Care Giver Life with Dignity Podcast: Recent Episodes
Fran Piekarski and Sue Salach-Cutler
Sue Salach-Cutler and Fran Piekarski co-host this podcast on the challenges caregivers face when helping their loved ones. Each episode is committed in ensuring that our listeners, and those they care for, live a life with dignity, no matter their mental or physical state. We advocate for our listeners in a system that grows more complicated each year. https://habaneromedia.net/
Planning for Adult Disabled Children
Parents of adult disabled children are faced with a daunting responsibility. In this episode, Fran and Sue reveal the challenges parents face and provide solutions that will give their children the highest quality of life.
This is a production of Habanero Media.
Beware of Elder Scams
In this episode Pat sits in for Fran and asks Sue all about elder scams, scams that target older adults with the intent to steal their money. This includes phone scams, online scams, dating scams, and strangers at the door. But not only strangers, the elderly need to be skeptical of family and friends, too. All of this we cover. Give it a listen.
This is a production of Habanero Media.
Elderspeak is way of talking to older adults that sounds like baby talk. Examples include using terms like Honey, Sweetie, and Dearie. Fran and Sue share stories, examples and the harm done by elderspeak.
This is a production of Habanero Media.
What to Expect When Moving Into Assisted Living #52
Moving to an assisted living facility can be a big transition. In this episode Fran and Sue share advice on how to ensure a smooth and comfortable move. First it's essential caregivers pack wisely and bring along essential items that will help the new resident easily settle into their new home. From personal belongings to practical necessities, this episode covers all bases when moving.
This is a production of Habanero Media.
How to Advocate Health Care For Loved Ones #51
Get up, stand up, stand up for your loved one's health rights. In this episode Fran and Sue share advice on how to move beuracracies and persuade fearful staff to provide the best healthcare for your loved ones.
This is a production of Habanero Media.
Senior Living Options #50
In this episode Fran and Sue answer questions from their podcast producer Pat Helmers regarding the various options available for Senior Living.
This is a production of Habanero Media.
In this episode Fran and Sue discuss a touchy topic for the elderly; blended marriages. When a new spouse is significantly older, it raises the chances of them getting ill or passing before the other, and conflict with the spouse's children. These kinds of hazards need to be considered. Give it a listen.
This is a production of Habanero Media.
Care Plans: What When and Where #48
In this episode Sue and Fran discuss the need to have a plan of care for family members. Care Plans contain objective goals, strategies, and outcomes commonly reviewed quarterly for skilled care nursing homes or yearly for assisted living homes. Care Plans ensure accountability and should be considered a must. Listen here to learn more.
This is a production of Habanero Media.
Pets and Older Adults #47
Pets are great. But do they make sense for order adults who struggle to take care of themselves? Fran and Sue discuss the challenges and rewards.
Caregiver Life with Dignity Podcast
Sue Salach-Cutler and Fran Piekarski co-host on the challenges caregivers face when helping their loved ones. Each episode is committed to ensuring caregivers, and those they care for, live a life with dignity, no matter their mental or physical state. Fran and Sue advocate for listeners in a system that grows more complicated year after year.
This is a production of Habanero Media.
Transitioning Into Assisted Living with Anne Marie Davidson #46
In this episode, Anne Marie Davidson visits Sue and Fran for a discussion on the challenge aging adults face regarding their needs and preferences for retirement living. There are many housing options from which to choose. In this conversation, Anne Marie considers care options, lifestyle choices, financial, and geographic considerations.
This is a production of Habanero Media.
Why Caregivers Must Advocate For Themselves #45
In this episode, Fran and Sue talk about why it's crucial to stand up for yourself, especially for caregivers who face a lot of responsibility. Caregivers often overlook their own needs, whether it's about time, energy, or medical expenses. Sue shares a dramatic story about an accident involving her and her husband, and how they advocated for themselves in terms of care and expenses. Tune in today to hear more.
This is a production of Habanero Media.
