43 Creating a Calm Environment for Dementia Patients20:48 The Importance of Sunlight and Engagement24:30 Breaking Stigmas: Living Well with Dementia25:22 Understanding Dementia and Perseveration32:57 The Power of Music and Multi-Sensory Engagement36:20 Navigating Medical Conversations and Seeking Support39:11 Rethinking Language in Dementia Care43:48 Supporting Younger Onset Dementia FamiliesKeywordssundowning, dementia, caregiving, mental health, elder care, memory care, environmental triggers, caregiver support, dementia awareness, younger onset dementiaConnect with Carrie!Instagram - Dementia DarlingLinkedIn - Carrie AalbertsFacebook - Dementia DarlingTikTok - Dementia DarlingYouTube - Dementia DarlingLinks to what we discussed:BeLight Care - Adria ThompsonLorenzos House Youth Summit - June 20 & 21, 2025Zinnia TVDementia Dialers – Coming Soon **During this episode, Michele learns that the term “Sundowning” is deeply rooted in racism. This is a term that is widely used throughout the medical community and industry so in order to reach the most people who will connect with his topic, she uses the term in the shownotes. Going forward Michele will continue to seek language that can express this time of day in a way that is familiar to the public but changes the cultural language. Inspired Caring is THE family support & education program that helps families feel calm and confident to make better decisions faster. Inspired Caring is also offered as an annual membership tobusinesses to provide for the families they work with.Connect with Michele Magner:Website: www.InspiredCaring.comE-mail: hello@inspiredcaring.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspiredcaring/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michele.magner.90LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-magner-60a99089/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@inspiredcaringwithmichelem3138Custom podcast music written and produced by Colin Roberts. He does custom songs for any occasion.
Summary: In this deeply personal conversation, Michele Magner interviews Jason Ott, author of 'No Cure, No Problem', discussing the art of healing and the importance of addressing chronic illness through a holistic lens. Jason shares his personal journey of caregiving for his mother, the gaps in the current healthcare system, and the significance of understanding health beyond traditional metrics. Jason also shares about his experience when he decided to stop stuffing down emotions with drugs and alcohol and consciously participate in his own healing.He shares his eight principles of healing and speaks to the importance of the spiritual component of health. Our discussion also touches on the challenges of changing relationships and the importance of community support for caregivers.There are so many chilling mic drop moments from Jason in this conversation I encourage you to listen through the end.TakeawaysChronic illness is often misunderstood and can be reframed.The current healthcare system often focuses on 'sick care' rather than true health.Personal experiences shape our understanding of health and healing.Herbalism can play a significant role in supporting organ health.It's essential to look beyond the scale, or other obvious markers, when assessing health.Spiritual beliefs can influence healing and recovery.Community and connection are vital for caregivers.Making lifestyle changes can prevent chronic illness.Understanding one's own health history is crucial for healing.Filling your own cup is necessary to care for others effectively.Keywordshealing, chronic illness, caregiving, healthcare, herbalism, wellness, personal growth, resilience, spirituality, communityChapters00:00 Introduction to Healing and Chronic Illness02:13 Personal Journey: The Impact of Family Illness07:23 The Flaws in Current Healthcare Systems11:09 Understanding Health Beyond the Scale17:38 Reframing Chronic Illness: A New Perspective25:04 The Role of Herbalism in Healing30:37 Finding the Right Professionals for Health32:02 Nutrient Absorption and Health33:56 The Eight Healing Principles36:40 The Spiritual Component of Healing40:51 Changing Relationships with Alcohol45:35 Navigating Social Changes and Isolation50:14 Identifying Personal Kryptonite54:09 The Ripple Effect of Change01:00:04 Self-Care for Caregivers - you are not exemptConnect with Jason Ott:Buy the BOOKVisit his WebsiteConnect on LinkedInConnect on InstagramInspired Caring is THE family support & education program that helps families feel calm and confident to make better decisions faster. Inspired Caring is also offered as an annual membership tobusinesses to provide for the families they work with.Connect with Michele Magner:Website: www.InspiredCaring.comE-mail: hello@inspiredcaring.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspiredcaring/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michele.magner.90LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-magner-60a99089/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@inspiredcaringwithmichelem3138Custom podcast music written and produced by Colin Roberts. He does custom songs for any occasion.
Summary In this episode I share about the 3 W's that can tear people up and tear families apart. The 'What, Where, and When' of family plans can create a lot of conflict!Of these three things, narrow down on anything that feels clear in each category. From there which category is giving you the most heartburn? Is there one thing it's time to release the reins on to facilitate collaboration?TakeawaysFamilies often struggle with decision-making about activities and care.The 'what, where, and when' framework can help clarify family plans.Feeling overwhelmed by choices can lead to frustration and conflict.Collaboration is key to resolving family disagreements.Sometimes it's beneficial to let others take the lead in decision-making.Embracing change and celebrating milestones is important for emotional well-being.Finding clarity in family plans can reduce stress and enhance enjoyment.Personal experiences can provide valuable insights into family dynamics.Celebrating achievements fosters a sense of community and support.Acknowledging emotions is part of the human experience.Inspired Caringis THE family support & education program that helps families feel calm andconfident to make better decisions faster. Inspired Caring is also offered as an annual membership tobusinesses to provide for the families they work with.Connect with Michele Magner:Website: www.InspiredCaring.comE-mail: hello@inspiredcaring.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspiredcaring/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michele.magner.90LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-magner-60a99089/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@inspiredcaringwithmichelem3138Custom podcast music written and produced by Colin Roberts. He does custom songs for any occasion.
Summary: In this episode of the Inspired Caring Podcast, Michele Magner speaks with Erin Render, Founder and CEO of Legato Living Franchises. We discuss Erin's journey into senior care and the several God moments that led to the creation of Legato Living, a residential memory care franchise.Legato Living offers the unique model of care of a smaller environment for people living with dementia. This supportive environment helps meet the needs of residents, families and teams, while offering Legato Living Owners a connected way to impact their local community. Erin shares the many opportunities and benefits of franchising in the senior care industry. Legato Franchise Owners are from various backgrounds, so they focus on providing high level training and ongoing support to ensure success for everyone, especially the residents.Erin emphasizes the importance of training, communication and support for families as well which were her reasons for choosing Inspired Caring as their family support and education solution. I am so pleased to have had this conversation with Erin! If your loved one is living with dementia, I encourage you to see if there is a Legato Living in your area. If you are ready to explore business opportunities and create a special home for people in your community, Legato Living in your answer. All of the contact links are below.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Erin Render and Legato Living05:42 Erin's Journey into Senior Care10:23 The Unique Model of Residential Memory Care15:07 Daily Life in Residential Memory Care17:28 Understanding Length of Stay and Family Support24:23 Franchising Legato Living: Growth and Opportunities30:55 Ongoing Education and Community Support33:43 Advice for Caregivers on the JourneyTakeawaysThe transition to Legato Living was driven by a desire for autonomy in care.Smaller memory care environments can reduce anxiety for residents.Daily life in residential memory care is unpredictable but supportive.Families often struggle with the decision to move loved ones into care.Effective communication is crucial for families and caregivers in memory care.Franchising allows for a more personal investment in care homes.Ongoing education for caregivers is essential for quality care.The importance of focusing on the individual needs of residents.Support for families is as important as care for residents. Connect with Legato Living FranchisesSchedule a Call with Legato Living FranchisesFind a Legato Living Home Near YouConnect with Erin Render HEREInspired Caring is the family support & education program that helps families feel calm and confident to make better decisions faster. Inspired Caring is also offered as an annual membership to businesses who provide all of the valuable content to the families they work with as added value.Connect with Michele Magner:Website: www.InspiredCaring.com E-mail: hello@inspiredcaring.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspiredcaring/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michele.magner.90 https://www.facebook.com/michele.magner.90 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-magner-60a99089/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@inspiredcaringwithmichelem3138 Custom podcast music written and produced by Colin Roberts. Colin creates custom songs for any occasion!
