All Home Care Matters

Conscious Caregiving with L & L is "Tackling the Tough Conversations."

The topic of this episode is "Covering Care Costs" featuring hosts Lori La Bey and Lance A. Slatton.

About Lori La Bey:

Lori La Bey is the founder of Alzheimer's Speaks and is co-founder of Dementia Map global resource directory and the co-host of Conscious Caregiving with L & L.

Lori's mother who lived with dementia for 30 years. Her goal has always been to shift dementia care from crisis to comfort around the world.

She offers a variety of free resources to educate, empower, connect, and decrease stigmas; helping families and professionals live graciously alongside dementia.

Lori is an international speaker known for her multiple platforms and training programs.

About Lance A. Slatton - known as "The Senior Care Influencer"":

Known as "The Senior Care Influencer" Lance is a Writer, Author, Influencer, and Healthcare professional with over 20 years in the healthcare industry.

Lance A. Slatton is a senior case manager at Enriched Life Home Care Services in Livonia, MI. He is also host of the award winning podcast & YouTube channel All Home Care Matters and Co-Host of Conscious Caregiving with L & L with Lori La Bey along with The Care Advocates and The Caregiver's Journal.

Lance is also the new President of AlzAuthors.

Lance's book, "The All Home Care Matters Official Family Caregivers' Guide" was the recent recipient of the 2024 International Impact Book Awards.

To learn more about Lance A. Slatton and Lori La Bey you can visit their websites.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Chris Milone as guest to the show.

About Chris Milone, Chief Marketing Officer, A Place for Mom:

Chris Milone is Chief Marketing Officer at A Place for Mom, the leading platform guiding families through every stage of the aging journey. He brings 20+ years of experience in digital marketing, growth, and customer engagement across scaled consumer platforms and high-growth digital companies. At A Place for Mom, he leads marketing strategy with a focus on strengthening the brand, expanding caregiver reach, deepening partner relationships, and building a modern, data-driven marketing engine.

Previously, Chris served as Chief Marketing Officer at Laurel Road, a digital banking brand of KeyBank, where he oversaw brand strategy, partnerships, business development, product marketing, and customer engagement. Before that, he was CMO at Best Egg and ShopRunner, and held senior digital marketing leadership roles at Barclays and HSBC, with a focus on digital transformation and data-driven marketing strategies.

About A Place for Mom:

A Place for Mom is the leading platform that guides families through every stage of the aging journey. We simplify the search for senior care by offering free, personalized support—and when families are ready, we refer them to partners from our network of over 15,000 senior living communities and home care agencies. Our mission is to guide caregivers and their loved ones to a confident place, so families can focus on what matters most: their love for each other. A Place for Mom: Where love finds its place.

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All Home Care Matters and host Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome back Denice Kennedy and Mike Weinberger, co-founders of CaregiverCompanion.AI, for an important conversation about the continued growth of CARA and the launch of CARA for the Workplace.

Building on the support CARA already provides to family caregivers, Denice and Mike discuss how CARA for the Workplace can help employers better support employees who are balancing their careers with the responsibilities of caring for an aging parent, spouse, family member, or loved one.

Millions of employees are also family caregivers, often managing appointments, medications, care decisions, emergencies, and emotional stress while trying to remain productive at work. In this episode, Denice and Mike explain how CARA for the Workplace gives employers an innovative way to recognize these challenges and provide meaningful, accessible support.

The conversation highlights the many potential benefits of CARA for the Workplace, including helping employees quickly access trusted caregiving information, practical guidance, and personalized resources. By supporting working caregivers, organizations may also strengthen employee well-being, reduce stress, improve productivity, increase retention, and build a more compassionate workplace culture.

Denice and Mike also share updates on CARA and discuss how the platform continues to make caregiving information and support easier to navigate. Their work demonstrates how thoughtfully developed technology can help caregivers feel more informed, confident, and less alone throughout their journey.

Mike also reflects on the personal caregiving experiences that inspired his book, "My Wife Has Alzheimer's, Now What?" and the mission behind CaregiverCompanion.AI.

💡 In This Episode, You'll Learn:

⚫️ How CARA continues to support family caregivers with trusted information and practical resources

⚫️ What CARA for the Workplace offers employers and their employees

⚫️ How caregiving responsibilities can affect employee stress, productivity, attendance, and well-being

⚫️ Why supporting working caregivers can strengthen employee engagement and retention

⚫️ How employers can create a more understanding and caregiver-friendly workplace culture

⚫️ How CARA can help employees find caregiving guidance and resources when they need them most

⚫️ Why caregiver support is becoming an increasingly important workplace benefit

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Nafeesa Remtilla the CEO of Poppins Payroll as guest to the show.

About Nafeesa Remtilla, CEO of Poppins Payroll:

Nafeesa Remtilla is CEO of Poppins Payroll, which helps families across the country pay caregivers — including private caregivers for aging parents — legally and simply.

As a working mother who has relied on caregivers herself, she has a personal understanding of what it means to trust someone else with the people you love, and why that person deserves to be paid fairly and properly for it. That same belief shapes how she leads: a deep commitment to understanding what families and caregivers actually need, not just what a payroll product should look like on paper.

About Poppins Payroll:

Poppins Payroll takes the guesswork out of household payroll, making it simple and easy to pay the people who care for your loved ones. Founded in 2016 in Boulder Colorado, Poppins was built after its founders faced the same confusing, paperwork-heavy process so many families run into: trying to figure out how to pay a household caregiver legally, without being a payroll expert.

Today, Poppins supports more than 65,000 families across all 50 states — including a growing number of adult children managing payroll for a parent's private caregiver. For these families, Poppins handles the parts that feel overwhelming: calculating pay, withholding and filing taxes, staying current on state-specific rules, and preparing year-end paperwork. The goal is simple — take one more thing off the plate of someone who is often already juggling medical appointments, legal decisions, family logistics, and everything else that comes with caring for your loved one.

With a dedicated support team that picks up calls in under 10 seconds, Poppins is here to make sure that you are supported in every step of your caregiving journey.

Connect with Poppins Payroll:

Official Website:

https://www.poppinspayroll.com/

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Congressman Joe Morelle as our guest to the show.

About Congressman Joe Morelle:

Congressman Joe Morelle is proud to represent New York's 25th Congressional District, which includes Monroe County and a section of neighboring Ontario County. A lifelong resident of Upstate New York, Congressman Morelle is a former small business owner and previously served as the Majority Leader of the New York State Assembly before being elected to Congress in 2018.

Throughout his career, Congressman Morelle has worked diligently to improve and expand access to healthcare for all people, grow our economy, and create opportunity for Monroe County families. He continues that work through his role as Vice Ranking Member on the Committee on Appropriations and as Ranking Member of the Committee on House Administration.

Connect with Congressman Joe Morelle:

Official Website:

https://morelle.house.gov/

Connect with TogetherNow:

Official Website:

https://www.togethernowny.org/

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Rebekah Dowhy & David Beeton as guests to the show.

About Rebekah Dowhy:

Rebekah is the President of the Caregiving Support Network, a ministry offering prayer, community, and practical support to family caregivers. Her most important role was being a primary caregiver to her Mom, Sherrie who had Multiple Sclerosis for 21 years.

About David Beeton:

David is the Vice President of Programs for the Caregiving Support Network. He is also serving as a Congregational Care Prayer Director at his church: Experience Community Church in Cannon County, Tennessee. He was a caregiver for his wife Sherrie, who had Multiple Sclerosis for 21 years.

About Caregiving Support Network:

The Caregiving Support Network ministry equips churches to reach caregivers in their community through prayer, community, and practical help. By working with the Caregiving Support Network, churches can show an unreached people group the love of Jesus.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Alder Allensworth as guest to the show.

About Alder Allensworth, MM, RN:

Alder Allensworth, MM, RN, is a registered nurse and retired hospice counselor who supported families caring for loved ones with dementia at the end of life. Her professional background spans working with both children and older adults, including those living with Alzheimer's disease.

The inspiration for this project grew from Alder's personal experience witnessing her mother, who had Alzheimer's, connect meaningfully with her grandchildren—Alder's nieces and nephews. This powerful family experience, combined with her clinical work, deepened her commitment to helping families navigate dementia with compassion, creativity, and connection.

Alder is also an accomplished writer, having published several articles in professional journals and books. As a speaker and presenter in the field of disabilities, she has shared her insights on local, national, and international stages. Her advocacy and dedication to promoting quality of life for people with disabilities have been featured on CNN, as well as in international media and local news outlets.

About Mackenzie Meets Alzheimer's Program (MMAP):

The Mackenzie Meets Alzheimer's Program (MMAP) is a family-centered, multimedia educational program with an online community component designed to help parents, children, educators, and healthcare professionals navigate the challenges of Alzheimer's disease.

Created especially for families in the "sandwich generation," it provides practical tools, guidance, and meaningful activities that support positive interactions between children and loved ones living with Alzheimer's from diagnosis through the severe stage. The program helps children and their families stay meaningfully connected throughout the journey.

At the heart of the program is the Mackenzie Meets Alzheimer's Awareness Program (MMAAP), a 5-video educational series covering each stage of the disease, along with guidance for adults raising children while caregiving. The program also includes a quick reference guide, transcripts, and accessible audio and visual resources to support a wide range of learning needs.

Importantly, the MMAAP helps children understand Alzheimer's in age-appropriate ways and gives them simple, meaningful activities they can do with their loved one to maintain connection and nurture the relationship.

Complementing the video series is the Mackenzie Meets Alzheimer's Disease Picture Book, a gentle, child-friendly introduction to Alzheimer's. The book follows a young girl learning how to understand and connect with her grandmother as the disease progresses. It includes a QR code for a free Story Song download whose lyrics are the text for the book—making the learning experience engaging, memorable, and accessible for young children and early readers.

The complete MMAP is also a valuable resource for Adult Day Centers and Memory Care Communities, offering a ready-to-run educational program for families. It helps answer common questions proactively, reducing the need for staff to repeatedly provide the same explanations. This allows them to focus more on care and connection.

Together, the program and book go beyond education—they empower families to create meaningful moments, maintain connection, and build positive memories throughout the course of Alzheimer's and other dementias.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Dr. Vicki Wright-Hamilton as guest to the show.

About Dr. Vicki Wright-Hamilton:

Dr. Vicki Wright Hamilton is the founder of VWH Technology, LLC and the creator of PeacefulCare, the AI-powered Caregiver Command Center. She's spent more than four decades in executive leadership, including time as a Chief Operating Officer, an Interim CIO, and a transformation strategist guiding senior leaders through the most disruptive technology shifts of their careers. Through her firm VWH Consulting, she works with executives navigating disruptive technology, with AI front and center right now, always keeping people first through change management and adoption.

Here's how PeacefulCare came to be. As Vicki worked with leader after leader, she kept hearing the same thing under the surface. They were exhausted trying to lead at work and care for someone at home at the same time. Often a parent. Sometimes a spouse, a sibling, or a child with complex needs. Nobody was talking about it, but it was costing them everything. So she started VWH Technology, LLC and built PeacefulCare for caregivers, drawing on a lifetime of caregiving experience that started in childhood when she helped her mother care for her grandmother and great aunt. Her great aunt passed away holding her hand.

She and her husband then cared for his brother for 26 years, and during a seven-year stretch she became the simultaneous primary caregiver for four additional loved ones, including one in Ohio she traveled to every three weeks. Based in Georgia, Vicki is a strategist, builder, speaker, and advocate who's lived every version of caregiving most families ever face.

About PeacefulCare.ai:

PeacefulCare is the AI-powered Caregiver Command Center for families managing the real work of care. Records, schedules, medications, documents, providers, appointments, patterns, risk signals, all in one place and intelligently connected. The platform lives under VWH Technology, LLC, the technology company founded by Dr. Vicki Wright Hamilton to bring AI-powered tools to the people who need them most. You can find it at PeacefulCare.ai.

The company was born from two things happening at once in Vicki's life. On one side, decades of caregiving. As a child, she helped her mother care for her grandmother and her great aunt, and her great aunt passed away holding her hand. As an adult, she and her husband cared for his brother for 26 years, and during a seven-year stretch she became the simultaneous primary caregiver for four additional loved ones while raising her kids and running her career. On the other side, her work through VWH Consulting, where she advises senior executives on disruptive technology and AI adoption with a people-first lens. Leader after leader kept telling her the same quiet truth.

They were trying to lead at work and care for someone at home, and the weight of doing both was breaking them. PeacefulCare was the answer to a question she kept hearing from both sides of her life. There was also one specific night that sharpened the mission. Vicki was sitting with her mother in the hospital, something shifted, she pushed, and her mother is alive today because a daughter who refused to go home saw something no system flagged and no algorithm caught. Technology can't replace the love and instinct of a caregiver. Technology should carry everything else.

What sets PeacefulCare apart is the AI analytics engine, and it's watching two people at once. The loved one and the caregiver. On the loved one's side, the platform tracks wellness patterns across medications, sleep, mood, vitals, appointments, and daily behaviors, and surfaces the small signals that usually go unnoticed until they turn into a hospital visit. Sudden changes in routine.

PeacefulCare's promise is simple and personal. You bring the love. PeacefulCare holds everything else.

The Prescription for Relief Summit:

Registration: https://summit.peacefulcare.ai

Hosted by: Dr. Vicki Wright Hamilton, founder of VWH Technology and creator of PeacefulCare.ai

Date:

Saturday, July 25, 2026 Time: 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Eastern Time

Location:

Live online via Zoom

Audience:

Family caregivers, veterans, family decision-makers, professionals, advocates, and others carrying significant personal or caregiving responsibilities.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Rima Nathan as guest to the show.

About Rima Nathan:

Rima Nathan is a clinical professor at FSU Law and directs the Claude Pepper Elder Law Clinic. Professor Nathan previously practiced in the areas of complex civil litigation, trials, and appeals, and she served as a judicial clerk to Justice Jorge Labarga of the Supreme Court of Florida. Professor Nathan teaches the Elder Law Clinic and directs the Claude Pepper Elder Law Moot Court Competition.

She has received various awards including the 2024-25 University Teaching Award for Community Engaged Teaching, AARP Florida's Fraud Fighter award, and was the Elder Law Section of the Florida Bar's member of the year. She is a member of various organizations including the First District Appellate American Inn of Court, the Consumer Protection Law Committee of the Florida Bar, and the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys.

About Florida State University College of Law:

At Florida State University College of Law, we prepare bold, leaders who shape the future of law and strengthen communities through knowledge, advocacy, and service. We are united by a shared commitment to shaping future lawyers who lead with integrity, give back to their communities, and uphold ethical practices that benefit all.

We recognize the importance of our collective role in fostering a deep understanding of the legal profession's impact and responsibility. Our mission is to cultivate a dynamic environment grounded in professionalism, excellence, and collaboration and connection.

Through a rigorous, forward-thinking curriculum, world-class faculty mentorship, and hands-on learning opportunities, we empower the next generation of legal leaders. Located in the heart of Florida's capital, the College offers unmatched access to courts, governmental institutions, and a thriving legal community.

Florida State University College of Law aspires to be a national leader in legal education, scholarship, and public service. We envision a community where students, faculty, and alumni drive innovation in the law, advance social justice, and shape the future of the legal profession.

Through our strategic location, distinctive programs, and commitment to excellence, we aim to empower graduates to make a profound impact on their communities, the state of Florida, and the world.

Here, excellence is more than a standard—it is our way of life and the foundation of our national reputation. We are committed to delivering outstanding academic programs, supporting our faculty and students at every stage, and continually raising the bar for professional achievement.

Our reputation for excellence is built every day through exceptional student recruitment, service, and support; the scholarship and dedication of our faculty; and active engagement with the broader community.

We proudly share these achievements through our clinics, partnerships, and outreach efforts, ensuring that the excellence we cultivate is recognized and celebrated.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Josh Bowie and Dr. Divyen Patel from Your Genetic Wellness as guests to the show.

About Naga V. Naidu, Ph.D., Lab Director at Your Genetic Wellness:

Dr. Naga V. Naidu is a PhD-trained toxicologist and laboratory leader with more than 10 years of experience in forensic and clinical diagnostic laboratories. He earned his PhD in Toxicology in Houston, Texas, following completion of his bachelor's degree in pharmacy in India. Early in his career, he served as Scientific Laboratory Director at a forensic toxicology laboratory and achieved board certification as a Toxicology Chemist through the National Registry of Certified Chemists (NRCC).

Dr. Naidu has held multiple leadership and technical roles across forensic and clinical diagnostic environments. He currently serves as a General and Technical Consultant Director for several Clinical Diagnostic Laboratories, where he provides oversight in laboratory operations, test development, validation, regulatory compliance, and quality systems management.

His expertise includes method development and validation of advanced analytical platforms used in toxicology, molecular diagnostics, and genetic testing. Dr. Naidu has experience reviewing and supporting genotype-based testing panels and translating molecular data into clinically meaningful wellness and risk-assessment frameworks.

In addition to his technical expertise, Dr. Naidu is highly experienced in laboratory compliance and regulatory standards, including CLIA, CAP, proficiency testing, and quality assurance systems. His multidisciplinary background allows him to bridge scientific rigor, clinical relevance, and regulatory integrity, ensuring high-quality, reliable genetic and diagnostic testing.

About Josh Bowie, SVP of Strategy & Insights at Your Genetic Wellness:

Josh Bowie is a creative strategist and systems thinker dedicated to solving the "Last Mile" problem in precision health. As the SVP of Strategy & Insights at Your Genetic Wellness, Josh serves as the Strategic Lead for the Results to Routines™ framework, a methodology designed to translate complex biological data into clear, actionable wellness pathways for everyday life.

Josh's approach is rooted in the belief that data is only as valuable as the habits it inspires. He moves beyond the traditional model of overwhelming, static health reports, focusing instead on Actionable Biology: a human-centric design where technology and clinical expertise intersect to create sustainable change. By synthesizing market signals with a unique perspective on consumer behavior, Josh ensures that Your Genetic Wellness functions as a "GPS for the Human Body," empowering individuals to navigate their health with confidence and clarity.

A vocal advocate for collaborative wellness, Josh emphasizes that the most successful health journeys are never walked alone. His work focuses on building the bridges between cutting-edge science and the real-world decisions that define long-term vitality, ensuring the future of health is both personalized and profoundly practical.

About Your Genetic Wellness:

We believe in a different approach: providing a personal biological roadmap before the guesswork begins. Using a simple at-home swab, we translate unique genetic markers into clear, actionable insights that show how a body may process nutrients, respond to medications, and manage long-term wellness.

Whether you are a proactive professional, a parent, or a caregiver, we provide the data-driven confidence to move away from reactive "sick care" and toward more informed, personalized health decisions.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Deidra Jackson as guest to the show.

About Deidra Jackson, 2026 Dole Caregiver Fellow, Illinois:

Deidra Jackson has served as a healthcare executive for the last 25 years leading product and business development efforts across national and regional payer organizations as well as digital health platforms. Her decades of experience developing healthcare resources revealed what she now sees in her own family—that sick and aging veterans are not the ones tracking appointments, managing medications, or translating clinical instructions into daily living. It is their caregivers.

Deidra's father Leroy Avery, Jr. served four years on active duty in the U.S. Air Force. As an Airman, he served with the Military Police during the Vietnam War. Leroy was exposed to Agent Orange, which has triggered or complicated a list of debilitating health conditions, including diabetes, heart failure, kidney failure, gastroparesis, and recurring blood clots.

Leroy's dependence on his daughter has grown over the years. Deidra's role as a caregiver began with smaller, episodic acts of care before evolving into daily oversight of his basic needs and safety. Deidra managed his care during extended hospital stays and attempts at living alone, before moving him into an independent living facility. She soon realized that he needed more support and care, so she moved him into her family home.

Before becoming a Dole Caregiver Fellow, Deidra was already building connections between other veteran caregivers. She published a memoir and companion journal about her caregiving journey to bring awareness to the experience and assure her fellow caregivers that they are not alone. Deidra also speaks at events about her caregiving experience, including her keynote address at the Military Caregiver Breakfast at the 2025 Military World Expo.

As she continues her advocacy, Deidra is eager to use her professional and personal experience to champion the idea of formalizing the role of the caregiver within healthcare delivery. She says, "When caregivers are recognized, supported, and integrated into care planning, outcomes improve for veterans, costs are reduced, and communities are strengthened nationwide." Her passion is ensuring people are seen, heard, and supported.

About the Dole Caregiver Fellowship:

The Elizabeth Dole Foundation Dole Caregiver Fellows Program is a selective leadership and advocacy fellowship for individuals who provide care and support to wounded, ill, or injured service members and veterans of all generations. Participants—spouses, parents, adult children, friends, or other loved ones—are chosen from across the United States to represent caregivers across their communities and nationally.

During a two-year term, Fellows receive training, build networks, and work with policymakers, organizations, and the public to raise awareness of the value of caregivers and the challenges they face. They advocate for improved support and resources and advise the Foundation on programs and policy priorities affecting military and veteran families. In addition, by sharing their stories and experiences, they help other caregivers recognize themselves as caregivers, connect to resources, and feel welcomed in a community where every caregiving journey is valued.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Shannon Tuimalealiifano as guest to the show.

About Shannon Tuimalealiifano, 2014 Dole Caregiver Fellow, Florida:

Shannon and her husband, Sualauvi "Sua" Tuimalealiifano, are both Army veterans who met while serving at Fort Bragg. As a military child herself, Shannon understood the strength, camaraderie, and sacrifice that come with military life. After enlisting two years after high school, she served as a trained lab tech and combat medic, later working at Womack Army Medical Center.

But nothing could have fully prepared Shannon for the life-changing journey that began after Sua was injured in combat while serving with Army Special Operations in Afghanistan. A paratrooper, jumpmaster, and Special Operations soldier, Sua sustained a severe spinal cord injury that eventually left him quadriplegic.

At the time, Shannon was raising three young children, ages 6, 4, and 9 months. Within a week of Sua's medevac from Afghanistan, she joined him at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, followed by rehabilitation at James A. Haley VA Hospital in Tampa. What followed was a long and difficult road through hospital stays, rehabilitation, military transition challenges, and the daily realities of full-time caregiving.

After nearly two years in hospitals and rehab, Shannon and Sua returned to Fort Bragg without the support or accessibility their family needed. Their home was not wheelchair accessible, and Sua's wheelchair could not fit through the doors. Eventually, the family relocated to Hawaii through a compassionate reassignment so they could be closer to Sua's family and support system.

Even with family help, Shannon faced overwhelming exhaustion, sleep deprivation, and the emotional weight of caregiving around the clock. She later found healing through an equine therapy program with other military caregivers, describing it as "lifesaving and life-giving."

Through community, connection, and support from organizations including the Elizabeth Dole Foundation's Hidden Heroes program, The Rosie Network, the VA, and Wounded Warrior Project's Independence Program, Shannon found strength, purpose, and a deeper understanding of the importance of supporting military and veteran caregivers.

Shannon's story is one of service, sacrifice, resilience, and the power of caregiver community.

About the Dole Caregiver Fellowship:

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Peter Ross as guest to the show.

About Peter Ross, Co-Founder & CEO of Senior Helpers®:

Peter Ross is the CEO and Co-Founder of Senior Helpers®, a leading national provider of in-home senior care, a role he has held since 2006. He is also the CEO and Founder of Town Square Franchising, launched in 2018, which focuses on innovative adult day services and supportive care experiences for older adults and families.

Peter has been a longtime leader in the home care and healthcare industries, having served on the Board of Directors for the Home Care Association of America from 2008 through 2021, including as Board President from 2013 to 2020. He is a current CEO Member of the Healthcare Leadership Council in Washington, D.C., and previously served as CEO and Co-Founder of Doctors Express Urgent Care. His broader leadership background includes executive roles with ADP, Ernst & Young, and Intuit, as well as board service with the New England Conservatory of Music and From the Top.

About Senior Helpers®:

Senior Helpers® is the nation's premier provider of in-home, non-medical senior care services, offering specialized support for individuals living with Alzheimer's disease, dementia, Parkinson's disease, and other conditions, as well as personal care and companion care for those who need assistance with daily activities. Their services are flexible and completely customizable, allowing each personalized care plan to combine different aspects of their care offerings based on the individual needs of each client.

When a family first contacts a Senior Helpers office, the process begins with a complimentary initial assessment in the client's home to better understand their needs and develop an individualized care plan. When needed, a qualified staff member, social worker, or registered nurse may conduct a more detailed assessment, depending on state regulations, to further guide the care plan. This assessment is then used in the caregiver matching process to help select the most appropriate caregiver for each client.

Senior Helpers® also elevates its care through three key programs: the proprietary LIFE Profile assessment tool, the Senior Gems® program, and the Senior Helpers Center of Excellence training spaces. LIFE Profile is a research-based technology tool that uses data to help identify a client's risk of hospitalization. Senior Gems® provides effective strategies for supporting and caring for loved ones from normal aging through late-stage dementia, focusing on what is precious and unique about each senior at every stage.

The Senior Helpers® Center of Excellence is a training space designed to simulate a client's home, allowing caregivers to learn in a real-world environment and demonstrate their ability to provide the highest quality care in the home setting.

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Conscious Caregiving with L & L is "Tackling the Tough Conversations."

The topic of this episode is "Memory Cafes & Seniors" featuring hosts Lori La Bey and Lance A. Slatton.

About Lori La Bey:

Lori La Bey is the founder of Alzheimer's Speaks and is co-founder of Dementia Map global resource directory and the co-host of Conscious Caregiving with L & L. Lori's mother who lived with dementia for 30 years.

Lori's goal has always been to shift dementia care from crisis to comfort around the world. She offers a variety of free resources to educate, empower, connect, and decrease stigmas; helping families and professionals live graciously alongside dementia.

Lori is an international speaker known for her multiple platforms and training programs.

About Lance A. Slatton - known as "The Senior Care Influencer"":

Known as "The Senior Care Influencer" Lance is a Writer, Author, Influencer, and Healthcare professional with over 20 years in the healthcare industry.

Lance is also the new President of AlzAuthors.

Lance's book, "The All Home Care Matters Official Family Caregivers' Guide" was the recent recipient of the 2024 International Impact Book Awards.

To learn more about Lance A. Slatton and Lori La Bey you can visit their websites.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome the team from Rock Steady Boxing as guests to the show.

About Ryan Cotton, President/CEO:

Ryan Cotton currently serves as President & CEO for Rock Steady Boxing. His involvement with the organization started in 2009 when he served on the Board of Directors for a decade. Although he serves all RSB boxers around the world, his favorite RSB boxer was his father who was a Parkinson's fighter until his last days.

Ryan's education is in physical therapy where he had a 22-year clinical career before moving into his role at RSB. He holds a Masters in Physical Therapy from the University of Evansville, and a Doctorate in Health Science from the University of Indianapolis.

About Chris Timberlake, Director of Education & Training Rock Steady Boxing:

Chris has been with Rock Steady since 2006 and currently serves as the Director of Training and Education at RSB developing and delivering training in the RSB method to new coaches around the world. She is a caregiver to Tom, who was diagnosed with Parkinson's in 2000, and understands all too well the needs of people struggling with Parkinson's.

Having trained hundreds of people with Parkinson's as well as being immersed as a care partner has given Chris a uniquely intimate perspective on how to battle this disease. She is a Certified Personal Trainer through the American College of Sports Medicine and her personal experience is an instrumental part of Rock Steady's "Cornerman" support.

About Sandra Benton, RSB Boxer, Retired business owner and hairstylist:

Sandra Benton was a business owner for 48 years working as a hairstylist and retiring at age 67. She was diagnosed with PD in April of 2023 and started RSB in July of that year.

About Jim Lindgren, RSB Boxer, Retired reporter and editor:

Jim Lindgren had a career as a newspaper reporter and editor for 25 years before becoming an editor for a market research company and retiring 2 years ago at age 66. He was diagnosed with PD at the age of 61.

About Rock Steady Boxing (RSB):

Rock Steady Boxing (RSB) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of people with Parkinson disease through a specialized, non-contact boxing-based fitness program developed to specifically address the symptoms of Parkinson disease. Founded in Indianapolis in 2006, RSB is built on the belief that individuals with Parkinson's can fight back against the progression of their disease through rigorous, targeted exercise

The RSB program is multimodal and incorporates boxing techniques, strength training, balance work, and cognitive challenges to address the motor and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson's. Backed by growing evidence that high-intensity exercise can slow symptom progression, RSB has become a leader in exercise-based approaches to managing the disease.

Today, Rock Steady Boxing supports a global network of more than 800 affiliate programs that deliver its training in local communities, including gyms, rehabilitation centers, and community organizations. Through comprehensive coach training, ongoing education, and a strong support system, RSB ensures that its programs are accessible, adaptable, and effective for individuals at all stages of Parkinson's. Beyond physical improvements, the organization fosters a powerful sense of community and empowerment among participants, helping them build confidence, connection, and resilience.

As it continues to expand its reach, Rock Steady Boxing remains committed to its mission of enabling people with Parkinson's to live healthier, more active lives.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Joseph Pianetta as guest to the show.

About Joseph Pianetta:

With 43 years in the printing industry, Joe Pianetta knows what it takes to create something truly exceptional. As the founder of Crayon Cards, he's channeled that expertise into a beautifully crafted coloring book experience — one where quality meets personalization.

You'll love the results, and you'll be amazed at how easy it is to create a custom coloring book that tells your story.

About Crayon Cards:

Crayon Cards is a personalized coloring book store that turns your own photos into custom coloring books. Here's how it works: you upload your favorite photos, our system converts them into line-art illustrations, and a printed book is shipped to your door.

A Photo Coloring Book becomes a Reminiscence of the past with the fun of coloring.

The product is for seniors, particularly as a memory and cognitive engagement tool in remembrance of their life's accomplishments or a Family album. And for children, as a creative, screen-free activity using their own family photos, birthdays or vacations.

Connect with Crayon Cards:

Official Website:

https://crayoncards.com/

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Brenda Freed as guest to the show.

About Brenda Freed:

Brenda Freed, MA, is the co-founder of Mackenzie Meets Alzheimer's, a family-centered educational program created to help children, parents, caregivers, and families better understand Alzheimer's disease and dementia. With a background in music education and music therapy, Brenda brings a compassionate, creative, and accessible approach to helping families stay connected with loved ones throughout the dementia journey.