Why Setting Boundaries Is Essential to Care Giving
In this conversation, Fran and Sue highlight how important it is for caregivers to set boundaries. Caregivers have many responsibilities, which can take up a lot of their time, money, and emotional energy. To stay strong and healthy, it's crucial for caregivers to establish clear limits. They'll discuss how caregivers can do this in today's episode.
This is a production of Habanero Media.
How To Know if Your Lifestyle is a Fit for the Future
In this episode Sue and Fran challenge the listeners to reflect on their current lifestyle and assess if it's still a good fit for the future. Does your home ownership and current social circles still make sense? That's the topic for today.
Caregiver Life with Dignity Podcast
Sue Salach-Cutler and Fran Piekarski co-host on the challenges caregivers face when helping their loved ones. Each episode is committed to ensuring caregivers, and those they care for, live a life with dignity, no matter their mental or physical state. Fran and Sue advocate for listeners in a system that grows more complicated year after year.
This is a production of Habanero Media.
Celebrating the Holidays While Caregiving
With the holidays upon us, it's a moment for caregivers to pause, reflect,t and take advantage of the opportunity to spend quality time with family, and friends while making special the time spent with those we care for. Fran and Sue share advice that any caregiver will find value during the holiday bustle.
This is a production of Habanero Media
Family Dynamics - How to Avoid Drama
Drama is often hard to avoid when a family is stressed with sickness and disease. Fran and Sue delve into this challenge with advice, rules, and stories of how to best deal with and avoid families hurting the ones they love most.
This is a production of Habanero Media
How To Recognize the Right Level of Care
Have you ever wondered how to determine the level of care that your family member needs; where they should be cared for and how long? That's the topic Fran and Sue discuss in this episode.
This is a production of Habanero Media.
Adult Services with Margo Vesely
In this episode, Fran and Sue interview Margo Vesely who shares her life journey into adult services, and then they discuss various caregiving opportunities available for the community.
This is a production of Habanero Media.
Strategies for Moving Your Loved Ones #38
Caring for an elderly loved one and moving them to a new home can be a challenging task.
- Start with a plan: Develop a detailed plan for the move, including a timeline, budget, and a list of tasks that need to be accomplished. Identify any specific needs or preferences your elderly loved one may have regarding their new home.
- Communicate: Keep open lines of communication with your elderly loved one throughout the process. Include them in decision-making and listen to their concerns and preferences. This can help alleviate any anxiety they may have about the move.
- Declutter and downsize: Help your loved one go through their belongings and decide what to keep, donate, or discard. This can be an emotional process, so be patient and empathetic. Remember to give them enough time to sort through their possessions.
- Enlist help: Don't hesitate to ask for help from friends, family, or professional moving services. This can reduce your workload and help you focus on providing emotional support to your loved one.
- Ensure safety: Prioritize safety in the new living environment. Install grab bars, non-slip mats, and good lighting to minimize the risk of falls. Make sure any necessary medical equipment is easily accessible and in good working order.
- Create familiarity: To help ease the transition, recreate familiar spaces from their previous home in the new environment. Arrange furniture and personal items in a similar way to help your loved one feel more at home.
- Be patient: Moving can be a stressful experience, especially for the elderly. Give your loved one time to adjust to their new surroundings and provide emotional support as needed.
- Establish a routine: Help your elderly loved one establish a daily routine in their new home. This can provide structure and a sense of stability.
- Stay involved: Continue to provide support after the move, whether it's helping with daily tasks, accompanying them to appointments, or simply spending quality time together.
- Seek professional support: If your loved one requires additional support, consider hiring professional caregivers or exploring other resources such as adult day care programs or support groups.
Remember, every situation is unique, so adapt these tips to best suit the needs of your elderly loved one and your caregiving role.
This is a production of Habanero Media
Special Needs Trusts with Nancy Roach
In this episode Sue and Fran invite guest Nancy Roach to visit and speak about the challenges of Special Needs Trusts and their ability to create financial stability.
Shoulda Woulda Coulda Caregiving Advice
In this episode Sue asks Fran who asks Sue about caregiving advice that arrived from personal experiences caring for loved ones, and those they've discovered in their consulting profession. Don't bemoan with shoulda woulda coulda but be proactive with these many great takeaways.