SummaryThis is a Conversation with Caregivers (TM) episode with Nicole Smith, Author of “Diagnosis Dementia; Your Guide for Eldercare Planning and Crisis Management”. Nicole shares with Michele Magner her personal journey through caregiving for her mother who lives with Alzheimer's Disease. Have the police ever been involved when you're trying to care for someone you love? She shares with us 2 tough situations where the police had to get involved.The discussion covers the complexities of navigating legal, medical, and emotional challenges in elder care, the importance of building a support network, and the lifestyle changes that can impact health. Nicole emphasizes the need for awareness and proactive planning in caregiving, while also sharing humorous and poignant stories from her experiences. By the way, she's read over 50 books about dementia and caregiving and has done book reviews on them! Purchase her book and connect with her using the links below.TakeawaysI wrote the book I could not find.Caregiving is everywhere.You need to talk about dementia.Pay attention to your parents.My holy trinity of sanity is yoga, beer and chocolate.You can't make this up.The earlier you start, the better.It's a marathon, not a sprint.You have to build your support network STAT.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Caregiving and Dementia03:41 Navigating Family Dynamics in Caregiving06:58 The Complexities of Diagnosis and Treatment09:43 The Overwhelm of Caregiving Responsibilities12:50 Building a Support Network15:34 Transitioning to Memory Care18:49 Crisis Moments in Caregiving25:03 Navigating Caregiving with Patience32:44 Understanding Dementia and Its Impact36:30 Building a Support Network (so important, it's talked about twice!)42:39 Essential Legal Preparations for CaregiversKeywordsdementia, caregiving, elder care, memory care, support network, Alzheimer's, family dynamics, crisis management, lifestyle changes, healthConnect with Nicole:Purchase Diagnosis Dementia on Amazon HERE Visit her WebsiteInstagram Dementia Book Review Here Connect on LinkedInAs mentioned in this episode, check out Working Daughter by Liz O'Donnell Here.Learn more about Wine Women & Dementia.Podcast Music Written & Produced by Colin Roberts.
SummaryIn this conversation, Lesley Brandt from The Move Coordinators and I discuss the intricacies of senior move management. We talk about the emotional challenges faced by seniors during the moving process, the importance of empathy, and the need to identify belongings that are truly cherished. Her unique approach actually blew my mind as a totally different mindset for people as they go through this process! Even though I'm not moving, I've already begun to go through my home with this mindset to begin to curate our spaces for my family.Lesley outlines a structured approach to downsizing, emphasizing the significance of human connection and gratitude throughout the process. Our conversation also touches on the psychology of belongings, the challenges of letting go, and the importance of having open conversations between adult children and their aging parents regarding future moves.TakeawaysLesley Brandt emphasizes the emotional journey of moving for seniors.The process begins and ends with gratitude, fostering a personal connection.Identifying items that are needed, used, or loved is crucial in downsizing.Understanding the psychology of belongings helps in the decision-making process.Photographs are often the hardest items for seniors to let go of.Creating a partnership plan is essential for a smooth transition.Human connection is vital during the moving process.The Move Coordinators aim to recreate familiar spaces in new homes.Open conversations between adult children and parents can ease the transition.Resources for senior move management are available and should be utilized.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Senior Move Management03:31 The Emotional Journey of Downsizing06:23 Identifying Favorites: Need, Use, Love09:33 The Purpose of Belongings and Their Impact12:19 Understanding Perceived Value and Resale15:32 Navigating the Challenge of Photographs18:12 The Discovery Process: Building Connections21:32 Creating a Custom Move Plan24:23 The Move Day Experience27:15 Post-Move Wrap-Up and Gratitude30:16 Conversations with Adult Children33:31 Final Thoughts on Senior Move ManagementContact Lesley with The Move Coordinators to learn more how she can support your family with this big move!Podcast music created, recorded and produced by Colin Roberts Music
SummaryIn this conversation, Heather Kearney shares her journey from her honorable military service to becoming a mindfulness and wellness coach, supporting others to meet their health goals. Heather leads us in a quick meditation that you can use any time to recenter and calm your nervous system.She discusses the importance of self-care, mindfulness techniques, and the mind-body connection, emphasizing how these practices can help individuals manage stress and improve their overall well-being. Heather also introduces her 'Get Happy, Get Healthy' program, which focuses on personalized wellness strategies, and encourages listeners to give themselves permission to change and grow.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background10:03 Mindfulness Techniques and Meditation20:18 The Science of Meditation and Breathing31:55 Get Happy, Get Healthy Program42:42 Embracing Change and Personal GrowthTakeawaysHeather's journey from military service to wellness coaching is especially inspiring after being told by a HS Guidance counselor she wasn't smart enough to go to college.Mindfulness techniques can be tailored to individual needs.Self-care is essential for managing stress and improving well-being.The mind-body connection plays a crucial role in health.Nutrition impacts mental and physical health significantly.Everyone has the power to make choices that affect their lives.It's important to find pockets of time for self-care.Meditation can be accessible to everyone, regardless of experience.Personal growth requires self-compassion and permission to change.Community and support are vital for personal development.Connect with Heather and learn more about her Get Happy, Get Healthy Program.You can call her: 402-819-6008 or E-mail: heather@zenvita.org
SummaryIn this enlightening conversation, Dr. Monique Nugent and Michele discuss the often-taboo topic of bowel movements, emphasizing the importance of understanding stool health and its implications for overall well-being. This is such an important topic that in her book, Prescription for Admission, Dr. Nugent has a chapter dedicated to it called Why Number 2 is Number 1! They explore the composition of stool, the significance of regular bowel movements, and the various factors that can lead to constipation. The discussion also highlights the dangers of severe constipation and impaction, as well as practical strategies for maintaining healthy bowel habits through diet, hydration, and movement. The episode encourages listeners to pay attention to their own bowel health and the bowel movements for those who can't advocate for themselves.TakeawaysWe need to be talking about poop more.Regular bowel movements can change your life.Stool is made of undigested food, water, and cells.Constipation can lead to serious medical issues.You should have bowel movements every day.Movement is a big factor in bowel health.Fiber and water are key for good bowel health.Pay attention to your bowel movements.Don't just flush it, look at it.Your stool can tell you a lot about your health.Chapters00:00 The Importance of Discussing Bowel Movements02:57 Understanding Stool Composition and Health13:52 Recognizing Constipation and Its Causes23:51 Strategies for Maintaining Healthy Bowel Movements29:19 Final Thoughts on Bowel Health and ResourcesKeywordsbowel movements, constipation, stool health, digestive health, fiber intake, hydration, medical conditions, bowel movement frequency, dietary changes, health awarenessWebsite: https://drmoniquenugent.com/
Summary: In this episode I share about the emotional journey of acceptance when caring for loved ones as their needs increase. It's so important to recognize and adapt to the changes in our loved ones, moving away from the painful 'used to' mindset (those words can really sting), and shifting expectations by embracing the present. While navigating relationships amidst change can be tough, it is possible, and I share one of my techniques to move along the scale of acceptance.TakeawaysChecking in with ourselves is crucial for emotional health.Moving along the scale of acceptance eases caregiving challenges.The words 'used to' can hinder our ability to provide care.Relationships evolve, and acceptance is key to navigating change.Resistance to change can lead to anger and resentment.Focusing on the present can enhance our emotional well-being.Finding joy in new behaviors can shift our perspective.Professional caregivers bring a different perspective to changes.Creating new connections can lead to calmer interactions.Chapters00:00 Introduction: Checking In with Ourselves00:31 The Scale of Acceptance: Understanding Change01:56 The Impact of 'Used To' on Caregiving04:19 Navigating Relationships Amidst Change07:15 Acceptance: A Journey for Families08:10 The Danger of Resistance09:49 Embracing the Present: A Shift in Perspective12:45 Finding Joy in the New Normal16:10 The Role of Caregivers in Acceptance18:41 Conclusion: Creating Connections in the PresentKeywords:acceptance, dementia, caregiving, emotional health, relationships, change, self-care, family dynamics, aging, mental well-beingPodcast Music byColin Roberts Music. Colin creates personalized custom songs for every occasion!