Through Mackenzie Meets Alzheimer's, Brenda helps provide meaningful tools, videos, music, activities, and guidance designed to make difficult conversations easier for children and families. Her work reflects a deep commitment to education, connection, and helping families create positive moments with loved ones living with Alzheimer's or another form of dementia.

About Mackenzie Meet Alzheimer's:

The Mackenzie Meets Alzheimer's Program (MMAP) is a family-centered, multimedia educational program designed to help parents, children, educators, and healthcare professionals navigate the challenges of Alzheimer's disease.

The program also includes a quick reference guide, transcripts, and accessible audio and visual resources to support a wide range of learning needs. Importantly, the MMAAP helps children understand Alzheimer's in age-appropriate ways and gives them simple, meaningful activities they can do with their loved one to maintain connection and nurture the relationship.

This allows them to focus more on care and connection.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Jennifer Spoeri as guest to the show.

About Jennifer Spoeri, Executive Director, National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA):

Jennifer Spoeri is the Executive Director of the National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA), a position she has held since August 2021. With over 18 years of experience in Adult Protective Services (APS), Jennifer brings a wealth of expertise in program development, leadership, multidisciplinary teams and advocacy for vulnerable populations. Prior to her role at NAPSA, she served as the APS Director in Philadelphia, PA, where she led the city's APS program and secured one of the first VOCA (Victims of Crime Act) grants designated for APS. Additionally, she was an integral member of the Philadelphia Financial Exploitation Prevention Task Force and the Philadelphia Hoarding Task Force.

Jennifer has long been a dedicated advocate for the APS community, having served on NAPSA's Board of Directors for five years before assuming her current role. As Executive Director, she has served on numerous advisory boards, led several major grants, and played a pivotal role in the creation and development of the National APS Training Center.

She holds a bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of Kentucky and a master's degree in gerontology with a concentration in Healthcare Administration from Notre Dame of Maryland University. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, reading, taking art classes and spending time with family, friends, her partner Kevin and their dog, Beauregard.

About the National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA):

The National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA) is a national nonprofit organization that supports Adult Protective Services programs and professionals across the United States. Formed in 1989, NAPSA provides a forum for APS programs to share information, solve challenges, strengthen professional practices, and improve services for older adults and adults with disabilities who may be experiencing abuse, neglect, exploitation, or other forms of mistreatment.

NAPSA's work helps elevate the role of Adult Protective Services in protecting vulnerable adults and connecting them with support, safety, and resources.

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All Home Care Maters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Roy Remer as guest to the show.

About Roy Remer:

Roy Remer is the author of Zen Caregiving: How to Care for Yourself While Caring for Others. An educator and end-of-life caregiver since 1997, he is executive director of Zen Caregiving Project in San Francisco and lead creator of the Mindful Caregiving Education curriculum.

A dedicated practitioner in the Soto Zen tradition, Remer is a student at San Francisco Zen Center.

About the Zen Caregiving Project:

Formerly Known as Zen Hospice Project was founded in 1986 to address suffering in San Francisco. Rooted in Zen Buddhist tradition, we began training volunteer caregivers to serve dying residents at two sites of service.

Their world renowned volunteer caregiver training has evolved to become the foundation of our Mindful Caregiver Education, which we teach nationally. In 2015, we began taking our unique approach to care out into the world in order to allow caregivers anywhere to benefit from our course offerings.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Cory Fosco as guest to the show.

About Cory Fosco:

Cory Fosco is the author of The Question of When: A Practical Guide to Knowing When It's Time for Assisted Living, Memory Care, or Skilled Nursing.

Cory has spent 34 years in long-term care, beginning in social work and admissions and now working in healthcare technology. He is also the author of the chapbook Empty Streets (Alien Buddha Press, 2024), which contains a Pushcart Prize-nominated story, and his short work has appeared in Superstition Review, Hippocampus, and other publications.

Cory holds an MA in Creative Nonfiction from Northwestern University and a BA in Creative Writing from Loyola University Chicago.

Cory lives in Chicago with his wife Cyndi.

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The Care Advocates is brought to you by the All Home Care Matters Media team and focuses on providing family caregivers and their loved ones with support, resources, and discussion on the issues facing them in the matrix of long-term care.

The Care Advocates are co-hosted by Lance A. Slatton & Dr. George Ackerman.

The Care Advocates are honored to welcome Anne Smith as guest to the show.

About Anne Smith:

Anne Smith shines a light on the often-overlooked realities of Parkinson's disease and the profound impact it has on both those living with the condition and the family members who care for them. In this powerful conversation with Lance A. Slatton, Anne discusses the growing number of Parkinson's diagnoses, the emotional toll of watching a loved one's health decline, and the financial challenges many families face after stepping away from careers to become full-time caregivers. Her insights offer a candid look at the sacrifices, struggles, and resilience required when navigating life with Parkinson's disease.

Anne also addresses one of the most important and sensitive topics in caregiving: caregiver burnout. Drawing from her own experiences and observations within caregiver communities, she speaks openly about exhaustion, sleep deprivation, frustration, and the emotional strain that can accompany caring for a loved one with Parkinson's. This meaningful discussion serves as both an educational resource and a reminder that caregivers need support, understanding, and compassion just as much as those they care for.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Dr. Vicki Wright-Hamilton as guest to the show.

About Dr. Vicki Wright-Hamilton:

About PeacefulCare.ai:

Missed doses stacking up. Lab values trending the wrong way. A quiet drop in mobility or engagement. PeacefulCare flags those patterns early, so families can act before the crisis instead of recovering from it. On the caregiver's side, the analytics measure caregiver load, the volume, intensity, and emotional weight of what one person is carrying, and the family gets alerted when the primary caregiver is heading toward burnout. Most platforms watch the patient. PeacefulCare watches the whole family system, because a caregiver who collapses can't care for anyone.

PeacefulCare's promise is simple and personal. You bring the love. PeacefulCare holds everything else.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Lindsay Friedman as guest to the show.

About Lindsay Friedman:

Lindsay Friedman is a four-time founder, lifelong multigenerational caregiver, and former nursing assistant with hands-on experience in memory care and elder care. She is the founder of CareBloom and LTCareNav, a platform that connects families with vetted long-term care experts, making quality care more accessible and affordable. Passionate about bridging gaps in the aging and caregiving space, Lindsay combines tech, personal experience, and advocacy to empower families navigating complex care decisions.

Lindsay is committed to transforming how our society cares for seniors and supporting caregivers with practical solutions that make a real difference in people's lives.

About LTCareNav:

LTCareNav's mission is to guide families through the complexities of aging and long-term care by bringing together planning, resources, and caregiver support across the entire care journey.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Seth Low-Tufo as guest to the show.

About Seth Low-Tufo, Chief Financial Officer & Chief Operating Officer at A Place for Mom:

As Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer of A Place for Mom, Inc., Seth Low-Tufo is focused on strengthening core operating processes and identifying opportunities to grow the business profitably. He is responsible for all aspects of the company's Finance function, including strategic planning, investor relations, controllership, accounting, tax, liquidity management, and treasury operations. In addition, Seth is responsible for the company's Legal, Human Resources, and Data & Analytics functions.

Seth is an experienced leader with proven ability to drive transformational change. He joined A Place for Mom following more than a decade at GE. Most recently, Seth was CFO of GE's Onshore Wind Americas business, the leading manufacturer of wind turbines in the U.S. In this role, he rebuilt the finance function and helped drive 50% revenue growth while improving operational efficiency and accountability. Earlier in his career, Seth was the Financial Planning leader for GE Capital's $200 billion asset disposition process and head of Pricing for its $90 billion commercial lending and leasing business. Seth earned a bachelor's degree in mathematics and economics from Wesleyan University.

About A Place for Mom:

Our mission is to guide caregivers and their loved ones to a confident place, so families can focus on what matters most: their love for each other.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Ilihia Gionson as guest to the show.

About Ilihia Gionson, 2021 Dole Caregiver Fellow, Hawaii:

In Hawaiʻi, caring for the elderly is part of the native culture. So when it was time for Ilihia to care for his father Anthony, he naturally stepped into the caregiver role.

Anthony was born in Hawaiʻi in 1947 and served in Vietnam in 1966 when he was 19. His time in Vietnam, with a climate and people who reminded him of home, was one of a series of transformational moments for him. Hawaiʻi had only recently become an American state, and he returned home to a mother close to the end of her life. In the decades following his return, he worked very hard for his family, including being a caregiver to his wife with a genetic kidney disorder and another son with an intellectual disability. Ilihia believes his tireless work ethic was his father's coping mechanism for dealing with the invisible wounds of war. It was not until after Ilihia's mother and brother passed away that Anthony transformed from the caregiver to the care recipient. Ilihia learned about his father's post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) when his father started going to grief counseling sessions and began unpacking his invisible wounds resulting from his service.

Anthony lives with Ilihia, his partner and their daughter, who all help care for him. As his father's primary caregiver, Ilihia manages his appointments and medications, performs household chores, and listens to his father when he needs to talk. Anthony's PTSD and anxiety make it difficult for him to participate in group activities, so Ilihia works hard to get his father out of the house, including getting him to the proper medical care and therapy.

Ilihia is the Chief Public Affairs Officer of the W. M. Keck Observatory. As a fellow, he hopes to help other veterans and caregivers in Hawaiʻi and the Pacific who struggle with access to VA resources. He also hopes that by sharing his story, he will help other caregivers self-identify and seek out support.

About the Elizabeth Dole Foundation:

The Elizabeth Dole Foundation is the preeminent organization empowering, supporting, and honoring our nation's 14.3 million military and veteran caregivers—the spouses, parents, family members, and friends who care for America's wounded, ill, or injured service members and veterans. Established by Senator Elizabeth Dole in 2012, the Foundation works to empower military and veteran caregivers, their families, and their communities through programs, partnerships, and advocacy that drive innovative, impactful, and sustainable solutions.

About the 11th Annual National Convening:

Registration is now open for the Elizabeth Dole Foundation's 11th Annual National Convening – and you won't want to miss it!

Join us on May 19, 2026, in Washington, D.C., at the iconic Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center, where leaders, advocates, and caregivers from across the country will come together for a powerful day of connection, conversation, and action. If you are unable to join us in-person, you can register for virtual attendance using the same link.

Last year, Convening attendees helped us begin to develop the National Blueprint for Action—a practical, solutions-driven roadmap designed to strengthen support for the 14.3 million military and veteran caregivers nationwide. Now, as we officially launch that Blueprint, we commit to act—bringing together caregivers, business and industry leaders, and policymakers to advance a nationwide Culture of Caregiving. Inspired by thought-provoking plenary speakers, you will participate in interactive working sessions and breakout discussions to learn how you can make a difference.

In-person attendees will also experience our dynamic Innovation Expo, featuring more than 30 organizations across military and veteran services, healthcare, and beyond. There, explore valuable resources, spark meaningful connections, enjoy a complimentary headshot, and take a moment for yourself at our chair massage station.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Elizabeth Field as guest to the show.

About Elizabeth Field, Chief Operating Officer at the Elizabeth Dole Foundation:

Elizabeth Field joined the Elizabeth Dole Foundation in February 2024 as its first Chief Operating Officer. Prior to that, she served as a Senior Executive Director in the Government Accountability Office's (GAO) Defense Capabilities and Management Team, where she led a broad body of work related to military quality-of-life issues, as well as defense management, business operations, and reform.

A recognized expert on the Department of Defense, she has testified several times before Congress, and her work has been featured by various news outlets, including National Public Radio, CNN, and The New York Times. Before joining GAO in September 2017, Ms. Field served as Chief of Staff and Senior Advisor to the Under Secretary of State for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights. Ms. Field also previously served as Assistant Inspector General for Audits and Inspections at the Office of the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction, which was charged by Congress with conducting audits, inspections, and investigations to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the Afghanistan reconstruction effort and to detect and deter waste, fraud, and abuse.

Ms. Field's first tenure with GAO lasted from 2002-2010, during which she worked primarily as a Senior Analyst in the International Affairs and Trade Team and conducted fieldwork in the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Latin America. From 2000-2001, she served as a Jacob K. Javits Fellow on the Public Health Subcommittee of the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. Ms. Field holds a Master's Degree in Public Policy from Duke University and a Bachelor's Degree in History from Davidson College, where she graduated cum laude.

The proud daughter of an Army veteran, she lives in Washington, D.C. with her two sons, Graham and Henry (a West Point cadet), and their rescue dog, Maisie.

About the Elizabeth Dole Foundation:

About the 11th Annual National Convening:

Registration is now open for the Elizabeth Dole Foundation's 11th Annual National Convening – and you won't want to miss it!

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Conscious Caregiving with L & L is "Tackling the Tough Conversations."

The topic of this episode is "The AlzAuthors Town Hall Recap" featuring hosts Lori La Bey and Lance A. Slatton.

About Lori La Bey:

Lori La Bey is the founder of Alzheimer's Speaks and is co-founder of Dementia Map global resource directory and the co-host of Conscious Caregiving with L & L.

Lori's mother who lived with dementia for 30 years. Her goal has always been to shift dementia care from crisis to comfort around the world.

She offers a variety of free resources to educate, empower, connect, and decrease stigmas; helping families and professionals live graciously alongside dementia.

Lori is an international speaker known for her multiple platforms and training programs.

About Lance A. Slatton - known as "The Senior Care Influencer"":

Known as "The Senior Care Influencer" Lance is a Writer, Author, Influencer, and Healthcare professional with over 20 years in the healthcare industry.

Lance is also the new President of AlzAuthors.

Lance's book, "The All Home Care Matters Official Family Caregivers' Guide" was the recent recipient of the 2024 International Impact Book Awards.

To learn more about Lance A. Slatton and Lori La Bey you can visit their websites.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Charles "Chip" E. Wallace Jr. as guest to the show.

About Charles "Chip" E. Wallace Jr.:

Charles E. Wallace Jr. spent fifteen years in banking and finance before spending five more investigating the systematic financial exploitation of his mother by her live-in caregiver. What began as unexplained credit card charges evolved into a forensic investigation spanning 6,000 emails, FOIA requests, banking records, and psychiatric evidence — uncovering a pattern of fraud that included credit card cycling, annuity manipulation, and estate plan changes executed while his mother lacked legal capacity.

His book, The Caregiver's Game: Unraveling Financial Deceit in the Shadows of Dementia, documents not just what happened but how it happened — the specific mechanisms a predatory caregiver used to gain control, redirect assets, and avoid detection across multiple institutions that should have caught it. Literary Titan awarded it a Gold distinction, calling it essential reading for anyone concerned about the safety of aging loved ones.

Charles brings a rare combination to this conversation — the analytical background of a finance professional, the persistence of a self-taught investigator, and the perspective of a family member who learned too late what the warning signs actually looked like. His goal is to make sure home care professionals and families recognize those signs before the damage is done.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Alder Allensworth & Brenda Freed the founders of Mackenzie Meets Alzheimer's Program (MMAP) as guests to the show.

About Mackenzie Meets Alzheimer's Program (MMAP):

Official Website: https://www.mackenziemeetsalzheimers.com

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to host the first AlzAuthors Town Hall.

📣 AlzAuthors Town Hall 2026 | NEW BOARD ANNOUNCED + Digital Library Launch & Future Vision!

Join us for a powerful and inspiring AlzAuthors Town Hall, hosted by Lance A. Slatton, where major announcements, leadership updates, and the future direction of AlzAuthors are revealed.

🚨 BIG NEWS: Meet the NEW AlzAuthors Board Members!

During this special event, we proudly announce the newly appointed AlzAuthors Board:

Lori La Bey

Denise Brown

Bettina Morrow

Andrew Karesa

These leaders represent the next chapter of growth, innovation, and impact for the AlzAuthors community.

✨ MAJOR ANNOUNCEMENT:

Lance unveils the brand-new fully digital and categorized AlzAuthors Library — a groundbreaking resource that features every AlzAuthor book, making it easier than ever for caregivers, families, and professionals to find trusted Alzheimer's and dementia resources.

🎤 Special Guests & Founders Appearances:

Ann Campanella

Jean Lee

Vicki Tapia

💬 FULL Q&A SESSION INCLUDED

Get real answers as Lance responds to attendee questions, shares insights, and introduces new opportunities for authors and the AlzAuthors community.

🚀 In This Video, You'll Discover:

The future vision for AlzAuthors

Details about the new digital AlzAuthors Library

How authors and caregivers can get involved

Key leadership updates shaping the organization

Community-driven insights from the live Q&A

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Mari Baxter as guest to the show.

About Mari Baxter, Chief Operating Officer, Senior Helpers®:

Ms. Baxter began her career with Senior Helpers® in 2008 when there were just 40 franchisees. After working in the field for several years, Mari was promoted to Vice President of Operations in 2011, with the additional responsibilities of all resales, corporate stores, international franchising, and the training department. In 2021, she moved into the position of Chief Operating Officer.

As COO, Mari and her field staff, Directors and department Vice Presidents oversee all franchise and corporate store operations, compliance management, advanced training, client care and retention programs, and vendor and national account relations. She has more than 15 years of leadership, operational and management experience in the franchise space, in addition to more than 14 years as a successful business owner and entrepreneur.

About Senior Helpers® :

Senior Helpers® is the nation's premier provider of in-home, non-medical senior services ranging from specialized care for those with diseases such as dementia, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's to personal and companion care to help individuals looking for a little assistance with daily activities.

Our service options are flexible and completely customizable to your specific needs, and your personalized senior care plan can combine aspects of any of our service offerings. When you first contact a Senior Helpers office, we will set up a complimentary initial assessment at the client's dwelling to determine their needs and formulate an individualized care plan. When needed, a qualified staff member, Social Worker, or Registered Nurse (depending on state regulations) will conduct a full assessment to aid in this process and further articulate the care plan. We will then use this assessment in our caregiver matching process to choose the most appropriate caregiver for our clients.

Senior Helpers elevates its care for clients through three key programs: the proprietary LIFE Profile assessment tool, the Senior Gems® program, and the Center of Excellence training spaces.

LIFE Profile is a research-based technology tool that uses data to identify a client's risk of being hospitalized.

The Senior Gems® program provides effective strategies for supporting and caring for loved ones from normal aging through late-stage dementia, focusing on what is precious and unique about each senior at each stage.

The Senior Helpers® Center of Excellence is a training space designed to simulate a client's home, allowing caregivers to learn and train in a real-world environment and demonstrate their ability to provide the highest quality of care in a client's home.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Zita Christian as guest to the show.

About Zita Christian:

Zita Christian is a storyteller who believes in the power of love. She is the author of three historical romance novels, the co-writer of a one-woman play, a collaborator on a self-help book about grieving, and host and producer of two podcasts and a YouTube show for writers. In her work as a wedding officiant, she wrote more than 150 love stories.

Retired now, Zita is working on her dementia podcast and on a memoir about her caregiving journey.

About "My Spouse Has Dementia":

My Spouse Has Dementia is a free monthly podcast that uses personal stories, occasional interviews, and simple rituals to support dementia caregiving spouses.

In 2025, My Spouse Has Dementia was short-listed for the International Women's Podcast Awards. Entries were received from notable organizations such as CNN, ABC, BBC, and NPR, as well as from solo podcasters (those with no crew).

According to Everyone Media, creators of the award, the nearly 700 entries came from 35 countries. Of those entries, 13% of the short-listed podcasts came from a solo creator like Zita Christian.

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The Care Advocates are co-hosted by Lance A. Slatton & Dr. George Ackerman.

The Care Advocates are honored to welcome Michael Lewis, CFA, MBA as guest to the show.

About Michael Lewis:

Michael Lewis, CFA, MBA is the Chief Behavioral Officer at Family Legacy Financial Solutions and the author of Getting Out of Your Own Way: A Caregiver's Guide to Making Better Financial Decisions. He is also a contributor to The Caregiver's Advocate series. Michael's work focuses on how behavioral finance principles help families navigate emotionally charged financial decisions during caregiving and aging transitions.

About Family Legacy Financial Solutions:

At Family Legacy Financial Solutions, our mission is to help families make confident financial decisions that honor both logic and love. We combine behavioral finance insights with comprehensive planning to guide caregivers, retirees, and family decision-makers through life's most complex transitions.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Martin Hernandez the General Manager of Home Care at A Place for Mom as guest to the show.

About Martin Hernandez:

As General Manager of the Home Care business at A Place for Mom, Martin focuses on driving revenue growth, elevating team performance, and expanding partner engagement to offer families the broadest range of care options. He brings over 20 years of executive leadership experience, including roles at Farmers Insurance, where he led a large, distributed sales team; American Express, where he built a national B2B acquisition platform; and Beazer Homes, where he oversaw the national sales strategy across 52 markets.

Martin is also the founder of Revenue Playmakers, where he advises companies on revenue strategy and customer experience. He's known for cultivating high-performing cultures rooted in accountability, clarity, and care. Martin studied Political Science at Arizona State University and holds executive credentials from UC Berkeley and Harvard Business School.

About A Place for Mom:

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Denice Kennedy & Mike Weinberger the Founders of CaregivingCompanion.AI as guests to the show.

In this heartfelt and forward‑thinking episode of All Home Care Matters, host Lance A. Slatton speaks with Denice Kennedy and Mike Weinberger, the co‑founders of CaregiverCompanion.ai — an innovative platform redefining how family caregivers and home care professionals manage care through smart technology.

Denice and Mike share their passion for empowering caregivers to navigate the emotional and practical challenges of caring for loved ones with Alzheimer's and other age‑related conditions. Their groundbreaking AI solution helps families organize care tasks, improve communication, and find more time for what truly matters — compassionate connection.

The discussion also features Mike Weinberger's powerful new book, "My Wife Has Alzheimer's, Now What?", a deeply personal account that offers guidance and hope to spouses and families walking the Alzheimer's journey. Through his experience, Mike sheds light on how love, resilience, and technology can work together to support caregivers everywhere.

💡 In This Episode, You'll Learn:

How CaregiverCompanion.ai simplifies caregiving through AI innovation
The real‑life inspiration behind the platform's creation Key insights from Mike Weinberger's book "My Wife Has Alzheimer's, Now What?"
How digital tools can ease caregiving stress and enhance aging in place

Connect with CaregiverCompanion.AI:

🌐 Learn more:

https://www.caregivercompanion.ai

📘 Get Mike's book:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GK6SDLD4

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Josh Bowie and Dr. Divyen Patel from Your Genetic Wellness™ as guests to the show.

About Dr. Divyen Patel, Research Director, Your Genetic Wellness | Founder & CEO, Genome Explorations:

Dr. Divyen Patel is a globally recognized pioneer in genomics and molecular biology, recently honored by Marquis Who's Who (2025/2026) for his career-long contributions to cancer research and molecular diagnostics. As the Research Director for Your Genetic Wellness and the Founder and CEO of Genome Explorations, Dr. Patel provides the rigorous scientific foundation required to move precision medicine into the mainstream consumer market.

With decades of experience in clinical research and genomic sequencing, including the authorship of over 180 peer-reviewed publications, Dr. Patel has dedicated his career to making high-level science accessible and actionable for preventive health. His work at Your Genetic Wellness focuses on ensuring that every insight provided, from metabolic health to pharmacogenomics, is backed by the highest standards of evidence-informed research.

A frequent speaker on the role of genetics in longevity and disease prevention, Dr. Patel continues to lead the evolution of personalized care, bridging the gap between complex laboratory data and everyday wellness.

About Josh Bowie, SVP of Strategy & Insights, Your Genetic Wellness:

About Your Genetic Wellness™:

Your Genetic Wellness is shifting the conversation from reactive care to proactive clarity. Too often, we wait until symptoms appear before investigating our health, forcing us into a cycle of trial and error to find relief. We believe in a different approach: providing a personal biological roadmap before the guesswork begins.

Using a simple at-home swab, we translate unique genetic markers into clear, actionable insights that show how a body may process nutrients, respond to medications, and manage long-term wellness. Whether you are a proactive professional, a parent, or a caregiver, we provide the data-driven confidence to move away from reactive "sick care" and toward more informed, personalized health decisions.

Connect with Your Genetic Wellness™:

Official Website:

https://yourgeneticwellness.com

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Spencer Coon & Christina Keys as guests to the show.

About Spencer Coon:

Spencer specializes in Talent. His focus is Music & Entertainment and Healthcare throughout the U.S. As the Chief Executive Officer for The Executive Elite Group, LLC, Spencer works with top leaders and companies to fulfill on critical and strategic hiring needs. Spencer places C-Suite and all levels of leadership. Spencer started in Music & Entertainment in 2000, Skilled Nursing (LTC) in 2005 and Hospice in 2006. He grew a premiere business network throughout these specialized industries.

In 2021, Spencer founded the Nursing Rocks! Concert Series, producing Live Concerts nationally to celebrate and honor the nursing profession while raising money for nurse scholarships throughout the U.S. First Nursing Rocks! Concerts start May 2026.

About Christina Keys:

After a decade of caregiving for her mother following a devastating stroke, Christina Keys knows firsthand the emotional, physical, financial, and spiritual toll caregiving takes. She transformed her personal journey national movement to support and uplift caregivers.

Christina has created and led caregiver communities nationally, created award-winning caregiver support programs, and now speaks across the country on topics such as caregiver support, building resilient caregiver communities, self-care, advocating for policy change and Caregiver Recovery.

Christina is the Founder and CEO of Keys for Caregiving and is also now a part of the Nursing Rocks Concert series helping to honor and appreciate healthcare workers

About Nursing Rocks!:

Empowering and honoring nurses through the uplifting power of live music, our mission is to foster a positive impact within the nursing community at nationwide events. We strive to elevate awareness of the nursing profession and support its advancement through scholarship opportunities for further education.

The Nursing Rocks! Concert Series is a sponsored live music event dedicated to nationwide nurse appreciation, showcasing top touring bands. Founded to unite local communities and businesses in honoring their dedicated nurses.

Through initiatives , we raise scholarship funds to support ongoing education, partnering with nationally accredited and local nursing schools to empower aspiring nurses in each community.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Kortlund Natterstad as guest to the show.

About Kortlund Natterstad:

Kortlund has always been driven by a desire to help others, which first led him into medical device sales, supporting surgeons and patients in the operating room. His life shifted suddenly after a serious off-roading accident that resulted in spinal injuries and months of recovery. In navigating this new reality, he learned to adapt, accept support, and rebuild purpose, with his wife, Natalia, playing an integral role in supporting him daily.

Kortlund later re-entered the medical field in spinal cord injury research with NASCIC, and now is a QuickChange Ambassador and co-leads NeuroBridge Solutions with his wife, Natalia, a venture focused on bringing both clinical insight and lived experience to individuals and organizations through consulting, advocacy, and education.

Today, Kortlund continues to approach life with resilience, a strong support system, and the belief in taking things one day at a time.

Kortlund's motto, "Never Quit," guides his work and the encouragement he offers to others adjusting to life after injury.

About UI Medical the Makers of the QuickChange Wrap:

UI Medical LLC is a California-based company dedicated to improving the lives of less mobile individuals through innovative, easy-to-use solutions. We manufacture the QuickChange® Wrap, a Class I medical device designed specifically for men who are wheelchair users, bed-bound, or have unique incontinence needs.

Proudly made in the USA, the QuickChange Wrap is available through major distributors like Medline Industries, as well as online retailers including Amazon and Walmart. Our patented design serves a distinct yet underserved population—approximately 15% of incontinent men—and we're committed to supporting both users and caregivers with a product that brings comfort, dignity, and convenience.

UI Medical holds international patents and complies with CE and UKCA standards. We are registered in the U.S., EU, UK, Australia, and many other countries. Our ISO 13485–certified manufacturing facility in California ensures high-quality production and minimizes supply chain risks.

A list of our institutional clients can be found on their website at www.quickchange.com.

Connect with UI Medical & the QuickChange Wrap:

Official Website:

https://www.quickchange.com

Toll-Free Phone Number:

1-800-206-2816

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Amy Shaw as guest to the show.

About Amy Shaw:

Amy Shaw, PA-C, is a dementia care clinician and the founder of Better Dementia™, a national education platform dedicated to transforming how families navigate the dementia journey at BetterDementia.com. With more than a decade of experience working at the intersection of dementia, serious illness, and family life, she recognized that traditional healthcare routinely misses the early and middle stages of dementia — leaving caregivers overwhelmed and unsupported.

Through one-to-one family consulting and her self-paced online caregiver education platform, Amy teaches caregivers everything they need to understand the entire dementia journey. Her clinically grounded, stage-based approach explains the what, when, and why of dementia so families can master the how of caregiving with clarity, confidence, and preserved dignity. Amy is the author of The Arc of Conversation: A How-to Guide for Goals of Care Conversations (Springer, 2025) and is currently writing her next book, Better Dementia: From Overwhelmed to Empowered.

About Better Dementia:

Better Dementia™ is a national education and family support platform dedicated to transforming how families understand and navigate the dementia journey. Traditional healthcare models focus almost exclusively on the patient visit. Dementia, however, is primarily a caregiver experience — one that unfolds gradually at home long before medical systems respond. Better Dementia was created to close that gap.

Founded by Amy Shaw, PA-C, Better Dementia teaches caregivers the what, when, and why of dementia so they can master the how of caregiving with clarity and confidence. The approach centers pattern recognition, disease understanding, dignity preservation, and calm communication — rather than crisis response. Through digital education, one-on-one consulting, and national media outreach, Better Dementia provides families with the structure and language needed to reduce overwhelm, support care decisions and transitions, prevent unnecessary hospitalizations, and support earlier hospice enrollment when appropriate.

The mission is simple: to equip caregivers with the understanding needed to create a better dementia journey for everyone.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Wes Michael as guest to the show.

About Wes Michael:

Wes Michael founded Rare Patient Voice in 2013 to give patients and family caregivers the opportunity to voice their opinions by participating in research studies. Rare Patient Voice has now recruited for thousands of studies and rewarded patients and family caregivers with over $15 million for their participation.

Many have been recruited in person by Wes and his team at patient events and through a robust referral program with patient advocacy and support groups. Rare Patient Voice now covers over 1,500 rare and non-rare diseases and conditions, expanding from the United States to Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Australia, and New Zealand. Before launching Rare Patient Voice, Wes worked for healthcare market research firm Kantar Health. He previously was a brand manager and market research manager at McCormick (the spice company) and General Mills (working on Wheaties, Total and Kix cereals).

He has a BA from the University of Pennsylvania (with a year at Edinburgh University) and an MBA from the University of Chicago. Wes lives outside Baltimore, Maryland, with his wife, Cathy, children Julia and Cliff, grandson Taylor, and dog Stanley.

