Caregiver Relief Podcast: Recent Episodes
Diane Carbo
To provide concise and updated education and alternatives that empower seniors and their family caregivers to make educated and practical choices regarding future care needs.
Imagine a world where seniors, especially those with dementia or Alzheimer’s, can find companionship and emotional support without the burdens of pet ownership. Robotic dogs for seniors are here to make that a reality, transforming the lives of older adults by offering comfort, mental health improvement, and a way to combat loneliness.Short Summary
- Robotic dogs provide seniors with companionship, mental health benefits & an alternative to pet ownership.
- They offer emotional connection, help reduce loneliness & require lower maintenance than a real pet.
- Real life experiences have shown they can improve moods and cognitive function for older adults.
Is drinking coffee one the the risk factors to develop dementia ? Coffee can be a great pick-me up! The caffeine in coffee is a central nervous system stimulant. With Americans coffee consumption averaging three cups of coffee per day, it's no wonder researchers are wondering how this much-loved beverage affects our brain health.News articles on the topic often report conflicting results - one month stating that coffee consumption protects against cognitive decline and memory loss while a new study soon after hints at negative effects. So what can we make sense out of all these potential confounding factors?Is there some perfect amount to be had from sipping your morning latte or afternoon espresso? Let’s dig into why research so far has been inconclusive – helping us understand exactly when and if more is better for reaping those cognitive benefits without any side effects!
It can be difficult dealing with elderly parents that struggle with making the best decisions for their situation, especially if they refuse assistance or advice. But it is possible to communicate with your aging parents effectively. As a primary caregiver it is possible to help them take charge of ensuring healthy choices are made, while still allowing autonomy and independence.
Start by not falling into power struggles; pick battles wisely when expressing opinions. You are still their child, and adult children are often dismissed and discounted by aging parents.
Family caregivers must learn to be persistent but sensitive. Criticizing your elderly parents might put them on the defensive and encourage negative emotions and not allow you to provide assistance for them in the future.
Depression is a serious mental health issue that can take many forms. Feeling depressed can be a difficult and overwhelming experience. Clinical depression, also known as major depression, is not just feeling down for a few days; it's persistent sadness and lack of interest that affects how one thinks, feels, and functions on an everyday basis.
If you're caring for an elderly family member, you may be interested in becoming a paid caregiver. The good news is that all 50 states offer some kind of r family caregiver support program to become paid caregivers through a Medicaid waiver program such as "Cash and Counseling" initiative. These programs are known as "consumer-directed care" or "self-directed services", meaning the care recipient can choose their own caregivers.
To find out about Medicaid-funded programs with participant directed services in your state, check online. Some states may even combine these programs with private or state-level programs, which lets both Medicaid and non-Medicaid recipients receive care at no cost to them. You can find more information by contacting your local Department of Aging.
In addition to Medicaid programs, many states also offer personal assistance services to help family caregivers. These services are usually provided through a Non Medicaid funded program and can provide financial assistance in the form of stipends or reimbursements for certain expenses. For example, you may be eligible for reimbursement for mileage driven to the doctor's office or for specialized equipment used to help with caregiving duties.
The journey into the golden years should be filled with joy and peace of mind, but the uncertainty surrounding long-term care expenses can cast a shadow over this anticipated period. Fear not, for there are alternatives to traditional long-term care insurance that can help you navigate the complexities of planning for the future. This audiocast will guide you through various alternatives, helping you make informed decisions, while also addressing the importance of financial planning for long-term care.
As you embark on this exploration of alternatives to long-term care insurance, consider the various options available to meet your unique needs, financial situation, and risk factors. From short-term care insurance to hybrid long-term care/life insurance policies, the possibilities are vast, but understanding each alternative will empower you to make the best choice for your future.
Short Summary
- Understanding the need for long-term care involves exploring various options to plan and cover costs associated with aging, illness or disability.
- Evaluate personal & family preferences, health status & potential care needs when considering different long-term care planning options such as short/long term insurance policies or annuities.
- Seek professional advice before making an informed decision on a suitable option for your situation.
Are you in search of a senior-friendly smartphone that combines simplicity, functionality, and peace of mind? Look no further than the Jitterbug Smart3, a phone designed specifically for older adults who desire an easy-to-use device without sacrificing modern features. In this blog post, we will dive deep into the world of the Jitterbug Smart3, from its thoughtful design to its health and safety services tailored for seniors. So buckle up and join us as we explore the ins and outs of this remarkable phone, providing you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.
Short Summary
- Jitterbug Smart3 offers seniors a simple design, large screen, and easy-to-use interface.
- Affordable talk/text/data plans & tailored health & safety packages make it an ideal choice for elderly users.