This is a production of Habanero Media
Shoulda Woulda Coulda Caregiving Advice
In this episode Sue asks Fran who asks Sue about caregiving advice that arrived from personal experiences caring for loved ones, and those they've discovered in their consulting profession. Don't bemoan with shoulda woulda coulda but be proactive with these many great takeaways.
This is a production of Habanero Media
The Ins and Outs of Having and Being a Power of Attorney
In this episode Fran and Sue discuss Powers of attorney and ask the question, do you really know what you're signing up for. Both types of Powers of Attorney are discussed: Property and for Healthcare. The episodes delves into what to consider when becoming a Power of Attorney and your rights when you choose a Power of Attorney.
This is a production of Habanero Media
Understanding Medicare with Medicare Mike Rice
What are the basics? Medicare is a complex program and can sometimes be confusing. · What are your coverage options? · Should you enroll in Part D? · How much does Medicare Part B cost? · What does Original Medicare cost? · Is there help for me if I can't afford Medicare? Fran and Sue chat with Mike Rice about all things Medicare.
This is a production of Habanero Media
How To Place Your Loved One In A Nursing Facility
In this episode Sue and Fran discuss about the decision making process of choosing a skilled nursing facility (Nursing Home) for your loved one. There are many issues to consider including services, price, staffing, cleanliness, and others. Don't choose the first place you visit! Instead visit many and ask the questions shared in this episode.
This is production of Habanero Media.
Five Things We Take For Granted You Need to Know
In this episode Fran and Sue discuss five things they take for granted, but understand not everyone knows. The topics include:
- What words to use that help caregivers
- The impact of masks on cognition
- Your right to choose
- Distinctions of terms for home health care
- Where you can go to get support
This is a production of Habanero Media https://habaneromedia.net
Caregiving with Cannabis Products with Mr. CBD
In this episode Fran interviews Mr. CBD Chicago about the benefits of CBD and Cannabis THC products. The conversation discusses the cannabinoid system, it's effect on homeostasis, various cannabis products from smoking flower, to vaping, to edibles and tinctures.
This is a production of https://habaneromedia.net
This is the second part of a series on hoarding. Hoarding disorder is a persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions because of a perceived need to save them. A person with hoarding disorder experiences distress at the thought of getting rid of the items. Excessive accumulation of items, regardless of actual value, occurs. Sue asks Fran about her experiences working with hoarders.
This is a production of Habanero Media
Hoarding and Steps You Can Take to Help Part 1
Hoarding disorder is a persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions because of a perceived need to save them. A person with hoarding disorder experiences distress at the thought of getting rid of the items. Excessive accumulation of items, regardless of actual value, occurs. Sue asks Fran about her experiences working with hoarders. This is a complex topic and will include a second part.
This is a production of Habanero Media
Hoarding and Steps You Can Take to Help Part 1
Hoarding disorder is a persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions because of a perceived need to save them. A person with hoarding disorder experiences distress at the thought of getting rid of the items. Excessive accumulation of items, regardless of actual value, occurs. Sue asks Fran about her experiences working with hoarders. This is a complex topic and will include a second part.
This is a production of Habanero Media
Understanding Dementia in a Loved One Part 2 with Dr. Jennifer Stelter
This is the second part of our Dementia conversation. Caring for someone living with advanced Alzheimer disease is a challenge. It can make you feel like you're on a hamster wheel—running in circles, trying the same things over and over with no effect on your loved one. You may also find it difficult to connect with your loved one and to understand what those living with Alzheimer disease are going through. In The Busy Caregiver's Guide to Advanced Alzheimer Disease, Dr. Jennifer Stelter, a psychologist working in memory care, shares a new model designed to help caregivers.
This is a production of Habanero Media
Understanding Grief with Rev. Paul Cutler
Holidays are a tough time when you've lost a loved one. How can you navigate Christmas and New Years when the loss is ever present? Guest Rev. Paul Cutler shares his thoughts and advice for those suffering with grief.