On February 3, 2006, Rare Patient Voice was acquired by Konovo.Rare Patient Voice's 200,000+ registered patients and caregivers expand Konovo's ability to deliver connected insights across a broad range of therapeutic and geographic areas, particularly in rare and complex conditions.

About Rare Patient Voice:

Rare Patient Voice empowers patients and family caregivers to have their voices heard through participation in research including market research, health economics outcomes and real-world evidence, user experience/human factors studies, and clinical trials. The RPV community includes over 200,000 patients and caregivers across more than 1,500 diseases, both rare and non-rare, in nine countries.

By fostering trusted relationships and delivering high-quality insights, RPV enables research that reflects real-world patient experiences.

About Konovo:

Konovo is a global healthcare company on a mission to transform research through technology and connected insights. Konovo simplifies the research process, connects fragmented insights, and enhances access to healthcare audiences—including physicians, patients, caregivers, and allied healthcare professionals—through its intelligent platform and expert-guided solutions. Operating across the Americas, Europe, and Asia, Konovo supports market research agencies, consultancies, and life science and healthcare brands with deeper, actionable insights.

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The Care Advocates are co-hosted by Lance A. Slatton & Dr. George Ackerman.

The Care Advocates are honored to welcome Dr. Pearl L. Harmon as guest to the show.

About Dr. Pearl L. Harmon:

Dr. Pearl L. Harmon is a caregiver strategist, leadership consultant, and former long-term family caregiver. She works at the intersection of caregiving, systems, and leadership—helping caregivers build clarity and capacity, and helping organizations understand how caregiving impacts health, workforce stability, and outcomes.

Caregivers consistently share that her work helps them feel seen, grounded, and confident in decisions they once doubted.

About Aging Care Navigators:

Aging Care Navigators exists to help caregivers and organizations build the structure, language, and support systems caregiving actually requires—before burnout or crisis forces rushed decisions.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Alison van Schie, BSW, as guest to the show.

About Alison van Schie, BSW:

With a background in social work spanning more than 25 years across four Canadian provinces, Alison van Schie brings deep insight and a compassionate, practical approach into her position as a caregiver consultant - supporting caregivers. Her experience includes working with seniors in community and long term care, as well as with individuals and families navigating complex circumstances.

In 2019, she founded Alongside Caregiver Consulting, and in 2020 she introduced the Island Treasures podcast. Through both, she supports caregivers of loved ones living with dementia or chronic illness. The podcast highlights caregivers' lived experiences and offers practical resources and insights. It has recently expanded with a new chapter exploring life after caregiving, providing guidance through the emotional and identity shifts that follow the caregiving journey.

About Alongside Caregiver Consulting & Island Treasures Podcast:

Founded in 2019, Alongside Caregiver Consulting has provided compassionate, practical support to caregivers navigating dementia and chronic illness. As the practice gradually scales back, its focus is shifting entirely to podcasting, where the conversations can reach and support an even wider caregiving community.

In 2020, the Island Treasures podcast was launched. It highlights caregivers' lived experiences and offers practical resources and insights. The podcast has recently grown to include a dedicated chapter exploring life after caregiving, providing thoughtful guidance through the emotional and identity shifts that follow the caregiving journey.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Dr. Dale V. Atkins as guest to the show.

About Dr. Dale V. Atkins:

Dale V. Atkins, Ph.D., is a licensed psychologist and educator with more than forty-five years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. Dr. Atkins consults domestically and internationally. She conducts seminars and retreats for health and educational institutions, executives and employees of major corporations, and government agencies in matters related to the fields of psychology, sociology, education, and communication.

She practices, teaches, and consults in the field of Alzheimer's and Related Disorders with a focus on prevention as well as patient and caregiver wellness and resilience. She emphasizes the benefits of intergenerational relationships in families and communities. Dr. Atkins values opportunities to share everyday human stories with those in the health care field. She is the author of eight books; most recently, The Turquoise Butterfly, (her first children's book), chapters, articles, and journals for popular and professional audiences.

For 22 years Dr. Atkins was a recurring guest expert on NBC's "Today" show.

Dr. Atkins is an active volunteer in her community. She and her dog are a certified dog therapy team who have participated in school readers' programs as well as visitation programs at day and residential facilities for people who have Alzheimer's. She is a member of several non-profit boards whose focus is literacy, tolerance, women's health and wellness, child protection, hospital leadership, and community action.

An engaged citizen, she has received multiple recognitions for her community service and leadership.

Dr. Atkins has two children and six grandchildren. She has private practice in NYC and lives in CT, where she is often found outdoors.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Dan Cohen as guest to the show.

About Dan Cohen:

Dan Cohen is a dynamic entrepreneur with over twenty-five years of experience and a deep passion for brand building. Dan is recognized for his strategic approach and ability to foster strong, lasting relationships. With release of his book, Awakenings In Real Life, he tells the story of his dad's awakening from his dementia. When his father awoke, it woke Dan up too. Dan also hosts a podcast with the same name.

About Awakenings In Real Life:

The "Awakenings In Real Life" podcast tells inspiring stories of transformation, meaning and hope. While we typically think of an Awakening as a "Getting Up" or "Spiritual" or "Religious" in nature, an "Awakening" is also an awareness, recognition, or realization of something. Dan Cohen shares stories of people awakening and then triumphing over bullying, addiction, disability, illness, trauma, loss, near death experiences and more.

The "Awakenings In Real Life" memoir was inspired from his father's awakening from his dementia, and the message dad sent that he still appreciated and wanted to live life, an experience that reshaped his perceptions of family, memory, and resilience. In these pages, Dan draws on a lifetime of lessons from his father's humor, toughness, and compassion, sharing family stories of love, inspiration, and hope.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Maureen Mueller as guest to the show.

About Maureen Mueller, CDP:

Maureen Mueller spent over 11 years as a family caregiver before moving into professional dementia care. Recognizing the need for encouragement and support, she trained with the Alzheimer's Association and became a certified dementia practitioner, support group facilitator, and community educator.

In all her interactions with family caregivers through the years, Maureen noted their frustration over the inability to send reminders to their loved ones that wouldn't be lost or forgotten. She teamed up with a software engineer friend, and together they developed "My CareClock."

About My CareClock:

My CareClock is an innovative digital caregiving solution built for seniors and individuals experiencing dementia or other forms of memory loss, as well as the caregivers who support them. This easy‑to‑read care clock clearly displays the day, date, time, and personalized information like "What's happening today?", "What's happening tomorrow?", "Who are my caregivers?", and "Who is my family?", helping reduce confusion and repetitive questions.

Through a connected app, family members and professional caregivers can remotely update the My CareClock screen from anywhere, adding appointments, reminders, visits, and reassuring messages in real time.

By keeping loved ones oriented to their schedule and their support network, My CareClock promotes calm, supports independence, and gives families peace of mind that they are always "present" even when they can't be physically there.''

Connect with My CareClock:

Official Website:

https://mycareclock.com/

Disclosure Statement:

Lance A. Slatton is the Official Brand Ambassador for My CareClock Viewers Get 10% off by using Promo Code AHCM10 Today!

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Spencer Cline as guest to the show.

About Spencer Cline:

Spencer Cline became familiar with FTD at a very young age, as his father started exhibiting behavioral changes shortly after he was born. His dad was diagnosed with bvFTD when Spencer was seven years old, then was diagnosed with the C9orf72 genetic variant, which is linked to both FTD and ALS.

After watching his dad fight the disease until he passed in 2012, Spencer developed a passion for spreading awareness in hopes to find a cure – a passion that has only grown with time.

Spencer has organized multiple fundraising/awareness events with the Babson College men's basketball team, biked across the U.S. in support of FTD in 2024, helped get resolution passed in Georgia recognizing September 21st -27th as FTD Awareness week in the state and was Keynote Speaker at AFTD's 2025 Hope Rising Benefit. He also serves as an AFTD Ambassador.

About The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD):

The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD) is the leading nonprofit devoted to helping families affected by frontotemporal degeneration today while driving research that supports accurate diagnosis, treatments, and ultimately a cure.

AFTD's mission is centered on improving quality of life for everyone impacted by FTD, and it advances that mission through five core pillars: research, awareness, support, education, and advocacy. In practice, that means funding and promoting research, expanding public and professional understanding of FTD, and pushing for the services and policies families need.

For individuals and families, AFTD provides direct support through resources and its HelpLine, which is staffed by social workers who can answer questions, offer guidance after a new diagnosis, and connect people to relevant services and community support.

AFTD is volunteer founded and community powered, and it has grown into a widely recognized expert organization in FTD and young onset dementia, partnering with researchers, clinicians, advocates, and families to accelerate progress and expand access to high quality care and support.

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Conscious Caregiving with L & L is "Tackling the Tough Conversations."

The topic of this episode is "The Future of AlzAuthors" featuring hosts Lori La Bey and Lance A. Slatton.

About Lori La Bey:

Lori La Bey is the founder of Alzheimer's Speaks and is co-founder of Dementia Map global resource directory and the co-host of Conscious Caregiving with L & L.

Lori's mother who lived with dementia for 30 years. Her goal has always been to shift dementia care from crisis to comfort around the world. She offers a variety of free resources to educate, empower, connect, and decrease stigmas; helping families and professionals live graciously alongside dementia. Lori is an international speaker known for her multiple platforms and training programs.

Connect with Lori La Bey:

Official Website:

https://alzheimersspeaks.com/

Official Dementia Map Website:

https://www.dementiamap.com/

About Lance A. Slatton - known as "The Senior Care Influencer"":

Known as "The Senior Care Influencer" Lance is a Writer, Author, Influencer, and Healthcare professional with over 20 years in the healthcare industry.

Lance is also the new President of AlzAuthors.

Lance's book, "The All Home Care Matters Official Family Caregivers' Guide" was the recent recipient of the 2024 International Impact Book Awards.

Connect with Lance A. Slatton - "The Senior Care Influencer":

Official Website:

https://www.lanceaslatton.com

Official Website for All Home Care Matters:

https://www.allhomecarematters.com

Official Website for AlzAuthors:

https://www.alzauthors.com

Lance A. Slatton and Lori La Bey Co-Host and Produce Conscious Caregiving with L & L.

Visit their website at: https://consciouscaregivingll.com/

To learn more about Lance A. Slatton and Lori La Bey you can visit their websites.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Rachel Shapiro as guest to the show.

About Rachel Shapiro:

Rachel Shapiro is the Head of Marketing for LivTech's In-Home Care division, supporting brands including CareTime, Ally, Qualis, and WorldView. Her work focuses on helping home care, home health, hospice, and senior care organizations navigate complex operational and regulatory challenges with clarity, confidence, and purpose.

Her connection to this industry is deeply personal. When a close family member suddenly needed home health support, it fundamentally changed how Rachel understands care not just as a profession, but as something lived every day. That experience reshaped how she shows up in her work, grounding her perspective in empathy for families, caregivers, and care teams alike. She lives in Atlanta, Georgia with her family and is driven by a belief that the business of care should never become a barrier to care itself.

About LivTech:

LivTech is a healthcare technology company dedicated to supporting organizations that deliver care in the home. Through a portfolio of specialized brands — including CareTime, Ally, Qualis, and WorldView — LivTech provides software and services designed for home care, home health, hospice, PACE, and senior care organizations navigating increasingly complex operational and regulatory environments.

LivTech's solutions address the real work behind care delivery: billing and revenue cycle management, documentation, visit verification, equipment management, compliance, and operational visibility. Each brand is purpose-built for its specific audience, ensuring providers are not forced into generic systems that don't reflect how care is actually delivered or reimbursed.

What sets LivTech apart is its deep industry alignment. The company works alongside providers to understand the downstream impact of daily operational decisions — from documentation and EVV to claims, cash flow, and compliance risk. Rather than focusing on surface-level efficiency, LivTech helps organizations build durable systems that support predictable revenue, audit readiness, and sustainable growth.

LivTech partners closely with provider associations, industry experts, and care leaders across the country to stay ahead of regulatory shifts and operational challenges. This hands-on approach ensures that solutions evolve with the realities of care, not just the technology roadmap.

At its core, LivTech believes the business of care should strengthen — not obstruct — the delivery of care. Its mission is to give providers the clarity, confidence, and support they need to focus on what matters most: the people they serve.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Dan Goerke as guest to the show.

About Dan Goerke:

Dan Goerke grew up in northern Indiana and currently lives in Atlanta, Georgia. He has led a life of varied endeavors and accomplishments in competitive swimming, real estate, volunteer work with the Alzheimer's Association, is a Reiki Master, candle maker and author.

Dan suddenly found himself a caregiver to his wife Denise upon her diagnosis at age 56 of Alzheimer's Disease. Uninformed and uneducated about the disease he quickly utilized the resources of the Alzheimer's Association to learn more about the disease progression, caregiving tips and practices, support groups, and elder care attorneys. Two years into his caregiving journey he began communicating telepathically with Denise which aided tremendously in her care.

Dan now offers private sessions to those who want to hear from their loved ones who have gone silent. He has appeared in over 40 different media publications and programs talking about dementia, caregiving, and telepathic communication. He was most recently featured on an episode of "The Telepathy Tapes" podcast.

Dan's first book, "Unforgettable, Unbelievable", was inspired by many friends and family members who encouraged him to write about his caregiving experiences while taking care of his wife Denise.

About "Unforgettable, Unbelievable":

"Unforgettable, Unbelievable: A Journey of Telepathy, Caregiving, and Alzheimer's" follows Dan Goerke as he discovers he can communicate telepathically with his wife Denise, whose Alzheimer's has taken away her ability to speak clearly. This unexpected connection allows Denise to guide him from the "inside," sharing practical tricks and preferences that make day-to-day caregiving more effective and more dignified for her.

Through this lens of telepathy, Dan describes the emotional and physical challenges of caregiving while offering concrete tips for both new and experienced caregivers, blending a realistic view of Alzheimer's with humor and warmth. The book ultimately becomes a portrait of a devoted marriage in the face of decline, showing how love, creativity, and even seemingly mystical experiences can help families navigate the silence that often comes with advanced dementia.

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The Care Advocates are co-hosted by Lance A. Slatton & Dr. George Ackerman.

The Care Advocates are honored to welcome, Wendy Kaufman-Aflalo and Barry Kaufman as guest to the show.

About Wendy Kaufman-Aflalo & Barry Kaufman:

Wendy & Barry co-host a podcast called "This Is Your Brain on Mom", where they explore the challenges, humor, and unexpected moments of caring for their mom, who is living with dementia.

Their episodes mix advocacy, storytelling, and humor to shed light on the realities of caregiving, while also providing comfort and connection for others navigating similar journeys.

Barry brings a naturally comedic perspective and a knack for keeping conversations light and engaging, while Wendy focused on storytelling and navigating the practical aspects of caregiving.

Together, they aim to give a candid, relatable look at what it's like to support a loved one with dementia—balancing heartfelt moments with humor and honesty.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Ann Campanella as guest to the show.

Ann Campanella is a former magazine and newspaper editor and is the author of three memoirs and four collections of poetry. Her award-winning writing has appeared in newspapers, magazines, literary journals and online sites across the country and around the world. Her first memoir, Motherhood: Lost and Found, was named "One of the best Alzheimer's books of all time" by BookAuthority two years in a row.

Since 2017, Ann has been a manager/director of AlzAuthors.com, a nonprofit organization with the mission of sharing Alzheimer's and dementia resources to light the way for others. In 2018, she was recognized by her hometown newspaper as one of the Most Influential Women in her community for her work promoting Alzheimer's awareness.

Ann's second memoir, Celiac Mom, won the 2024 Silver Medal in the Nonfiction/Health category of the Readers' Favorite International Book Award. This book has become a "go-to" resource for the celiac community.

A social-media influencer, Ann uses her Instagram account @glutenfreeforgood to spread awareness about this condition. Ann's most recent book, The Shoulder Season: A Memoir of Fracture and Grace, shares her experience of going from a caregiver to someone who needed care after a serious injury.

Ann hopes it will provide hope and inspiration to those facing a season of health challenges. Ann and her husband live on Lake Norman in North Carolina and enjoy nightly sunsets.

About "The Shoulder Season":

After decades of being physically fit, riding and training horses, Ann's life skids to a stop when a seemingly innocuous accident (tripping over the dog) turns into a traumatic injury that shrinks her world. She succumbs to severe pain and faces difficult surgeries that require a two-year recovery.

On the brink of an empty nest, a few months before the pandemic, Ann is no longer the busy caregiver who juggles her family's needs along with her writing work and caring for her farm but becomes the person who needs care. Ann must discover a new identity and reimagine her future.

The Shoulder Season serves as a guide and an inspiration for those facing a life interrupted.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to host and celebrate the retirement of Dr. James Vickers.

About Dr. James Vickers:

Distinguished Professor Dr. Vickers has an extensive track record in interventional cohort studies, cognition, neurogenetics, health services research and neuroscience research, and has published over 200 refereed articles. Distinguished Prof Vickers has held several national leadership roles, such as President of the Australasian Neuroscience Society (ANS, 2014–2016) and Chair of the Scientific Panel of the Alzheimer's Australia Dementia Research Foundation (2014-2016).

He was awarded a Doctor of Science from University of Tasmania in 2005 in recognition of his contribution to neuroscience research. He is a Board Member of the Dementia Australia Research Foundation and a member of the Dementia Expert Reference Group for the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing.

Dr. James Vickers officially announced his retirement as Director of the Wicking Dementia Research & Education Centre at the University of Tasmania (UTAS) at the end of December 2025.

The distinguished panel that joined in celebrating Dr. Vickers career and contributions to field of dementia included:

Bettina Morrow - Associate Director Adult Protective Services

Dr. Jane Alty - Professor of Neurology at University of Tasmania Staff Specialist in Neurology at Royal Hobart Hospital

Henry Brodaty - Scientia Professor Co-Director, Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing UNSW

Agnieszka Chudecka - PICAC Alliance Secretariat Lead (Partners in Culturally Appropriate Care)

Tim England - Podcaster and Dementia Care Expert/Educator who De-mystifies and De-stigmatises Dementia.

Amy Sender - Dementia Consultant at Montefiore

Graeme Samuel AC - Professor. Chair Dementia Australia Research Foundation

Joanna Sun - Lecturer

Kate Lawler - Associate Professor, Physiotherapy La Trobe University, Australia

Dr. Kathleen Doherty - Senior Lecturer in Dementia at the Wicking Dementia Research and education Centre and program lead for Equip and DREAM- two federally funded projects aiming to improve the knowledge and understanding of the aged care workforce

Matt Kirkcaldie - Senior lecturer at University of Tasmania

Sarah-Kaye Page - Trainer and Assessor, The Gordon TAFE

Tanya Buchanan - Professor and CEO of Dementia Australia

With a special video from Alzheimer's Disease International.

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All Home Care Matters and host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome the founders of GoInstaCare & Ways 2 Wellness as guests to the show.

About GoInstaCare:

GoInstaCare is a tech-based, caregiving App that connects families looking for care with background checked care providers, Instantly. The App is completely free to use. Go InstaCare App allows families to search for caregivers based on budget, skills, personality type, experience and many other criterion.

The best part is that the matched caregivers are available to talk to families right away. Moreover, families can even do a video call with caregivers they like. The system also works on feedback from families so good caregivers keep showing up on top of the search results.

By leveraging modern tech to connect care seekers directly with well-trained care providers across the country, GoInstaCare makes it possible for care seekers to receive the best quality care they need, anywhere, anytime and all of this at a very affordable rate.

About Amit Shrivastava:

Amit is co-founder and CEO of GoInstaCare. Before starting GoInstaCare, he owned a successful Home Care Company in Chicago, which he and his wife started from scratch and made it extremely successful.

Unfortunately, they had to sell their company because of their son's health as his body was not liking the cold and they moved to Austin, Texas a few years ago.

About Ways 2 Wellness:

Ways 2 Wellness creates engaging, custom-branded activity books designed to reduce loneliness and enhance cognitive health in seniors. By combining mental stimulation with meaningful branding, these resources not only promote well-being but also support organizations in strengthening their presence and outreach.

About Michael Herrington:

With a strong background in publishing and marketing, Michael previously led large-scale sales and distribution efforts for major brands like Time Inc. and Comag Marketing Group. Now, he channels that expertise into Ways 2 Wellness, helping organizations create impactful, customized materials that enhance cognitive well-being and strengthen community connections.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome back Crystal Gallo as guest to the show.

About Crystal Gallo, Founder & CEO of Innerhive:

Crystal Gallo spent the past 15 years leading product and operation teams for high-growth technology companies.

She is a learner at the core and passionate about leveraging technology to solve difficult problems. Inspired by her personal journey as a family caregiver for loved ones navigating dementia and cancer, she founded Innerhive.

About Innerhive:

The app that supports caregivers with tools, resources, and community! Innerhive is focused on serving family caregivers who are providing and coordinating care for loved ones at home. Innerhive is committed to ending the burnout cycle by equipping caregivers with a central place to organize care details, build support networks, access resources, and collaborate with their community.

Innerhive is a trusted and transparent environment built to streamline care navigation and make it easy to engage community, so caregivers can advocate for their own wellness, as well as those they care for. Innerhive is committed to transforming how we care for one another and is on a mission to end caregiver burnout.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Peter Murphy Lewis back as guest to the show for a "Podcast Takeover" where Peter turns the microphone on Lance and interviews him.

About Peter Murphy Lewis:

Peter Murphy Lewis is a documentary filmmaker, CNA, and long-term care advocate who uses storytelling to spotlight the unsung heroes of caregiving. He is the creator of the docuseries People Worth Caring About, which reveals the real human stories behind the caregiving crisis in America.

With a background in marketing and content strategy, Peter brings a unique blend of empathy and clarity to both film and business. He's also the founder of Strategic Pete, a boutique consultancy helping mission-driven organizations grow through storytelling and scalable marketing systems.

His work has been featured in Care.com, Provider Magazine, Becker's Healthcare, McKnight's, and more. Peter lives next to a zoo in Kansas, sleeps in a hammock under the stars, and spends his mornings teaching his 8-year-old son to golf.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Tammy Lautner as guest to the show.

About Tammy Lautner:

Tammy Lautner is a registered social worker with over 20 years of experience supporting seniors and the family members who support them through complex aging related decisions. She is the founder of Peace of Mind Consulting and is known for helping people make sense of healthcare, housing, and government systems when things feel overwhelming or unclear.

Tammy serves on provincial and national committees focused on senior and caregiver advocacy and brings both professional expertise and real life experience into every conversation. Her approach is calm, practical, and deeply human, helping families feel steadier, more informed, and less alone.

About Peace of Mind Consulting:

Peace of Mind Consulting helps seniors and the family members who support them navigate the often complex systems of healthcare, housing, and government programs. The company provides guidance, advocacy, and emotional support, helping families feel steadier, more informed, and less alone as they make important decisions and plan for the future.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome the founders of AlzAuthors as guests to the show to discuss the history of AlzAuthors & the transition to All Home Care Matters.

AlzAuthors was founded in 2015 by three authors—Marianne Sciucco, Jean Lee, and Vicki Tapia—each of whom cared for and lost loved ones to dementia and wrote about those journeys.

The three first connected in 2015 on social media, began promoting each other's dementia-care books, and soon realized that a collaborative platform could help many more caregivers find trustworthy, experience-based resources in one place.

What began as a small, one-month blog project evolved into a worldwide network of nearly 400 authors across six continents, making AlzAuthors a trusted destination for Alzheimer's and dementia storytelling.

Over the past decade, the initiative has expanded to include curated books, a podcast, film festivals, virtual events, blogs, and other creative formats that center the voices of caregivers and people affected by dementia.

Transition to All Home Care Matters:

In January 2026, AlzAuthors transitioned to new leadership under All Home Care Matters, the caregiver-focused podcast and media platform founded by Lance A. Slatton.

All Home Care Matters will maintain AlzAuthors' established mission and brand while managing the website, producing future podcasts, and expanding opportunities for authors and cross-promotion so the community can grow without losing its core identity.

Legacy of the Marianne Sciucco, Jean Lee, and Vicki Tapia:

Co-founders Sciucco, Lee, and Tapia built AlzAuthors into a respected, volunteer-driven organization known for its rigorous review process and deep commitment to caregiver support.

Through this transition, their legacy lives on as All Home Care Matters stewards the next chapter, with plans to preserve what makes AlzAuthors unique while increasing its reach and impact for caregivers worldwide.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Carol Steinberg as guest to the show.

About Carol Steinberg:

Carol Steinberg is an accomplished writer and editor and a former award-winning journalist who contributed regularly to The New York Times, Success magazine, and other publications. She left journalism mid-career to serve for 15 years as an executive at local and national nonprofit organizations focused on Alzheimer's disease—a way of giving back after her father died as a result of the disease. Now semi-retired, she continues her involvement in the Alzheimer's community by writing the bimonthly newsletter for Voices of Alzheimer's as well as blogs on the topic, and appearing on podcasts and other media to discuss various aspects of the disease.

Based on her family's experience and her knowledge of Alzheimer's disease, Carol is the author of a new children's book—"Come Grandpa Meow, Let's Fly." The book uniquely features a heartfelt story about Alzheimer's plus a collection of intergenerational activities. It has been recognized by AlzAuthors as a valuable resource for caregivers and by Ella's Way for demonstrating the power of kindness.

About "Come Grandpa Meow, Let's Fly":

"Come Grandpa Meow, Let's Fly: A Heartfelt Children's Story About Alzheimer's Disease Plus a Guide to Intergenerational Activities" takes a unique approach to helping families navigate Alzheimer's disease or other related brain disorders. It features a tender children's story that explains the disease in age-appropriate language, designed to help young children understand the changes in a loved one and to alleviate fear and confusion. The story is uniquely complemented by a collection of empowering intergenerational activities, such as gardening and music, which respond to the question, "Now what?"—How can we foster a loving and respectful bond?

Author Carol Steinberg taps into her family's journey and extensive professional experience with Alzheimer's to realistically portray the disease and offer understanding and compassion to a condition that is often stigmatized. As the author notes, "In the face of this devastating disease, we are all looking for that 'moment'—a twinkle of joy, laughter, connection, or remembrance."

Accompanied by illustrator Chelsea Cooper's beautiful watercolor artwork, "Come Grandpa Meow, Let's Fly" tells the story of Lynnie, a young girl who cherishes spending time with her grandfather. When Grandpa Meow begins to struggle with their familiar activities and forgets who his granddaughter is, Lynnie's mom sensitively explains that Grandpa Meow has Alzheimer's. The conversation includes a powerful message: "We can try to help him remember how much we love him." Lynnie takes these words to heart and figures out how to strengthen their bond in a new way, relying on a song Grandpa Meow always sang to her as she flew through the air on a swing.

"Come Grandpa Meow, Let's Fly" has been recognized by AlzAuthors as a valuable resource for caregivers and by Ella's Way for demonstrating the power of kindness. Experts have called the book "stigma-busting," "well-crafted and poignant," and a "practical tool for meaningful conversations." A portion of each sale benefits the VoA Foundation, the educational arm of Voices of Alzheimer's.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to host and sponsor the annual All Home Care Matters New Years Eve Party at the Frenchtown Center for Active Adults.

Lance A. Slatton, founder and host of All Home Care Matters, proudly hosts and sponsors the Annual All Home Care Matters New Year's Eve Party at the Frenchtown Center for Active Adults. This special community celebration brings seniors, caregivers, and local leaders together to ring in the New Year with joy, connection, and appreciation.

As a nationally recognized home care advocate, author, and podcast host, Lance A. Slatton continues his mission of supporting seniors, caregivers, and aging adults by investing directly in the communities he serves. The New Year's Eve celebration highlights the importance of active aging, senior engagement, and community-based support for older adults.

This event reflects the core values of All Home Care Matters—honoring seniors, empowering caregivers, and fostering meaningful relationships that improve quality of life. Guests enjoyed a festive atmosphere, shared laughter, and a welcoming environment designed to celebrate life, independence, and togetherness.

📌 About All Home Care Matters:

All Home Care Matters is a leading platform dedicated to education, advocacy, and resources for seniors, family caregivers, and home care professionals. Through podcasts, community outreach, and events like this, Lance A. Slatton continues to raise awareness around aging, caregiving, dementia care, and senior wellness.

Connect with Lance A. Slatton - The Senior Care Influencer:

Official Website:

https://www.lanceaslatton.com

Connect with All Home Care Matters:

Official Website:

https://www.allhomecarematters.com

Connect with the Frenchtown Center for Active Adults:

Official Website:

https://www.frenchtownsenior.com/

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Daniel Hight as guest to the show. About Daniel Hight, Founder of More Than Our Story: Daniel started More Than Our Story shortly after receiving a diagnosis of an incurable brain cancer. Daniel's mission is to inspire by profiling remarkable people and sharing their stories, helping others realize they're never alone in their struggles. Daniel also seeks to break down the stigma surrounding important topics and promote ways for people to lead happier, healthier lives. Daniel has also found inner strength and calm after his diagnosis by challenging his body and mind through endurance sports, including triathlons (countless half IRONMAN and one full IRONMAN) and long-distance open-water swimming. Next year, Daniel will be tackling his most formidable challenges to date: his first ultramarathon (100km) and a marathon swim (10km). About More Than Our Story: Welcome to More Than Our Story, where our mission is simple: To inspire others to greatness through sharing stories of inner strength and resilience. We are a health-focused lifestyle website started to give back and inspire others through sharing people's stories. Knowing our stories are not unique makes us stronger, creates a sense of community, and makes all the difference. We also strive to promote a healthy lifestyle and to share how we can better take care of ourselves and lead healthier, happier, and more fulfilling lives. Not all of our profiles highlight individuals with incurable diseases or remarkable achievements; it's what they stand for and who they are that inspires, including cancer survivors, MS warriors, organ donors, and recipients, among others. The last part of our story is about giving back because it's our duty to look out for each other. With every purchase on our website, we donate a set amount per item to one of our featured causes. Episode Sponsor: OPTEEL 🔥 GET YOUR DISCOUNT NOW 🔥 Use code HOMECARE10 on Amazon for savings 🛒 Use code HOMECARE20 on Opteel.com for savings 🛒 Visit Opteel.com Today!

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Conscious Caregiving with L & L is "Tackling the Tough Conversations."

The topic of this episode is "Holiday Traditions & Seniors" featuring hosts Lori La Bey and Lance A. Slatton.