- Experts agree that the Jitterbug Smart3 is perfect for seniors with GPS tracking, programmed contacts, voice activation and brain games at an affordable price.
Jitterbug Smart3 Overview:
The Jitterbug Smart3 is not just another cell phone; it’s a senior-friendly smartphone that offers:
- A simple design
- Large screen
- Easy-to-use interface
- 6.22-inch screen size
- Hearing aid compatibility
These features make it a suitable choice for seniors with varying needs.
Aside from these essential features, the Jitterbug Smart3 goes the extra mile by providing health and safety services to ensure added peace of mind for both users and their caregivers. With Lively’s straightforward pricing structure, you can enjoy all these benefits without being tied down to a long-term contract.
Robots are becoming increasingly popular companions, enabled by AI and robotics advancements. Companion robots can facilitate social connections and offer emotional support in many areas of life.
Imagine a world where loneliness and social isolation could be addressed with the help of a personal robotic companion. This may seem like science fiction, but it’s becoming a reality, especially for a 93-year-old woman who found a friend in her robot companion. In this blog post, we’ll explore the fascinating world of robots for companionship and their potential to improve our lives.Short Summary
- Robots are becoming increasingly popular companions, enabled by AI and robotics advancements.
- Ethical considerations must be taken into account to ensure the rights of those they serve.
- Companion robots can facilitate social connections and offer emotional support in many areas of life.
We are born to die, with death being a part of life’s natural cycle. Religion and culture shape our understanding of existence, science and technology provide insight into the physical aspects of mortality.
The question of life and death has been a universal conundrum that has intrigued humanity since the dawn of time. Is our existence merely a birth-to-death journey, or is there more to it? Are we, as the phrase so starkly puts it, simply “we are born to die”?Short Summary
- We are born to die, with death being a part of life’s natural cycle.
- Religion and culture shape our understanding of existence, while science and technology provide insight into the physical aspects of mortality.
- Find purpose in life by embracing it fully - take risks, show kindness & appreciate the small things.
As the chilly winds of winter roll in, so does the dreaded cold and flu season. But fear not, because there's a potent ally in the battle against these seasonal nuisances: the elderberry. Bursting with immune-boosting benefits, this tiny berry packs a punch that can help keep you healthy and energized throughout the colder months.The Immune Powerhouse
Elderberries have been revered for their health-promoting properties for centuries. Rich in vitamins A, B, and C, as well as antioxidants and flavonoids, elderberries are a nutritional powerhouse that strengthens the body's natural defense mechanisms. These antioxidants work to neutralize harmful free radicals and reduce inflammation, key factors in maintaining a robust immune system.
Cold and Flu Warrior
Elderberries' claim to fame lies in their potential to combat cold and flu symptoms. Research suggests that elderberries can interfere with the replication of viruses, hindering their ability to spread and cause illness. This makes elderberry products, such as syrups and supplements, a popular choice for those seeking a natural way to alleviate cold and flu symptoms.
Reduced Duration and Severity
One of the most exciting benefits of elderberry is its potential to shorten the duration and severity of cold and flu symptoms. Studies have indicated that elderberry extract can lead to quicker recovery times and milder symptoms in those who consume it regularly. This means less time spent feeling under the weather and more time enjoying life to the fullest.
Gut Health and Beyond
Did you know that a significant portion of the immune system resides in the gut? Elderberries can contribute to a healthier gut environment by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria. A balanced gut can lead to improved digestion, enhanced nutrient absorption, and, ultimately, a stronger immune response.
Diane Carbo discusses the health benefits of elderberries in this episode of Caregiver Relief. Elderberries, particularly the Sambucus Nigra variety, are commonly used medicinal plants with a rich folk medicine history. They are often used in supplement form to treat colds and flu, thanks to their high antioxidant properties. Studies show that elderberry extract can inhibit certain viruses, potentially reducing the severity of colds, flu, and respiratory infections. Elderberries are beneficial for heart health, can improve blood sugar levels, and have potential skin and immune-boosting benefits. They also show potential in addressing mild cognitive impairment and acting as a natural pain reliever. However, more research is needed to fully understand their health potential.
Dr. D Dubose, a renowned psychiatrist and certified transcranial magnetic stimulation physician, shares his insights on alternative treatments for mental health, particularly in his work with ketamine and TMS. He specializes in treatment-resistant depression and has seen the devastating impact of depression on individuals and their families. Dr. Dubose believes that the stigma and lack of knowledge about these treatments have been a barrier to people getting the help they need. Ketamine has been used since 1963 as an anesthetic, but it was observed 20 years ago that it had an antidepressant effect, which scientists researched and eventually led to the FDA approval of Esketamine, a nasal spray called Spravato. Ketamine and TMS have shown themselves to be effective modalities for treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and other mental health problems. Dr. Dubose stresses the importance of patients having access to more options to treat difficult mental health problems.