Find our website Life With Dignity
This is a production of Habanero Media
How to Hire a Caregiver
In this episode Fran and Sue share advice on how to interview and choose a caregiver for your loved one. They explain what you can expect, what's important and what's not important when bringing a stranger into your loved one's home.
This is a production of Habanero Media
Join the Life with Dignity Team for an outdoor Fiesta!
Enjoy Mexican cuisine and margaritas from the taco truck and catch up face to face with other referral sources and peers. Last Thursday, September 16th from 3-6pm 250 business companions were invited to have tacos at the World headquarters in St. Charles IL.
It's our way of saying thank you for all you do to support others in both your work and everyday life.
This is a production of Habanero Media.
Hospice and Palliative Care with Tammy Smith
For over 15 years Tammy has assisted families as they navigate some of the most challenging and emotional times in their lives. She recognizes that each person and each family can have very different needs but upholding one's dignity is universal. She gives families comfort and knowledge of all the options for families to ensure they can care for their loved ones in the best way possible without taking away their choice and independence.
This is a production of Habanero Media
How creativity can support your caregiving journey
In this episode Fran and Sue discuss how creativity can support your caregiving journey
- Getting creative with caregiving support
- Search for supportive products (don’t reinvent the wheel)
- Be creative with time management to create time to take care of yourself
Summary - Sum up today’s answer and conversation into a few memorable points to further answer the curiosity of your audience.
- Point 1 Get creative – Ask others for ideas
- Point 2 Make time for yourself!
This is a production of Habanero Media
Advocating for patient rights: the Jimmo Act
Linda Strohschein is an estate planning and elder law attorney. Linda, Fran and Sue discuss long term care planning and the impact of the Jimmo Settlement Agreement. Jimmo clarified when a beneficiary needs skilled nursing or therapy services under Medicare.
This is a production of Habanero Media
Your Right To Choose #20
When it comes to your healthcare, you're the decision maker. In this episode Fran and Sue discuss how you have the right to choose since you're the one to live with the consequences. The path to wise decision-making is to be fully informed. Ask questions and demand answers. Doctors work for you. When you're ill you may not be able to make the wisest of decisions. Seek out an advocate care manager.
This is a production of Habanero Media
I Care A Lot - A Movie Review
A new movie recently released by Netflix is reviewed and condemned for being all fiction and no reality when it comes to guardianship for the elderly. In this animated conversation, Fran and Sue walk through elements of the plot and with outrage point out the lack of truth in the story.
In real life this kind of thing NEVER EVER HAPPENS! Check it out!
Produced by Habanero Media
Applied Neuroplasticity for Caregivers with John Kennedy #18
John Kennedy is an innovative master coach, consultant, and trainer who has helped thousands of people and their organizations exceed their performance expectations for over 35 years. In this episode Sue and Fran learn that In response to a contract by the US Marines in 2007, John created the field of Allied Neuroplasticity to rapidly improve intuition, focus and faster and better decision making under stress. John’s Combat Brain Training program is at the core of all his work and he has been fortunate to be able to help high performers including military elites, sales and business leaders and professional athletes, as well as people struggling with concussions, PTSD, and learning disabilities.
LINKS to social media including....
- Website – www.mentalperfromanceinstitute.org
- and www.combatbraintraining.com
- Facebook mpt@kennedyconsultinggroup.com
- LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/in/kennedycg/
- Instagram – @combatbraintraining
This is a production Habanero Media
Understanding the Dementia Connection Model
In this episode Fran and Sue welcome back Dr. Jennifer Stelter (Clinical Psychologist) and Jessica Ryan (Biologist and Educator) to the podcast. All four discuss the "dementia connection model" and how it explains what's going on with dementia in a loved one and practical advice on how to intervene.
Caregivers rarely get enough training on dementia and arrive in situations that have a significant hurdle. The NeuroEssence provides a dementia connection classroom for healthcare providers. This training covers homecare, assisted living and caregivers. It is designed for new and existing employees with Continuing Education units. Mytoolbox contains interventions around olfactory, tactile, and color based that stimulate the senses for communication.