Summary In this conversation, Jeannine Bryant with Easy Rightsizing and I delve into the concept of 'rightsizing,' (I love that term) a multi-layered process that goes beyond mere decluttering. Our stuff holds a lot of emotional meaning to us. We talk about the challenges faced by older adults as they downsize, the importance of family dynamics in the decluttering process, and practical steps to make the transition smoother. Jeannine shares insights from her experience working with older adults and emphasizes the significance of letting go of items while preserving memories. In her book “Keep the Memories Not the Stuff” you can embark on the right sizing journey with organization and compassion to keep the peace in your family. She encourages us to "donate along the way" in life so when donations are made, they're not decades outdated and are more likely to find a good home. Mic Drop "You can't put 10lbs of flour in a 5lb sack" - meaning we can't move all the stuff from bigger houses into smaller homes or apartments. Love this phrase! She even created "A Year of Letting Go" calendar to help you walk through this process month by month! Keywords right sizing, decluttering, emotional aspects, family dynamics, practical steps, letting go, meaningful connections, resources, senior living, downsizing Takeaways • Right sizing is more than just decluttering; it's a layered process. • Emotional challenges arise when downsizing, especially after losing a spouse. • Having a partner to walk through the decluttering process makes it easier. • It's important to prioritize people over stuff during transitions. • Memories are not in the items we own, but in our experiences. • Starting early with the right sizing process can alleviate stress later. • Utilizing a calendar can help focus decluttering efforts throughout the year. • The power of counting can help individuals realize how much they truly have. • Letting go of items can be a way to help others in the community. • Creating meaningful connections through gifting items can enhance relationships. Sound Bites "It's about so much more than our stuff." "It's a real challenge." "It's a privilege to walk alongside people." "One room per month is doable." "Your stuff doesn't owe you anything." "Memories are in us, not in the stuff." "Start with the low-hanging fruit first." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Right Sizing 02:52 Understanding the Right Sizing Process 06:04 The Emotional Aspects of Decluttering 08:46 Navigating Family Dynamics in Decluttering 12:08 Practical Steps for Right Sizing 14:58 The Importance of Letting Go 18:04 Creating Meaningful Connections Through Decluttering 20:58 Tools and Resources for Right Sizing 24:11 Final Thoughts on Right Sizing
Summary "We've normalized crisis" was Allison O'Shea's first mic drop moment in this conversation where she inspires us to be educated consumers, learning our options, so we can be a strong Aging Ally to make the best choices for our family members! As a former Senior Living Executive Director and current Aging Advisor, Allison knows first hand how people can best be prepared when it comes to aging. She wants to ensure that you and your loved ones are set up for success by making sure families have the right information and creating a supportive space to have the hard conversations. Being proactive doesn't have to be intimidating. The Readiness Roadmap(TM) for what you need to know is outlined in her book, Openly Aging: 4 Pillars to Keep Control of Your Aging Journey. In this conversation, we also explore expectation management and she shares with us her 4 Pillars of Aging - Social Support, Home, Social Engagement and Supportive Services. Visit Openly Aging to review your Preparedness Checklist and connect with Allison about how she can help your family! Takeaways Education is crucial for consumers to manage aging expectations. Aging is a unique journey for each individual and family. Proactive planning can help avoid crises in aging. Social engagement is vital for maintaining health and happiness as we age. Understanding financial options is essential for aging individuals. Open conversations about aging can reduce family tensions. Aging advisors play a key role in guiding families through the aging process. Support systems should be identified early in the aging journey. Denial about aging can lead to negative outcomes for families. The four pillars of aging include support systems, home, engagement, and supportive services. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Aging and Its Complexities 01:47 The Role of an Aging Advisor 04:06 Confronting Denial in Aging 05:47 Education as a Tool for Empowerment 07:44 Becoming an Aging Ally 10:24 Empowering Aging with Dignity 16:29 Understanding Unique Aging Journeys 22:29 The Four Pillars of Aging 27:42 Navigating Support Systems and Services 40:35 Fostering Open Conversations about Aging
Summary It has been a while! In this episode, I'm sharing some personal updates and reflections on caregiving, resilience, and the instinctual responses of fight, flight, or freeze. I discuss insights gained from a recent caregiver summit I co-hosted, with Kaley Johnson and share about how Jess Ronne one of our speakers who has navigated immense challenges, got me thinking about fight, flight or freeze. Today I unpack the complexities of my caregiver instincts and how mine has shaped my responses to crises. Ultimately encouraging you to reflect on your own experiences and responses. Takeaways Michele shares her recent experiences and updates in life. The caregiver summit featured impactful speakers discussing various topics. Jess Ronne's documentary highlights the struggles of parent caregivers. Resilience in caregiving can manifest in different ways. Understanding one's instinctual response can aid in personal growth. Michele reflects on her own freeze response during crises. The importance of self-awareness in managing caregiver stress. Instinctual responses can be both protective and isolating. Michele emphasizes the need for balance in life and caregiving. The conversation encourages listeners to reflect on their own responses. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Life Updates 02:55 Insights from the Caregiver Summit 05:47 The Resilience of Caregivers 12:36 Understanding Fight, Flight, or Freeze Responses 19:55 Reflections on Instinctual Responses and Life Balance Connect with Jess: Instagram and Facebook Documentary Trailer: Unseen, How We Are Failing Parent Caregivers and Why It's Important. Visit The Healthy Caregiver FB Group for replays of the Summit.
Summary In this episode, Kristen Burke and I discuss the complexities of long-term care insurance and its importance for individuals and families. We explore how complicated Medicare can be and that it does not pay for Assisted Living! There has been an evolution of long-term care insurance policies, and the various options available for coverage. Kristen emphasizes the need for family involvement in planning and understanding insurance policies, as well as the financial implications of long-term care. The conversation highlights the significance of being prepared for future care needs and the peace of mind that comes with having the right insurance in place. Takeaways Long-term care insurance is essential for financial planning. Medicare changes impact insurance decisions significantly. Medicare does not pay for Assisted Living and Nursing Home Care Understanding the evolution of long-term care insurance is crucial. Designing a policy requires consideration of various factors. Family involvement in long-term care planning is key. Long-term care insurance can cover both informal and formal caregivers. It's important to know the waiting periods for benefits to kick in. Having a plan in place alleviates stress for family members. You can have multiple insurance policies for better coverage. Long-term care insurance provides peace of mind for caregivers. Chapters 00:00 Understanding Long-Term Care Insurance 04:49 Navigating Annual Medicare Changes 09:55 The Evolution of Long-Term Care Insurance 15:06 Designing a Long-Term Care Policy 19:52 Activating Long-Term Care Insurance 25:06 Family Involvement in Long-Term Care Planning 29:52 Final Thoughts on Long-Term Care Insurance Connect with Kristen: www.misomaha.com
Summary In this conversation, Lacey Jungman and I explore the complexities of being a caregiver in the sandwich generation, the emotional challenges faced by adult children caring for aging parents, and the importance of self-care and boundaries. We discuss her journey into senior care, and how she discovered her passion for helping adutl children. Then we dive in to the impact of hormonal changes on emotions. The hormones are for real y'all whether you're having your babies or stepping through menopause, this is impactful and important to acknowledge. We also touch on the significance of taking pauses in life and how she knew it was time to pause. The conversation also touches on imposter syndrome, the need for personal growth, and the power of storytelling in supporting others. Lacey shares insights from her experiences as a working mom emphasizing the importance of recognizing one's feelings and finding balance in caregiving roles. This episode is packed! I know you'll enjoy the conversation as much as I did! Takeaways The sandwich generation faces unique emotional challenges. Adult children often experience guilt and resentment in caregiving. Self-care is essential for caregivers to avoid burnout. Setting boundaries is crucial for maintaining mental health. Hormonal changes can impact emotions and decision-making. Taking pauses can lead to greater clarity and peace. Imposter syndrome affects both personal and professional lives. Finding balance is key in managing caregiving responsibilities. Storytelling can validate and support others in similar situations. Recognizing one's feelings is the first step to self-care. Chapters 00:00 Navigating the Sandwich Generation 02:52 The Journey into Senior Care 06:32 The Journey of Adult Children Caring for Aging Parents 09:24 Navigating Emotions and Self-Care 12:38 The Importance of Boundaries 15:21 Finding Peace in the Pause 18:37 Recognizing Imposter Syndrome 21:23 Defining Self-Care 24:11 Balancing Career and Caregiving 27:23 Embracing Abundance Over Scarcity 30:14 Final Thoughts and Resources Connect with Lacy! Visit her Website. Buy her book: The Working Mom Blend: The New Approach to Work-Life Balance Subscribe to her podcast: Working Mom Moments
Summary In this episode, Michele and Lakelyn Hogan Eichenberger, Ph.D. with Home Instead (an Honor Company) discuss the importance of in-home care for aging individuals and their families. They explore the various services offered by home care professionals, the differences between home care and home health, and the significance of building relationships in caregiving. The conversation emphasizes the need for caregivers to take care of themselves and the importance of seeking help before a crisis occurs. They also provide insights on how to find the right home care provider and the available funding options for these services. Takeaways In-home care is essential for families dealing with aging and dementia. Home care professionals provide customized support tailored to individual needs. Building relationships with care professionals enhances the caregiving experience. Home care can delay the need for moving to a care community. It's crucial for caregivers to prioritize their own well-being. Home care services can be flexible and adjusted as needs change. Understand the difference between home care and home health. Finding the right home care provider involves asking the right questions. Home Instead offers a wealth of resources for caregivers. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:19 Defining In-Home Care 05:12 Benefits and Flexibility of Home Care 09:37 Differences Between Home Care and Home Health 16:24 Finding a Home Care Provider 20:12 The Importance of Training and Matchmaking 23:03 Encouraging Early Consideration of Home Care 26:23 Trial Periods and Adjustments 27:52 The Positive Impact of Home Care on Relationships 30:37 Additional Resources and Support 32:44 Final Thoughts and Appreciation for Caregivers Resources Home Care Guide Funding Solutions Guide Home Instead's Care Resources
Summary - In this episode, Lisa Hamilton is back for part 2 where we discuss the challenges and emotions involved in transitioning her mom from the house she had lived in forever, into a 55+ apartment. She shares personal experiences and insights on the importance of asking for help and acknowledging the grief of letting go. We talk about the importance of creating rituals to honor the past. The conversation highlights the need for support and understanding during these transitions and emphasizes the value of being present and holding space for loved ones. There was a moment between the Realtor and Lisa's mom that helped shift the energy around this big move. Lisa is so articulate and insightful and I'm so grateful that she has brought us along on this journey. Keywords - transitioning parents, new living arrangements, asking for help, acknowledging grief, creating rituals, support, understanding, being present, holding space Takeaways - Transitions involving parents' living arrangements can be emotionally challenging and require support and understanding. Asking for help and reaching out to others can provide valuable insights and assistance during these transitions. Acknowledging the grief and emotions associated with letting go of a previous living situation is important. Creating rituals or ceremonies to honor the past and mark the transition can be meaningful and helpful. Being present and holding space for loved ones during these transitions is essential for their well-being. Chapters 00:00 Being the Bridge for Others 01:52 Downsizing and Transitioning to a Senior Apartment 16:37 Honoring the Past: Rituals and Ceremonies 23:23 Challenges and Self-Care in Supporting Loved Ones 24:52 Embracing Change: The Unique Experience of Each Transition 25:10 The Power of Asking for Help 26:36 The Impact of Multiple Perspectives 27:28 Supporting Parents as Adult Children 28:27 The Role of Communication and Trust
Summary - In this episode, Lisa Hamilton shares her experience of transitioning her father from assisted living to memory care. She discusses the challenges of moving belongings, managing logistics, and navigating the emotional aspects of the transition. Lisa emphasizes the importance of keeping things simple and not projecting our own feelings onto our loved ones with dementia. She also highlights the significance of small gestures of kindness and connection from the caregivers in the building. Overall, the transition went better than expected, and Lisa encourages family caregivers to ask for help and remember that each family's experience is unique. Keywords - transition, assisted living, memory care, logistics, emotions, dementia, caregivers, kindness, connection Takeaways - Transitions in care can be challenging, both logistically and emotionally. It is important to keep things simple and not project our own feelings onto our loved ones with dementia. Small gestures of kindness and connection from caregivers can make a big difference. As family caregivers, it is okay to ask for help and not try to do everything on our own. Each family's experience with transitioning to memory care is unique, and it is important for practitioners to remember that. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 04:46 Transitioning to Memory Care 06:51 Managing Emotions and Language 14:07 Changing Language and Communication 19:20 Perspective and Heartache 24:36 Keeping it Simple 29:19 Acknowledging Observations 31:36 Connections and Humanity 34:00 Small Gestures and Support 37:55 Lisa's Mother's Transition will be Part 2!