The podcast features Diane Carbo, RN of Caregiver Relief and Care Team Partner, along with Pastor Dave Taylor and his wife Kelly, who are the co-directors of the Faith and Caregiving program at Care Team Partner. Dave is a pastor, nurse, and social worker. He and Kelly come from diverse religious backgrounds and have a passion for helping people through various illnesses, mobility issues, and other chronic diseases. They believe in providing person-centered care and developing resources to help people. Diane shares that many caregivers come to her for help because their churches have let them down. Dave and Kelly want to connect people to Care Team Partner's network of resources to help them get the support they need regardless of their faith or religion. They want to build a community that cares and has a focus on volunteerism to address the national caregiver crisis in the country.
The "Music for Dementia" campaign aims to make music a vital component of dementia care in the UK. As there is no known cure for dementia, the campaign seeks to provide access to music as an affordable and readily available form of therapy to aid in the daily care of those living with dementia.
In this podcast, Betsy Wurzel, a caregiver coach and dementia care specialist, discusses how to prepare for a doctor's appointment with Diane Carbo, a nurse and the founder of Caregiver Relief. The hosts stress the importance of being prepared for a doctor's visit, as doctors often have limited time with each patient. They advise listeners to bring a notepad, write down questions and concerns, and prioritize them in order to make the most of the appointment. They also recommend having someone with you to help you understand and record the doctor's answers, as well as being prepared for telemedicine appointments by having medications on hand and ensuring a good connection. Additionally, the hosts suggest reviewing all medications once a year and updating the doctor on any changes in health or recent visits to specialists or the ER. They note that communication is key and emphasize the importance of asking questions and not being afraid to reach out to the doctor for clarification. Finally, the hosts mention the challenges doctors face due to low reimbursement rates and government requirements, which make it difficult for them to spend adequate time with each patient.
Betsy Wurzel and Diane Carbo discuss how to avoid surprise medical bills. Betsy shares her personal story of how she received a high medical bill due to not checking whether her doctor and facility were in her insurance plan. The hosts emphasize the importance of checking your plan before going to a doctor or facility, especially with Medicare advantage plans which can be limiting. The podcast also highlights that insurance companies don't always continue to have agreements with doctors or hospitals, so it's important to do research before any medical procedure. Finally, they urge people to be detectives and do their research before seeking medical care, particularly if they are on a managed care plan or travel frequently.
The podcast discusses the topic of driving and retiring from driving for those with dementia. Betsy Wurzel, a dementia care specialist and podcast host, shares her experience with her husband who continued to drive despite showing signs of unsafe driving due to dementia. She emphasizes the importance of family members taking personal responsibility and not being afraid to have discussions about taking away their loved ones' driving privileges. Betsy regrets not having told the doctor to tell her husband he couldn't drive and advises others to learn from her experience. The podcast also mentions that denial and fear of loss of independence are common issues that prevent seniors from giving up driving, but it is important to consider the safety of not only the senior but also innocent people on the road. The podcast suggests that making the doctor or state the "enemy" can be helpful to avoid conflict in the family while taking necessary steps to ensure safety.
The podcast discusses the concept of a death doula, an end-of-life specialist who helps individuals and their families prepare for death, the dying process, and terminal illnesses. The services offered by a death doula range from writing advanced directives to post-death care and legacy work. The holistic approach of a death doula helps people face their fears and anxiety regarding death and dying. The discussion also mentions the concept of a death cafe, a safe place where individuals can meet to discuss death, the afterlife, and other related topics with like-minded people. The podcast notes that the need for death doulas is increasing as people look for alternative end-of-life care services that accommodate their desire to remain at home.
The podcast is about the benefits of having end-of-life conversations and planning for the end of life, including the fears and concerns that people may have about the subject. The speaker discusses the benefits of being able to make decisions about medical treatments, where the loved one will be when they pass away, how end-of-life care will be delivered, and what comfort measures will be provided. The speaker also highlights the importance of honoring the loved one's last wishes to avoid guilt or regret. Strategies for initiating conversations about end-of-life planning are also discussed, including avoiding family battles and making decisions before the loved one is too sick to express their wishes. The podcast also explains what an advanced directive and healthcare power of attorney are.