About Lori La Bey:

Her goal has always been to shift dementia care from crisis to comfort around the world. She offers a variety of free resources to educate, empower, connect, and decrease stigmas; helping families and professionals live graciously alongside dementia.

Lori is an international speaker known for her multiple platforms and training programs.

About Lance A. Slatton - known as "The Senior Care Influencer"":

Known as "The Senior Care Influencer" Lance is a Writer, Author, Influencer, and Healthcare professional with over 20 years in the healthcare industry.

Lance's book, "The All Home Care Matters Official Family Caregivers' Guide" was the recent recipient of the 2024 International Impact Book Awards.

Connect with Lori La Bey:

Official Website:

https://alzheimersspeaks.com/

Official Dementia Map Website:

https://www.dementiamap.com/

Connect with Lance A. Slatton - "The Senior Care Influencer":

Official Website:

https://www.lanceaslatton.com

Official Website for All Home Care Matters:

https://www.allhomecarematters.com

Lance A. Slatton and Lori La Bey Co-Host and Produce Conscious Caregiving with L & L.

Visit their website at:

https://consciouscaregivingll.com/

To learn more about Lance A. Slatton and Lori La Bey you can visit their websites.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Susanne White as guest to the show. About Susanne White: When Susanne was faced with the opportunity to care for her parents, she embarked on a caregiving journey that would change her life. She shares this journey on her website, CaregiverWarrior.cm, offering experience, strength, and hope to help others navigate caregiving with grace and empowerment. Known for her authentic style and deep insight from firsthand caregiving experience, Susanne is a bestselling author, gifted writer, exceptional webinar host, motivational keynote speaker, dynamic radio and podcast guest, and thought leader in the caregiver advocacy community. When speaking to caregivers, professionals, or broader audiences, Susanne delivers engaging conversations that comfort, inspire, and empower. Her approachable style and genuine presence make her a favorite among podcast hosts, listeners, and corporate audiences, where she delivers engaging sessions that spark connection and lasting impact. Her latest book, Self-Care for Caregivers: A Practical Guide to Caring for You While You Care for Your Loved One, is available on Amazon and at major bookstores, including an Audible audio version perfect for busy caregivers on the go.

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Conscious Caregiving with L & L is "Tackling the Tough Conversations."

The topic of this episode is "Holiday Gifts for Seniors" featuring hosts Lori La Bey and Lance A. Slatton.

About Lori La Bey:

Lori La Bey is the founder of Alzheimer's Speaks and is co-founder of Dementia Map global resource directory and the co-host of Conscious Caregiving with L & L.

Lori's mother who lived with dementia for 30 years. Her goal has always been to shift dementia care from crisis to comfort around the world.

She offers a variety of free resources to educate, empower, connect, and decrease stigmas; helping families and professionals live graciously alongside dementia.

Lori is an international speaker known for her multiple platforms and training programs.

Connect with Lori La Bey:

Official Website:

https://alzheimersspeaks.com/

Official Dementia Map Website:

https://www.dementiamap.com/

About Lance A. Slatton - known as "The Senior Care Influencer"":

Known as "The Senior Care Influencer" Lance is a Writer, Author, Influencer, and Healthcare professional with over 20 years in the healthcare industry.

Lance's book, "The All Home Care Matters Official Family Caregivers' Guide" was the recent recipient of the 2024 International Impact Book Awards.

Connect with Lance A. Slatton - "The Senior Care Influencer":

Official Website:

https://www.lanceaslatton.com

Official Website for All Home Care Matters:

https://www.allhomecarematters.com

Lance A. Slatton and Lori La Bey Co-Host and Produce Conscious Caregiving with L & L.

Visit their website at:

https://consciouscaregivingll.com/

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Travis Partington as guest to the show.

About Travis Partington:

Travis Partington, a United States Marine Corps veteran, is the host and founder of Oscar Mike Radio. Partington's interviewing style creates a welcoming environment where every story is valued, establishing Oscar Mike Radio as a true home for all veterans to share, heal, and support one another.

Beyond the microphone, Travis is committed to serving his brothers and sisters in arms, raising awareness about programs and people who uplift the military and veteran community.

About Oscar Mike Radio:

Oscar Mike Radio now in its ninth year is a home for veterans to share, heal, and support one another, fostering connection and community.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Consuela Marshall as guest to the show.

About Consuela Marshall OT, CHAT, CDP CAPS, CGCP:

Consuela Marshall is an occupational therapist with over 30 years of experience in hospitals, rehabilitation, and home health. Her path to occupational therapy began after her daughter was born with a physical disability, inspiring her to return to college and pursue a profession that would equip her to better support her child and others.

Over the years, Consuela's personal caregiving journey deepened as she cared for an aunt with Alzheimer's and later her mother after multiple strokes—experiences that revealed both the rewards and emotional strain of caregiving.

About Finding a Foothold:

In 2022, she founded Finding A Foothold Caregiver Consulting to provide education and coaching that help family caregivers reduce injury risks, simplify daily tasks, and stay connected to their own lives.

In 2025, she expanded her mission by establishing the Finding A Foothold Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to fall prevention and caregiver support in underserved communities.

Consuela is also the author of Fall Prevention: Planning Not to Fall and a frequent speaker on aging, fall prevention, and caregiving.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton are honored to welcome Nancy Nelson & Kat Hartley as guests to the show.

About Nancy Nelson "dangle" Co-Founder, dangle & dot:

Diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's in 2013, Nancy Nelson transformed fear into creativity and purpose. In the quiet hours following her diagnosis, she began writing words and phrases that seemed to "fall from the sky"—a healing practice that deepened her understanding of both her own and her father's dementia journeys. Following a second diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment in 2018, Nancy continued to embrace life with courage and grace plus a brain healthy lifestyle. She is the author of three acclaimed poetry collections—Blue. River. Apple.—which chronicles her personal experience with dementia.

An Alzheimer's advocate and public speaker, Nancy shares her story at education and policy events, participates in dementia research, and leads support groups for individuals in the early stages of the disease. Known for her uplifting honesty and creative voice, Nancy uses poetry and social media to reframe how the world sees dementia—not as an ending, but as a call to live fully, not fearfully.

About Kat Hartley, BS Pharm "dot", Co-Founder, dangle & dot:

Kat Hartley has spent every decade of her life on the emotional, financial, and spiritual rollercoaster of Alzheimer's Disease—having lost seven beloved relatives to it. The lessons and loss of her joyous father, who lived with dementia, continue to inspire her mission to help others live well. A pharmacist by training, Kat has dedicated her career to advancing Alzheimer's research, treatment, and care.

She began her professional journey at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, then served with the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health. Today, Kat is a brain health consultant, speaker, and author who promotes healthy lifestyle practices, mindfulness meditation, and community connection as pathways to prevent or delay dementia. Kat finds deep joy and a surprising re-discovery of self-worth as a full-time family care partner for her mother and brother.

About dangle & dot Company Bio:

dangle & dot delight when inspiring people to explore, with curiosity and willingness, the new possibilities one can discover despite the inherent challenges of cognitive changes. The company is novel as it includes a diagnosis-facing co-founder actively involved with operations and business development, with the goal of creating a new template for people living with dementia to own a business.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Julio Barea as guest to the show.

About Julie Barea, VP of Sales at Ally and CareTime:

Julio Barea is the Vice President of Sales at CareTime and Ally, where he helps home care agencies and caregiver registries navigate the challenges of Medicaid and third-party billing. With years of experience in home care operations, Julio brings practical expertise on minimizing denials, staying audit-ready, and streamlining reimbursement. His insights combine both the business and regulatory side of billing, giving agency owners confidence to handle Medicaid's toughest challenges.

About CareTime:

CareTime is the full and complete in-home care software solution, focusing on helping agencies manage every part of their operations with confidence. Over the years we have gained a specialty in billing, specifically Medicaid, and recently expanded our services to support agencies with all third party billing needs.

By combining deep expertise with proven results, CareTime gives providers the tools and support to keep reimbursement flowing while they stay focused on care.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Josh H. Hickman as guest to the show.

About Josh H. Hickman:

Josh H. Hickman was born in Washington D.C. and raised in various parts of Texas. He studied painting and sculpture at the Booker T. Washington High School for Performing and Visual Arts in Dallas, TX, later studying writing and film at the University of Texas at Austin.

A national award-winning journalist, his previous comic novels and short story collections include Through Tick & Tinn: The True Story of the Greatest Unknown Comedy Team Ever Known, Five Slices of Fear: A Connoisseur's Hoagie of Horror, Ambergris, The Kinfolk: Cult of Sex & Cheese, I Am Luney: The Untold Story of the World's Naughtiest Man, and Songs in the Key of H: Tales of Irony and Insinuation.

He has also produced three albums of spoken-word/music "word-jazz" albums, A Handful of Love, Something for the Ladies, and This House Is Haunted. After living and working in Hollywood for fourteen years, he returned to Dallas in 2019. His writing has appeared in anthologies such as the Central Texas Writer's Society and Beyond 2024 and publications such as Hindsight literary magazine and Park Cities People and Preston Hollow People newspapers.

Also a noted artist, his paintings have been shown in various group and solo exhibitions in Texas and California. He lives with his dog Sammy in Dallas, Texas.

About Forgetting:

Forgetting chronicles the unexpected life circumstances which led author Josh Hickman to his three-plus year journey of solo caregiving for a mother with whom he had a very difficult relationship. Left with the responsibility of taking care of her as her dementia set in, he shares his personal insights and struggles learning how to navigate through the process. This book is a highly relevant, timely and valuable resource for young people currently dealing with this evolving dilemma, who might have lived through it or who might be experiencing it in the near future.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Krista Montague as guest to the show.

About Krista Montague, CDP:

Krista Montague, CDP, AT-BC. has managed and worked hands on de-escalating and engaging thousands of people with dementia as an Activity Therapist in a geri-psychiatric hospital that exclusively helps patients with challenging behaviors, worked in home health and in senior living.

Krista has also taught communication and engagement skills which have gotten results/wins with challenging dementia behaviors for thousands of dementia caregivers in several online workshops and educational videos.

About Dementia Success Path:

At Dementia Success Path, we create educational videos, resources and workshops to help you learn exactly what to say and do when facing common challenging dementia behaviors so you can calm your loved one/client quickly, spend less time struggling and more time enjoying being with them.

Today's Episode was proudly sponsored by OPTEEL.

🔥 GET YOUR DISCOUNT NOW 🔥

Use code HOMECARE10 on Amazon for savings

Use code HOMECARE 20 on OPTEEL.com for savings

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Conscious Caregiving with L & L is "Tackling the Tough Conversations."

The topic of this episode is "Caring for Seniors" featuring hosts Lori La Bey and Lance A. Slatton.

About Lori La Bey:

Lori La Bey is the founder of Alzheimer's Speaks and is co-founder of Dementia Map global resource directory and the co-host of Conscious Caregiving with L & L.

Lori's mother who lived with dementia for 30 years. Her goal has always been to shift dementia care from crisis to comfort around the world.

She offers a variety of free resources to educate, empower, connect, and decrease stigmas; helping families and professionals live graciously alongside dementia.

Lori is an international speaker known for her multiple platforms and training programs.

About Lance A. Slatton - known as "The Senior Care Influencer"":

Known as "The Senior Care Influencer" Lance is a Writer, Author, Influencer, and Healthcare professional with over 20 years in the healthcare industry.

Lance's book, "The All Home Care Matters Official Family Caregivers' Guide" was the recent recipient of the 2024 International Impact Book Awards.

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The Care Advocates are co-hosted by Lance A. Slatton & Dr. George Ackerman.

The Care Advocates are honored to welcome, Debbie Compton as guest to the show.

About Debbie Compton:

From navigating the toughest caregiving challenges to inspiring hope and laughter, Debbie Compton is on a mission to empower caregivers worldwide. She's out to reduce their stress, help them avoid burnout, and learn to laugh again. A three-time primary caregiver herself, Debbie turns her personal experiences with Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and vascular dementia into invaluable support and resources for others.

Her latest book is a collaboration of 21 experts from 4 countries. The Caregiver's Advocate volumes 1 and 2 offer action steps for caregivers to reduce their stress, learn helpful information, and understand they are not alone. Plus, there is a full chapter of Resources to help, inspire, and support caregivers!

Both books are International Bestsellers! Debbie is a speaker on caregiver and dementia issues and teaches stress reduction for all. She is an Educator for the Alzheimer's Association and a Certified Caregiver Consultant and Advocate.

Debbie is one of only ten Virtual Dementia facilitators in Okla.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Stephanie Ford as guest to the show. About Stephanie Ford: Stephanie is the founder of Life Stories with Steph, a video storytelling service dedicated to preserving personal and family histories. With a background in caregiving, hospice and training as an end-of-life doula, she is passionate about capturing the wisdom and experiences of those who came before us. Through her work, Stephanie helps individuals and families preserve their most meaningful memories and legacies, ensuring they will be cherished and remembered for generations to come.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Pam Cusick as guest to the show.

About Pam Cusick, Senior Vice President at Rare Patient Voice:

Pam Cusick is an experienced research professional with more than 30 years of expertise in study design, implementation, and analysis. Her background in public health communications and research, coupled with her passion for patient advocacy, dovetail with Rare Patient Voice's mission and vision. She hopes to expand Rare Patient Voice's panels to include all patients and caregivers who want to share their opinions and impact their disease category.

Pam earned a BA in Psychology from Sweet Briar College, and a MA in Psychology from the New School for Social Research. She is Past-President of the Board of Directors and Scientific Advisory Council Lead for the Horses and Humans Research Foundation. In addition, Pam has recently been named a Laureate by the Insights Association! This recognition, given by peers across the industry, is a true lifetime honor—and she is "still taking it all in."

As Senior Vice President, Pam's focus is on the continued growth and success of RPV, with an eye on client services, business development, and oversight of patient outreach, panel management, and marketing.

About Rare Patient Voice:

Rare Patient Voice, LLC connects patients and family caregivers of rare and non-rare diseases with opportunities to share their opinions with companies and researchers by participating in all types of research studies. These include surveys and phone interviews, online bulletin boards, focus groups, clinical trials, and more.

While RPV began with a focus on rare diseases, we now welcome patients and family caregivers living with all medical conditions. We currently cover more than 1,500 rare and non-rare diseases and conditions. Over the years, we have paid patients and family caregivers over $15 million for participating in research.

We work with thousands of organizations, patient advocacy groups, and individuals to spread the word about RPV. Since launching in the United States in 2013, RPV has expanded across the globe. We now recruit patients and caregivers for research studies in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, Italy, France, Spain, Australia, and New Zealand.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Kian Saneii as guest to the show.

About Kian Saneii Founder & CEO Independa, Inc.:

Kian Saneii is a serial entrepreneur and computer scientist, best known as the founder and CEO of Independa, an award winning health tech company delivering remote care solutions through computers, tablets, mobile phones and even TVs! His work helps people stay healthier at home longer, safer and more comfortably, while improving efficiency and effectiveness across senior care, homecare and healthcare systems.

Previously, Saneii held leadership roles at Websense, IPNet Solutions, and IMA, driving innovation in wireless, supply chain, and CRM technologies. He holds Computer Science undergrad and graduate degrees from NYU and Rutgers, respectively, and lives in Los Angeles, CA. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with family, playing soccer, tennis, and cycling, and dabbling with the piano and drums.

About Independa, Inc.:

Independa, Inc., founded in 2009, is a leader in remote engagement, education and care solutions. Independa turns the everyday TV into a health and wellness hub, offering 24/7 access to telehealth services, games, wellness content, social engagement including video chat, in-home lab tests, and much more—improving access to health across the US.

Independa customers and partners enjoy top line growth, bottom line efficiencies, and brand elevation, and improving the lives and maintaining the health of those they serve. Independa provides solutions "From the Hospital to the Home, and everything in between."

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Derek DeVos, Technical Sergeant (Retired), USAF as guest to the show.

About Derek DeVos, Technical Sergeant (Retired), USAF:

Derek raised his right hand in January 2009 and served over 15 years in the United States Air Force.

From Utah to Alaska, the Republic of Korea to North Carolina and New Mexico, and through two deployments that tested every part of him, he carried both the pride and the weight of being an Airman.

Derek's career ended early when PTSD and physical conditions caught up with him, and he was medically retired on September 15, 2024.

Derek is now a 100% disabled veteran, continuing the mission through The PTSD, Inc., a nonprofit he founded in Statesville, NC to ensure veterans and families don't have to fight alone.

About The PTSD:

The PTSD, Inc. is a disabled veteran-founded nonprofit based in Statesville, NC, built from lived experience. Our mission is to reduce barriers for veterans and their families by providing peer-led support, community-driven resources, and practical tools that restore stability and hope. We believe every veteran deserves a clear path forward, and no family should have to fight PTSD alone.

We keep it simple:

• The PATH – veterans walking together through peer-led support groups.

• The HUB – a one-stop resource navigation center, that ends dead ends and red tape in the system.

• BRAVE TAILS – veterans and shelter dogs healing side by side .

• The AIMS – adaptive memory and accountability support, helping track spirals and wins.

• The 2nd Front – our fastest-growing lane, designed for caregivers, spouses, and families. Behind every veteran is a second front line: caregivers carrying the invisible weight. This program gives them a peer-led community of their own, with respite, tools, and recognition. All Home Care Matters was one of the first to recognize and amplify this vision , proving the urgency and resonance of supporting caregivers.

It's not theory. It's lived experience turned into action, a closed-loop ecosystem designed to scale across communities, reduce crisis events, and strengthen families.

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Conscious Caregiving with L & L is "Tackling the Tough Conversations."

The topic of this episode is "Planning & Seniors" featuring hosts Lori La Bey and Lance A. Slatton.

About Lori La Bey:

Lori La Bey is the founder of Alzheimer's Speaks and is co-founder of Dementia Map global resource directory and the co-host of Conscious Caregiving with L & L.

Lori's mother who lived with dementia for 30 years. Her goal has always been to shift dementia care from crisis to comfort around the world.

She offers a variety of free resources to educate, empower, connect, and decrease stigmas; helping families and professionals live graciously alongside dementia.

Lori is an international speaker known for her multiple platforms and training programs.

About Lance A. Slatton - known as "The Senior Care Influencer"":

Known as "The Senior Care Influencer" Lance is a Writer, Author, Influencer, and Healthcare professional with over 20 years in the healthcare industry.

Lance's book, "The All Home Care Matters Official Family Caregivers' Guide" was the recent recipient of the 2024 International Impact Book Awards.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Darlene Fuchs as guest to the show.

About Darlene Fuchs: Darlene Fuchs's writing is shaped by grief and the kind of love that doesn't let go. Her memoir, Get In The Boat, began as a vow to her father and became a raw, clear-eyed account of staying when everything else falls away. She gives voice to the ache behind closed doors—and to the quiet kind of love that keeps showing up, even when no one sees it.

About "Get In The Boat":

Richard didn't just watch his wife disappear—he lived it. Dementia stripped Gail down memory by memory, until she became a ghost inside the body he still kissed goodnight. He stayed. Through the blank stares, the violent confusion, the heartbreak on repeat. Then came the gut punch no one sees coming: their great-grandson.

A brain tumor. Terminal.

Another slow-motion goodbye. And just as the grief settled, COVID slammed the door shut. No visitors. No help. Just Richard—grief rotting in one room, and a slow death unraveling in the other.

Get In The Boat is not a soft-focus memoir. It's raw. It's real. It's what love looks like when memory is gone, hope is thin, and staying feels like breaking.

Because sometimes love looks like hell. And you walk through it anyway.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Mary Fridley as guest to the show.

About Mary Fridley:

A long-time community builder, group therapist and passionate developmentalist, Mary Fridley is on the faculty at the East Side Institute, where she co-created and leads The Joy of Dementia (You Gotta Be Kidding!) and leads Reimagining Dementia: A Creative Coalition for Justice, an international effort to creatively transform the "tragedy narrative" of dementia. She is also a guest columnist for agebuzz.com.

About Reimagining Dementia: A Creative Coalition for Justice:

Reimagining Dementia: A Creative Coalition for Justice brings together people living with dementia, care partners, community members, activists and allies, helping professionals, artists, academics and others who believe in creativity (of all kinds) as an innovative way to transform the stigma and stereotypes of dementia and the inequities experienced by people living with it, and to effect individual and social transformation.

With 1,100 plus members in 50 countries, the Coalition is a grassroots catalyst for change and a visible "hub" and community of support for all. In 2023, we launched Taking It to the Streets, which invites members and allies to host public-facing events, activities, and conversations that present creative, collaborative and hope-filled alternatives to the fear, stigma and hopelessness surrounding dementia.

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The Care Advocates are honored to welcome, Tony Lynch as guest to the show.

About Tony Lynch:

Tony Lynch, men's grief coach, program designer, conference host, host of the grief let's talk about it podcast, co-host of The connectwork, graphic novelist, editor in chief of Grief Talk magazine, international best seller, guest speaker, and founder of the non-profit Memories of Us Ltd/The Global Grief Network.

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The Caregiver's Journal hosted by Lance A. Slatton with Cindy (PT) & Christina (ST) Hardin-Weiss.

The Caregiver's Journal is the show where we are sharing the caregiving experiences, stories, and wisdom of family caregivers.

Chapter 16 - "Family Caregiver":

About Madeline Bastida:

My name is Madeline Bastida, but most people call me Maddy. I’m a proud Puerto Rican from New York City, now living in Washington State. I’m a daughter, advocate, and creative soul navigating life while caring for my dad, Fernando, who is living with Alzheimer’s.

Our journey began when my dad started showing early signs of memory loss, when he lived in Puerto Rico, and everything changed. I felt overwhelmed and alone, unsure of where to turn. But over time, I realized that this wasn’t just a diagnosis, it was a chance to connect deeper, love harder, and find purpose through pain.

That’s why I created my platform to share real, joyful, and honest moments between me and my dad, to remind others they’re not alone. From dancing through sundowning episodes to finding peace in small wins, I’ve made it my mission to advocate for caregivers and those living with dementia or Alzheimer’s.

I also volunteer for the Alzheimer’s Association since they helped me a lot, I want to provide support. and I recently launched a fundraiser and awareness campaign through my Mindful Memory Solutions a website that I just created.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Anne S. Royer & Robert W. Royer as guests to the show.

About Anne S. Royer:

Anne’s background and interests have included family, volunteering, and her love of art, painting and photography that began while living in Santa Fe and continues today.

About Robert W. Royer:

Robert is a semi-retired real estate developer specializing in residential, mixed-use, and resort properties.

About Meal Lifter®:

The Meal Lifter® eating aid was created to assist individuals suffering from Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, dementia, Cerebral Palsy, Essential Tremors, autism, strokes, injuries, learning disabilities, and age-related conditions that make it difficult to eat independently.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Jonathan Cottor as guest to the show. About Jonathan Cottor, MBA, MPH. : Jonathan Cottor is a devoted father whose journey with his son Ryan, diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy at 9 months old, profoundly shaped his life. Ryan defied expectations, living an extraordinary 17 years until his death in December 2018. Inspired by their experience, Jonathan and his wife co-founded Ryan House, a pioneering children’s respite, palliative, and hospice care home in Phoenix, Arizona. After a 30-year career in corporate marketing and leadership, Ryan’s death became the catalyst for Jonathan to align his work with his passion. He earned a Master of Public Health (MPH) from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, specializing in policy and advocacy, along with a certificate in Maternal and Child Health. Jonathan is now a recognized national thought leader in pediatric palliative care. He has been instrumental in building a coalition of community-based pediatric palliative care home models, culminating in the creation of the National Center for Pediatric Palliative Care Homes and its flagship initiative, Children’s Respite Homes of America. About National Center for Pediatric Palliative Care Homes (NCPPCH): The National Center for Pediatric Palliative Care Homes (NCPPCH) is a national nonprofit advancing an innovative solution: local, community-based homes that provide overnight respite, palliative, and hospice care tailored to the needs of medically fragile children and young adults, particularly those with life-limiting conditions.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Dr. Malinda Shultice as guest to the show.

About Dr. Malinda Shultice:

Dr. Malinda Shultice is a professor at Iowa State University and Barcelona Executive Business School, as well as the founder and CEO of M.S. Healthcare Consulting, a firm dedicated to training and developing leaders in the healthcare industry. She earned her Doctorate in Health Sciences from MCPHS University in Boston in 2022.

Before moving into higher education in 2023, Malinda spent years managing continuing care retirement communities in the senior living sector. It was a role that demanded adaptability every single day—whether adjusting to new regulations, finding creative ways to support staff, or responding to the changing needs of residents and their families.

Those experiences shaped her passion for connecting generations and building a strong, flexible workforce that can deliver quality care in an ever-changing healthcare world.

About M.S. Healthcare Consulting:

Through keynote speaking, interactive workshops, and executive coaching, I help leaders and organizations cultivate that curiosity while also building practical skills to lead effectively. Whether it’s inspiring a room full of professionals, guiding teams through hands-on problem solving, or supporting executives one-on-one, my mission is the same: to empower healthcare leaders to become confident, curious, and impactful in their spheres of influence.

Seminars & Workshops:

Interactive sessions on a variety of healthcare-related topics that address pressing issues such as burnout, low morale, high turnover, and lack of team engagement. (See the Courses tab for details.)

One-on-One Mentoring:

Personalized coaching for healthcare administrators and staff. Designed to help individuals build resilience, improve leadership skills, and create strategies to reduce stress and disengagement.

Small Group Trainings:

Tailored training for teams or community groups. These sessions focus on strengthening collaboration, boosting morale, and developing practical solutions to reduce turnover and improve workplace culture.

Speaking Engagements: Inspiring and practical presentations for audiences of any size—ideal for conferences, staff meetings, or community events. Topics center on building healthier work environments and addressing burnout and disengagement.

Connect with Dr. Malinda Shultice:

Official Website:

https://www.malindashultice.com

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome George Koenig as guest to the show.

About George Koenig:

George Koenig is the Founder and CEO of eCaregivers. He has 22+ years of licensed and accredited home care agency ownership and deep expertise in the home care industry. He founded eCaregivers with a vision to democratize home care for the better with a mission of empowering families with the tools to access safe, affordable, and transparent home care and care providers with autonomy, safety, and flexibility.

About eCaregivers:

eCaregivers is an online platform where families can find & manage 1-1 private home care, saving 30-50% compared to traditional agency costs. eCaregivers also partners with traditional home care channels. By collaborating with assisted living facilities, CCRCs, long-term care insurers, and other organizations, eCaregivers helps traditional providers supplement their services with additional private-pay care opportunities, increasing staff retention and resident care continuity.

Families or residents can join in under 10 minutes for as low as $9.99/month to find care by posting a job & receiving applicants or searching our database of local Care Providers. Easily choose the right match using eCaregivers' built-in messaging, safe & secure phone / video interviews, verification and background check features! eCaregivers has made it easier and safer than ever to manage private care, giving agency-like care management tools directly to families.

Users can utilize care scheduling, GPS-verified clock-in and clock-outs, backup-care arrangements, automatic payments, family split-billing, and more. Families can engage Care Providers as a 1099 or W2 and premium plan holders can enjoy the protection of liability, auto, and occupational insurance protections. Care Providers can join eCaregivers for free and begin applying to local jobs in less than 10 minutes. eCaregivers empowers Care Providers by giving them the tools to set their own rates, hours, and employment relationships.

Care Providers keep 100% of their earnings—eCaregivers takes no commission. eCaregivers operates nationwide with over 10,000 Care Providers, and more users are joining every day. Built by industry experts, eCaregivers is truly a complete solution for both families and traditional home care models.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Paul Wynn as guest to the show.

About Paul Wynn:

Paul Wynn has been part of the caregiving community for more than a decade, both as a family caregiver and as a healthcare writer. He is a featured author in the new book, The Caregiver’s Advocate Vol. 2, where he shares his experience as a sandwich generation caregiver, balancing the needs of aging relatives and young children.

Professionally, Paul has led communications and patient advocacy work for biopharmaceutical companies, collaborating with organizations like the American Cancer Society, Alzheimer’s Association, Muscular Dystrophy Association, and many grassroots organizations.

Through his work, Paul has recognized that patients and caregivers all have stories, but not all of them have a voice to speak up. Giving patients and their caregivers the opportunity to be heard and share their insights and inspiring stories has been the central focus of Paul’s work as an author and communications and patient advocacy specialist.

Connect with Paul Wynn:

Official Website:

https://www.paulwynn.com

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome the team from the National Down Syndrome Society as guests to the show.

About Margot Rhondeau:

Margot Rhondeau is the Senior Director of Health & Wellness for the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) where she leads the creation of resources and programming to improve health and wellness within the Down syndrome community. Margot joined NDSS in 2020, bringing 14 years of experience working in the health space, both internationally and nationally, to overcome barriers to care and increase health services and programs for underserved populations.

Margot is the proud mother of a child with Down syndrome. She enjoys hiking, taking her children on adventures and advocating for inclusion and acceptance.

About Charlotte Woodward:

All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome the team from the National Down Syndrome Society as guests to the show. About Margot Rhondeau: Margot Rhondeau is the Senior Director of Health & Wellness for the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) where she leads the creation of resources and programming to improve health and wellness within the Down syndrome community. Margot joined NDSS in 2020, bringing 14 years of experience working in the health space, both internationally and nationally, to overcome barriers to care and increase health services and programs for underserved populations. Margot is the proud mother of a child with Down syndrome. She enjoys hiking, taking her children on adventures and advocating for inclusion and acceptance. About Charlotte Woodward: Charlotte Woodward is the Education Program Associate for the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) where she supports the development of education-related resources and educational policy initiatives.

Charlotte was born with Down syndrome, as well as a heart condition, and had four open-heart surgeries when she was young. She is one of the very few people born with Down syndrome to receive a life-saving heart transplant, and she regularly shares her story to educate and advocate for others. Charlotte holds an associate degree from Northern Virginia Community College and recently graduated Suma Cum Laude from George Mason University with a bachelor’s degree in sociology with a concentration in inequality and social change.

About Anna Fedewa:

Anna Fedewa is the Senior Manager of Government Relations for the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) where she leads and directs the organization’s work to influence federal, state, and local policies and regulations that impact people with Down syndrome. Anna’s passion for advocacy and disability rights grew from the friendships she made with individuals with Down syndrome and other disabilities as a young child and was further cultivated during her time teaching high school special education and working with her alma mater’s inclusive post-secondary program.