Summary: In this episode, I interview Tanya Godwin from Oasis Senior Advisors in Lincoln, NE. We discuss the challenges and resources available for seniors and their families in the aging process. Tanya shares her background in the industry and how she came to work with Oasis Senior Advisors. We discuss services provided by Oasis, including connecting seniors with resources, assisting with legal and financial planning, and helping with placement in senior living communities. Tanya emphasizes the importance of education and advocacy in navigating the complexities of senior care. Keywords: senior care, aging, resources, Oasis Senior Advisors, services, legal planning, financial planning, placement, education, advocacy Takeaways: Oasis Senior Advisors is a one-stop shop that helps seniors and their families navigate the challenges of aging by connecting them with resources, assisting with legal and financial planning, and helping with placement in senior living communities. Education is key to understanding the complexities of senior care, including the role of Medicare and Medicaid, the cost of senior care, and the importance of planning ahead. Having an advocate, like Oasis Senior Advisors, can provide support and guidance throughout the aging process, helping families make informed decisions and avoid potential crises. Successful families are those who have planned ahead, anticipated their needs, and have open and ongoing communication about finances, legal documents, and care preferences. Uncertainty is a part of the aging process, and being prepared for the unexpected by having an advocate can provide peace of mind and ensure the best possible outcomes for seniors and their families. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 05:20 Overview of Oasis Senior Advisors' Services 10:35 Challenges and Obstacles in Senior Care 15:43 Financial Considerations in Senior Care 20:01 Real-Life Scenarios and the Need for Proactive Planning 28:19 The Role of Advocacy in Senior Care 32:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 35:08 New Chapter https://www.oasissenioradvisors.com/local-advisors/lincoln/
Dr. Brandy Archie is an Occupational Therapist who routinely witnessed people wanting to remain independent in their homes, but saw they kept hitting roadblocks on how to safely and effectively accomplish this. She co-created Ask SAMI to help people find the right equipment and services in order to live their best life, wherever they call home. They are able to do virtual assessments of a home to make recommendations on how to make it safer and more functional. In this episode, she shares some of her top barriers that we don't take into consideration that are a game changer to ensure quality of life and help prevent falls. Check out the robust catalog of OT-approved items, schedule your virtual assessment, or discover practitioners in your area at https://www.asksamie.com/!
You can be 2 steps ahead! One of the biggest challenges people face when helping someone living with dementia is “getting them” to do activities of daily living. When someone is living with dementia, they may not remember the last time they did something, may have lost the ability to take the necessary multiple steps to complete a task, or no longer have the biological trigger to do something. In this episode, Karla Frese with Home Care Partners shares ways to make sure you are 2 steps ahead so you and your loved one can be set up for success! Karla walks us through the house, going room by room, providing solid strategies to move through a variety of sticky situations in activities of daily living that are often faced. We go through: The Bathroom – showering, going to the bathroom, brushing teeth The Kitchen – eating, taking medications The Living Room – the routine, things getting lost The Garage – driving Connect with Karla! Website: www.homecarepartners.com E-mail: Karla@HomeCarePartners.com
In this episode, you will join us for a conversation about developing resilience, purpose, and a growth mindset at midlife and beyond. Scott Papek, a certified mindset coach at Max Out Mindset, founder of Run Slower, and author of "Age is Your Edge," How to Find Purpose and Fulfillment in Midlife: explores how mindfulness, mentorship, and core values play a crucial role in navigating periods of uncertainty and self-doubt to unlock new possibilities and find fulfillment. Whether you're in midlife transition or simply seeking to cultivate more self-awareness and inner strength, this podcast offers practical wisdom and encouragement to help you write the next chapter of your life with intention and possibility. Tune in to explore how to reframe adversity, unlock your edge, and step into your greatest potential. Follow Scott on Instagram @scottpapek or visit runslower.com.
Over the last 5 years, we've had a LOT of joy in our lives and we've also had a lot of bad news we've had to share with our children, family, and friends. Like, an overwhelming amount. This most recent round, when our kid's beloved childhood dog, Sunny, passed away was tough because our daughters were out of town. It was hard enough not to be together in this moment, then compounded with they were with other people that would make it hard for them to process this loss. It got me thinking about how we share bad news. In this episode, I talk about some of the factors I consider when something sad or bad needs to be communicated. Time of day Timing on sharing Method of sharing (social media, texting, phone call) There's a solid chance I've overthought this, HOWEVER, I believe there is something here, so wanted to be sure to share it with you! www.michelemagner.com
Aaron Marcum has over 2 decades in the home care industry serving seniors and their families. He is an award-winning author, speaker, visionary, and Master of Applied Positive Psychology. He is also a great guy whose journey down this road started with his Grandpa, who only lived a few miles from his house. Aaron shares with us the fundamentals of Positive Psychology and how we can integrate these principles into our caregiving role. He is passionate about ensuring that every senior receives the care they deserve and that caregivers have the tools they need in order to thrive, not just survive! Buy his book EntreThrive. Check out the Best of Home Care Website. Visit Breakaway Accelerator the program for Home Care Agencies to have thriving and robust care teams!
Michael Braun has been an Occupational Therapy Assistant for 34 years, helping seniors in a Skilled Nursing and Rehab facility in Sarasota, FL get back on their feet after surgery, illness, or injury. When a patient who lived out of town was trying to figure out how she would get home, she discovered that Med Flight, a private jet service, would cost her $30K - $40K. Michael offered to make the trip with her using commercial airlines. Toppflight was born and took off as a concierge travel companion service for seniors needing non-medical transport or relocation travel. Their mission is to provide a hassle-free traveling experience, whether it's for moving out of state or just returning home. Their team consists of trained medical professionals committed to assisting seniors and providing for all their needs during travel. They handle all the logistics and are by someone's side to provide a safe and comfortable travel experience. Once at the destination they coordinate and assure transportation to the home or senior care community. Having about 1 month lead time is great, but typically with 1 – 2 weeks' notice they can help! Visit their website and check out Google for their 5 Star reviews!
Parenting is HARD! As a mother of 3, I always feel like I'm trying to balance my kids' needs, family and society expectations, and reality and honestly, constantly feel like I'm failing all over the place. Danielle Bettmann is a parenting coach for strong-willed kids, and the Host of the Failing Motherhood Podcast. Our kids are constantly growing and changing which requires us to adapt to this new version of them. We don't want to operate based on what others are doing or a Pinterest board! Our busy lives are constantly changing too. Her signature coaching program helps parents grow confidence in working with kids at every age and changing circumstances. In this program, she teaches parents the 3 C's - Communication, Core Needs, and Composure. Approaching children with curiosity helps identify what needs are under the surface. Everyone is seeking to belong, feeling in control, and have attention and connection. She reassures us that focusing on what we did accomplish in a day helps us keep our priorities aligned and it only takes 15 minutes a day of being present with our child to sustain a close relationship. She emphasizes the importance of playfulness! She has partnered with Mighty and Bright to create a card deck to help prioritize our own mental health and encourage engagement with our kiddos. *Purchase the Special Time Cards HERE. Enter code: failingmotherhood for 10% off! *Be sure to subscribe to the Failing Motherhood podcast. Each episode is a storytelling interview about a mom's raw and honest experience of growth that leads to new perspectives and practical strategies. *Stay connected with Danielle on Instagram.*Visit her Website.