The podcast discusses the issue of driving safety and retiring from driving for aging drivers. Although getting older does not mean that one needs to give up the keys, changes in eyesight, physical condition, and slower response times may cause safety concerns. Aging adults face several fears related to giving up driving, such as isolation, increased dependence on others, and limited activities, leading to fewer social opportunities. It is essential to monitor the driving skills of aging adults and to address the issue of retiring from driving with them. Caregivers and friends should not avoid this topic because they fear anger or upsetting the aging senior. Instead, they must be honest with themselves as well as others and pay special attention to the limitations of senior drivers. It is also important to keep the lines of communication open and ask open questions about their thoughts and feelings on the subject. Finally, taking a driver refresher course and keeping up with medication changes can be helpful in maintaining driving skills.
In this podcast transcript, Betsy Wurzel, a dementia care specialist and caregiver coach, discusses her experience caring for her husband, who was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's at age 56. Betsy explains that it was difficult to get a proper diagnosis, as her husband was misdiagnosed with depression and was not believed by the neuropsychologist. Betsy and the host discuss the importance of early diagnosis and the genetic component of early onset Alzheimer's. They also express frustration with the medical community's resistance to diagnosing early onset Alzheimer's, even when the patient showed clear symptoms and had an MRI showing significant global shrinkage.
The podcast discusses how to approach financial matters when taking care of aging loved ones. It emphasizes that discussing finances with loved ones can be difficult, and they may be private about the topic. The podcast offers suggestions on how to approach this issue with a caring and sincere concern, such as offering to assist in organizing financial documents, but avoiding making judgments or recommendations. Signs that a loved one may need help with financial matters include hoarding money, bills piling up, gambling, and scrimping on food or medication. The podcast also provides questions to consider while reviewing daily and annual expenses, income, and investment strategies. Developing a simple budget and expense file for receipts and bills paid can be helpful, and there are outside resources available for assistance. Ultimately, it is essential to build trust and respect when approaching financial matters with loved ones.
In this podcast, Diane Carbo, CEO of My Vital Alert, shares the importance of carrying personal health information when traveling, particularly for seniors. Carrying one's specific medical information helps avoid misdiagnosis and unnecessary testing, especially during an emergency situation. The personal health information should include emergency contact information, a list of doctors and their contact information, medical conditions, past medical conditions, and medication lists including prescription and over-the-counter medicines. Allergies to food or drugs should also be included. Diane also recommends designating an emergency contact person who should have access to all relevant information. She suggests that people should store their personal health information securely but accessible when needed, for example, in a phone app or in a medical ID bracelet.
The podcast features Kim Doviak Van Hassel, a caregiver coach, as she talks about her experience caring for her aging parents. In this episode, she discusses how her life changed after her mother fell. Kim was an only child who had been doing long-distance caregiving for her parents for a few years. Her parents were in their 80s and had some health problems, but they were managing well until her mother fell. Kim had been at their house for a few days to help them get to the doctors, and her mother fell when Kim was on the phone. Kim and her father didn't know what to do, but they eventually called for emergency response. Her mother refused to go to the ER, but they eventually got her into rehab. While in rehab, her mother had trouble breathing, and she went to the hospital where they discovered she couldn't swallow. She developed aspiration pneumonia, and they were told she couldn't eat anymore.
The podcast is a conversation between Diane Carbo and Pat Deegan about bereavement, grief, and mourning. The speakers discuss different ways that people die, and how people grieve, including children, people in long-term facilities, and those who have experienced homicides and suicides. They also discuss the importance of communication with family and doctors, the impact of media and publicity, and the stigma associated with death by suicide. Pat Deegan emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and addressing the different types of loss people experience and suggests that counseling and support are important in dealing with bereavement.
The podcast transcript is a conversation between two women discussing the different funeral and burial options available today. The conversation is led by Alycia Martel, an end-of-life specialist, def doula, caregiver, coach, and podcast host. They discuss how traditional funerals involve embalming fluid and chemicals leaching into the ground. The alternative funeral options they discuss include home funerals, where the deceased's loved ones are in charge of the entire funeral process, and green burials, where the body is buried without embalming and in a biodegradable casket. Cremation is also discussed as a popular and more environmentally and fiscally responsible form of taking care of loved ones after death. The conversation ends with a discussion about the history of home burials and how they are making a comeback.
In this podcast, caregiver coach and dementia care specialist Tracey Lawrence discusses the importance of Medicare coverage for caregivers of aging parents. She mentions her private Facebook group called The Good Kids Club, which she created for adult children who don't see themselves as caregivers. Lawrence talks about a post from a member about insurance denial of coverage due to an incorrectly diagnosed systemic problem that was labeled as a dental problem. She recommends talking to a Medicare broker before choosing a particular type of Medicare to ensure the right kind of coverage for individual needs. Lawrence stresses that Medicare Advantage may not be suitable for everyone, and people need to be aware of its limitations. She suggests talking to a broker every year before signing up for a new plan since the rules change every year, and people's needs also change. Lawrence concludes that it's essential to find a certified, trained, and licensed broker to help navigate Medicare, and it's equally important to have a doctor who understands how to navigate Medicare.