About the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS):

Founded in 1979, the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) empowers individuals with Down syndrome and their families by driving policy change, providing resources, engaging with local communities, and shifting public perceptions. NDSS engages grassroots advocates at the federal, state, and local levels and creates resources to support individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and caregivers across the lifespan on topics including education, employment, health and wellness, and aging. NDSS founded the National Buddy Walk® Program in 1995 and hosts community engagement events throughout the country including the New York City Buddy Walk® and Times Square Video, the NDSS Adult Summit, and the Down Syndrome Advocacy Conference. Visit www.ndss.org to learn more.

Advocacy & Policy:

NDSS advocates for federal, state, and local policies and regulations that positively impact people with Down syndrome across the country and affirm their human rights. Through grassroots advocacy, NDSS empowers community advocates to work with Congress and federal agencies, as well as state and local officials, to develop and improve policies and regulations for the benefit of the Down syndrome community.

NDSS further empowers individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and other community members to influence policy at the NDSS Down Syndrome Advocacy Conference in Washington, D.C. The NDSS legislative agenda spans the life of individuals with Down syndrome from birth to adulthood including healthcare, education, employment, and economic self-sufficiency.

Resources & Support:

NDSS is committed to providing individuals with Down syndrome, their families, caregivers, and the public with information to support them from birth to end of life. Through events, videos, publications, and our website, NDSS provides free resources on a variety of topics including health, wellness, education, employment, adulthood and aging, financial wellness, and information for new and expectant parents. Our Adult Summit conference addresses the needs of teens and adults with practical resources and educational opportunities for individuals with Down syndrome, families, caregivers, and professionals.

Community Engagement:

NDSS community engagement events and activities celebrate our loved ones with Down syndrome, raise awareness among the public, and connect individuals and families within the community. Through our scholarships, grants, and awards program, NDSS supports individuals with Down syndrome in pursuing their dreams.

Connect with the National Down Syndrome Society:

Official Website:

https://ndss.org

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome the team from Bridgetown Music Therapy as guests to the show.

About: Alexis Baker, MT-BC, CDP

Alexis is the founder & owner of Bridgetown Music Therapy. Alexis is a board-certified music therapist, certified dementia practitioner, and founder of Bridgetown Music Therapy. Passionate about using music to make a difference in the lives of older adults, her mission is to spark joy and connection through meaningful music engagement.

In 2020, she became the innovator of Singing at Home and Music with Alexis, virtual music engagement programs for older adults living with dementia. In 2024, she co-authored the book “The Caregiver’s Advocate: A Complete Guide to Support and Resources”.

About Lindsey Bretzman, CDP:

Lindsey is a passionate Life Enrichment professional, who after caring for her grandfather for many years, began working in senior living in 2010. She has worked in a variety of senior living settings and is credentialed as a Certified Activity Director and Certified Dementia Practitioner.

Lindsey's "heart work" and dedication has earned her program awards through both the Oregon Healthcare Association and LeadingAge Oregon. In the fall of 2022, Lindsey joined the Bridgetown Music Therapy team as Life Enrichment Specialist.

About Tyler Mizak:

Tyler is the LifeStages Activity Director and LifeStories Memory Care Director, Colonial Courtyard at Bedford. He is also the host of the Ageless Adventures podcast, where he shares inspiring stories and insights from the world of senior living and real life Residents.

A passionate advocate for older adults, Tyler is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for seniors through creativity, connection, and meaningful engagement in the larger public community.

About Bridgetown Music Therapy:

Bridgetown Music Therapy’s mission is to make a difference in the lives of individuals living with dementia using the power of music. With services facilitated by passionate, talented board-certified music therapists and certified dementia practitioners, they spark joy and connection through meaningful music engagement.

They value providing programs that are engaging, therapeutic, high-quality, versatile, accessible, affordable, and dementia friendly. Their programs also provide respite to tired, busy, and overwhelmed caregivers.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome esteemed author Eliezer Sobel as guest to the show.

About Eliezer Sobel:

Eliezer is the author of The Silver Lining of Alzheimer’s: One Son’s Journey Into the Mystery, as well as two picture books for people with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, Blue Sky, White Clouds: A Book for Memory-Challenged Adults, and L’Chaim! Pictures to Evoke Memories of Jewish Life. He has also published Minyan: Ten Jewish Men in a World That is Heartbroken, selected by National Book Award winner John Casey as the winner of the Peter Taylor Prize for the Novel, among 400 entries.

Also, The 99th Monkey: A Spiritual Journalist’s Misadventures with Gurus, Messiahs, Sex, Psychedelics and Other Consciousness-Raising Experiments; Wild Heart Dancing: A One-Day Personal Quest to Liberate the Artist & Lover Within; The Dark Light of the Soul/Encounters with Gabrielle Roth; an e-book titled Why I Am Not Enlightened, and he blogs for PsychologyToday.com.

Eliezer has also led creativity workshops and silent meditation retreats around the U.S.; he is a certified teacher of Gabrielle Roth’s 5Rhythms® conscious movement practice; has served as a hospital chaplain; was the publisher of two magazines, The New Sun and the Wild Heart Journal; served as Music Director for several children’s theater companies on both coasts, and taught music in two alternative high schools. Also an amateur painter, he and Shari reside in Red Bank, New Jersey with their two cats, Shlomo and Nudnick.

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The Care Advocates is hosted by Lance A. Slatton & Dr. George Ackerman, also known as Sharon's son George.

The Care Advocates are honored to welcome the sisters from "Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver" J.J. Elliott Hill & Natalie Elliott Handy as guests to the show.

About J.J. Elliott Hill, MBA:

J.J. is a finance executive turned entrepreneur, caregiver advocate, and podcast co-host. With over 17 years in commercial banking, she advised small to mid-sized businesses on strategic growth, asset management, and navigating regulatory and merger transitions. But in 2013, a corporate downsizing shifted her trajectory—leading her to co-found three startups spanning retail, manufacturing, and real estate.

In 2023, J.J. co-founded the Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver podcast to raise awareness for the 53 million Americans caring for loved ones—just like she has done since 2019 for her mother, a 22-year Parkinson’s patient. What began as a personal story has grown into a global caregiving platform, with over 300,000 monthly downloads and listeners in 54 countries. Today, Confessions is more than a podcast—it’s a movement, offering training, keynote speaking, and advocacy that centers and elevates the caregiver voice.

In 2024, J.J. brought that same strategic mindset to the caregiving space as co-founder and CFO of CareForward, a public benefit company dedicated to supporting caregivers and the communities around them through technology-driven solutions and volunteer networks.

She holds a B.A. in Economics from Hollins College and an MBA in Executive Management from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. J.J. is a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) and is completing her certification as a Caregiving Consultant, Educator, and Facilitator through The Caregiving Years Academy.

About Natalie Elliott Handy, MSW:

Natalie is a seasoned healthcare executive with over 25 years of experience in health and human services. She is the CEO of CareForward, a technology-driven platform that connects individuals in crisis with volunteers and partner organizations to meet urgent, short-term needs and improve long-term outcomes. Natalie is also the CEO of Handy Innovative Solutions, a consulting firm focused on trauma-informed, evidence-based strategies for child welfare and behavioral health systems, specializing in transitioning high-acuity youth from congregate care into stable, family-based placements.

Natalie co-hosts the global podcast Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver with her sister, JJ Elliott-Hill. The show, ranked in the top 5% of podcasts globally and streamed in over 54 countries with 300K+ monthly downloads and streams, brings authenticity, humor, and hope to caregiving conversations. Through storytelling, education, and advocacy, the podcast provides a supportive space for caregivers worldwide.

A passionate advocate, Natalie has served in leadership roles across mental health, foster care, and healthcare systems, including CEO of multiple psychiatric treatment facilities and VP of Government Affairs at Health Connect America. She speaks nationally on caregiving, crisis response, and community solutions.

Learn more about the Self-Care at Sea Cruise: Official Website: https://www.funseas.com/self-care

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Dr. James Vickers as guest to the show. About Dr. James Vickers: Dr. Vickers is a Distinguished Professor at the University of Tasmania and the Director of The Wicking Dementia Research & Education Center. Distinguished Prof Vickers has an extensive track record in interventional cohort studies, cognition, neurogenetics, health services research and neuroscience research, and has published over 200 refereed articles. Distinguished Prof Vickers has held several national leadership roles, such as President of the Australasian Neuroscience Society (ANS, 2014–2016) and Chair of the Scientific Panel of the Alzheimer’s Australia Dementia Research Foundation (2014-2016). He was awarded a Doctor of Science from University of Tasmania in 2005 in recognition of his contribution to neuroscience research. He is a Board Member of the Dementia Australia Research Foundation and a member of the Dementia Expert Reference Group for the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing. About The Wicking Dementia Research & Education Center: The Wicking Dementia Centre was established in 2008 with seed funding from the J.O. and J.R. Wicking Trust. The Wicking Centre has an academic mission to undertake globally recognised and high-impact research and education. Research themes relate to the prevention, cause and care of dementia. Teaching programs include formal university courses at the undergraduate and postgraduate level through to a suite of free online courses, including MOOCs on major neurological conditions. The social mission of the Centre is centred on making a difference in the lives of people living with dementia and their carers.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome AlzAuthors and filmmakers to discuss the upcoming AlzAuthors Film Festival.

About the Filmmakers and their Films:

Sept 8: Mary Crescenzo and her film, “Planet A”

Synopsis: Planet A

Planet A reveals the good, bad, and ugly secrets, thoughts and frustrations of past lives and present realities of Alzheimer’s patients, their caregivers and family members. Follow Pauline and others who reside at a care home, when an arts practitioner working with residents unlocks the door to this world through an interwoven narrative of monologues and dialogs from distinct points of view. Planet A bears witness to both inhabitants and visitors who enter this terrain and shines a light in the darkness of this disease. Enter this land of revelation and unintentional masquerade where anyone can be called to reside.

Sept 22: Susie Singer Carter and her film, “No Country For Old People”

Synopsis: “No Country For Old People”

A filmmaker chronicles her mother's last 6 months in a 5-star nursing home exposing the systemic, deadly, profit-over-people business model. No Country For Old People is a scorching documentary posed to set the long term care industry, policy makers, and the country ablaze. Shining a much-needed light on what is truly a national human emergency, it is a clarion call for serious change.

October 6th: Frank Silverstein and his film “Lousy: Love in the Time of Dementia”

Synopsis: LOUSY: Love in the Time of Dementia

LOUSY: Love in the Time of Dementia is a front-row seat to ground-game dementia: its impact on my parents’ life and our family’s response. My parents cling to each other— singing, shouting and dancing— defying a world that overwhelms them. This film documents how their love helps them cope with their dementia and each other, and explores how this reality has restructured our family connections to each other and to the world. Full of painful humor and raw emotion, the film watches our family responding in real time, as we are forced to revise our relationships and rules for engagement on the fly.

November 10th: Kitty Norton and her documentary "Wine, Women, and Dementia"

Synopsis: "Wine, Women, and Dementia:

The documentary feature, Wine, Women, & Dementia, tells the tale of dementia life through the lens of the family caregivers who strive to accept the beauty and the brutality, the hilarious and the horrific - for themselves and their dementia person. It is a road trip around the U.S. in celebration of family caregivers and that swinging dementia lifestyle. Over glasses of wine the caregivers swap tales of love, humor, devotion, and death and most importantly how to honor LIFE on the long road to death.

December 8th: C. Nathan Brown and his film, “The Present”

Synopsis: "The Present":

Celebrating Christmas isn't the same for Mya and her family since her mother died from Alzheimer's disease. But a Christmas miracle could be in store.

Connect and Register for the AlzAuthors Film Festival: Official Website: https://www.alzauthors.com

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Michele Bolton as guest to the show.

About Michele Bolton:

Michele Bolton, Founder and CEO of MY911 Inc., is a Canadian entrepreneur redefining healthcare technology. Inspired by personal health challenges and a profound commitment to patient empowerment, she established MY911® to revolutionize emergency medical communications, seamlessly connecting patients, first responders, and healthcare professionals. With an illustrious career spanning 30 years in agriculture and wealth management simultaneously, Michele brings a unique blend of expertise to her visionary leadership.

Her innovative approach, rooted in empathy and a dedication to enhancing the patient experience, has positioned MY911® as a pioneering, patient-centric solution that has transformed the healthcare landscape. Michele’s trailblazing efforts have garnered international recognition, earned her an invitation to Global Healthcare Week in Abu Dhabi and prominent features in esteemed publications such as Forbes, Business Insider, MSN, and Insights Success, among others. Through her unwavering commitment to empowering patients as active participants in their healthcare journey, Michele continues to drive transformative change on a global scale.

About MY911 Inc.:

MY911 Inc. is a service that provides users with a customized wallet card displaying a QR code linked to an online profile, designed to streamline emergency medical communications through written and smart technology for patients and healthcare professionals. The user is in control of their online profile, and fills out the information they wish to share. MY911 Inc. is a company founded in London, Ontario, Canada.

CEO Michele Bolton started the service after her own challenges with the healthcare system. It’s comforting to see others experience the same benefits of streamlined medical communications she personally receives from using her innovative, customized MY911® wallet card. A MY911® subscription makes a great gift, providing loved ones with awareness, peace of mind, and convenience!

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton (@lanceaslatton) were honored to welcome Andrew Karesa CEO and Founder of @bluebellvillage as guest to the show. About Andrew Karesa: Andrew Karesa is a member of the Muskeg Lake Cree Nation and a proud husband and father of two young sons. After witnessing how his family coped to support his grandmother with her Alzheimer's diagnosis, Andrew realized he needed to take action. This inspired the creation of blueBell Village, aimed at Restoring the Personhood and Independence of those living with dementia™. With blueBell, Andrew has seen lives transformed for both individuals living with dementia and their caregivers, and he is passionate about fostering a world where care is tailored to each individual’s needs. Additionally, he is pursuing his doctorate at the University of Calgary, where his research explores Indigenous entrepreneurship in the health sector, with a particular focus on the role of data in new venture creation. Andrew also holds an MBA from the University of Alberta. Before founding blueBell Village, he worked as a practicing engineer in the energy sector. About blueBell Village: blueBell Village is a health innovation company rooted in Indigenous values, dedicated to transforming the dementia care experience for families and caregivers. Founded in Canada, blueBell Village focuses on bridging clinical best practices with cultural and community-based knowledge to improve quality of life for people living with dementia—particularly in underserved and Indigenous communities. Its flagship tool, blueBell Connect, is a digital support platform that helps care teams deliver personalized, culturally appropriate, and clinically grounded care. Unlike traditional caregiver tools, Connect doesn’t just share information—it guides action. It enables caregivers to coordinate with one another, share updates in real time, and receive recommendations that are tailored to the specific needs, routines, and cultural contexts of the individual they support. With a focus on inclusion, personalization, and dignity, blueBell Village is building tools that meet people where they are—and helping communities take care of their own.

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The Caregiver's Journal hosted by Lance A. Slatton with Cindy (PT) & Christina (ST) Hardin-Weiss.

The Caregiver's Journal is the show where we are sharing the caregiving experiences, stories, and wisdom of family caregivers.

Chapter 15 - "Caregiving Love":

About Mary Whitehead:

Mark & I have been partners in life since our first date, a Heart concert, in 1978 followed by our marriage in 1979. Together we raised two children, and along the way we helped care and provide for parents & grandparents throughout their illnesses and aging in place or in senior living centers. I call myself a care partner vs. caregiver because Mark does not need my assistance for everyday tasks. We both use our strengths that complement each other on this path with Parkinson’s and several other chronic illnesses he lives with.

My late mother was my inspiration. In my mid-teens I watched her, over the course of two years, lovingly care for my dying father (lung cancer). I could not have had a better, in-home example of someone who did everything, including care for him, with love. I am married to the most wonderful man who insisted that my mom live with us for what totaled the last 12 years of her life so that she could have a comfortable life with no expenses and be cared for by us after having a massive heart attack two years before she passed away.

When Mark was 47, as we became empty nesters and were poised to live out some dreams that were not feasible during our first 2+ decades together, a diagnosis of young onset Parkinson’s Disease brought our hopes, plans, and his career to a screeching halt. But it couldn’t completely stop this incredible human being, artist, musician/composer, man of many hobbies and a higher math maniac. I like to tease him about trying to share multi-page equations with me for discussion. Side note: he even took an online math course through MIT and I insisted that he buy one of their hoodies to wear proudly. There is so much to Mark that we could never cover in one conversation but rather than dwell on the PD, he prefers to pursue and concentrate on what he CAN do.

We cultivate humor and wit in our relationship. That’s where “Tenacious M” - my care partner/gansta moniker comes from. I combine it with my Cornermam enthusiasm to encourage Mark’s boxing workouts (excellent for PD) and – like a beagle in a brush pile - I pursue every challenge face head on, whether it’s an insurance or pharmacy snafu, etc. Together, we face every aspect of living with PD. And we are both are dedicated PD research participants at Washington Univ., St. Louis, MO, also the location of Mark’s neuro, Dr. Joel Perlmutter (definitely the top doc). I, along with two of our friends are in the non-PD control group. We all have pledged to donate our brains at the end of our lives for PD research.

In 2013, inspired by a Parkinsons Foundation resource kit, we created a PD Awareness & Research fundraising blitz, raising nearly $3k for Dr. P’s research. Friends, family & my coworkers held Pancakes for PD, Dine-out nights, a proclamation by our city mayor, and, among many other activities, we raffled a beautiful quilt that Mark & I designed, and I did the hand-embroidery.

Like the motto in our Parkinson’s & Dystonia private FaceBook group, we will never give up.

And I’d like to credit the group’s founder/lead admin, Erika, for creating a safe and supporting space for people with PD and the caregivers & care partners.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton are honored to welcome Kimberly Anderson as guest to the show. About Kimberly Anderson, Director of Business Development at QuickChange Wrap for Men by UI Medical : Kimberly Anderson is the Director of Business Development at UI Medical, makers of the QuickChange® Wrap—a urine management device for men. With over 20 years in the medical field, she spent the last eight traveling nationwide to educate healthcare providers on QuickChange, previously serving as UI Medical’s Director of Clinical Education. Kimberly is passionate about restoring dignity for men with incontinence and supporting caregivers through education on alternatives to traditional devices, helping to prevent UTIs, dermatitis, and pressure injuries. About UI Medical the Makers of the QuckChange Wrap: UI Medical LLC is a California-based company dedicated to improving the lives of less mobile individuals through innovative, easy-to-use solutions. We manufacture the QuickChange® Wrap, a Class I medical device designed specifically for men who are wheelchair users, bed-bound, or have unique incontinence needs. Proudly made in the USA, the QuickChange Wrap is available through major distributors like Medline Industries, as well as online retailers including Amazon and Walmart. Our patented design serves a distinct yet underserved population—approximately 15% of incontinent men—and we're committed to supporting both users and caregivers with a product that brings comfort, dignity, and convenience. UI Medical holds international patents and complies with CE and UKCA standards. We are registered in the U.S., EU, UK, Australia, and many other countries. Our ISO 13485–certified manufacturing facility in California ensures high-quality production and minimizes supply chain risks. A list of our institutional clients can be found on their website at www.quickchange.com.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Natalie Black as guest to the show. About Natalie Black Chief Executive Officer, Comfort Keepers, North America: Natalie joined CK Franchising, Inc. in October 2023 as Chief Executive Officer. She is a passionate and highly intuitive leader with professional experience across the healthcare, financial services and entertainment industries. Natalie joined Sodexo in 2015 as Director of Strategy and Franchise Business Development and later served in leadership roles including CFO of Worldwide Home Care and COO of Worldwide Home Care at Sodexo. Natalie earned a Bachelor of Science in Financial Mathematics and Statistics from University of California Santa Barbara and a Master of Business Administration from Pepperdine Graziadio Business School. About Comfort Keepers: For 25 years, Comfort Keepers® has been Elevating the Human SpiritSM through its in-home care network for seniors and other adults by empowering them to maintain their independence and realize joy in the everyday moments. Comfort Keepers operates a franchise network that has grown to more than 600 locations in the U.S. and Canada, serving hundreds of thousands of clients since 1998. The company’s nationwide network employs thousands of caregivers, also known as Comfort Keepers®, who deliver joy through interactive caregiving by continually communicating with, involving, and engaging with seniors in everyday tasks and activities.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Deanna Gerstel Harris as guest to the show.

About Deanna Gerstel Harris:

Deanna Gerstel Harris is a writer, director, producer, board-certified holistic health practitioner, and former creator of digital content for children with developmental disabilities. She was featured in Redbook Magazine’s “Heroes: 10 Moms Who Are Changing the Face of Autism.” A caregiver for over 20 years, Deanna has served as a Fellow with Caring Across Generations, a national organization working to transform the way we care in this country. An experienced manager of Broadway, film, and television talent, Deanna’s projects are deeply informed by her lived experience as both a caregiver and care recipient, as well as her passion for centering caregiver resilience and uplifting underrepresented voices and experiences.

About When We Care:

When We Care is an upcoming animated short film that explores the profound and urgent intersection of the climate and caregiving crises. With an Academy Award-winning animation director and a celebrated Disney composer, the film uses stunning animation and evocative music to tell a moving story of connection, resilience, and shared responsibility. At a time of deep societal polarization and ecological instability, When We Care offers a poetic reminder of the beauty that emerges when we care for one another—and for the environments we call home. Written and directed by Deanna Gerstel Harris and co-produced with Monica Lund and Marian Yeager, the film is deeply rooted in the personal experiences of its creator, who is among the 105 million caregivers impacted by America’s growing care crisis.

As caregivers and global citizens, Deanna and the When We Care team bring a rare, authentic lens to a story that is both intimate and universal. Their creative vision underscores the growing urgency of two converging global challenges—how we care for people and how we care for the planet—and the opportunity to build a more compassionate and sustainable future.

Inspired by real-life events surrounding a beloved cherry blossom tree affectionately known as “Stumpy,” the film draws on both natural symbolism and lived experience to explore themes of care, interdependence, grief, joy, and endurance, and resilience.

When We Care is not only a visual and emotional experience—it is a call to action, urging audiences to rethink how we define compassion, strength, sustainability, and community in the face of overlapping crises. With its compelling narrative, artistic excellence, and social impact potential, When We Care explores finding resilience amidst the caregiving and climate crises through the challenges associated with sandwich generation caregiving, aging with dignity, pediatric cancer, the unhoused and homelessness, preserving our environment, and care of our veterans, while inviting viewers to imagine a world in which care, for each other and the Earth, is not a burden, but a shared value that binds us together and helps us all to thrive.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Michael Ellenbogen as guest to the show.

About Michael Ellenbogen:

Michael Ellenbogen was diagnosed with Young-Onset Alzheimer's Disease at the age of 49. Prior to his diagnosis, he was a network operations manager for a Fortune 500 financial institution. Difficulty with work-related tasks eventually led to his early retirement.

As a world-renowned International Dementia Advocate & Connecter, he has been featured in nationally syndicated TV, radio and other media outlets. He has written for blogs, newspapers, journals and websites and shared his personal perspective as a guest speaker. Michael served on the PA Alzheimer's Disease Planning Committee and other advisory councils. He testified before the government, and has three letters published in the U.S. Congressional Record.

He was a regular speaker at NAPA and was featured in the ADI’s 2012 World Alzheimer's Report. He represented the U.S./World for people living with dementia at the World Health Organization in Geneva. He is interested in motivating those with Alzheimer’s to raise their voices and reduce the stigma surrounding the disease. Michael wrote about his journey with the disease in his book entitled “From the Corner Office to Alzheimer's.”

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The Care Advocates are honored to welcome, Eryn Elder as guest to the show.

About Eryn Elder:

Eryn Elder, MA, is the author of Blooming Through Loss: Tending to Grief with the BloomPathTM. She is a certified grief and loss support specialist and an ICF-trained life coach and coach trainer who helps adults navigate the difficult journey of loss. Eryn is also the creator of the BloomPathTM, a practical tool designed to help grievers find hope and start to heal authentically.

Through her one-on-one coaching, group sessions, workshops, and trainings, Eryn helps people rebuild their sense of self and purpose after loss. She co-hosts the podcast Coaching as Benevolence, where she shares thoughts on personal growth and living with compassion.

Eryn resides in Longmont, Colorado, with her husband and two children while honoring the memory of her first-born daughter.

About Roots and Wings Grief and Loss Coaching:

At Roots and Wings Grief and Loss Coaching, I help people rebuild their lives after loss—gently guiding them through purposeful healing, authentic growth, and hope that lasts. My work offers comfort in the pain and clarity for what comes next. I am an advocate for interdisciplinary approaches to understanding grief and healing with grief and loss, and to reimagine a world grounded in compassion and healing.

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Conscious Caregiving with L & L is "Tackling the Tough Conversations."

The topic of this episode is "Holistic Wellness & Seniors" featuring hosts Lori La Bey and Lance A. Slatton with guest, Dr. Shawn A. Weiss, PT, DPT, CDP, CADDCT, FPS.

About Dr. Shawn A. Weiss, PT, DPT, CDP, CADDCT, FPS:

Dr. Weiss is a powerhouse speaker, renowned Doctor of Physical Therapy, and Health Strategist with over 27 years of clinical mastery across the healthcare spectrum. A former healthcare executive turned visionary founder of The Senior Health and Wellness Group and Rockstar Health, Dr. Weiss has become a trusted voice for transformative aging.

She doesn’t just speak about wellness—she lives it, igniting stages and lives with her bold mission: to help individuals reclaim their energy, restore their health, and rise stronger through life’s hardest seasons. Her approach is unapologetically holistic, grounded in science, and driven by purpose. In her electrifying keynote, “Strong Body. Sharp Mind. Bold Spirit: Aging Doesn’t Mean Slowing Down,” Dr. Weiss fuses clinical precision with lived wisdom, unlocking a new narrative around aging—one that’s vibrant, powerful, and full of possibility.

Just Look Up—Your Health. Your Power. Your Comeback.

Conscious Caregiving with L & L is hosted by Lori La Bey & Lance A. Slatton.

Visit the Official Website for Conscious Caregiving with L & L: https://consciouscaregivingll.com/

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome back the team behind the film "No Country for Old People"

About "No Country for Old People":

A filmmaker chronicles her mother’s last 6 months in a 5-star nursing home exposing what is a national systemic, deadly, profit-over-people business model. No Country For Old People; a Nursing Home Exposé is a scorching documentary posed to set the long-term care industry, policy makers, and the country ablaze. Shining a much-needed light on what is truly a national human emergency.

No Country for Old People; a Nursing Home Exposé is a 3-part documentary that exposes the dark realities of neglect and abuse in nursing homes and throughout U.S. long-term care industry.

The film answers four questions:

What happens.
1. How does it happen?
1. Why does it happen?
1. And how do we fix it?

The film highlights a systemic crisis - the result of corporate greed - that has been taking a devastating human toll within the walls of our nation’s long-term care facilities for decades.

The film weaves personal loss with journalistic rigor, exposing a pattern of abuse that is enabled by profit-first models that include chronic understaffing, undertraining, and financial exploitation.

PERSONAL STORIES AND EMOTIONAL IMPACT:

The filmmaker’s own experience with her mother along with other emotional testimonies emphasize the human cost of systemic failure and illustrate the severe consequences of poor nursing home care.

The film is both deeply personal and widely resonant — amplifying voices too often silenced and inviting viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about aging, policy, and accountability in America.

About Susie Singer Carter:

Susie Singer Carter is a multi-award-winning, Oscar qualified filmmaker, writer, director, producer, actor, podcast producer, host, and Caregiver Advocate. She is best known for writing, directing, and producing the 2018 Oscar qualified short film, My Mom and The Girl starring Valerie Harper in her final performance, writing and producing “Bratz the Movie” for Lionsgate, and co-producing “Soul Surfer” for Sony.

Susie also produces and hosts the podcast Love Conquers Alz – awarded BEST PODCAST 2020 by New Media Film Festival and is #4 on Feedspots’ 2022 25 Best Alzheimer’s Podcasts list. Susie is also the co-creator, co-writer, co-star, and director of the outrageous horror/comedy narrative podcast I Love Lucifer, nominated Best Audio Fiction 2023 by Indie Series Awards.

Susie wrote the screenplay, “RUN”, based on the book “Plain Jane” and is attached to direct in spring 2024. She is currently writing, producing, and directing a docuseries, No Country For Old People, which centers on the Nursing Home Neglect and the systemic healthcare crisis responsible for it. She is also a host of the Writers Guild of America West’s 3rd & Fairfax Podcast.

About Rick Mountcastle:

Mr. Mountcastle is the former United States Attorney for the Western District of Virginia (2017-2018) and is a retired award-winning federal and state prosecutor. He led the prosecution of Purdue Pharma for fraudulently marketing OxyContin, as portrayed in the Emmy-nominated limited miniseries "Dopesick" (streaming on Hulu).

He also led the criminal and civil prosecution of Abbott Laboratories for fraudulently marketing the anti-epileptic, Depakote, for use as a chemical restraint for dementia patients in nursing homes, resulting in Abbott's guilty plea to a felony and payment of $1.5 billion, at the time the largest penalty against a pharmaceutical company for misconduct related to a single drug.

Mr. Mountcastle spent his career prosecuting healthcare companies and executives who exploited vulnerable patients for profit, and brings his passion to change a system that allows such exploitation to this project.

About Don Priess:

For over two decades, Don Priess has shunned sleep in order to become a highly sought-after, award winning writer, producer, director and editor. He co-founded Modern Media, now one of the top marketing and infomercial production companies in the world.

After six years and hundreds of TV and radio commercials, Don decided to spread his wings and since his credits include projects for CBS/Dic Entertainment, Nickelodeon, Buena Vista, American Movie Classics, Lifetime, Hanna-Barbera, Playboy Entertainment and more.

While continuing to work on a wide variety of entertainment projects, Don teamed with the highly energetic and talented Susie Singer Carter as part of Go Girl Media. Together they were the writers and Co-Executive Producers of two series for CBS, “CAKE” and “DANCE REVOLUTION”, SURVIVING HAWKING, and “SILVER LININGS” for Fox Television Studios.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Kitty Norton as guest to the show.

About Kitty Norton:

In 2016, Kitty Norton left her job as an NBC assistant editor in Los Angeles, for her hometown of Portland, Oregon, to walk, stumble, crawl with her dementia mother to death’s door. While doing so, she authored the dementia caregiver blog Stumped Town Dementia, writing tales of dementia life which resonated deeply with readers around the world.