Author Michael James and his wife Judy's life together took an unexpected turn when she was denied long term care insurance because she couldn't pass the ‘mini mental', the test given that revealed cognition issues. Ultimately, she was diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment that developed into Alzheimer's. Michael, faced with this challenge, knew he needed to be thoughtful, calculated, and proactive while continuing to provide Judy with the daily care she needed. As an academic and researcher, he joined several online support groups and searched for books to help him navigate this new territory. Therapy: He observed in the support groups that many caregivers' downfall is mixing their emotions with responsibilities. Realizing he needed more than anecdotal help from friends, he found a therapist who helped him separate the reality of the present moment and need to seek answers to the practical day to day challenges, while also preparing for the future. Daily Care & Move to Senior Living: Michael talks about his strategy to integrate additional support and resources into their lives. They began with in home care (which she initially rejected) by starting with a couple of hours a week and by the time they reached 30 hours per week it was time for something different. The next phase was a day program that Judy enjoyed. When that grew to 7 days a week and a few other key factors at play, he knew it was time for her to move into the memory care community. Ultimately, multiple factors influenced this decision. Judy had become fearful of being alone and hallucinations had begun. Michael was struggling to get a full night's sleep and her incontinence issues were increasing. These were layered with safety concerns because of several incidents that had occurred, and he knew it was time for the move to memory care. Plan Ahead: Michael emphasizes the importance of getting out of denial and talking about getting older. He recommends to adult children not to brush their parents off when they want to talk about planning for the future and for when they die. We all need to be more comfortable talking about aging and death. He recommends not waiting until you are in crisis! Planning ahead will help you be successful because many memory care communities have waiting lists. Michael ended up writing the book he was looking for and titled it Dear Judy: A Love Story Rewritten by Alzheimer's. Visit his website: https://pineedenpress.com Here are the others he recommended in this episode. Still Alice by Lisa Jenova (a fictional novel) Jan's Story; Love Lost to the Long Goodbye of Alzheimer's by Barry Peterson My Father's Brain; Life in the Shadow of Alzheimer's by Sandeep Jauhar
Rebecca Adelman is an Attorney, entrepreneur, influencer, thought leader, and founder of Adelman Law Firm and Claims Management, established in 2001. The firm is a Women's Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) and Tennessee Certified Women's Business Enterprise (WBE). For over 30 years, Rebecca has concentrated her practice in healthcare and insurance defense and business litigation. Rebecca is also a family caregiver, who helped her grandparents, and was her father's caregiver, as he lived with dementia. Rebecca's huge heart and desire to understand how to prevent suffering for seniors, families, and team members inspired her to dive deeper into the "entry points where risk lives". What she discovered is, that issues on the surface are masking deeper problems of communication with family systems in a senior's transition of care from home to senior living. Unmet needs and expectations, combined with a lack of information creates the perfect storm. She presents a case study that sounds very familiar and represents so many of our families. Rebecca, determined to provide solutions, created the Guide Path Certification Program for Senior Living Communities to help educate and support teams and families in order to prevent things from escalating to the point of a lawsuit. She is a brilliant woman and inspiration and I know you'll love this conversation as much as I do! https://guidepathllc.com/
John Locklair served in our United States Air Force for 10 years including a tour in Iraq, earning 2 degrees (and having 2 kids!), before a skin cancer diagnosis medically retired him. Then several years later during a jujitsu tournament, he heard his neck pop. He had sustained a grade 3 strained neck injury, leading him to explore the pain relief from CBD where he also discovered the tremendous health benefits. What he found out is there are many therapeutic components to CBD. These range from reducing vomiting and nausea to acting as an anti-inflammatory by reducing joint pain. CBD can also reduce risks of artery blockages, decrease psoriasis, manage psychosis, improve bone growth, strengthen the immune system, and reduce anxiety, and is also FDA approved to treat epilepsy. His research led him to Sunmed CBD which was founded by a woman living with Crohn's disease after CBD changed her life. In fact, he learned CBD is helping those who are experiencing everything from seizures and arthritis to ADHD and anxiety. Unique to Sunmed products, they have a QR code with a certificate of analysis, so you know exactly what you are putting on or in your body and where it came from. With a strong desire to serve and help others, John purchased the first Nebraska Sunmed CBD Franchise location. As it turns out, this was just in time to help his own daughter who was struggling with ADHD and anxiety symptoms, impacting her ability to focus in school. The treatment worked and her grades immediately improved! CBD is not marijuana! It's an oil that comes from an industrial hemp plant. John is on a mission to demystify and reduce the fear around CBD. He explains the difference between full spectrum vs broad spectrum and shares the 3 basic formats CBD comes in which are water soluble, gummies and oil. They can be delivered through a topical crèmes or be ingested. Effectiveness can be as fast as 10 minutes or take up to 2 weeks to feel the benefits. As a main of faith, he was also thrilled to find out CBD is mentioned in the Bible 4 times. Exodus 30:22 Ezekiel 27:10 Psalms 4, Verses 8-14 Jerimiah 6:20 John encourages people to do their research and then have a conversation with him. You can call him or visit his store. His store has a welcoming atmosphere where you will feel comfortable to ask your questions to ensure you have the right products to improve your health and quality of life! Store location: 9735 Giles Rd, La Vista, NE 68128 Call: (402) 301-7417 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/getsunmedlavistane Website: https://getsunmed.com/?mystore=0018W00002Be4hIQAR
Luba found herself feeling isolated as she was running a daycare from home with her own two young children and reached a tipping point in her mental health. On one particularly tough day, she put her Masters in Mathematics to work by locking herself in a room with some art supplies and creating her first Mandala. Drawing the mandala that day allowed her brain fog to clear and she realized it was a meditation tool that helped her feel centered and more like herself. For Luba, a Mandala represents balance and growth. Expanding on this, she combined her art exploration with a gratitude practice, developing gratitude art journals. “Gratitude is your fertilizer, that helps what you appreciate to grow.” Luba encourages people to lean into a regular gratitude practice, offering key suggestions for you to be successful: Don't overthink it. You don't need a lot of time Take little steps Pay attention to what comes up for you Be mindful and creative with this! She shares the alarming statistic that over 90% of younger children feel they are creative and by the time we hit high school it's closer to 3%! You ARE creative. Get outside of the journal, color outside the lines. feel free to express gratitude any way you like, give praise, dance, do your make-up how you like, doodle, dig in the dirt, bake. When you are intentional you realize it matters WHY you're doing a gratitude practice, not HOW. “When you allow yourself to be creative, you allow yourself to hear your own voice.”Tapping into your creativity will help you identify messages that are dropping in and repeating. The kind, supportive, loving ones? Those are the ones meant for you. https://kalinaartstudio.com/ https://www.facebook.com/KalinaArtStudioPapillion
If you have kids that are launching out of the home, you may discover that your identity is taking a hit as your role changes within your family. However you refer to yourself (empty nester, a bird launcher, manager of free range adult kids, free range parents) you NEED to connect with Jay Ramsden! Jay is "The Empty Nest Coach" and in this episode helps us understand why this shift can feel challenging and offers ways to connect with the future you so you will make this transition successfully. Some of the questions we're asking our kids, apply to us at this stage in life as well. What are you going to do with the rest of your life? Who are you? Who do you want to become? What do you want to do? This is not just about finding a hobby. He emphasizes the importance of easing up on the demands we're putting on ourselves about what comes next. Our first step is getting our handle on our head and our heart. From there he offers: · Decide who you want to be now that the kids are gone. · Have a vision for the future. · Do some of those ‘retirement' things NOW, don't wait! We're not in a crisis, we're in an identity EVOLUTION. If you think you're in a “Challenging time”, remove the lle in the middle of CHALLENGE and what you have is CHANGE. What does the remaining LLE stand for? Let Life Evolve. Jay's motto “Every step has purpose” is the reminder there is no one way, or right way, to make this transition. Connect with him so he can continue to walk with you on your journey. TikTok, Instagram, Website
The complex medical insurance & billing system can not only leave our heads spinning unnecessarily costing us thousands of dollars, it can also cost someone their life when they miss out on life-saving treatments that would have been covered. Nicole Broadhurst BCPA, Founder and CEO of Tennessee Health Advocates helps people Nationwide understand their medical benefits. She reviews every policy from Medicare to VA benefits, marketplace, employers' policies to Workers Comp. Anything healthcare related, Nicole and her team can help you! The best time to call Nicole is: Right now! There has been a new Diagnosis Medical bills are stacking up Open enrollment Starting a new job Anytime you are feeling uncomfortable If you are in an urgent situation, always go get the medical attention you need, she will help you sort through the billing later. Download her FREE checklist from her Website, and connect with Nicole on LinkedIn or just give her a call at 615-581-7655.