The podcast discusses caregiver stress syndrome, a condition characterized by total physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion that arises due to neglect of one's own physical and emotional health while caring for someone else. The conversation stresses the importance of self-care for family caregivers and likens it to the airplane safety instruction to put the oxygen mask on oneself before helping others. Women, who often put themselves last, and baby boomers caring for their parents while also raising adolescent children are particularly vulnerable to this syndrome. The podcast also highlights that caregivers who take care of someone with dementia have a higher risk of dying before the person they are taking care of. The discussion emphasizes the need for caregivers to prioritize their own care to avoid burnout, compassion fatigue, and the caregiver stress syndrome.
The podcast discusses how cultural influences and religious beliefs can affect end-of-life planning, resuscitation measures, and medication use. The host and guest talk about the different religions and cultures in America and their beliefs and practices regarding organ donation, autopsy, cremation, embalming, and dietary restrictions. For example, Jehovah Witnesses refuse blood transfusions and won't eat raw meat unless all the blood is drained out. The oldest religion, Judaism, does not allow autopsies or embalming, and the ashes from cremation cannot be scattered. Meanwhile, Christianity allows organ donation, cremation, and embalming, but frowns upon autopsy. Sikhs in India allow organ donation and autopsies, but not embalming or eating meat or fish. The Baha religion allows organ donation and autopsies but not embalming. Understanding these beliefs and traditions is important for caregivers to provide appropriate care and comfort to patients, especially towards the end of life.
The podcast discusses the importance of understanding Medicare coverage for aging loved ones. The host and guest, Tracy Lawrence, discuss the Good Kids Club, a private Facebook group for adult children caring for aging parents. The conversation then turns to a post in the group that discussed insurance denial of coverage, specifically Medicare coverage. Tracy emphasizes the importance of having the right kind of coverage under Medicare and suggests consulting a Medicare broker to review benefits and situations. Medicare Advantage is discussed as an option, but Tracy warns that people need to be aware of its limitations and suggests that people speak with a broker every year before signing up for a new plan. Diane Carbo emphasizes that Medicare is convoluted, and Tracy emphasizes the importance of having a doctor who understands how to navigate Medicare.
In this podcast, host Diane Carbo and end-of-life specialist Pat Deegan discuss the stages of death and dying. The conversation begins with Carbo sharing a personal story about her experience with a pet who had multiple seizures and the questions that arose while filling out the necessary paperwork for emergency care. This story leads into a discussion about the way our culture views death, and the reluctance to accept it as a natural process. The conversation also touches on the consequences of medical treatments, and the need for people to consider end-of-life options for their pets as well as their loved ones.
The podcast features Tracey S. Lawrence, the founder of Grand Family Planning and author of the book "Dementia Sucks", discussing the challenges of caring for a loved one with dementia. Both the hosts and Lawrence agree that dementia is a tough disease to grapple with, but the ability to laugh helps make the day so much easier. Lawrence also emphasizes that dementia is not a linear disease and that people with dementia can still have good days, even after taking a bad turn. Family members who live with them all the time will see changes that may not show up on the mini-mental status exam. Different types of dementia present differently, with some people able to hide their cognitive deficits for a long time, especially in the early stages. The hosts conclude by noting that family members should be flexible and ready to embrace whoever shows up and have reasonable expectations of that person.
The podcast features Kim Doviak van Hassell, a caregiver coach and a contributor to the podcast. Kim is an only child who helped both of her parents stay together during their decline. Kim's parents were married for 62 years, and they were always in love, working hard at their relationship. Kim's mother was a nurse and took care of her father, who had heart disease, for many years. When Kim's mother became ill with Parkinson's disease, Kim had to take care of both of her parents. She started her caregiving journey long distance while running her own business. Kim joined caregiving support groups and disease-specific support groups, which helped her tremendously. She learned from other people's experiences and their journey. She took care of her parents one month at a time, which worked out perfectly.
In this podcast, Diane Carbo interviews Pat Deegan, an end-of-life specialist, to discuss the importance of healthcare directives and end-of-life planning. The conversation begins with an explanation of life-sustaining measures and curative care. Life-sustaining measures are medical treatments intended to prolong life rather than treat an underlying condition, while curative care aims to cure disease or promote recovery. The conversation then shifts to POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment), a portable medical order form that communicates a patient's wishes as medical orders, which is more specific than an advanced directive. It is important to have a POLST available wherever the patient goes, so that their wishes can be followed in the event of an emergency. The podcast emphasizes that end-of-life planning is an evolving process that changes as people age and develop illnesses, and that the medical jargon surrounding it can be confusing.