When her mother, Gloria, moved on to her next adventure in March of 2021, Kitty created and directed the dementia family caregiver documentary Wine, Women, & Dementia, to celebrate family caregivers and let them know they are worthy of been seen, heard, and honored alongside their person living with dementia.

About "Wine, Women, & Dementia":

Wine, Women, & Dementia tells the tale of dementia life through the lens of these family caregivers who strive to accept the beauty and the brutality, the hilarious and the horrific - for themselves and their dementia person. And in a system that offers few resources or support, they find community, champion each other, and learn what it means to celebrate LIFE on the long road to death.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Elena Sallitto, Esq. as guest to the show.

About Elena Sallitto, Esq.:

Elena is one of the leading authorities on elder and disability planning law in Maryland. She is at the forefront of expert representation, teaching, and legislative reform. She works alongside the Alzheimer’s Association, the Maryland Chapter of AARP, aging life care specialists who coordinate home health, universities, and many other experts and advocates in her field.

About Stavely & Sallitto Elder Law:

Stavely & Sallitto Elder Law was founded with a singular mission: to empower individuals and families in navigating life's legal complexities with confidence and peace of mind. With seasoned attorneys who blend professional acumen with genuine empathy, Elena leads her firm in focusing on a range of practice areas tailored to meet the specialized needs of her clients and community.

At the heart of her practice is a deep understanding of the challenges faced by seniors, the disabled, and their loved ones as they navigate issues such as Medicaid & Asset Protection, Long Term Care Planning, Estate Planning, Estate Administration & Probate, Special Needs Planning, and Guardianship.

Elena's firm is uniquely rooted in a commitment to client-centered care. She empowers her team to foster meaningful relationships built on trust, respect, and understanding.

Connect with Elena Sallitto, Esq. & Stavely and Sallitto Elder Law:

Official Website:

https://www.stavelysallittoelderlaw.com/

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome back Marianne Sciucco as our guest to the show. About Marianne Sciucco: Marianne Sciucco is not a nurse who writes but a writer who happens to be a nurse, using her skills and experience to create stories that bear witness to the humanity in all of us. She writes contemporary, women's and young adult fiction. A lover of words and books, she studied the craft of writing as an English major at the University of Massachusetts at Boston and worked for a time as a newspaper reporter in New England. She eventually became a registered nurse to avoid poverty. With more than 20-years’ experience as a staff nurse and case manager, she's worked with countless families dealing with issues related to aging, elder care, Alzheimer's, and nursing home placement. In 2002, she put the two together and began writing about the intricate lives of people struggling with health and family issues. She published her debut novel, Blue Hydrangeas, an Alzheimer's love story, in 2013 to glowing reviews. This book led her to become a co-founder and director of AlzAuthors, the global community of authors writing about Alzheimer's and dementia from personal experience to light the way for others. She is podcast producer and host for Untangling Alzheimer’s and Dementia, an AlzAuthors Podcast. Marianne has written an award-winning prequel to Blue Hydrangeas called Christmas at Blue Hydrangeas and a second prequel, A Wedding at Blue Hydrangeas. She is the author of Swim Season, a young adult novel based on her 11-years’ experience as a Swim Mom in club, high school, and collegiate swimming. She has also written several short stories, including Ino's Love, Collection, and Birthday Party. All of her work is available in ebook, audiobook, and paperback. When not writing she works as a campus nurse at a community college in New York's Hudson Valley. About "A Wedding at Blue Hydrangeas": Five days until the Fourth of July wedding of her dreams! Sara Harmon, the heart and soul behind the charming Blue Hydrangeas bed and breakfast on Cape Cod, is determined to orchestrate the perfect celebration for her son, David, and his bride, Anne. This is the dream wedding she's always envisioned! But, as the big day draws closer, a flurry of mishaps threatens to unravel her meticulously planned reception. Adding to the delightful chaos is the unexpected stay of the undeniably affable but ever-so-demanding Walter Willoughby. And if that weren't enough, she must contend with the well-meaning but persnickety ladies of the garden club, whose opinions bloom as profusely as her hydrangeas. While she scrambles to create the perfect wedding celebration, Sara carries a quiet ache in her heart. Can she put aside her own sorrow to fully celebrate David and Anne's happiness? And just how long will the unfortunate but delightful Mr. Willoughby be gracing Blue Hydrangeas with his presence? You're invited to the wedding of the season, where love, laughter, and a touch of mayhem are all part of the special day at Blue Hydrangeas.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Katrina Love Prescott as guest to the show.

About Katrina Love Prescott:

Katrina Love Prescott is an award-winning Caregiver Advocate, Coach, and Media Producer. As co-founder of Care Nation, a non-profit dedicated to supporting caregivers, she has partnered with leading organizations for over a decade to enhance the quality of life for those with chronic illnesses and their caregivers. Her acclaimed web series, Therapeutic Fibbing, exploring a family’s journey with dementia, has garnered over 2 million views.

Her latest project, Things Not to Say to a Caregiver, has surpassed 1 million views and continues to resonate widely. Passionate and innovative, Katrina is committed to transforming the caregiver experience.

About "Things Not To Say To A Caregiver":

A sharp, funny web series where a no-nonsense Care-y Godmother rewrites the awkward, hurtful things people say to caregivers—turning missteps into moments of empathy, growth, and comic relief. Synopsis: Things Not to Say to a Caregiver is a comedic web series that tackles the awkward, misguided things people say to caregivers—and how we can do better. Each episode, led by a sharp-tongued “Care-y Godmother,” flips a cringeworthy moment into a teachable one. Blending sketch comedy with real-life insight, TNTS validates caregivers’ experiences while educating the public with humour and heart.

Connect with Katrina Love Prescott:

Official Website:

https://www.katrinaloveprescott.com

Instagram:

@katprescott

Tik Tok:

kat.prescott

LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrina-love-prescott-5799157/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/katrina.prescott/

Watch "Things Not To Say To A Caregiver":

YouTube Playlist:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNKwjxd98HaUZ-hY7tzB8DDXLvJI1BHzh

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The Caregiver's Journal hosted by Lance A. Slatton with Cindy (PT) & Christina (ST) Hardin-Weiss.

The Caregiver's Journal is the show where we are sharing the caregiving experiences, stories, and wisdom of family caregivers.

Chapter 14 - "Caregiver Support":

About Heidi Lee Cross:

Heidi Lee Cross is a North London-based copywriter, poet, and caregiver. She shares a home with her partner, 12-year-old son, and their cherished dog Bailey. After graduating with a BA Hons Degree in Drama & Theatre Arts in 1996, Heidi embarked on a television career that spanned two decades.

Starting as an intern with Planet 24's The Big Breakfast, she progressed through roles as a runner, researcher, bulletin presenter, and eventually studio and location producer across various television networks. Her passion for writing led her to transition into a successful copywriting career. In 2023, Heidi published a poignant collection of poems about parenthood titled Mum of a Boy.

Her caregiving journey began in 2017 after her father’s unexpected passing, which left her to support her mother as she faced early cognitive decline and an Alzheimer’s diagnosis. This deeply personal experience inspired her second book, Milk Tulips, a blend of stories, poetry, practical advice, and insights. The book serves as a companion for caregivers navigating the complexities of dementia, especially those raising young children at the same time. Heidi hopes her work provides comfort and encouragement to those facing similar challenges. (both books available on Amazon in hardback, paperback and for Kindle).

About Marielle Molette:

Marielle Molette is a projects officer with an NHS and Social Care background, complemented by her expertise in French and Translation Studies. She lives in North London with her husband and two sons. Her most recent role as a commissioning officer for Barnet Council allowed her to use her skills to lead on various initiatives, including the national Changing Places Toilets campaign. This initiative ensures the provision of fully accessible toilets for individuals with significant disabilities, equipped with specialised facilities such as hoists and adult-sized changing tables, offering dignity and independence to those who need it most.

Passionate about creating positive change and improving the lives of others, Marielle has been a dedicated advocate and caregiver for her mother, who has lived with Alzheimer’s for the past 10 years. Her journey inspired her participation in a video campaign by the Royal Free Trust, where she shared her experiences caring for her mum. This initiative aimed to improve outcomes for dementia patients in hospitals, raising awareness about the unique challenges they face, advocating for better care solutions.

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The Care Advocates are honored to welcome, Christine A. Smith as guest to the show.

About Christine A Smith:

Christine A. Smith served in nearly 100 different, private homes as a caregiver last decade. She assisted clients between ages 75 & 105. She worked alongside or reported to loved ones of all ages. She observed thousands of interactions amongst family, friends, neighbors, volunteers, medical professionals, and the community with the person she was hired to assist. During her years of service, she saw aging done well and identified commonalities in how challenges were solved.

Christine also noticed that she, herself, had so few answers to common problems. So she researched, wrote a prompted journal, and began to video conversations every week with people who DO provide what those Persons of Longevity and their caregivers need.

About Aging Better Network:

AgingBetterNetwork.com is a resource website with a list of links to STUFF you're going to need!

Unscripted, diverse, supportive & casual conversations with individuals who provide that STUFF you're going to need is called "Aspects of Aging." Replays of those LIVEstreams are in LinkedIn & YouTube archives. It's all at the ABN.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Monica Rosser as guest to the show.

In this episode of All Home Care Matters, we delve into the indispensable role of caregivers, particularly those supporting Service Members and Veterans. With over 14.3 million Americans providing unpaid care valued at more than $400 billion annually, these military caregivers are the backbone of our healthcare system.

Monica Rosser, Executive Managing Director of Federal Health at Maximus, joins us to discuss the multifaceted challenges caregivers face and explore the “whole health” model of care.

In this interview, Rosser highlights how technology is transforming our healthcare system to provide a proactive, personalized, integrated support system that improves outcomes for both patients and caregivers.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Kimberly Anderson Director of Business Development at UI Medical & QuickChange Wrap.

About Kimberly Anderson:

Kimberly Anderson is the Director of Business Development at UI Medical, makers of the QuickChange® Wrap—a urine management device for men. With over 20 years in the medical field, she spent the last eight traveling nationwide to educate healthcare providers on QuickChange, previously serving as UI Medical’s Director of Clinical Education.

Kimberly is passionate about restoring dignity for men with incontinence and supporting caregivers through education on alternatives to traditional devices, helping to prevent UTIs, dermatitis, and pressure injuries.

About UI Medical & QuickChange Wrap:

Connect with QuickChange Wrap:

Official Website:

https://www.QuickChange.com

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Michael Herrington & Kevin Hansen as guests to the show.

About Michael Herrington:

About Ways 2 Wellness:

About Kevin Hansen:

Kevin has helped hundreds of businesses with their branding/logo development, website presence, and digital marketing. For the last 8 years, he's worked with home care agencies throughout the country in satisfaction management and, more recently, in business development. He's the author or Branded by Design: Home Care / Home Health Edition, which serves as a guide to agencies creating a new brand, redesigning an existing brand, or striving to improve their brand messaging.

About Home Care Ops:

Home Care Ops offers resources, templates, operational methodologies, and training for every leadership level. Through easy-to-follow courses, information-packed webinars, and Summits with some of the greatest minds across any industry, owners and operators can stop the cycle of reaction and start taking true control over their business's success. Our team strives to help home care owners solve more problems at every level - Build | Grow | Scale.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Dr. Rob Winningham the Co-Author of the Cranium Crunches Workbook by Activity Connection.

About Dr. Rob Winningham:

Dr. Rob Winningham received his Ph.D. in neuroscience from Baylor University. He joined the faculty at Western Oregon University in 2000 where he serves as a Professor of Psychological Sciences and Gerontology. He helped create the Gerontology Department, when he was Division Chair of the Behavioral Sciences Division. And, he has served as College Dean, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Western Oregon University. His scholarship and publications have generally focused on maximizing older adults’ quality of life, cognitive stimulation, physical activity, intergenerational programs, and social engagement throughout the lifespan.

In addition to publishing many peer-reviewed scientific articles, Dr. Winningham has been invited to give nearly 2000 presentations at various conferences, workshops and community settings. He has participated in the development of a number of popular products for senior living and healthcare, including LinkedSenior, SMARTfit, and resources available through Activity Connection.

His book, Train Your Brain: How to Maximize Memory Ability in Older Adulthood was published by Routledge Publishing and his latest book, co-written by Nancy Ewald, is entitled Cranium Crunches, both books can be found on Amazon.

About Activity Connection:

While many programs are designed for broad community engagement, versions of select activities are specially created for those in memory care. These thoughtfully developed resources help promote connection and purpose for residents at varying ability levels. Many also encourage intergenerational engagement, providing meaningful opportunities for families and volunteers to participate.

All content aligns with person-centered care standards and complies with state regulations—empowering activity professionals and caregivers with tools that are not only engaging, but deeply enriching for our aging loved ones.

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Conscious Caregiving with L & L is "Tackling the Tough Conversations."

The topic of this episode is "National Resources & Seniors" featuring hosts Lori La Bey and Lance A. Slatton.

Lori La Bey speaks with Lance A. Slatton about his coverage of the 10th Annual National Elizabeth Dole Foundation Convening in Washington D.C.

About Lori La Bey:

Lori La Bey is the founder of Alzheimer’s Speaks and is co-founder of Dementia Map global resource directory and the co-host of Conscious Caregiving with L & L. Lori’s mother who lived with dementia for 30 years.

Lori is an international speaker known for her multiple platforms and training programs.

Connect with Lori La Bey:

Official Website:

https://alzheimersspeaks.com/

Official Dementia Map Website:

https://www.dementiamap.com/

About Lance A. Slatton - known as "The Senior Care Influencer"":

Known as “The Senior Care Influencer” Lance is a Writer, Author, Influencer, and Healthcare professional with over 20 years in the healthcare industry. Lance A. Slatton is a senior case manager at Enriched Life Home Care Services in Livonia, MI. He is also host of the award winning podcast & YouTube channel All Home Care Matters and Co-Host of Conscious Caregiving with L & L with Lori La Bey along with The Care Advocates and The Caregiver's Journal.

Lance's book, "The All Home Care Matters Official Family Caregivers' Guide" was the recent recipient of the 2024 International Impact Book Awards.

Connect with Lance A. Slatton - "The Senior Care Influencer":

Official Website:

https://www.lanceaslatton.com

Official Website for All Home Care Matters:

https://www.allhomecarematters.com

Lance A. Slatton and Lori La Bey Co-Host and Produce Conscious Caregiving with L & L.

Visit their website at:

https://consciouscaregivingll.com/

To learn more about Lance A. Slatton and Lori La Bey you can visit their websites.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome back Elizabeth Field the Chief Operating Officer for the Elizabeth Dole Foundation for the post-Convening recap. About Elizabeth Field: recognized expert on military quality-of-life and defense policy. Prior to joining the Foundation, she held senior roles at the Government Accountability Office and the U.S. Department of State, and has testified before Congress on issues ranging from defense reform to veteran support. Her work has been featured by NPR, CNN, and The New York Times. A proud daughter of an Army veteran, she lives in Washington, D.C. with her two sons and rescue dog. About the 10th Annual National Elizabeth Dole Foundation Convening: On May 20, 2025, the Elizabeth Dole Foundation hosted its 10th Annual Convening, A Blueprint for Action: Mapping the Future of Caregiving in a Changing World. This event featured leaders from government, industry, non-profits, and academia gathered for dynamic discussions, engaging keynote speakers, and interactive working sessions focused on shaping the future of support for military and veteran caregivers. Connect with the Elizabeth Dole Foundation: Official Website: https://www.elizabethdolefoundation.org/

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The Caregiver's Journal hosted by Lance A. Slatton with Cindy (PT) & Christina (ST) Hardin-Weiss.

The Caregiver's Journal is the show where we are sharing the caregiving experiences, stories, and wisdom of family caregivers.

Chapter 13 - "From Son to Caregiver":

About Carlos L. Olivas III:

Carlos L. Olivas III, a compassionate advocate for Alzheimer's caregivers and mental health awareness, brings his personal journey and heartfelt empathy to the forefront of his work. As a caregiver for his father courageously navigating life with Alzheimer's, Carlos shares touching stories and profound insights, resonating with audiences worldwide.

Handpicked to serve on the California Health and Human Services Agency Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders Advisory Committee, Carlos collaborates with esteemed organizations such as Caring Across Generations, the Alzheimer's Association, and Into the Dark Blue men's well-being group. Additionally, Carlos serves as a docent at Artbeat Gallery in Downtown Sacramento, where he proudly represents his dad's artwork on the walls. Carlos is an esteemed member of We are HFC's Care Squad.

Through his engaging speaking engagements, he ignites inspiration and empowers others, shining a light on the universal themes of love and resilience.

Connect with Carlos L. Olivas III:

Official Linktree:

https://linktr.ee/charlierobot

Official Instagram:

@charlierobot

Connect with Cindy & Christina Hardin-Weiss:

Official Website:

https://adaptiveequipmentcorner.com/

Connect with Lance A. Slatton - The Senior Care Influencer:

Official Website:

https://www.lanceaslatton.com

Connect with All Home Care Matters:

Official Website:

https://www.allhomecarematters.com

Connect with The Caregiver's Journal Podcast:

Official Website:

https://thecaregiversjournalpodcast.com/

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Jill Couch as guest to the show.

About Jill Couch:

Jill's grandmother is her inspiration; her dad was her teacher. Both passed from this life with dementia. The DAWN Method taught Jill how to get it right with her dad. Jill is an Occupational Therapist who saw a different way to help in dementia when she began learning the DAWN Method.

About Better People Care LLC:

Jill founded Better People Care in 2018 when she began experiencing how the tools of the DAWN Method were helping her provide the right kind of care for folks experiencing dementia. Now, she and her team bring help and hope for many families in Northern Colorado. In addition, we specialize in training and coaching in the DAWN Method, care management, and healthcare advocacy for people living throughout the United States.

About the DAWN Method:

Here at the Dementia & Alzheimer’s Wellbeing Network® (DAWN®), we’ve discovered something really special. We’ve found that although our clients lose some cognitive skills, they never lose all their skills. In fact, with dementia, we keep our primary thinking skills and continue to live in the present—fully able to enjoy beauty, positive emotions and companionship.

There are strengths in dementia, and both you and your loved one will benefit when you understand how to provide strength-based care. You will be able to keep your loved one home longer, with fewer conflicts, and your family will have less stress and expense. What they believe: We believe in preserving dignity and autonomy through aging in place for as long as possible. We do this by training families and caregivers to recognize and meet the emotional needs caused by dementia, how to support the cognitive skills their loved ones lose, and how to work with the skills they’ll keep.

The seven tools of the DAWN Method® of dementia care:

The tools of the DAWN Method of dementia care: 1. Mood management, 2. Security in Confusion, 3. Security in Care, 4. Social Success, 5. Sense of Control, 6. Sense of Value, 7. Secure Future (in flower shape)

The first three DAWN tools are techniques for caregivers to help their loved ones regain a sense of security. Feeling secure is the most basic human need; we cannot relax if we don’t feel safe. The last four tools help caregivers enhance their loved one’s sense of contentment (“wellbeing”).

When caregivers use the first three DAWN tools, their loved ones learn that they can still be safe, and become more emotionally stable. With the last four DAWN tools, caregivers are equipped to restore and enhance their loved ones’ sense of comfort in moments when discomfort looms.

The model or metaphor that best describes how the tools of the DAWN Method work together is the DAWN flower:

The DAWN flower shows the emotional needs created by dementia as a feedback loop—with the first DAWN tool, mood management, at its center. Mood management is central to being proactive and providing strength-based dementia care, because when someone loses their memory and thinking skills, they have lost the very skills we normally use to manage our own moods.

Their companions have become their mood managers, whether they realize it or not. Learning how to proactively create positive moods is the first tool of the DAWN Method, and one that enriches both care partners for the rest of their lives.

Once caregivers know how to create and maintain positive moods, they can help their loved ones learn an enduring sense of security in the two areas most vital to those undergoing cognitive impairment: learning that they can be safe even when confused, and learning that they can be safe accepting help from others.

The four components of wellbeing are much simpler. Someone can be given the gift of contentment (wellbeing) in moments and, if someone or something takes it away, their care partner can restore it in moments. With dementia, we have no need to learn contentment, because we never lose the skills we need to enjoy what others bring to us.

Once care partners are working with all seven of the DAWN tools, the relationship between them and their loved ones becomes marked by contentment and beauty rather than conflict and distress.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Eilon Caspi, PhD. as guest to the show.

About Eilon Caspi, PhD.:

Eilon started working in the aging field 30 years ago as a nurse aide in a nursing home where his grandfather lived. Both his grandmothers lived with dementia.

Since then he worked as a social worker with low income older adults in the community and in a nursing home. Throughout the past 18 years, he has led several research studies aimed at improving understanding of various forms of elder mistreatment in long-term care homes (e.g. abuse, neglect, resident-to-resident incidents, theft of opioid pain medications, fear of retaliation / actual retaliation, and social media abuse). He is the founder of Dementia Behavior Consulting LLC where he assists families in supporting and caring for loved ones living with dementia.

In his free time, he enjoys hand carving wood such as brain hemispheres, giant 6-8 foot pencils, and educational signs including SEE ME Not My Dementia, Elder Voice, and Justice for Elders.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton are honored to welcome Sam "Dementia Man" Simon as guest to the show.

About Sam Simon:

Sam Simon grew up in El Paso, Texas. In 1970 graduated law school to work with Ralph Nader’s first Public Interest Research Group, in Washington, DC, and spent about 35 years as a prominent lawyer in the public interest field. His became known for his work in breaking up ATT, which got him appearances on Face the Nation, Phil Donahue Show, Today, GMA –even Oprah Winfrey once.

He later became a senior fellow working for Intersections, the social justice ministry of the Collegiate Church of New York. He was trained in theatrical improv, which became the start of this theatrical career. His first play, The Actual Dance, Loves Ultimate Journey Through Breast Cancer, was about his role as carepartner (he says lovepartner) of his wife during her breast cancer. He toured that play for a nearly a decade, until diagnosed with Early Stage Alzheimer’s and has since written a new play, Dementia Man, an Existential Journey about this experience – to date. He advocates in the work for a radical new understanding of accessibility and support for people with cognitive issues.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome the team behind the Dementia Care Family Support Program.

About Denise M. Brown:

Denise began supporting family caregivers in 1990, launching one of the first online caregiving communities in 1996. She trains Caregiving Consultants, Facilitators, Guides and Navigators. She cared for her father for almost 20 years and for her mother for 8 years.

She’s written 16 books for current and former family caregivers.

About Dr. Laura Gitlin:

Dr. Laura Gitlin is the Co-founder and Chief Scientific Officer at Plans4Care. She is an intervention scientist with over 40 years of experience in dementia care and research. Dr. Gitlin currently serves as a multiple Principal Investigator on several NIH-funded grants, where she leads the development and testing of innovative interventions to support people living with dementia and their caregivers.

About Eric Jutkowitz, PhD:

Eric Jutkowitz, PhD is the Co-founder and CEO of Plans4Care. He is health services focused on improving the nation’s long-term care system. He co-founded Plans4Care to bring evidence-based dementia care out of the university and into the hands of all family caregivers.

About the Dementia Care Family Support Program:

Our Certified Caregiving Consultants partnered with Plans4Care, a technology start-up to offer 5 coaching sessions to dementia family caregivers in order to resolve 3 care challenges.

We’ll share what we learned about using technology during coaching sessions, the common care challenges we addressed and the insights we gained from tracking our coaching sessions. We also will talk about what we learned about how to best support dementia family caregivers to help ease their stress and worries.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Elizabeth Field as guest to the show to preview the 10th Annual Elizabeth Dole Foundation's Convening.

About Elizabeth Field:

Elizabeth Field is the Chief Operating Officer of the Elizabeth Dole Foundation and a recognized expert on military quality-of-life and defense policy. Prior to joining the Foundation, she held senior roles at the Government Accountability Office and the U.S. Department of State, and has testified before Congress on issues ranging from defense reform to veteran support.

Her work has been featured by NPR, CNN, and The New York Times. A proud daughter of an Army veteran, she lives in Washington, D.C. with her two sons and rescue dog.

About the 10th Annual Elizabeth Dole Foundation Convening:

Join the Elizabeth Dole Foundation in Washington, D.C. on May 20 for the 10th Annual Convening, A Blueprint for Action: Mapping the Future of Caregiving in a Changing World. This full-day event will gather leaders from government, industry, non-profits, and academia for dynamic panel discussions, plenary sessions, and interactive working sessions focused on shaping the future of support for military and veteran caregivers. Attendees will engage in hands-on activities that translate cutting-edge RAND research into meaningful, real-world actions, ensuring that the collective efforts of our community align for maximum impact.

The insights and strategies developed during this convening will inform a series of blueprints—practical guides designed to help stakeholders across sectors strengthen and sustain support for caregivers in the years ahead. Be part of the movement to drive lasting change. Together, we will chart the course for America’s military and veteran caregivers and the future of caregiving in a rapidly evolving world.

Date & Location:

Tuesday, May 20th Ronald

Reagan Building and International Trade Center

1300 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Washington, DC 20004

Connect & Register:

Registration:

https://www.elizabethdolefoundation.o...

Official Website:

https://www.elizabethdolefoundation.org

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome the team behind the Colorado Older Adults Financial Justice Coalition.

About Dr. Eric Chess:

Dr. Chess has a background as a practicing physician and lawyer. Currently, he is a clinical professor at the University of Denver with a focus on prevention, well-being and financial decision-making. He founded and continues to direct the Paul Freeman Financial Security Program at the Knoebel Institute for Healthy Aging and leads the Colorado Older Adult Financial Justice Coalition. Additionally, Dr. Chess serves as an adjunct professor for both the Daniels College of Business and the Sturm College of Law at the University of Denver.

About Mark Fetterhoff:

Mark Fetterhoff is the Program Manager for AARP ElderWatch, a statewide partnership between AARP and the Colorado Attorney General’s office to educate older Coloradans about fraud and financial literacy. He has worked on education and outreach to older adults for over 15 years. Mark currently works with a crew of dedicated volunteers to address thousands of inquiries each month about fraud, scams and financial exploitation as part of AARP’s fraud helplines.

About Bettina Morrow:

Bettina is the Interim Program Director for Colorado Adult Protective Services. With over 20 years of international experience, Bettina started her career in Australia before moving to the UK, where she practiced social work for 9 years, eventually leading to her move to the U.S. Bettina has spent the last 16 years working with at-risk and vulnerable adults with specific expertise in elder abuse, dementia, and guardianship. Bettina has been a strong advocate and active contributor in developing positive practices changes pertaining to at-risk adults. This includes her role as a steering committee member for the Colorado Older Adults Financial Justice Coalition. Bettina has obtained a Bachelor of Social Work, a Masters in Dementia, and is a Nationally Certified Guardian.

About The Colorado Older Adults Financial Justice Coalition:

The newly formed Colorado Older Adults Financial Justice Coalition unites local and state agencies from diverse fields, including law enforcement, human and adult protective services, financial regulation, the financial services industry, and elder advocacy groups. This coalition aims to address the complex issue of financial fraud targeting older adults by evaluating the problem and developing practical prevention strategies. By bringing together a multidisciplinary group of dedicated stakeholders, the Coalition underscores its commitment to combating elder financial fraud and abuse through prevention and intervention efforts.

Connect with The Colorado Older Adults Financial Justice Coalition:

Official Website:

https://financialsecurityprogram.org/coalition/

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome the founders of Activity Connection as our guests.

Today, Activity Connection supports thousands of activity directors and eldercare staff with a comprehensive library of digital tools, including monthly calendars, cognitive fitness resources, multicultural content, sensory stimulation programs and customizable printables. The platform continues to innovate while staying true to the Ewalds’ founding mission: to empower caregivers and bring joy, dignity and connection to the lives of older adults.

About Nancy Ewald:

Nancy Ewald holds a Bachelor of Science in medical technology and a Master of Science in allied health education. Her early “activities” involved teaching microbiology and working with test tubes, pipettes and Bunsen burners. However, while taking time off to raise three children and care for two ailing seniors, Nancy discovered her true passion and made a midlife career change. She returned to the workforce as an assistant activity director for a full-service senior community.

Her innovative programming quickly gained recognition, leading her to author six manuals for national providers and eventually serve as a national director overseeing training and program development for 170 communities across all levels of care. Motivated to solve the everyday challenges she had seen firsthand, Nancy left the corporate world and devoted herself to expanding Activity Connection into the robust platform it is today. She now lives in Winter Garden, Florida, where she enjoys spending time in her garden—her personal escape and creative inspiration.

About Doug Ewald:

Doug Ewald, a graduate of Indiana University with a Bachelor of Arts in studio arts and art history, spent nearly a decade in retail business management within the popular media arts industry. A lifelong enthusiast of computers and digital media, Doug recognized early on the internet’s potential to transform how information and resources could be accessed and shared. In 1999, he built the first iteration of the Activity Connection website. Since then, Doug has served as CEO, leading the company’s growth into a trusted, widely used digital platform that now benefits more than 1.5 million seniors each month. He lives in the Pacific Northwest with his wife and two children.

About Bob Ewald:

Bob Ewald joined Activity Connection part-time in 2003. After retiring a few years later from the corporate world, he stepped into the role of full-time chief financial officer. A graduate of Indiana University with a degree in accounting (Bob, Doug and Nancy are all proud Hoosier alumni), Bob worked as a certified public accountant in the insurance industry for 36 years.

He welcomed the shift from large corporations to small business life, knowing his work was making a direct difference. Bob is an avid history buff and enjoys chasing his grandchildren around the playground.

About Activity Connection:

Activity Connection is a trusted leader in life enrichment programming, serving nearly 20,000 senior living communities. Each month, the platform delivers over 400 original, high-quality resources across nearly 40 categories—including themed activities, crafts, games, trivia, reminiscence programs, Montessori-based engagement, lifelong learning, virtual travel experiences, holiday celebrations, and more. While many programs are designed for broad community engagement, versions of select activities are specially created for those in memory care. These thoughtfully developed resources help promote connection and purpose for residents at varying ability levels.

Many also encourage intergenerational engagement, providing meaningful opportunities for families and volunteers to participate. All content aligns with person-centered care standards and complies with state regulations—empowering activity professionals and caregivers with tools that are not only engaging, but deeply enriching for our aging loved ones.