Introduction: In this episode, we delve into the profound journey of Mary Lou, a dedicated caregiver to her husband, the renowned artist and rocker, Nicholas ‘Nicky' Zann. Mary Lou candidly shares their story of navigating life with Lewy body dementia, shedding light on the challenges, resilience, and the importance of understanding and support. Key Points Covered: Understanding Lewy Body Dementia (LBD): Mary Lou describes how LBD differs from Alzheimer's, with fluctuating symptoms affecting memory and behavior. It's a condition affecting 1.4 million Americans and 11 million globally, though it remains relatively less known. The Caregiver's Perspective: Mary Lou emphasizes the need to meet the person with dementia where they are, suspending personal needs to prioritize theirs. Caregiving is described as improvisation, requiring adaptability and a willingness to accept failures. Lessons in Forgiveness and Vulnerability: She reflects on her book, “I Didn't See it Coming, Scenes of Love, Loss and Lewy Body Dementia,” as a journey of reconciliation with herself as a caregiver. Forgiveness and vulnerability are central themes, offering insights into the complexities of caregiving. Nicky's Messages and Final Moments: Mary Lou shares Nicky's enduring messages and the profound experience of understanding his needs in his final moments. She highlights the transformative potential of grief, turning it into catharsis. Raising Awareness and Encouraging Support: Mary Lou advocates for greater awareness of Lewy body dementia, urging celebrities and public figures to help shine a light on this condition. She underscores the importance of creating supportive communities for family caregivers. Notable Quotes from Mary Lou: “You have to join the person where they are, you can't expect them to come to you in their former state. It's just not possible.” “Suspend what you need and give them what they need.” “Grief doesn't have to be your nemesis, it can be your catharsis.” Closing Thoughts: Mary Lou concludes by emphasizing the moments of light and hope amidst the challenges of caregiving. Her story serves as an inspiration and a call to action for increased understanding and support for those affected by Lewy body dementia. ABOUT THE AUTHOR & ILLUSTRATOR Mary Lou Falcone is internationally known as a classical music publicist/strategist who for 50 years has helped guide the careers of celebrated artists – Van Cliburn, Gustavo Dudamel, Renée Fleming, Sir Georg Solti, James Taylor – and advised many institutions including Carnegie Hall, Chicago Symphony, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Philadelphia Orchestra, New York Philharmonic, and Vienna Philharmonic. Combining communication skills with her background as a performer and educator, she now adds another layer: advocate for Lewy body dementia (LBD) awareness. Her late husband, the illustrator Nicky Zann, who died from LBD in 2020, was the catalyst for this, her first book. Nicholas ‘Nicky' Zann, the inspiration for this book, was a popular 1950s rock 'n' roll musician who became a world-renowned cartoonist, illustrator, and painter. His work hangs in the permanent collection of London's Victoria and Albert Museum, and the illustrations featured throughout this book come from his bestselling fortune-telling card game, The Answer Deck. Visit Mary Lou's website HERE. Buy her book HERE.
When DeAnna's Dad began to need more help, she and her husband opened up their home, not realizing they were embarking on a journey that would span many years. Sharing her home with her dad provided the daily opportunity for him to be around her kids, which brought them all tremendous joy. DeAnna shares how she navigated her role through the frustrations, touching moments, and ultimately end of life care for her dad. Losing someone you care for creates a unique void that is hard to fill. She was grateful to the Hospice company for their compassionate follow up in the weeks and months after he passed away. Grief is not linear, and she has found comfort in allowing herself to feel whatever comes up and journaling her thoughts. She mentions that she is an Executive Coach so if that caught your attention, I want to be sure you can reach her! Next Steps: Be sure to connect with DeAnna, 1) On Facebook 2)On LinkedIn At the end of this episode, there is a clip of a song created for DeAnna's family about her dad by Singer-Songwriter, Colin Roberts. When writing lyrics, Colin wants to be sure to touch on what is most meaningful to the family. For DeAnna, this included each of the girls' names - Dawn, Dixie, DeAnna, and Dana. She recalled that when her Dad would leave a voice message he often said “Hello, it's your dad, You better call me back” and they have fond memories of how much their dad loved hosting pasta Sundays. Thank you, DeAnna for sharing this deeply personal gift of music with us, and to Colin Roberts for making it happen.
Episode Summary: Singer-songwriter Colin Roberts shares his journey of writing personalized songs for life's significant moments. From weddings to funerals, his mission is to tell stories by capturing the essence of cherished memories and heartfelt emotions and turning them into music. Bio: Colin has been performing his entire adult life. He grew up in rural Nebraska and now lives near Omaha. Colin's music combines the soulful vocals of Chris Stapleton and the honest songwriting of Bruce Springsteen. He enjoys various genres like Americana, Alternative, Folk, Country, Rock, and Pop. Some of his biggest influences include Jason Isbell, BJ Barham, Ruston Kelly, The Lumineers, The Head and the Heart, Chris Stapleton, U2, Pearl Jam, and Led Zeppelin, among others. Summary: Colin's journey into music was deeply personal, sparked by the therapeutic writing process after his father's passing. This profound experience led him to a realization: “People want to feel,” and he believes that “every story should be allowed to be sung.” His music is a testament to this belief, a heartfelt expression of the human experience. Today his music is about crafting songs that genuinely reflect others' experiences; weaving deep meaning into each note. Through collaborative sessions with clients, he shapes their words into lyrics, ensuring that every song is a unique and personal creation. “The Joy is When Music and Lyrics Marry Each Other” Colin reflects on music's profound impact on listeners, as it evokes memories and emotions unique to the individual. A chorus can bring goosebumps, and songs can have layers that make one feel deeply moved. Songs written about one's personal experience could unexpectedly resonate with others, reinforcing the universality of human emotion. He elaborates on his approach to songwriting, from chord progressions to melody creation, ensuring each element complements the story being told. Colin discusses the collaborative nature of his work, inviting clients into the process and ensuring their stories are authentically represented. Next Steps: Explore song samples and submit your story for a song at https://www.colinrobertsmusic.com/ Listen to the song he wrote to honor his father "Coffee In The Driveway". Personalized songs can be enjoyed privately as you take your recording with you, or they can be shared with others when set to imagery as part of a photo slideshow, further enhancing the emotional impact of music. Colin is also available for live shows where musical memories that resonate with listeners form deep, emotional connections.