In this podcast transcript, Diane Carbo and Tracey Lawrence discuss the topic of guilt in caregiving. They highlight that caregivers often experience guilt over silly things, such as questioning if they made the right choices or feeling guilty for taking respite time. They argue that guilt is a useless emotion that negates all the positive things caregivers do and can be a motivator for positive change. However, it often causes unnecessary stress and keeps caregivers from experiencing joy. The speakers emphasize the importance of celebrating achievements and living in the moment, as caregiving can be isolating if relationships are not maintained. Overall, they encourage caregivers to give themselves a "get out of jail free card" and let go of guilt.
In this podcast, Alicia Martel, an end-of-life specialist, deaf doula, and caregiver coach, discusses the challenges of telling a person with dementia about the death of a loved one. She shares her personal experience of telling her father, who has a slow progressing form of dementia, about the death of his goddaughter. Alicia highlights the difficulty in delivering bad news to someone with dementia as they might not remember it in the long run. She explains how the person's emotional memory and response should be taken into consideration while approaching loss and grief. Diane Carbo, the host, adds that caring for a person with dementia during such a time can be emotionally challenging as the caregiver is already grieving the loss of the loved one and the slow or rapid loss of the person with dementia. The conversation ends with suggestions on how to comfort and provide solace to the person with dementia while meeting the caregiver's needs as well.
The podcast discusses multitasking and how it affects the health of caregivers. The speakers, Diane Carbo and Tracy S. Lawrence, explain that multitasking is a myth and that people should focus on one task at a time to be more productive. They discuss the responsibilities of caregivers and how they need to take care of themselves, too. They also explain that technology is changing people's brains for the worse, and multitasking is causing a new form of anxiety called "fear of missing out." They conclude that caregivers need to take time off and prioritize their own well-being.
The episode discusses the dying process and anticipatory grief. Diane Carbo, an end-of-life specialist, and Pat Deegan, an ex-hospice nurse, share their views on how hospitals view death as a failure, and how modern medicine can give people false hope with light-altering treatments. The sudden deaths that mourners have to face cause their grief process to take years as they don't have time to prepare. Diane shares her personal experience with anticipatory grief, where her mom beat cancer but died due to complications from treatment. They discuss the symptoms of anticipatory grief for the person and family mourners, including preoccupation with dying, cognitive changes, and loneliness. The podcast aims to help people overcome their fear of dying by discussing death and dying openly.
The conversation is about hospice care and the experiences of caregivers and patients with hospice. Diane Carbo shares her positive experience with hospice care for her father, but also acknowledges that others have had negative experiences. Betsy Wurzel shares her negative experience with hospice care for her husband, who had Alzheimer's and experienced terminal agitation. She felt unsupported and not heard by the hospice staff, and they did not listen to her requests for help. Betsy also notes that there is a lack of education about hospice care and dealing with younger patients with Alzheimer's who may not exhibit typical end-of-life symptoms. Diane and Betsy both discuss the challenges of being a family caregiver and the lack of training and support for unpaid caregivers who provide the majority of home health care in the country. They also discuss the limitations of Medicare in providing hospice benefits and the need for change.
The podcast features Alycia Martel, a caregiver coach, end of life specialist, death doula, and podcast contributor, who is actively caring for her father with dementia. In a car accident over three years ago, she was diagnosed with a TBI, traumatic brain injury, and post-concussive syndrome, affecting her motor skills, speech, cognitive function, memory, and vision. Despite this, she continues to provide care for her father with the help of her boyfriend. She talks about the importance of taking a step back and practicing self-care for caregivers.
In this podcast transcript, Diane Carbo, a caregiver relief expert, speaks with Betsy Wurzel, a dementia care specialist and caregiver coach, about medication management for elderly individuals. Wurzel notes the risks associated with certain medications when exposed to heat and sunlight and reminds listeners to hydrate loved ones and keep them in cool environments. The two also discuss the importance of being proactive and informed regarding medication use and advocating for loved ones with medical professionals to ensure medication reviews are conducted, as over-medication can have negative effects on aging bodies. Additionally, Wurzel emphasizes the importance of having a good pharmacist who can help manage medications and detect drug interactions.
In this podcast, Diane Carbo, a caregiver, talks to Pat Deegan, a registered nurse and end-of-life consultant, about the importance of planning for end-of-life care. They discuss the problem with not taking the steps to make wishes known and the importance of having communication about final wishes. Deegan stresses the importance of advanced directives, living wills, and medical power of attorney, and notes the complexity of the paperwork. Carbo emphasizes the importance of having a conversation about final wishes with family members and the need to start planning early. They also discuss the legal reasons for making final wishes known and how planning ahead for end-of-life care saves energy, stress, and resources for surviving family members.