Connect with Activity Connection:

Official Website:

https://activityconnection.com

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome filmmaker and long-term care advocate Peter Murphy Lewis as guest to the show. About Peter Murphy Lewis: Peter Murphy Lewis is a documentary filmmaker, CNA, and long-term care advocate & founder of Strategic Pete who uses storytelling to spotlight the unsung heroes of caregiving. He is the creator of the docuseries People Worth Caring About, which reveals the real human stories behind the caregiving crisis in America. With a background in marketing and content strategy, Peter brings a unique blend of empathy and clarity to both film and business. He’s also the founder of Strategic Pete, a boutique consultancy helping mission-driven organizations grow through storytelling and scalable marketing systems. His work has been featured in Care.com, Provider Magazine, Becker’s Healthcare, McKnight’s, and more. Peter lives next to a zoo in Kansas, sleeps in a hammock under the stars, and spends his mornings teaching his 8-year-old son to golf.

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Conscious Caregiving with L & L is "Tackling the Tough Conversations."

The topic of this episode is "Government Policy Changes & Seniors" featuring hosts Lori La Bey and Lance A. Slatton.

About Lori La Bey:

About Lance A. Slatton - known as "The Senior Care Influencer"":

Lance's book, "The All Home Care Matters Official Family Caregivers' Guide" was the recent recipient of the 2024 International Impact Book Awards.

Lance A. Slatton and Lori La Bey Co-Host and Produce Conscious Caregiving with L & L.

Visit their website at:

https://consciouscaregivingll.com/

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The Caregiver's Journal is hosted by Lance A. Slatton with Cindy (PT) & Christina (ST) Hardin-Weiss.

The Caregiver's Journal is the show where we are sharing the caregiving experiences, stories, and wisdom of family caregivers.

Chapter 12 - "From Caregiver to Podcaster & Beyond":

About Elizabeth Miller:

Elizabeth Miller is a family caregiver, caregiver advocate, speaker, author, podcast host, Certified Caregiving Consultant, and Certified Senior Advisor. Her personal experiences caring for aging parents with chronic and terminal illnesses and for a sibling with developmental disabilities inspired her to create Happy Healthy Caregiver, LLC, in 2015.

She is an empty nester living in Marietta, GA with her husband and two dogs.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Debbi McCune and Bill Kelly from Living Well with Dementia Sisters as guests to the show.

About Debbi McCune, Executive Director of Living Well with Dementia Sisters:

Debbi McCune is the executive director of LWWDS a nonprofit dedicated to empowering individuals with dementia and their care partners to live fulfilling lives. As a Certified Dementia Practitioner, Certified Montessori Dementia Care Professional, and dementia care partner to her husband, Debbi brings both professional expertise and deeply personal experience to her advocacy.

She is also the Principal Broker and Owner of Next Phase Realty in Sisters, Oregon, and an active community leader. Currently pursuing her certification as a Dementia Doula, Debbi is passionate about supporting families through every stage of the dementia journey, from diagnosis to end-of-life, with compassion, dignity, and grace.

About Bill Kelly, Director of Community Outreach:

Bill Kelly is a seasoned leader with over 20 years of experience in the water industry, known for driving innovation and empowering startup ventures. He currently serves as Chairman of the City of Sisters Public Works Advisory Committee, and past President of the Rotary Club of Sisters, where he championed local and global service initiatives.

Bill also serves as the Director of Community Outreach and Finances for Living Well With Dementia Sisters, bringing his passion for connection and sustainable growth to support families navigating dementia. His career is marked by a dedication to collaboration, community leadership, and making a meaningful impact both professionally and personally.

About Living Well with Dementia Sisters (LLWDS):

Living Well With Dementia Sisters (LWWDS) is dedicated to empowering individuals living with dementia and their care partners through compassionate support, targeted resources, and meaningful education. Rooted in the belief that every person deserves to age with dignity and purpose, our mission is to foster a community where those affected by dementia feel valued, understood, and equipped to navigate the journey ahead. We are committed to creating an environment that encourages aging gracefully and living well, with resources and guidance tailored to the unique needs of our community.

Through support groups and educational presentations, LWWDS provides practical tools and knowledge to help families and care partners better understand the progression of dementia and its impact on daily life. By learning to recognize behaviors and symptoms, care partners are empowered to support their loved ones in maintaining independence for as long as possible. Our goal is to shift the focus from limitations to possibilities reminding both individuals living with dementia and their care partners that they can continue to experience joy, purpose, and connection throughout the journey.

Our vision extends beyond individual support to cultivating a broader culture of well-being in Sisters, Oregon. We aim to create a community-wide emphasis on health and longevity, positioning Sisters as the healthiest small community in the nation and a model for other towns to follow. Through collaboration, education, and genuine human connection, we strive to ensure that no one facing dementia feels alone and that together, we can create a compassionate and thriving community for all.

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The Care Advocates are honored to welcome, Paula Muller as guest to the show.

About Paula Muller, PhD:

Paula Muller, PhD. Founder of CareLink360, brings a wealth of experience in healthcare technology, including a background in Biomedical Engineering, EEG analysis in Switzerland, Ph.D., and Post-doc work with Parkinson's patients. Her career spans tech and software development roles at companies like SiriusXM, Net-Scale Technologies, and Authentidate. Paula is certified in Individual Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (iCST), a Dementia Sales Advisor (DSA-NC), a Dementia Care Certified (CDC), a Certified Alzheimer’s Disease & Dementia Care Training (CADDCT), and a Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP), and volunteers as a bilingual Community Educator and support group facilitator for the Alzheimer's Association.

Paula’s vision for CareLink360®, inspired by her commitment to family bonds, aims to bring older adults and their loved ones closer together, Changing The Way The World Ages®.

About Lance A. Slatton - The Senior Care Influencer:

Lance A. Slatton is an author, writer, host, producer, healthcare professional for over 20 years, and renownedly known as "The Senior Care Influencer".

Lance is also a columnist for multiple healthcare and news websites and and is the author of the award winning book "The All Home Care Matters Official Family Caregivers' Guide".

About Sharon's Son, George:

Today, Together or Sharon reaches thousands of individuals across the country for PD Awareness. George currently interviews individuals throughout the Parkinson’s community including various foundations, caregivers, and Parkinson’s warriors to help share their stories and causes.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome the team behind the award winning app Memory Lane Games.

About Bruce Elliott, Co-Founder & CEO:

Bruce's life in tech started in the dot com boom (and dot com bust!) era, then into leadership roles in online payments, gaming and blockchain. Then in 2019 Bruce stepped into digital health after he and a friend sat in a pub talking about their Mums, then 86 and 90, imagining how they might turn their memories into games, launching Memory Lane Games.

As Co-Founder and CEO, Bruce leads the team at Memory Lane Games in supporting caregivers and people living with dementia in over 100 countries every month, with their Mayo Clinic award-winning personalized dementia app.

About Lisa Karran, COO:

Lisa’s diverse set of skills across marketing, operations and corporate governance have been gained during a 20 year career with much of the latter half having been spent advising and working in startups. At Memory Lane Games she is responsible for marketing, operations and finance and ensuring that the business runs smoothly now and is able to scale. An advocate for women working in technology, Lisa is a founding committee member of LoveTech, a charity established in the Isle of Man to inspire young women into STEM careers.

About Matty Tait, Operations Coordinator:

Matty brings a dynamic background in sales, operations, and business development, with experience spanning both established companies and fast-moving startups. At Memory Lane Games, he plays a key role in operations, partnerships, and growth—helping the team deliver meaningful impact today while building for the future. Passionate about people-first technology and making a difference in the community, Matty is also involved in various entrepreneurial projects that support small businesses and positive social change.

About Memory Lane Games:

Memory Lane Games is transforming dementia care by turning memories into moments of joy, connection, and confidence. Our easy-to-use app offers a growing collection of simple, personalised games designed to gently prompt reminiscence and spark meaningful conversations between people living with dementia and their caregivers.

From familiar TV shows and local landmarks to childhood memories and lifelong hobbies, each game is thoughtfully crafted to celebrate what makes every individual unique. Used by families, carers, and care homes around the world, our clinically informed approach focuses on what people can do—bringing dignity, delight, and a touch of nostalgia to every interaction.

DISCLOSURE: Lance A. Slatton - The Senior Care Influencer is the Official Brand Ambassador for Memory Lane Games.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Michael Herrington as guest to the show.

About Michael Herrington:

Michael Herrington is a passionate advocate for senior well-being and caregiver support. As President and Co-Founder of Ways 2 Wellness, he leads initiatives that combat loneliness and cognitive decline through engaging activity books and resources that keep seniors mentally sharp and emotionally connected. With a strong background in publishing and marketing, Michael previously led large-scale sales and distribution efforts for major brands like Time Inc. and Comag Marketing Group.

Now, he channels that expertise into Ways 2 Wellness, helping organizations create impactful, customized materials that enhance cognitive well-being and strengthen community connections.

About Ways 2 Wellness:

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The Caregiver's Journal hosted by Lance A. Slatton with Cindy (PT) & Christina (ST) Hardin-Weiss.

The Caregiver's Journal is the show where we are sharing the caregiving experiences, stories, and wisdom of family caregivers.

Chapter 11 - "Joy in Caregiving":

About Alex Garza:

Alex is a devoted caregiver and digital marketer, balancing her professional life with the profound journey of caring for her husband after his hemorrhagic stroke in 2017. With over 25 years of marriage, she draws on her love and faith to navigate the challenges of caregiving, working from home to provide support and stability.

Through her her instagram channel, she hopes to inspire fellow caregivers, offering hope, encouragement, and practical insights for those facing their own difficult times, showing that resilience and compassion can light even the darkest paths.

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The topic of this episode is "Raising Awareness"

About Lance A. Slatton - The Senior Care Influencer:

Lance was named as "50 under 50" for 2023 and received the distinction as the Top Influencer for Healthcare and Advocacy for 2024. Lance is also a columnist for multiple healthcare and news websites and and is the author of the award winning book "The All Home Care Matters Official Family Caregivers' Guide".

About Sharon's Son, George:

Dr. George Ackerman (Sharon’s son) is from Brooklyn, N.Y. Now residing in Florida, he works in the fields of law, police, and education. George lost his mother, Sharon Riff Ackerman on 1/1/2020 due to Parkinson’s Disease. George wanted to honor his mother and continue to help in the Parkinson’s awareness cause and did not know how to bring change. George started TogetherForSharon® as a family for the purpose of keeping his mother, Sharon Riff Ackerman’s, memory alive and to share the message of Parkinson’s Awareness and hope for a cure.

Today, https://www.togetherforsharon.com reaches thousands of individuals across the country for PD Awareness. George currently interviews individuals throughout the Parkinson’s community including various foundations, caregivers, and Parkinson’s warriors to help share their stories and causes.

Connect with Lance A. Slatton:

Official Website:

https://www.lanceaslatton.com

Official Website for All Home Care Matters:

https://www.allhomecarematters.com

Connect with Sharon's Son, George:

Official Website:

https://www.togetherforsharon.com

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome the team behind GoInstaCare.com as guests to the show.

About Amit Shrivastava, Founder & CEO of GoInstaCare:

Amit was born and brought up in India alongside his 5 other siblings. Although not from an affluent background, his parents ensured that he and his siblings got a good education. While growing up, one of the greatest things he learnt from his parents was caring for others. 30 years later, Amit still remembers how his mom, unable to hire professional care due to financial constraint, had to do all the heavy lifting while caring for his aged grandmother in her last years. This experience fueled in him a passion to develop a system that would lessen the hardship on families going through similar situation - unable to afford much needed professional care for their loved ones.

So, drawing from his wealth of knowledge and experience in engineering and business strategy, Amit set up GoInstaCare Inc to leverage modern tech and bring AFFORDABLE and INSTANT care to families, by connecting them directly with professional care providers around the United States. With GoInstaCare, Amit is finally fulfilling his lifelong dream of revolutionizing the care giving marketplace by providing excellent yet affordable care to clients, peace of mind to family members and a healthy growth environment for care providers.

About Christina Keys, Business Development Executive at GoInstaCare:

Christina Keys went from career woman to caregiver when her mother had a life changing stroke in 2013. She cared for her for 10 years. Turning a mess into a message ,She is now a National Speaker , Advocate, the Founder and CEO of Keys For Caregiving and the New Business Development Executive for GoInstaCare where she is Connecting businesses, and Caregivers to collectively transform the Care Space.

About GoInstaCare:

GoInstaCare is a tech-based, caregiving App that connects families looking for care with BACKGROUND CHECKED care providers, Instantly. The App is completely free to use. Go InstaCare App allows families to search for caregivers based on budget, skills, personality type, experience and many other criterion. The best part is that the matched caregivers are available to talk to families right away. Moreover, families can even do a video call with caregivers they like.

The system also works on feedback from families so good caregivers keep showing up on top of the search results. By leveraging modern tech to connect care seekers directly with well-trained care providers across the country, GoInstaCare makes it possible for care seekers to receive the best quality care they need, anywhere, anytime and all of this at a very affordable rate.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Dr. Raj Dasgupta as guest to the show.

About Dr. Raj Dasgupta:

Dr. Raj Dasgupta is a Quadruple board-certified physician specializing in internal medicine, pulmonology, critical care, and sleep medicine. He is currently the Associate Program Director of Internal Medicine Residency at Huntington Health in Pasadena, California and an Associate Professor of Clinical Medicine for the University of California, Riverside School of Medicine (UCR). He previously practiced at the University of Southern California, where he is an associate professor of clinical medicine, assistant program director of the Internal Medicine Residency Program, and the associate program director of the Sleep Medicine Fellowship.

During his time at USC, he was inducted into the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society. Dr. Dasgupta is an active clinical researcher and has been teaching around the world for more than 20 years. He is also a regular in media, appearing on various platforms and television shows such as Chasing the Cure, The Doctors, CNN, ABC News and Inside Edition. Be sure to check out his podcasts: “The Dr. Raj Podcast” and his medical book series titled: “Beyond the Pearls” published by Elsevier.

About MedPrepToGo:

MedPrepToGo, is dedicated to providing high-yield resources for medical students in the form our online Qbank and various podcasts.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Mike George as guest to the show.

About Mike George:

Mike George helps families rewrite their caregiving story – from one of sacrifice and exhaustion to one of joy, strength and resilience. A family caregiver himself for 3 decades, Mike intimately understands the burdens of supporting the primary care of a loved one. But he also knows the tremendous fulfillment it can bring.

This lived experience led him to create The Soaring Families WayTM, a proven method that can be every family’s reliable companion on their journey to joy. He is a speaker, author, and co-founder of Soaring Families whose mission is to redefine caregiving for families.

About Soaring Families:

Soaring Families’ mission is to redefine caregiving for families by shifting the narrative from survival to empowerment, equipping them with the resources, mindset and community needed to uncover joy and fulfillment.

Our vision is to serve 100M families on their journey to joy so they can fully experience the gift of caregiving. Soaring Families exist to create a global shift, one family at a time, where caregiving becomes a source of resilience, unity, and joy.

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Conscious Caregiving with L & L is "Tackling the Tough Conversations." The topic of this episode is "Healthcare Changes & Seniors" featuring hosts Lori La Bey and Lance A. Slatton. About Lori La Bey: Lori La Bey is the founder of Alzheimer’s Speaks and is co-founder of Dementia Map global resource directory and the co-host of Conscious Caregiving with L & L. Lori’s mother who lived with dementia for 30 years. Her goal has always been to shift dementia care from crisis to comfort around the world. She offers a variety of free resources to educate, empower, connect, and decrease stigmas; helping families and professionals live graciously alongside dementia. Lori is an international speaker known for her multiple platforms and training programs. Connect with Lori La Bey: Official Website: https://alzheimersspeaks.com/ Official Dementia Map Website: https://www.dementiamap.com/ About Lance A. Slatton - known as "The Senior Care Influencer"": Known as “The Senior Care Influencer” Lance is a Writer, Author, Influencer, and Healthcare professional with over 20 years in the healthcare industry. Lance A. Slatton is a senior case manager at Enriched Life Home Care Services in Livonia, MI. He is also host of the award winning podcast & YouTube channel All Home Care Matters and Co-Host of Conscious Caregiving with L & L with Lori La Bey along with The Care Advocates and The Caregiver's Journal. Lance's book, "The All Home Care Matters Official Family Caregivers' Guide" was the recent recipient of the 2024 International Impact Book Awards. Connect with Lance A. Slatton - "The Senior Care Influencer": Official Website: https://www.lanceaslatton.com Official Website for All Home Care Matters: https://www.allhomecarematters.com Lance A. Slatton and Lori La Bey Co-Host and Produce Conscious Caregiving with L & L. Visit their website at: https://consciouscaregivingll.com/ To learn more about Lance A. Slatton and Lori La Bey you can visit their websites.

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The Caregiver's Journal hosted by Lance A. Slatton with Cindy (PT) & Christina (ST) Hardin-Weiss.

The Caregiver's Journal is the show where we are sharing the caregiving experiences, stories, and wisdom of family caregivers.

Chapter 10 - "Developing Caregivers":

About Vicky Castillo MSN, RN.: Vicky Castillo MSN, RN is an accomplished nurse in Arizona with over 37 years of diverse experience in the healthcare field. For the past 15 years, she has been dedicated to shaping the future of nursing by educating the next generation of nurses and nursing assistants.

Driven by her passion for nursing assistant education, Vicky founded FACETS Healthcare Training in 2018, which provides both national and state-specific test preparation for nursing assistants—an invaluable resource for students and educators across the country. In addition to her professional caregiving career, Vicky has taken on personal caregiver roles, caring for her elderly mother until her passing, and more recently, her special needs elderly sister. Through these experiences, she has witnessed the challenges and rewards of caregiving from both a professional and personal perspective.

Vicky is excited to share her journey, insights, and lessons learned, with the hope that others will benefit from her unique blend of expertise and compassionate care.

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About Sherrell D. Mims:

Evangelist Sherrell D. Mims known as the "Queen of Empowering Caregivers" is a bestselling author and contributor of several books that have captivated readers worldwide. Also known for her brand Ms. Sherrell Speaks, the speaker has shared her story as a teacher, caregiver, and entrepreneur. Her book entitled "I Will Wait Until Morning: A Caregiver’s Memoir on Assisting a Loved One with Cancer", captured millions of readers as Sherrell went deeper into her personal journey and experiences. Sherrell's latest Amazon #1 Bestsellers; "A Caregiver's Expression: Mother's Day Anthology, Volume 1 and For the Love of Caregiving" sweeps the nation with a Heart-Centered anthologies geared towards caregivers.

Additionally, Sherrell is a Registered Nurse of two decades and counting; the visionary of Global Caregivers Network LLC and Chief Executive Officer of Global Caregiver Speakers. Sherrell's Motto: "We Love Our Global Caregivers and Speakers."

About Lance A. Slatton - The Senior Care Influencer:

Lance A. Slatton is an author, writer, host, producer, healthcare professional for over 20 years, and renownedly known as "The Senior Care Influencer".

Lance A. Slatton is the host of the Award-Winning podcast & YouTube show All Home Care Matters. He is also a senior case manager at Enriched Life Home Care Services in Livonia, MI.

About Sharon's Son, George:

Dr. George Ackerman (Sharon’s son) is from Brooklyn, N.Y. Now residing in Florida, he works in the fields of law, police, and education.

George lost his mother, Sharon Riff Ackerman on 1/1/2020 due to Parkinson’s Disease. George wanted to honor his mother and continue to help in the Parkinson’s awareness cause and did not know how to bring change.

George started TogetherForSharon® as a family for the purpose of keeping his mother, Sharon Riff Ackerman’s, memory alive and to share the message of Parkinson’s Awareness and hope for a cure.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Linda Burhans as guest to the show. About Linda Burhans: Linda Burhans is "The Gal Who Cares for the Caregivers!" Linda is a radio host, author, speaker, caregiver advocate & coach. Linda is equipping caregivers with the tools and resources needed to educate, assist, and empower them on their journey. Learn more about the upcoming Connecting Caregivers Conference and Connecting Caregivers Radio: https://connectingcaregiversconference.com

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Kelly Meany as guest to the show.

About Kelly Meany:

Kelly Meany is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and a dedicated therapist with a deep passion for helping others heal from trauma. But long before she entered the field of mental health, Kelly was a caregiver in a way that most children never have to be.

Her mother suffered a traumatic brain injury before Kelly was born, spending 12 weeks in a coma and emerging with lifelong cognitive challenges. From a young age, Kelly found herself in a unique and complex role not just as a daughter, but as more of a caregiver. Then, in her 20s, her mother was diagnosed with dementia, adding another layer to their journey together.

Navigating the emotional, mental, and logistical challenges of caregiving from childhood into adulthood profoundly shaped Kelly’s understanding of resilience, connection, and the human capacity to heal. It also inspired her career as a therapist, where she now helps others whether they are caregivers, trauma survivors, or those seeking deeper emotional healing.

Kelly has training in EMDR, CSAT, IFS, and QNRT. She specializes in trauma recovery, addiction, and high-profile client work, offering a unique approach to healing that integrates both science and personal experience.

While Kelly’s work in one-on-one therapy is deeply fulfilling, she has a bigger dream of helping people on a macro level. She is passionate about expanding access to trauma-informed care and educating the public about the long-term effects of trauma and caregiving. Through speaking engagements, social media, and writing, she hopes to reach a wider audience, break the stigma around mental health, and create systemic change. She is currently working on a book and has a goal of giving a TED X Talk in 2025 to share her insights on healing and human connection.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to celebrate the 10th Anniversary of AlzAuthors with the founding members and more.

About Marianne Sciucco:

Marianne Sciucco is a founder of AlzAuthors and the author of Blue Hydrangeas, an Alzheimer’s love story. She’s also co-producer and host of their podcast Untangling Alzheimer’s and Dementia.

About Deb Bunt:

Deb took early retirement from her role in the youth offending service in London and moved to Suffolk seven years ago. As well as acquiring four grandchildren since she’s been in Suffolk, she has also built an enduring friendship with Peter. This friendship Peter has given Deb a new lens through which to view her life.

Peter has enabled Deb to fulfil one of her life’s ambitions – to be a published writer – and she now spends her time with Peter raising awareness of the condition or cycling insane distances around the county. Without question, Peter has enriched Deb’s life.

About Tanya Ward Goodman:

Tanya Ward Goodman is the author of the award winning memoir, “Leaving Tinkertown.” Her essays and articles about travel, art, and the challenges and rewards of caregiving have appeared in numerous publications including The Washington Post, Orange County Register, Luxe, Premium Magazine, Atlas Obscura, and Variable West.

About Vicki Tapia:

Trained as an educator, Vicki Tapia has a proclivity for caring, spending over 30 years working as a Lactation Consultant teaching mothers and babies the art of breastfeeding.

When both her parents were diagnosed with dementia (Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s-related) within a few months of each other, she took on the role of caregiver. As a coping mechanism, Vicki kept a journal detailing the many challenges her family faced along the way. Over time, her diary became a roadmap of sorts, morphing into the award-winning memoir Somebody Stole My Iron: A Family Memoir of Dementia.

About Dorothy Horne: Dorothy Horne is an author, speaker, and a former award-winning blogger for the Longview News-Journal. She was honored to be named a “Star Over Longview” in 2016. Dorothy is a member of AlzAuthors, “a global community of authors writing about Alzheimer’s and dementia from personal experience to light the way for others." She has served on the board of the East Texas Alzheimer's Alliance and facilitated several Alzheimer's support groups. Dorothy is a retired first grade teacher. One of her greatest delights is being "Dot-Dot" to her four grandsons. She lives in East Texas and enjoys photography and traveling.

About Susan Landeis:

Susan is a member of the AlzAuthors management team and Board of Directors. She became a featured author on the AlzAuthors website in 2020, and team member later the same year. Her roles include Graphic Designer, Curator of Custom Caregiver Collections, and LinkedIn Manager.

Susan is the author of her memoir, In Search of Rainbows: A daughter’s story of loss, hope, and redemption and she also penned Optimal Caregiving: A guide for managing senior health and well-being.

About Jean Lee:

Jean Lee wrote lesson plans for 22 years as an elementary school teacher. She had no aspirations to write a book, however when both parents were diagnosed on the same day with Alzheimer's, her journey as their caregiver poured out on paper through Alzheimer's Daughter. After the sadness of her parents decline, life brought her comfort and healing through the formation of AlzAuthors.com, cofounded with Marianne Sciucco and Vicki Tapia. What started as a one-month collaboration has now taken on a thriving life of its own for a decade.

About Carol Bradley Bursack:

Carol Bradley Bursack was a caregiver for an older neighbor and seven aging family members, all of whom are represented by first-person vignettes in Minding Our Elders: Caregivers Share Their Personal Stories. However, Carol wanted to do more than tell her own stories. She wanted to give other caregivers a chance to do the same.

About Christy Byrne Yates:

Christy is an expert in navigating the challenges and opportunities in life including living in the “Sandwich Generation” — that time period of raising children while also caring for an aging loved one. Her book, “Building a Legacy of Love: Thriving in the Sandwich Generation” recounts her journey and learning as a working mother of two who also managed the care of her parents, both of whom had some form of dementia. She incorporates meditation, mindfulness and other evidence based mind/body practices into her work to support growth, resilience, and a pathway to living life fully.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Dr. Joy Poskozim as guest to the show.

About Dr. Joy Poskozim:

Dr. Joy’s true passion is being an advocate for the geriatric population. She is the dental director for several nursing care facilities, educating staff as well as providing care to nursing home residents. She also makes house calls in and around the Chicagoland area.

Dr. Poskozim has been in private practice for 25 years, practicing integrative health general dentistry at her office on the northwest side of Chicago, and has been performing dental procedures on the home-bound for over 16 years. In 2017 she earned her Dentistry in Long-Term Care Certificate from the University of the Pacific Dental School, her Fellowship with the Special Care Dental Association Geriatric Council in 2018, and is certified as a Dementia Practitioner as of 2021.

Dr. Joy is a 1990 graduate of Marquette University, and New York University College of Dentistry in 1994. She completed a GPR from Woodhull Medical Center in 2000 where she was awarded Resident of the Year.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome back Dr. Jason Karlawish.

About Dr. Jason Karlawish:

Dr. Jason Karlawish is a physician, writer, and professor at the University of Pennsylvania. He researches bioethics, aging, and neuroscience and co-directs the Penn Memory Center, where he cares for patients.

He is the author of The Problem of Alzheimer’s and Open Wound and has written for The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, and more. He serves on the boards of The Greenwall Foundation and Play On! Philly. He lives in Philadelphia.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome David Knack as guest to the show.

About David Knack:

David Knack serves as Head of Sales at Zingage, a leading platform that helps home-based care providers engage and retain their care teams. Passionate about thoughtful automation and operational excellence, David partners with healthcare entrepreneurs to implement technology solutions that enhance both caregiver and patient experiences. He also hosts “Home Care Hindsight,” a podcast where he explores healthcare innovation and best practices with industry leaders.

About Zingage:

Zingage is the leading caregiver engagement platform for home-based care, transforming how providers connect with and support their teams. By fostering meaningful relationships and celebrating great work, Zingage helps providers reduce turnover, improve compliance, and deliver better care. The company serves hundreds of healthcare organizations across the US and Canada. Organizations using Zingage report up to 70% reduction in turnover and 50% fewer missed visits, enabling them to focus on what matters most—delivering exceptional care. Founded in 2023, Zingage is headquartered in New York.

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The Care Advocates are honored to welcome, Christina Keys as guest to the show.

About Christina Keys:

Christina Keys went from career woman to caregiver when her mother had a life changing stroke in 2013. She cared for her for 10 years. Turning a mess into a message. Christina is now a National Speaker, Advocate and Caregiver Community Builder as well as the Founder and CEO of Keys For Caregiving. Christina is also one of the hosts on this coming years Self Care at Sea Cruise. About Keys for Caregiving: Keys For Caregiving helps to Connect businesses, and Family Caregivers. With their consulting services, training, webinars, advocacy projects, podcasts and collaborative creation and production of caregiver events they are working to help collectively transform the Care Space community and amplify all our voices for change.

About Lance A. Slatton:

About Sharon's Son, George:

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome the team behind Magic Horizons Virtual Reality as our guests to the show.

About Giorgio Koppehele and Martin Koppehele:

The brothers, Giorgio and Martin Koppehele, founded the company Magic Horizons GmbH (LLC) in 2018 for the conception, production and distribution of Virtual Reality applications. With their international team they develop, produce and sell Virtual Reality (VR) applications for a global B2B market: • Stress reduction, resilience strengthening • Patient calming, less anxiety • Employee well-being, mental training • Mental health and regeneration Martin, alongside to his position as Co-CEO, also works as CFO: he has an extreme high-level expertise in sales and licensing business which he earned also in the former companies which Martin & Giorgio have founded: Avenue Music and Classic Arts GmbH (LLC). Giorgio, alongside to his position as Co-CEO, also works as CTO: he has an extreme high-level expertise in stereoscopic, full spherical 3D visuals as well as in surround and binaural audio production. In the past, the productions were released on Blu-ray and UHD Blu-ray, as well as they were performed and broadcasted via 360 planetariums, cinemas, internet and TV.

Giorgio and Martin bring to Magic Horizons an extraordinary level of expertise in immersive audiovisual media, which they gained through years of successful productions in their first two companies, Avenue Music and Classic Arts GmbH (LLC). Through these experiences, they won numerous awards of the highest levels. Since 2013, Giorgio and Martin also produced 360° relaxation Planetarium shows in cooperation with Planetarium Hamburg, where they gained extensive experience and pioneered work in the field of 360 visuals and 3D audio with immersive surround sound. In this area, they benefited from their expertise in immersive visuals and audio and collaborated with exceptional partners such as Dolby Atmos, Fraunhofer Institute (inventors of MP3), and many more. As part of Magic Horizons’ commitment to the highest quality products, the team is honored to receive scientific advice from gamelab.berlin, a research and development platform of the interdisciplinary laboratory Image Knowledge Design, Cluster of Excellence of the Humboldt University in Berlin, Germany.

With an exceptional design and programming team, Magic Horizons creates VR applications at the highest artistic and technical levels. Magic Horizons also works with King’s College London, the University of Southern California (USC) and the NHS Cambridgeshire.