Current research shows 1 in 2 cases of dementia can be prevented. In his book, Dementia Prevention, Use Your Head to Save Your Brain, co-written with his wife, Dr. Emily Clionsky, Neuropsychologist Mitchell Clionsky Ph.D., addresses how to prevent dementia. Not surprisingly, earlier interventions are KEY. This conversation covers a lot of territory and you will have specific things you can do today to set yourself up for success. Three key areas to focus on prevent dementia. 1. Address underlying Medical Issues 2. Get the appropriate medication 3. Address daily habits Medical Issues We may test at normal folate and B12 levels but vitamins aren't crossing the brain-blood barrier so absorption is low and you may test low on the amino acid, homocysteine. When it's time for blood work be sure to ask for this important test. Sleep apnea must be addressed. People 58 or older have a 50% chance of having sleep apnea disorder. If erectile dysfunction is a concern it's an oxygen and blood flow issue, so there may be a connection to sleep apnea that needs to be explored. Red flags are if people stop breathing for more than 10 seconds or blood oxygen levels drop 4% during an episode. A simple overnight test (in your own bed!) can give you this information. Memory Medications There are 4 medications approved by FDA since the 1990s. Practitioners have been misled, looking at short-term results rather than the long gains. The evidence for them is they can prevent decline, it's not going to improve memory, but it keeps you from declining. Daily Habits Denial doesn't help, The first thing is to be aware and honest about your habits! Exercise - Your brain needs enough exercise to keep working properly. Follow the 10 by 3 rule – 10 minute brisk walk 3 times a day. Exercise is cumulative. 150 -300 minutes per week is the range you're after. Alcohol consumption matters. This is not a yes or no question about if you drink or not. It's how much, how often, and what you drink that needs to be explored. Social connection – people who have this habit are better protected against dementia. Having connections is important! Keep learning – not just brain games and reading, do the interpersonal version of learning/problem solving like playing pool or cards. Don't retire from life when you retire from your job. Start planning for it, and continue to have long-term goals. Be bad at new things you're trying to learn. Reframing things is an important part of psychology. Adjusting the way we think about certain things and adapting to being different than how we were, fosters growth. This is especially important with aging. Pay attention and be mindful, of what you're doing throughout your day and what you're eating. Mitchell also clears up some of my misunderstandings about Frontotemporal dementia and reassures me that even by today's standards, my mother-in-law's dementia is one of the tougher ones to treat. The mortality rate of caregivers is higher than non-caregivers. Don't be the person who drowns trying to save someone else!Download your dementia prevention checklist and roadmap at www.braindoc.com. Buy the book, Dementia Prevention, Use Your Head to Save Your Brain. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michele-magner/support
When the love of his life had a stroke, Dave Nassaney quickly fell into the role of caregiver, uncertain of what the future was going to bring. Determined to beat the alarming statistic of caregivers dying before their loved one, two decades later, Dave is “The Caregiver's Caregiver” using every platform available to share their love story and help others find success in the caregiver role. Dave shares his C.A.R.E. formula and encourages people to stay away from guilt. Guilt is like taking poison and expecting the other person to die. He emphasizes the importance of not allowing yourself to be bullied or abused by the person you are caring for and that finding forgiveness will set you free. Dave's programs teach people how to put their own needs first, in order to provide the best care possible. Dave is confident that God has a plan for him and Charlene. He reflects on them being better people today because of her stroke. Although she is unable to speak, he credits her ability of being a great communicator to their success. You will hear how he fine tuned his communication skills, having an ability to read the nuances of her body language and gestures. We also discuss the typical caregiver pitfalls and how to avoid them. His knowledge and wisdom are extraordinary, this is a Conversation with Caregivers you don't want to miss! Connect on Facebook Read his Books Listen to his Podcast Visit his Website --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michele-magner/support
One of the greatest fears we have is the day the person living with dementia doesn't recognize us. While there is really nothing that can prepare us for this moment, there was a progression of things I noticed with my mother in law, Sherry, that led up to it. While the brutal reality of this moment stings and cannot truly be prepared for, the work that we do here with Inspired Caring around knowing ourselves, learning how to feel our emotions, being mindful, and having present moment awareness, helps us navigate through this experience. In this episode, I share the stages of what I noticed and how long it took to progress from full recognition to not knowing who we were. You'll discover the strategies we used to have the most meaningful interactions along the way. I want to hear from you! Send me your questions or comments, hello@inspiredcaring.com. I'll get back to you right away. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michele-magner/support
Wendy Tridle's company, Organize by Design, helps people tackle the big move from their home to a senior living community by providing a lot of understanding and hand-holding along the way. Wendy shares that the biggest regret she hears from seniors who move to senior living is that they waited so long to make the move. They wish they had taken advantage of their senior living community sooner. Death, illness, divorce, and job loss may spur on a big move, where emotions are already running high. Her mediation certification has helped many families manage the discomfort of tough situations like intoxicated (adult) children, sorting through who gets what items or simply being the one to break the news that 3 couches will not fit in the new space. She shares a lot of her client's stories and specific examples of how to make this a smoother process for everyone involved. Connect with Wendy here! https://www.facebook.com/OrganizebyDesignNE https://www.organizebydesign.info/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michele-magner/support
Rachelle turned her love of cleaning and organization into her passion for helping people feel comfortable and relaxed in their homes. What she has discovered is decluttering is not just about making spaces look beautiful. Her process helps people live their lives with intention, so they can focus on what is most important to them. Rachelle shares practical steps and unique strategies on how to move through belongings. She has found that It is easier for people to lighten the burden of stuff in their homes when they start by organizing items. This helps people know what they have and makes it easier to begin letting things go. It's also helpful to look for those easy wins like a linen closet, spice cabinet, or simply moving things back into the rooms they belong to get the ball rolling. Going through sentimental items is like time travel. It's important to breathe, take a minute to process, and take breaks as needed. Rachelle wants to ensure that clutter doesn't creep back in. Her mindful approach also supports her client's taking a look at their daily habits and how they want to use their time. This was such a unique way to approach this process, I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did! Connect with Rachelle here: https://rekempt.com/ https://www.facebook.com/rekempt54 https://www.youtube.com/@RekemptHomeOrganization --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michele-magner/support
Two of the most daunting tasks people face are the decision to move out of a home they've lived in a long time and how to manage all of their stuff. Patti shares that the clutter, loss of independence, and fear of change are what hold many people back from making a move to a smaller space. Patti offers some tips about how to better age in place. Like being sure to have the right environment set up, which can include things like paint color to distinguish rooms, handrails, and pulling up throw rugs. Her perspective that your home/space is supposed to serve you for a certain chapter of your life is a slight shift in thought processes that can help move the needle. Also, if you're an adult child, be sure your things are out of the house! “Your home is living space, not someone else's storage space.” Francine Jay Be sure expectations of time working on house clean out projects are being managed. Maybe the person you're helping needs the distraction from treatments, so going through a few things is helpful in that way vs tackling a bigger project. Starting small with easy spaces like bathroom cabinets or the TV stand can help you gain some momentum! Connect with Patti on social. She has so many great tips that you won't want to miss! https://www.instagram.com/shesellsjerseyshore/ https://www.facebook.com/SheSellsJerseyShore If the thought crossed your mind "I'm not sure they're safe at home anymore", you want to check out Illuminating Senior Living. This will help give you direction on when it is time to start the moving process! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michele-magner/support
The hospital can be a scary and confusing place so after 15 years of treating patients, Hospitalist, Dr. Monique Nugent, wrote the book on how to have a more successful hospital stay! Prescription for Admission will help you receive better treatment and improve your experience at the hospital. This complete guide provides the critical information you need to navigate the hospital—so you can stay calm, feel confident, and focus on healing after a health crisis. In this episode, she talks about: Not all hospitals can do everything you may need, it depends on which type you are in. Knowing where to access the patient's critical life-saving information, like a medication list and past surgeries, is vitally important. There are certain legal documents we all need, MOLST/POLST, Advance Directives, and Healthcare Proxy so decisions can quickly be made in the hospital. She offers a pre-hospitalization checklist. Setting clear, achievable, reasonable communication goals with hospital staff is vital for success. Choosing 1 person for the staff to communicate with makes it easier for the family. Do not isolate yourself, you need rest and support, when someone is in the hospital. A hospital visit is an active process. Once someone is stable, this is our time to be figuring out what to do next. Caregiving does not end with the hospitalization, in fact, most of the time it ramps up after the hospital stay. The case manager needs to be communicated with as soon as possible if there is another elderly person at home providing care or if there is no additional support in the home. If you need someone to go to short-term rehab so you can get things lined up at home, tell them! Nothing happens in the hospital in isolation. Labs, radiology, and pathology are all working together and these groups don't all necessarily work 7 days a week. Neither does your health insurance. There is so much great information here and I hope you will connect with Dr. Nugent and grab your copy of her book! https://drmoniquenugent.com/about-the-author/ Buy Perscription for Admission Here If you are beginning to think your parent may need senior living. This is your time to act and get the information you need! Illuminating Senior Living will answer all of your questions and help you take that next important step. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michele-magner/support
When Robin's brother and dad passed away within 5 days of each other she became the primary caregiver for her mother. Knowing her mom's neighbors and friends helped her manage a year of caregiving from a distance then after a year of managing things from out of State, she asked her mom to move closer to her. It was a hard conversation but a pivotal point in their relationship allowing them to have 3 wonderful years together. Robin talks about how even with a parent in Assisted Living, we are still active care partners. She shares how she lost herself and what she did to save her sanity and health. Robin supports caregivers through her coaching programs encouraging people "Don't be scared, be prepared!" Connect with Robin and learn more about how she can support you! www.mypivotalpoint.com https://mypivotalpoint.com/caregivingconsulting/ www.linkedin.com/in/robinweeks https://www.facebook.com/groups/mypivotalpoint.comcaringforcaregivers https://www.careyearsacademy.com/user/robinw/ https://www.thecarecolloquium.com Illuminating Senior Living is the comprehensive program you need to understand the next best step for your family! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michele-magner/support