Podcast Produced by Habanero Media
How To Recognize Exploitation
In this episode Fran and Sue share advice on how to recognize a situation where a loved one is being exploited. Exploitation is a case where the act of using resources or treating people unfairly in order to benefit for their effort or labor. It may or may not have anything to do with money.
The signs of exploitation include the inability to understand financial issues, becoming physically fragile and can't do for themselves, isolated or suddenly have a brand new friend, or lastly questionable behavior from a loved one or caregiver.
This is a production of Habanero Media
Preparing for Elective Surgery
What are the key elements?
- What are the pre-op & post op procedures
- Get prescriptions filled ahead of time and get a list of potential medical equipment that might be needed.
- Who will be contacting you once the surgery is complete (make sure they have the correct phone number)
Keep in mind:
- Point 1 Be pro-active in thinking through your loved ones needs
- Point 2 Make a check-list of both to-do list items and questions for the doctor or surgical center
This is a production of Habanero Media
How to be a Remote Advocate
What to do when you cannot be on-site to advocate for a loved one.
What are the key elements?
- Have your loved one put you on speaker
- Try other avenues to get information
- Be creative in your approach (think outside the box)
For more information you can visit our website at LifewithDignity.net or like us on facebook @ LivingLifewithDignity.
Thank you for listening today, please share this episode with your friends and subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app.
This is a production of Habanero Media
How to Pick an Attorney
In this episode Sue and Fran discuss common concerns and advice regarding estate planning and asset protection.
- Pick an attorney before the crisis to ensure a wise decision
- Choose an attorney with experience in a specific area e.g. estate planning, medicare, elder law or disabled children
- Ask for attorney referrals from trusted others
- Have a free initial meeting to see if your personalities gel
- Make sure the attorney can explain things simply
- Evaluate the office personnel knowing they will be the ones who will work with you
- Consider both health care AND property when choosing a Power of Attorney
- When challenged in picking an advocate, diffuse family conflict and hire a professional caregiver
Learn more at Life With Dignity
This podcast was produced by Habanero Media
CareScout Services with Larry Nisenson
In this episode Fran and Sue interview Larry Nisenson,l, SVP and Chief Commercial Officer at Genworth. In this episode Larry chats about CareScout, a growing, dynamic market leader providing care management support services and long term care focused risk management solutions that help companies and families keep their promises to make the best informed decisions regarding care needs.
Links mentioned include:
- carescout.com/benefit information employees can take to employers
- genworth.com and click "about us" for thought leadership and Covid-19 preparedness
To learn more about Caregiver Life with Dignity find us at the LifewithDignity website
This podcast was produced by Habanero Media
Alternative Solutions to Mental Anguish
Brain Help with Oils
In this episode Fran and Sue welcome Dr. Jennifer Stelter (Clinical Psychologist) and Jessica Ryan (Biologist and Educator) to the podcast. All four discuss alternative methods of working with stressed caregivers and patients with dementia and mental health issues, amidst COVID-19.
There are many solutions to mental anguish beyond pharmacological medication. For example, meditation, deep breathing, and essential oils are great additions to one's toolbox.
To Find Further Information:
Link to Neuro Essence
Link to Facebook
Link to Instagram
Or call (773) 299-6461
Podcast Produced by Habanero Media
Reducing Stress with Scents
Fran shares ways to relieve stress through Aroma Therapy. Sue asks Fran to share scents and examples that are soothing during times of stress.
Some examples include Lavender. It's important to dilute with coconut oil for wound care and scrapes. If not diluted, it can actually stimulate. You don't want that!
You can also diffuse oils in water and steam into the air or when on the go, using felt furniture stickies on lapels. A number of scents are discussed.
Podcast Produced by Habanero Media
Fran and Sue are sequestered and share what they've learned from the experience. Topics discussed include how to be prepare yourself and your loved ones.
Three key elements discussed:
- You don't know what you don't know, until you do
- How you can pro-actively prepare yourself for emergencies
- What conversations should you have with your elderly loved one to help them prepare
Take time to create a list of items for your emergency kit and make copies of your elderly parents important paperwork and place in the kit
Produced by Habanero Media
Aroma Therapy for Caregivers
Due to limits on psychotropic medications, there is an impact on patients who have behaviour issues. Aroma therapy speaks to that challenge. Sometimes medications are the correct choice, but too often they have been misused with side affects.