In this podcast, Diane Carbo and Alicia Martel discuss caregiver isolation and loneliness, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Caregivers often experience social isolation over time as friends and family slowly drop back from involvement, but the pandemic caused a sudden retreat to homes and physical isolation. This has led to increased stress, depression, and mental illness. The rates of suicide and people seeking treatment have also skyrocketed. Alicia Martel, who has been a caregiver for 14 years, explains that self-care is essential, including the social component. It is difficult to take care of someone else when you are not taking care of yourself.
This episode discusses advanced directives, which are important for setting goals and plans with respect to medical treatment, and they are evolving plans that change over time. The hosts emphasize the importance of ongoing conversations on end-of-life issues and give insights into different types of advanced directives such as the five wishes, which cover desires for natural death. They also discuss how to make informed decisions about life support treatments such as feeding tubes, and the benefits and burdens that come with them. The hosts encourage people to have an honest conversation with their loved ones about their healthcare wishes and to create advanced directives at any age.
The conversation is between Diane Carbo and Alycia Martel, and they are discussing Alycia's experience as a caregiver for her father who has dementia. Alycia shares her experience of taking her father to the hospital after he showed symptoms of COVID-19. She talks about being her father's conservator, which means she is responsible for his medical and financial affairs. She advises caregivers to keep an emergency folder with important documents such as medical history, medication list, and emergency contacts. They also discuss the importance of packing a bag with a change of clothing, toiletries, and comfort items for the loved one, especially for people with dementia. Alycia's father was treated for allergies and given cough medicine and Claritin, and he was okay.
Thank you for sharing this conversation between Diane Carbo and Betsy Wurzel about caregiving during the holidays. They discussed the importance of focusing on spending time with loved ones instead of trying to make everything perfect. They also emphasized the need to be flexible and adjust plans as necessary, as well as to educate family members about the individual needs of the person with dementia. They also highlighted the importance of self-care for caregivers, who are often at a high risk of stress and burnout.
Pastor Dave and Kelly is co Director of the Faith in Caregiving program with CareTeamPartner.org. Today we are going to discuss the program and how we are here to help all faith based communities to develop a CareTeamPartner program in your community.
Music for Dementia is a national campaign to make music an integral part of dementia care in the UK.
There is no cure for dementia, but there is something readily available and easily affordable that can help.
That thing is music.
That is why we are calling for people living with dementia to have access to music as part of their daily care.
Preparing for your doctor's appointment is key to getting the most from the visit. Today we will discuss how to improve your care outcomes with good communication
Surprise medical bills are the result of being treated by someone outside your insurance company’s network of providers. So you want to avoid those out-of-network providers whenever you can.
Driving and retiring form Driving is a challenge for all of us.Aging does not mean we are unsafe drivers. Lets discuss how to continue to drive safely and when to retire from driving
Death Doulas are people who support people in the end of life process. It is “a new non-medical profession” that recognizes death as a natural, accepted, and honored part of life. what is a death cafe? we are going to answer questions and end of life issues.
Early Onset dementia can start at any age. It negatively impacts the family in a variety of different ways. Betsy shares her journey and offers tips and advice to help others, as they face this horrible disease.
Diane Carbo RN and CEO of MyVitalAlert.com and CareGiverRelief.com who works with seniors to remain at home for as long as possible joins eHealth Radio and the Senior Care and Travel Health Care Channels. She and her team identified a need for a simple to use Medical ID system that provides specific health information for aging seniors.
This is a story of Kims caregiving journey. She shares her journey with you. This will give you insight into the struggles and obstacles ever caregiver must face. Caregiving is unpredictable. Learn about life after a fall robbed her mother of her independence. Caregivers are selfless and compassionate people. This is a story of love and commitment. How one caregiver helped honor her parents wishes.
Today we are going to discuss the differences between bereavement, grief and mourning There are different types of grief and stages of grief. Grieving is hard work. We all grieve differently. We are here to help you on your path to healing. what to expect and how to cope with the reminders of your loss.
Rituals around death, grief and burial are a part of every culture. There is a growing trend to break away for the traditional burial rituals. Today we are going to explore funeral burial alternatives.
Learn the good m the bad and the ugly of Medicare and Medicaid will and will not cover and how it may negatively impact your pocket book.
Caregiver stress syndrome Is a condition of total mental, physical and emotional exhaustion. This is due to providing care for another and neglecting themselves and their own needs.
Religion, culture, ethnicity, social circumstances, geography and even gender plays a role in end of life planning. Communicating your beliefs to health care providers and family members helps assure that your wishes are respected.
Learn the good m the bad and the ugly of Medicare and Medicaid will and will not cover and how it may negatively impact your pocket book.