Candace has been caring for her bipolar mother her entire life. The difference with FTD (frontotemporal dementia) is that, unlike a bipolar episode, the care required never ends. Isolation comes fast when caring for a family member. When the world shut down in 2020, she knew the isolation would be a temporary challenge for others, but it is an ongoing reality for family caregivers. In this episode, Candace shares how learning to read her mother's body language has been a game-changer in how they manage their days. "Behavior is communication" and being a detective has helped them be more successful. She realized that everything is a phase. Challenging things will stop, and new challenges will pop up to adjust to. She learned that with sundowning, the environment matters. She sets them both up for success even by adjusting the environment as early as noon. Turning her frustration about her mother's "shadowing" (following her around) to gratitude that she knew where her mom was, helped reframe how she was feeling throughout her day. Candace shares so much insight, wisdom, and many strategies to help you be successful. I know you will have some great takeaways from this conversation. Connect with Candace here: https://ourftdjourney.com/https://www.facebook.com/ourftdjourneyhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ourftdjourney/ etsy.com/shop/OurFTDJourneyourjourney@ourftdjourney.com Are you trying to figure out if senior living is the next best move? Check out Illuminating Senior Living to get all of the answers you need to make the right decision! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michele-magner/support
Movement in our body is imperative for us to age well and it is never too soon, or too late, to get started! Betsy Spieler is a Physical Therapist who while working in a Nursing Home, saw the need to reach people in the community sooner. In May 2022 she co-founded UBStronger 55+ in Omaha to further fulfill her passion for helping older adults regain and maintain their independence, develop resiliency and increase vitality through a contemporary, research-based approach to fitness for older adults. In this episode, Betsy and I discuss 2 options for your health. 1) The benefits of Physical Therapy and how to access a PT 2) How to avoid needing PT in the first place! UBStronger 55+ is designed with evidence-based programs to accommodate your level of mobility and help you safely reach your goals. They program functional strengthening exercises that apply to real-life movements as well as balance and agility exercises to optimize your mobility. They also focus on nutrition and community, both of which also play major roles in your aging outcomes. You will also learn about the two important metrics often used to measure a person's "health span", grip strength, and the ability to get up off the floor (even if you use furniture). We don't want to just live a long time, we want to have quality of life too! To learn more about UBStronger 55+ Check out their website E-mail UBStronger55@gmail.com Call UBX: 402-934-2348 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/UBStronger Betsy Spieler, PTBoard Certified Geriatric Clinical SpecialistCertified in Modern Management of the Older Adult Owner, Stay Strong Physical Therapy & Wellness, LLC Co-founder/Coach UBStronger 55+ at UBX Gym Physical Therapist at Hillcrest Millard. Betsy is a Physical Therapist with 25 years of experience working in outpatient orthopedics, acute care, home care and skilled rehabilitation settings as well as providing educational seminars to community and professional groups. She is currently specializing in the treatment of older adults with complex medical conditions in her clinical practice. P.S. 70% of adults age 65 and older at some point will need senior care services! Illuminating Senior Living answers all of your senior living questions and teaches you how to have these conversations with your family members. This course will set you up for success to avoid the next crisis! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michele-magner/support
Dreamweaver Foundation is on a mission to help older adults realize their dreams and connect with hope! They do this through 2 primary programs. 1) They make dreams come true for terminally ill seniors living in senior care communities. These dreams may be something as simple as a themed birthday party, a visit with a family member they haven't seen in a while, or even a trip to Florida. No dream is too small or too big for Dreamweaver to help with! Having these dreams come true has been known to spark hope and purpose for the person receiving them and create lasting memories for families. 2) Their partnership with GrandPad connects isolated seniors with their families and interesting programming. These straightforward devices eliminate confusing technology and are adaptive so easier to use. They are available to everyone in the US, for both people living at home or in a care community. You can go directly to GrandPad to learn more. If resources are limited, apply for a scholarship through Dreamweaver. Erin shares heartwarming stories and inspires ideas on how to help our loved ones live each day with more joy. Contact Dreamweaver Foundation to nominate someone for a dream or apply for a GrandPad by visiting their website, https://dreamweaver.org/ P.S. Illuminating Senior Living helps families understand how to make the best decision about senior living and how to have those conversations. You're doing a great job! Keep up the great work! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michele-magner/support
Sometimes we get caught in the trap of having made a promise to a family member (ourselves?) that eventually doesn't line up. Things change. People change. Situations change. We can't hold ourselves to a promise made 3 years, 3 months, 3 days, 3 HOURS ago, if when we have new information or the situation changes, we have to move in a different direction. This episode is packed with goodness. Here are your 3 steps. 1. Know what you will and won't do 2.Know your dealbreaker 3.Know your next step Illuminating Senior Living get's you answers you need right now to make the best decisions for your family member! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michele-magner/support
Pando Geriatrics specializes in the mental health of seniors through counseling services appointments via telehealth, in-office, or in-home (in the Omaha area). Seniors are often dealing with health crises, loss of control in their lives, loss of independence, or living arrangement transitions, just to name a few of life's major curve balls. We talk about strategies to help our family members through these transitions. Mindy emphasizes the importance of talking about plans before you are in a crisis. Caregiver stress increases the risk of death significantly, so we need to care for caregivers!She talks about empowering seniors to be part of their living arrangements solution by checking out multiple places in advance. "Let's make the plan we hope no one needs, but at least it's in place” which can also help with the adjustment. Sometime after a move seniors have a sense of homelessness, having to dispose of their material possessions factor into this feeling. It's hard to process when someone else is having to go through all of your stuff and getting rid of it. Some ready reminders from our conversation: Validate how someone is feeling – do not minimize what they are saying and expressing. Sometimes listening, not fixing, is what someone needs. The important next step is to help them have some control back into this situation. Things can feel out of control, but how we respond to a situation is in our control. It takes 3 months to adjust to something new. Focus on the end goal of what you want things to look like and get started on changing the habit right away. Motivation doesn't happen first, forcing the new habit then getting into the rythem will help! Happiness is a choice and no one is happy all of the time. People are allowed to have a bad day, even if they're living with dementia. Mindy Crouch, LCSW, LIMHP, LISW https://www.pandogeriatrics.com/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057440799930 Illuminating Senior Living is the video course you need to get the ball rolling to understand senior living! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michele-magner/support
It is SO easy to live on autopilot and just plow through our days. Unfortunately, that leaves a lot of room to mindlessly be triggered, anxiety to build, and feeling off track with areas in our lives. What are your Love Languages? What are your Core Values? What are your Gallup Strengths? When we pull all of this data together, it helps us understand who we are and the energy we are bringing to our relationships and life. I love working with clients to help them understand themselves even better, teach them how to observe themselves and in the moment determine what they want to happen next. When you observe your ownself, it gives you the power to do the most immediate next best thing to support yourself. Everything that has created your success in other areas of your life also applies to this role within the family as a caregiver. So pay attention, see what is working for you and what's not, and let's make a plan for that next first step! Illuminating Senior Living is the only comprehensive program that will help you before a move to senior living. You don't need to be an expert, you just need this information. When is it time to move? What to look for and how to choose? What are the objections and How to have the conversations And more! Check it out HERE. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michele-magner/support
Join me in the conversation with Bill about caring for his mom and turning his pain into a passion to help other families on this caregiving journey. Here's a note from Bill to you! Hi, I am Bill Cohen. My loving and talented mother, Sheila, lost her home to Hurricane Katrina. Then, she lost her health, ability to create beautiful art and, ultimately, her life due to Alzheimer's. For almost 10 years, I was her primary caregiver and advocate, not just her son. I turned my personal loss into my passion for supporting other caregivers. After “retiring” from state employment after 25 years and entering my “encore career”, I am a caregiver support group and memory cafe leader, podcast guest, and speaker, a Certified Senior Advisor (CSA)®, an elder mediator, and a caregiving support consultant. I have completed several caregiving courses through the Alzheimer's Association and the Society for Certified Senior Advisors (CSA)®, and also earned business degrees from Boston and Portland State Universities. I am a native New Englander and have lived in the Portland, Oregon area for almost 39 years with my wife and supporter of over 40 years, Lori. Here are all of the ways you can reach me. bill@cohencaregivingsupport.com https://linktr.ee/CohenSupport https://cohencaregivingsupport.com/services --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michele-magner/support
Time is tricky. Sometimes it feels like it's moving slowly, other times it feels so fast. We all have the same amount of hours in the day, yet how each of us engages with time can be so different. Is TIME one of your Core Values? I had hours and hours stuck in airports recently and didn't get anything accomplished during that time. I was OK with my lack of productivity, I was generally OK sitting around the airport for 9 hours. It was when my core values of integrity, faith, and connection felt triggered that caused me to feel sad about the delayed flights and not being with my mom when she needed me. How we feel about time and engage with time makes up our lives. When it comes to losing people we love, it never feels like we had enough time with them. I walk you through an exercise to unpack your thoughts around time and invite you to reflect on observations so you can engage with time in the most meaningful ways. Questions about a move to senior living? Illuminating Senior Living answers all your questions and puts you in the best position to figure out the next step for your family! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michele-magner/support
Lisa is passionate about helping people enjoy their memories through organizing their photographs. Our pictures are the keys that unlock our stories. Our stories are part of the legacy we leave for our families! Lisa helps with larger organizing projects by consolidating the locations of your pictures and putting them in order. She is also able to put together slide shows for celebrations, memorials, and accessibility for enjoyment. Lisa shares tangible tips on what to do with the boxes and albums of physical pictures and how to dig out of the thousands of digital images that have accumulated. Connect with Lisa through any of these platforms! Website: HOPEorganizng.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HOPEorganizing Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/HOPEorganizing LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/HOPEorganizing A few specific things Lisa mentioned: Memories Hub and Ollie - iPhone app When it's time to begin to think about Senior Living, you want to make the best decisions for your family. Check out Illuminating Senior Living for critical information you need to know and guidance on how to have these conversations. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michele-magner/support
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