Aroma therapy can be used to help sleep, increase appetite and improve mood. There are many alternatives so it's best in incorporate one at a time to test success. Take a scientific approach. Start with one and attach to a habit. Secondly, it's important to be consistent and understand how oils work together. Like food, some people have an allergic reaction. Sometimes this only occurs when two are mixed.
Never use essential oils "neat". Adulterate them before use. You can over due it without dilution e.g 1% rate. Carrier oils are used to mix. Over use can cause issues with your animals as well.
Aroma therapy itself does not cure sickness. Instead they kick-start your own body to fight chronic disease.
Diffusers should be used sparingly, only 15 minutes at a time. Otherwise you can overwhelm your olfactory system. Lavender was recommended as a starter. Liked by many and inexpensive.
You want GCMS tested, high quality in pureness products.
Produced by Habanero Media
How to Address Issues in Nursing Homes
Write down the facts of issues that your loved ones face in a nursing home. Facts matter and will allow you to keep your focus plus keep the emotions in check. These kinds of observations create possibilities. With facts in hand, ask what can WE do about it.
Skilled nursing facilities post the number for the state ombudsman. Facilities do NOT want visits from the ombudsman. Just the threat of a call can make a difference. For the most part, staff truly care. Unfortunately they are often spread too thin.
When choosing, watch how the staff interact vs the decoration of the facility. It's the people that matter. Find out the facilities specialization for rehab. Find a place best equipped for your loved one.
Don't be afraid to ask for help and get others to advocate for you. Find the facts, bring in people from the outside, work with the team and find solutions.
Produced by Habanero Media
How To Prepare for Surgery
Surgery is a dangerous and anxious time. The best way to mitigate risk and accelerate convalescence is to prepare. Proactivity is key and get resourceful.
Sue shares her experiences how she prepped for her husband's knee surgery. They practiced getting in, out, up and down and through your home and car. Consider the weather, snow can be a challenge. Decide which is the easier door to use.
This preparation paid off once the surgery was completed. Create a list of challenges and address prior to the surgery.
Advice is given on what to do if someone falls down, how to pick them up and get them into a chair, or in some cases, call 911. They speak at length is a gate belt, a wide thick strap that is long and used to wrap around a person and lift. Be trained before attempting a lift.
Beware of dogs! In their exuberance, they can cause chaos.
Give friends and neighbors a heads up on the surgery. Prepare them so you can call them up for help in a moment notice.
- Be Proactive
- Use Your Resources - borrow what you can
- Talk to Your Doctors - ask questions and record answers
- Prepare - cook meals ahead of time.
Produced by Habanero Media
In this episode Fran and Sue explain the Power of Attorney, what it means for caregivers, friends and family members. Having the Power of Attorney is a significant responsibility and it’s best to proactive when giving and taking the Power of Attorney.
Produced by Habanero Media
To take care of others, you must take care of yourself. In this episode Fran and Sue provide advice on how caregivers can schedule time focused on themselves.
Self care is critical for health and wellness. They recommend having a tool box of activities. Listen for advice you can take action today.
Produced by Habanero Media
In this episode Fran and Sue explain the definition of guardianship, the process for getting guardianship and the difficulties in that process that makes guardianship the measure of last resort.
Produced by Habanero Media
In this episode Fran and Sue discuss situations where a loved one is hospitalized with a life threatening illness. This difficult situation creates a toll on caregivers.
Advice on how to overcome the stress and responsibilities is shared. To learn more go to Living Life With Dignity for tips and help that you can take action today.
Podcast Produced by Habanero Media
In this introductory episode, Fran and Sue share their background in caregiving. First how they each entered the profession and next how they met to become business partners.
Lastly, they share topics and issues that will be discussed on the podcast and the community they have created and continue to nurture and foster. Listen here to learn how it all began.
Podcast Produced by Habanero Media