Dying is a natural process that occurs in stages. It can take minutes, or months. It all depends on the persons body. Today we are going to address the physical signs of dying to give you an understanding what is happening.
Kim Doviak Van Hassel
Caregiver CoachKim is an only child. When her parents started to decline, she saw this as an opportunity to help her parents stay together. Kim began her role as a caregiver to both her parents. She had her own business and started her caregiving journey long distance. This is a story of family love. Kim's parents took care of each other, throughout this journey, Kim helped their love story continue, until the end.
Her Caregiving Journey
My day my mom was given the diagnosis of Parkinson’s with essential tremor, I felt as if someone had punched me in the gut. Her way of coping was to sit in her room all day. She refused to speak to anyone about her diagnosis.
My mom was a nurse, and she knew that her body’s decline and pain would become the new “normal” in her life. I wanted to support my father, as well. He was having serious health issues, mostly heart related. They had ben married 55 years and rarely apart during that time. He wanted to take care of her. I knew I had to take care of both of them.
As their daughter, I wanted to do everything I could to help. I listened to audio books, and joined online support groups to learn all I could about caring for an aging parent with a chronic condition. I met so many wonderful people in these groups. We all had parents with different diagnoses, and I was surprised at how many of our caregiving issues and struggle were similar.
It is in one of thee groups I met Diane Carbo. She spent hours discussing my options with me. She even came for a visit, got to see my family dynamics.
I met another, in another group, who was more interested in taking my parents money and investing it.
My first tip to you is, to be careful who to get advice from, especially when you are so vulnerable.
I was concerned about nursing homes. I was also unsure about home care and the obstacles I would face.
More importantly, I wanted my parents to be happy.
Diane Carbo helped me by discussing these options. She made me aware of the pros and cons of each option.
As my caregiving journey unfolds, you will see how the choices were made.
My caregiving journey started with just a few hours a day of home care. I lived two hours away, was self-employed and trying to do long distance caregiving while working.
My parents agreed to hire someone for 20 hours a week: someone to help with the house cleaning and food shopping, assistance with personal care for my mom, making sure they took their medications and taking to doctor visits, when I could not be there.
I wanted to be there for the doctor visits. It is important to know what is going on
It was on one of my weekly visits to my parents home, when I heard a loud crash in the bathroom. I found my mom on the floor in front of the toilet.
This one fall, brought us into the next difficult chapter.
In fact, that one event changed our lives forever.
There are many different options to understand when planning for end of life. Today we will explain the different options, what they mean to you. Advanced planning is an ongoing process. Preparing an advanced directive is one step. Today we will discuss a POLST, Curative care, Palliative care, Hospice care.
Guilt, stress , anger and resentment are just a few emotions a caregiver will feel. They can motivate or immobilize a caregiver. Guilt guides your actions and affects your health. Join us today to learn how we can help you manage caregiver guilt instead of allowing it to immobilize you.
The death of a loved one is difficult for anyone. It is a special challenge when someone in the family has dementia. Family members are challenged to know how and when to tell the person with dementia about the death of a loved one.
Multi tasking is doing more than one thing at at time. It is having a negative impact on our health. If you think multi tasking makes you more productive, think again. Learn what you as a caregiver can do to retrain your brain, and have less stress. Learn techniques and approaches to care that will benefit you and your family member.
Death and Dying is a natural process. With advanced technology, death is seen as a failure. WE are going to discuss the death and dying process, anticipatory grief. WE want to help you over come your fear of dying.
There are good hospice companies and there are bad. Betsy is going to share her experience. We are going to discuss your options as a caregiver.
Join two nurses and care giver coaches as we discuss medications.Learn how to advocate for your family member. We no longer have the local pharmacy and pharmacist to rely on. Medicare has changed how we get our medications. We now must advocate and educate ourselves. Let us help you.
Planning ahead for end of life allows you to be in control of your life and have your wishes honored until you die. It saves energy, stress and resources for your surviving family members.
Caring for another is a selfless act. Caregiver stress kills. Todays podcast is about a caregivers journey interrupted by a car accident. Hear how she survived and continues to provide care for her father with dementia, as she practices self care everyday.
Advanced planning is a process for setting goals and plans with respect to medical treatment. It is an evolving plan that changes over time. Today we are discussing the importance of medical directives and the different types and the importance of having ongoing conversations on end of life issues.
There is nothing more stressful than when you have an unexpected trip to the emergency room. This when vital information can make a difference between life and death. Planning in advance for that unexpected moment can be a lifesaver. It will also allow the family caregiver to avoid undue stress and anxiety.
Caregiving is stressful on a good day. Join Betsy and Diane as they give you tips to help make the holidays less stressful and more enjoyable for all.