About Todd Keitz:

As founder/CEO of 17 Commerce LLC, Todd Keitz is responsible for leading Magic Horizons in the United States. Todd‘s personal Patient First ethos, which has informed his decades of professional endeavors as a startup founder/CEO, corporate leader, consultant, and mentor, fits perfectly with Magic Horizons mission to help individuals around the world find relief from stress and anxiety. He brings a holistic and humanistic approach to business and life, which mirrors that of Magic Horizons leadership and overall team.

In 2017, Todd first met Magic Horizons co-founder Giorgio Koppehele and his wife Suna at a startup pitch event in San Francisco, California. That meeting led to a friendship forming and two years later they all met up in Paris for a conference where Todd was an unofficial part of the team. A week later he joined Giorgio and Suna in Amsterdam for another conference, where he met co-founder Martin Koppehele and his wife Gabi. It was during these two weeks together where the concept of Magic Horizons USA was hatched.

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The topic of this episode is "Caregiver Resilience"

About Lance A. Slatton - The Senior Care Influencer:

About Sharon's Son, George:

George started TogetherForSharon® as a family for the purpose of keeping his mother, Sharon Riff Ackerman’s, memory alive and to share the message of Parkinson’s Awareness and hope for a cure. Today, https://www.togetherforsharon.com/ reaches thousands of individuals across the country for PD Awareness. George currently interviews individuals throughout the Parkinson’s community including various foundations, caregivers, and Parkinson’s warriors to help share their stories and causes.

Connect with Lance A. Slatton:

Official Website:

https://www.lanceaslatton.com

Official Website for All Home Care Matters:

https://www.allhomecarematters.com

Connect with Sharon's Son, George:

Official Website:

https://www.togetherforsharon.com

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Conscious Caregiving with L & L is "Tackling the Tough Conversations." The topic of this episode is "Ageism & Outcomes" featuring hosts Lori La Bey and Lance A. Slatton with an All-Star panel. About Brittany Lamb, MD: Dr. Brittany Lamb has been practicing in the ER since 2014. She sees the overwhelm and stress that goes with decision-makers’ need to speak for someone they care about. Recognizing the unique challenges that come with medical decisions for people living with dementia, she decided to share her expertise beyond the walls of the hospital. In 2021 she came online to empower medical decision makers with the knowledge and tools they need to make informed choices through free and paid resources. Dr. Lamb lives and works in Northern Virginia. Her time is spent flipping between the ER at night and her online and hospice work during the day. Down-time goes to spending quality time with friends, family, and her husband. About David McNally: David McNally is the author of EVEN EAGLES NEED A PUSH-Learning to Soar in a Changing World, one of the most successful personal growth books ever published. David is a member of the Speakers Hall of Fame, and the producer of the award-winning documentary, THE POWER OF PURPOSE. David has five children and has been married twice. His first wife, Jo, died in 2003 from ovarian cancer and his second wife, Cheryl, passed away from Alzheimer’s in 2023. About Kristine Sundberg: Kristine Sundberg is the Executive Director of Elder Voice Advocates (EVA), an advocacy non-profit organization. As an award-winning, former executive and corporate officer of Fortune 100 and entrepreneurial companies, she brings experience in management, communications, and public affairs. A personal tragedy with her father in long-term care drove her to work with other victims to form the non-profit organization, Elder Voice Advocates in 2017. About Jeanette Leardi: Jeanette Leardi is a social gerontologist, community educator, writer, public speaker, and aging wellness leader who changes people’s perceptions about older adults and the aging process. She is known for her engaging in-person and virtual presentations, workshops, and classes to people of all ages, as well as for her articles in national publications and appearances on national broadcasts. About Dr. Anne Kenny: Dr. Kenny has two books published in 2024. One is co-authored with Teresa Webb, a woman living with and advocate for Frontotemporal Dementia. The book, Your True North: A Guided Journal for Those Living with Cognitive Loss or Dementia is about Legacy, Love and Wishes for the End of a Life Well-lived.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Dr. Lorre Laws as guest to the show.

About Dr. Lorre Laws:

Dr. Lorre Laws or "Dr. Lorre" is an author, healer, nurse scientist, integrative nursing professor, and trauma-burnout expert known for her heart-centered, integrative approaches to healing. As a gifted healer with multiple ways of knowing and being in the spiritual realm, she alchemizes science and spiritual healing to guide whole person healing for others.

In her book, Nursing Our Healer's Heart - A Recovery Guide for Nurse Trauma & Burnout, Dr. Lorre presents her research as though you're having a friendly conversation over a cup of tea. While writing this book, Dr. Lorre downloaded sacred healing codes in the form of 3-D sacred geometries that are integrated with the book’s teachings and practices.

She founded The Haelan Academy, a nonprofit organization that provides healing education and programs where she actively guides people through their personal recovery journey in all aspects of their personhood.

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The Caregiver's Journal hosted by Lance A. Slatton with Cindy (PT) & Christina (ST) Hardin-Weiss.

The Caregiver's Journal is the show where we are sharing the caregiving experiences, stories, and wisdom of family caregivers.

Chapter 9 - "Inspired Care":

About Kathleen Quinn, EdD, MBA.: Kathleen Quinn, EdD, MBA, currently serves as the associate vice president for strategic projects at Maryville University in St. Louis and is the founder and president of Kay Inspired, LLC and inventor of the patented Mobility Towel. Her 35+ years in higher education provided opportunities to positively impact students’ lives and helped fuel her passion for creating impactful solutions for individuals that genuinely made a difference for others. Aside from her impressive career in education, Kathleen’s inventive journey began with a personal story—one marked by love, empathy, and determination.

Kathleen developed the Mobility Towel, an innovative product inspired by her mother, Kay, who battled Rheumatoid Arthritis. This creation was driven by Kathleen’s desire to help her mother maintain her functional independence and dignity in daily activities, such as drying off after a shower. The Mobility Towel, designed with unique features like weighted ends and handles, allows individuals to dry their backs, legs, and feet unassisted and without straining, thus catering to those with limited mobility due to aging, surgery recovery, or chronic conditions.

Kathleen’s achievements in academia and entrepreneurship reflect her passion for empowering individuals through compassionate and inventive approaches. Her vision and dedication make her a key figure in discussions about caregiving, inclusive design, and the intersection of health and innovation.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Irene Walker the Author of "Forgiving the Man Who Forgot: Grateful Gratitude Attitude" as guest to the show. About Irene Walker: Irene Walker is a strong and resilient woman who has faced significant personal challenges. Losing her husband to early-onset dementia is an incredibly difficult experience, and yet, her ability to maintain success in her career and continue to raise her children while managing life’s complexities speaks to her inner strength. Irene strongly believes in practicing gratitude daily. Her background in business administration and financial risk has helped her navigate the uncertainties that come with managing both her professional life and the demands of her personal circumstances. Despite her professional achievements, it's clear that her personal journey has been deeply transformative. About "Forgiving the Man Who Forgot: Grateful Gratitude Attitude": We left the doctor's office and my head started spinning. I couldn't remember where I had parked the car. Quite miraculously, Robert managed to navigate us to the correct floor of the parking garage. I felt that all hope had been sucked out of me. I had been struggling to cope since our last appointment with the family doctor, but receiving this final blow was brutal. I put my left hand on the side of the car, leaned over, and threw up. It was just bile. I had to push something out of me--denial, anger, angst--I didn't know. I only knew that I needed it out. I wiped my mouth, my snotty nose and my tear-stained face with jittery hands and then leaned heavily against the back of the car. I took a long, shaky breath in and out in an attempt to pull myself together. So began the journey with her husband who is diagnosed with early onset Dementia at the age of 51. Forgiving The Man Who Forgot carries the reader along one woman's journey of love, gratitude, honesty, disappointment and courage, detailing her life before, during and after her husband's diagnosis of early onset dementia. Reading this memoir, the reader feels as though the author is sitting across from them and sharing the ups and downs of her life, over a glass of wine or cup of coffee.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Alfredo Botello Author of Spin Cycle Notes from a Reluctant Caregiver as guest to the show. About Alfredo Botello: Alfredo Botello is a novelist and screenwriter who has worked on projects ranging from the indie Sundance Global Short La Revolucion De Iguodala to the studio tent pole Fast and Furious 9. His debut novel, 180 Days, has garnered multiple literary awards. He is a Fulbright Fellow in architecture and a Nicholl Fellow in screenwriting. In addition to screenplays and the novels, he contributed a chapter to the Amazon bestseller Wellness Through Words, and has written for The San Francisco Examiner Magazine, Metropolis, Diablo, Surface, The Utne Reader, Style, The East Bay Express, and The Monthly. Botello co-owns a cocktail bar in downtown Oakland, Little Bird Bar, and at home dotes on his two Corgis, George and Dotty. About Spin Cycle Notes from a Reluctant Caregiver: High school math teacher Ezra Pavic is having a hard time. His wife left him, his son barely tolerates him, and now he’s being blindsided by something he never saw coming: the emotional spin cycle of parenting a parent. His mother Irene has dementia, and it’s exhausting. Caring for her is a constant source of frustration, resentment, and guilt. Lots of guilt. Overwhelmed by it all, Ezra opens a strip-mall school to help others—and himself—become better caregivers. As he learns to handle the personalities of his nine misfit students, Ezra must also navigate the complex feelings he has toward his mother. It doesn’t help that she adores his do-nothing slacker brother. But Ezra hasn’t told his students that he also has an agenda beyond becoming a more compassionate caregiver. And, it turns out, so does one of his students. Ezra confides the entire tale to his childhood friend Danny as he attempts to sort it all out and find room in his heart again for compassion and love.

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The Care Advocates are honored to welcome, Kimberly Jacobsen as guest to the show.

About Kimberly Jacobsen:

Kimberly is the Managing Director and Commission Attorney/ Employment matters at the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities. She manages attorneys, investigators, and support staff. Additionally, she serves as a resource for the agency’s regional offices and is involved in the preparation of the agency’s legislative proposals.

She has special interest in disability law. Kimberly also serves on the West Hartford Disability Commission and on the Connecticut Bar Association’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee. In recent years, Kimberly has been speaking publicly about living well with Parkinson’s Disease in many different forums.

She put out several YouTube videos about her diagnosis and the first few years of living with Parkinsons (Kim Jacobsen's Parkinson's Journey - YouTube). She also regularly posts short videos on Instagram (@livingwellwithparkinsons) and TikTok (@livingwellwithparkinsons). She has written an article for the Connecticut Lawyer’s Magazine titled “My Disability Makes Me a Better Lawyer” (ctl-janfeb-22---dei.pdf (ctbar.org)).

About Lance A. Slatton:

Lance A. Slatton is an author, writer, host, producer, healthcare professional for over 20 years, and renownedly known as "The Senior Care Influencer". Lance A. Slatton is the host of the Award-Winning podcast & YouTube show All Home Care Matters. He is also a senior case manager at Enriched Life Home Care Services in Livonia, MI. Lance was named as "50 under 50" for 2023 and received the distinction as the Top Influencer for Healthcare and Advocacy for 2024. Lance is also a columnist for multiple healthcare and news websites and and is the author of the award winning book "The All Home Care Matters Official Family Caregivers' Guide".

About Sharon's Son, George:

Today, https://www.togetherforsharon.com/ reaches thousands of individuals across the country for PD Awareness. George currently interviews individuals throughout the Parkinson’s community including various foundations, caregivers, and Parkinson’s warriors to help share their stories and causes.

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Conscious Caregiving with L & L is "Tackling the Tough Conversations."

The topic of this episode is "Holiday Realities, Now What?" featuring hosts Lori La Bey and Lance A. Slatton with guest, John Sweeney.

About John Sweeney:

John Sweeney is an active and savvy 95-year-old retired John Deere dealer. He was married for 71 years and lost his wife Virginia to dementia. John is very social and is known for his technology skills and his tenacity to correct injustice by leveraging his business acumen.

Contact John Sweeney:

Email:

jrsvhs70@gmail.com

Phone:

612-810-2161 About

Lori La Bey:

Lori is an international speaker known for her multiple platforms and training programs.

Connect with Lori La Bey:

Official Website:

https://alzheimersspeaks.com/

Official Dementia Map Website:

https://www.dementiamap.com/

About Lance A. Slatton - known as "The Senior Care Influencer"":

He is also host of the award winning podcast & YouTube channel All Home Care Matters and Co-Host of Conscious Caregiving with L & L with Lori La Bey along with The Care Advocates and The Caregiver's Journal. Lance's book, "The All Home Care Matters Official Family Caregivers' Guide" was the recent recipient of the 2024 International Impact Book Awards.

Connect with Lance A. Slatton:

Official Website:

https://www.lanceaslatton

Official Website for All Home Care Matters:

https://www.allhomecarematters.com

Lance A. Slatton and Lori La Bey Co-Host and Produce Conscious Caregiving with L & L.

Visit their website at:

https://consciouscaregivingll.com/

To learn more about Lance A. Slatton and Lori La Bey you can visit their websites.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Julia Wood, MOT, OTR/L the Director of Professional & Community Education for the Lewy Body Dementia Association (LBDA).

About Julia Wood, MOT, OTR/L:

Julia Wood, MOT, OTR/L is an occupational therapist and international educator specializing in assessment and treatment of people with Parkinson’s disease and related dementias. Julia joined the Lewy Body Dementia Association (LBDA) as director of Professional & Community Education in 2021.

She co-authored the first American Occupational Therapy Association Practice Guideline for Adults with Parkinson’s Disease in 2022 and serves on the Comprehensive Care Subcommittee for the World Parkinson’s Congress (WPC).

About the Lewy Body Dementia Association (LBDA):

The Lewy Body Dementia Association (LBDA) is the leading national organization dedicated to improving the lives of Lewy body dementia (LBD) families.

The Lewy Body Association (LBDA) Mission:

To optimize the quality of life for those affected by Lewy body dementia, we accelerate awareness, advance research for early diagnosis and improved care, and provide comprehensive education and compassionate support.

Program Provision Highlights:

Support:

LBDA offers a wide variety of compassionate and confidential support services for those who are symptomatic or diagnosed, their families and current or former care partners, including but not limited to:

• Virtual and in-person support groups

• Connecting to Lewy Buddies, lived-experience volunteers who share their time and experience with individuals and families

• Opportunity to connect directly with one of LBDA’s licensed social workers through the Lewy Line, a toll-free number, Monday - Friday

• Assistance in identifying additional external programs or local resources

(LBDA does not promote any doctor, medical center, allied healthcare provider, medication, product or treatment, nor direct referrals for residential facilities or home care agencies).

Education:

LBDA provides free resources and educational programming throughout the year on a wide variety of LBD topics.

• 2024 Community Webinar Series: Empowerment through Education is designed to provide strategies for self-advocacy, exploration of the complex symptoms of LBD, and skills and resources to enhance quality of life.

o Available to watch on LBDAtv or Mediflix

• 2025 Community Webinar Series: Mastering Lewy Body Dementia Together will focus on building mastery of understanding on the complex symptoms of (LBD), continuation of providing strategies for self-advocacy and resources for support, and tactics for enhancing quality of life.

o Begins January 15

• The Lewy Learning Center is a free online platform for sharing education LBD with the community and health care professionals. A go to place for on-demand learning, courses are available to watch at any time, share with friends and family members, with unlimited viewing options.

• LBDA offers complimentary educational materials for individuals and families as well as healthcare provides which can be requested via lbda.org (US only)

Research:

LBDA facilitates, promotes and assists in the development of LBD clinical trials and research studies.

• The Lewy Trial Tracker is a tool for individuals to receive information on new and currently recruiting clinical trials and studies. It is a single source of information that highlights study topics, procedures, locations and study site contact information. Registrants receive quarterly emails, and the information collected is confidential.

• LBDA’s Research Centers of Excellence is a network of 25 of the nation’s leading academic medical research institutions connecting individuals and their families with highly-specialized physicians providing advanced diagnosis and treatment, as well as conducting LBDA research.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton welcome Yati Patel as guest to the show. About Yati Patel: Yati Patel is OTTI's Senior Student Ambassador and Team Captain for this school years HOSA, Future Healthcare Professionals, competition. She is currently a second-year student at Center for Sight and a Senior at Noblesville High School. After graduation she will be entering college as a Pre-Med student with the intent of joining the field of Ophthalmology. Yati’s end goal is to be a surgeon, although she does not know which specialty Yati would like to focus her practice around, she is leaning heavily into the ever-growing need in the world of eyes. Yati has been working closely with Center for Sights, Austin Lifferth OD FAAO, on a Glaucoma study around the effects on eye pressure response, and correlation with weight lifting versus low-impact exercise. Yati will be presenting her results at the Indiana 2024/2025 HOSA competition in April of 2025, and hopes to continue developing the study for publication.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton are honored to welcome Timothy & Tannis Roberts the founders of Echobox Memory Vault as guests to the show. About Timothy & Tannis Roberts: Timothy and Tannis Roberts live in Calgary, Canada where they raise two daughters and manage Echobox Memory Vault. Music, travel and food are often priorities in their lives as they always enjoy meeting new people and exploring new places. Tim is an artist and musician who enjoys watching his favorite hockey team struggle and Tannis (a book-lover through and through) loves family genealogy and is always hunting down the next mouthwatering recipe to bubble up! Both feel incredibly fortunate to be running Echobox Memory Vault and greatly appreciate this opportunity to do their part for people everywhere. About Echobox Memory Vault: Combining simple technology with the magic of memory-keeping, Echobox enables individuals, families, care teams and senior care communities alike to harness the power of person-centric support. By creating stories, capturing recordings and pictures, listing personal comforts, preferences and memories, Echobox becomes a crucial personalized guidebook for caregivers and provides a higher quality of life for those receiving care! This easy-to-reference treasure trove of material offers valuable suggestions, familiar visuals and playlists which can brighten moods, create meaningful connections, help lighten daily tasks, combat caregiver burnout and provide loving grief support. Families can create interactive family trees and explore each other's ongoing legacies! Music, Speech and Occupation Therapists can enhance their craft with a new, highly-personalized approach, and passionate caregivers of all kinds can revolutionize the tender loving care they deliver with this incredible breakthrough! Echobox Memory Vault: "Where Life Resonates".

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton welcome Tim England the host of Dementia Demystified to the show.

About Tim England:

Tim England is a Dementia Champion and is a leading voice on dementia in Australia and has been active in this area for over 14 years. Tim is a freelance dementia consultant and educator who Demystifies and Destigmatize dementia and advocates for people living with dementia and their families to live well.

Tim achieves this by sharing information about dementias pathology, the personal impact of dementia, and what can be done to help. With a Bachelor of Dementia Care and being the first recipient of the world’s first Masters of Dementia degree, Tim is a skilled Educator, an Advance Care Planner, and a Public Speaker who delivers contemporary scientific evidence-based best practice for person centered care & support.

Tim is an information bridge between the scientific community and the general public with regard to dementia related topics via his public education events, media interviews, newspaper columns, blogs and his YouTube TV channel, Ask a Dementia Champion’.

Finally Tim is featured in the award winning dementia documentary Ticktyboo – a Secret in Plain Sight, and has been a consultant for various university research projects, such as the Art & Object Engagement project at Macquarie University and is currently an Associated Investigator for a dementia research project with the University of Queensland.

About Dementia Demystified Podcast:

Begin your journey to Demystify and Destigmatize dementia in your community and become a fellow advocate for people living with dementia and their families to live well. Dementia Demystified is hosted and created by Tim England who is a Dementia Champion and a leading voice on dementia in Australia.

Being a dementia consultant and educator who De-mystifies and De-stigmatises dementia, Tim advocates for people living with dementia and their families to live well. Dementia is an insidious condition and it tenacles infiltrate all levels of societies, and dementia is a challenging topic to discuss. Fear and stigma are associated with dementia and many actively avoid the subject. There is a great deal of misunderstanding, misinformation and many outdated myths linked to dementia. This podcast series aims to change this by being an information bridge between the scientific community and the public regarding dementia related topics. Being between 5 – 10 minutes in length, each episode targets a single dementia element and uses simple non-complicated terms and language.

If you have a loved one living with dementia. If you want to smash the myths and miss information about dementia. If you desire to help people living with dementia and their families to live well. Then these podcasts are for you.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton welcome Katie Kristofic founder of The Carefullist back as guest to the show.

About Katie Kristofic:

An entrepreneurial spirit, Katie Kristofic has always been drawn to companies and projects with a greater purpose. She founded The Carefullist in 2023, providing an online social community, resources, and support for family caregivers after her caregiving journey ended when her mom passed away from Alzheimer’s Disease.

Katie has over 20 years of marketing communications experience, including 15 years in Pharma and Biotech leading teams in strategic and promotional marketing, public relations, and crisis communications management. Katie previously held sales and regional account management positions with medical book and supply distribution companies. She has a BA in Communication Studies from West Chester University and a Corporate Communications Certification from Cornell University. In addition to her passion for leveling the caregiving playing field, Katie enjoys comedy, baking, and spending time with her family.

About The Carefullist:

Caring for a family member is the ultimate act of love. We know, we've been there. It can also be challenging and lonely. We've been there, too. As a matter of fact, that's how The Carefullist began. As the saying goes, when there is a diagnosis there are actually two new patients; the person receiving care and the person giving it.

We share carefully vetted caregiving resources and tips, in addition to personal takes on grief, how that process often starts far before a loved one passes away, and how grief can occur with any life-altering change. Everyone who finds themselves in the role of caregiver, as someone else’s “person”, deserves to have somewhere to turn that makes the journey go just a little bit smoother, feel a little less daunting, and hopefully, a lot less lonely.

We imagine a time when the resources and support family caregivers need are not only at their fingertips, but also found easily and come strongly recommended by trusted Carefullists who have walked this path before.

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Conscious Caregiving with L & L is "Tackling the Tough Conversations."

The topic of this episode is "Seniors and the Holidays" featuring hosts Lori La Bey and Lance A. Slatton.

Lori La Bey:

Lori La Bey is the founder of Alzheimer’s Speaks and is co-founder of Dementia Map global resource directory and the co-host of Conscious Caregiving with L & L.

Lori’s mother who lived with dementia for 30 years. Her goal has always been to shift dementia care from crisis to comfort around the world.

She offers a variety of free resources to educate, empower, connect, and decrease stigmas; helping families and professionals live graciously alongside dementia.

Lori is an international speaker known for her multiple platforms and training programs.

Conscious Caregiving with L & L with Lance A. Slatton and Lori La Bey "Seniors and the Holidays" Connect with Lori La Bey:

Official Website: https://alzheimersspeaks.com/

Official Dementia Map Website: https://www.dementiamap.com/

Lance A. Slatton - known as "The Senior Care Influencer"":

Known as “The Senior Care Influencer” Lance is a Writer, Author, Influencer, and Healthcare professional with over 20 years in the healthcare industry.

Lance's book, "The All Home Care Matters Official Family Caregivers' Guide" was the recent recipient of the 2024 International Impact Book Awards.

Connect with Lance A. Slatton:

Official Website: https://www.lanceaslatton.com

Official Website for All Home Care Matters: https://www.allhomecarematters.com

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome the Caregiving Support Network to the show for a special panel to celebrate caregivers.

This event was proudly sponsored by Ways2Wellness.

About the Caregiving Support Network:

The Caregiving Support Network is an nonprofit ministry that provides support for unpaid family caregivers. The CSN offers practical support so that caregivers can continue caring for their loved ones without sacrificing their health.

About Rebekah Dowhy:

Rebekah is the President of the Caregiving Support Network. After years of caring for her mom, eventually seeing her home to heaven, Rebekah founded the Caregiving Support Network ministry to provide caregivers with prayer-centered community and practical support.

About Sarah Robb:

Sarah Robb, Board President of the Caregiving Support Network, was a full-time caregiver for her late mother, Dannielle, who battled Addison’s disease. Drawing from her own experiences of both the hardships and profound moments of caregiving, Sarah is dedicated to supporting other caregivers, honoring her mother’s legacy, and sharing her story to uplift others.

About Lauri Thompson:

Lauri is a devoted mother and primary caregiver for her adult daughter, Clarissa, who has cognitive and physical disabilities requiring round-the-clock care. Despite facing her own health challenges, Lauri's unwavering faith in the Lord and her positive attitude shine through as she navigates the complexities of caregiving.

About Cecille Valoria:

Cecille Valoria is a Christian author, blogger, and podcaster. She volunteers with the Caregiving Support Network as a Prayer Partner, giving compassionate emotional and spiritual support by offering a listening ear, encouragement, and prayer to help caregivers feel uplifted and connected on their caregiving journey

About Nichole Zittrisch:

Nichole is a mother of five, including three children with disabilities, and she and her husband, Scott, navigate the complexities of caregiving with unwavering determination. Balancing daily challenges with grace and humor, Nichole often encourages other caregivers in the CSN community. Her commitment to her family demonstrates the profound impact of love in the caregiving journey.

About Rebecca:

Rebecca found the Caregiving Support Network (CSN) through their devotional, “10-Day Journey to Hope”. She found hope by connecting with CSN’s Christian community and now offers that hope to caregivers by volunteering as a Prayer Partner.

About Ways2Wellness:

Ways 2 Wellness stands as a beacon of hope and innovation in senior care and well-being. Their customizable activity books and digital resources uplift, engage, and empower seniors and caregivers alike. Their dedication to making a positive impact remains unwavering as we look to the future.

Connect with the Caregiving Support Network:

Official Website:

ttps://www.caregivingsupportnetwork,org

Connect with Ways2Wellness:

Official Website:

https://www.ways2wellness.health/

Disclosure Notice: Lance A. Slatton (The Senior Care Influencer) is a Brand Ambassador for the Caregiving Support Network.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton are honored to welcome Crystal Gallo the founder of Innerhive as our guest to the show.

About Innerhive:

The app that supports caregivers with tools, resources, and community!

Innerhive is focused on serving family caregivers who are providing and coordinating care for loved ones at home.

Innerhive is committed to ending the burnout cycle by equipping caregivers with a central place to organize care details, build support networks, access resources, and collaborate with their community. Innerhive is a trusted and transparent environment built to streamline care navigation and make it easy to engage community, so caregivers can advocate for their own wellness, as well as those they care for.

About Crystal Gallo:

Crystal Gallo spent the past 15 years leading product and operation teams for high-growth technology companies. She is a learner at the core and passionate about leveraging technology to solve difficult problems. Inspired by her personal journey as a family caregiver for loved ones navigating dementia and cancer, she founded Innerhive.

Innerhive is committed to transforming how we care for one another and is on a mission to end caregiver burnout.

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The Caregiver's Journal hosted by Lance A. Slatton with Cindy (PT) & Christina (ST) Hardin-Weiss.

The Caregiver's Journal is the show where we are sharing the caregiving experiences, stories, and wisdom of family caregivers.

Chapter 8 - "Finding Resources":

About Katie Kristofic:

She has a BA in Communication Studies from West Chester University and a Corporate Communications Certification from Cornell University. In addition to her passion for leveling the caregiving playing field, Katie enjoys comedy, baking, and spending time with her family.

About the Carefullist:

Caring for a family member is the ultimate act of love. We know, we've been there. It can also be challenging and lonely. We've been there, too. As a matter of fact, that's how The Carefullist began.

As the saying goes, when there is a diagnosis there are actually two new patients; the person receiving care and the person giving it. We share carefully vetted caregiving resources and tips, in addition to personal takes on grief, how that process often starts far before a loved one passes away, and how grief can occur with any life-altering change.

Everyone who finds themselves in the role of caregiver, as someone else’s “person”, deserves to have somewhere to turn that makes the journey go just a little bit smoother, feel a little less daunting, and hopefully, a lot less lonely.

Disclosure: Lance A. Slatton is the brand ambassador for the Carefullist

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Eoin Walker as guest to the show. About Eoin Walker: Eoin has been a paramedic since 2004 with the London Ambulance Service. He has also spent 10 years as a flight Paramedic from 2009-2019 in London, and six years as a ground-based Critical Care Paramedic. He has also recently worked for the Red Cross as a pre-hospital delegate in Cairo, Nairobi and Somalia. He currently works for Airbus Helicopters in Bavaria, Germany. Eoin runs three podcast channels, these are the “Pre-hospital Care Podcast’, Restore with Eoin Walker, and the ‘World Extreme Medicine’ podcast. Eoin started the Pre-hospital Care podcast to have insightful and educating conversations with leaders in their fields of specialism in 2018. The podcast attracts over half a million downloads from over 130 countries (2024). The audience is primarily medical and is aimed at paramedics, nurses, doctors, and other allied healthcare professionals.

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The Caregiver's Journal hosted by Lance A. Slatton with Cindy (PT) & Christina (ST) Hardin-Weiss.

The Caregiver's Journal is the show where we are sharing the caregiving experiences, stories, and wisdom of family caregivers.

Chapter 7 - "Family Caregivers":

About Kristen McCabe:

Kris has been the full time caregiver for her Grams, Mary, since 2017. They started sharing their life and love as they navigate Alzheimer’s together on Instagram that same year. Now with over half a million followers on TikTok Kris continues to create connections with fellow caregivers while sharing the special bond she has with her Grandma during the progression of this disease.

About Mary (Grams):

Mary is the matriarch of the family. She is a strong, independent Italian New Yorker that was never afraid to speak her mind. She always lead with love & has the biggest heart. She is an energizer bunny, always on the go and even though she’s been diagnosed with dementia since 2007, her love for life only continues to grow.

Follow & Connect with Kristen and Grams:

Instagram: ‪@LifeWithGrams‬

TikTok: ‪@LifeWithGrams‬

LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/lifewithgrams

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The topic of this episode is "Sharing in the Care Journey"

About Lance A. Slatton:

Lance A. Slatton is an author, writer, host, producer, healthcare professional for over 20 years, and renownedly known as "The Senior Care Influencer".

Lance A. Slatton is the host of the Award-Winning podcast & YouTube show All Home Care Matters. He is also a senior case manager at Enriched Life Home Care Services in Livonia, MI. Lance was named as "50 under 50" for 2023 and received the distinction as the Top Influencer for Healthcare and Advocacy for 2024. Lance is also a columnist for multiple healthcare and news websites and and is the author of the award winning book "The All Home Care Matters Official Family Caregivers' Guide".

About Sharon's Son, George:

George wanted to honor his mother and continue to help in the Parkinson’s awareness cause and did not know how to bring change. George started TogetherForSharon® as a family for the purpose of keeping his mother, Sharon Riff Ackerman’s, memory alive and to share the message of Parkinson’s Awareness and hope for a cure. Today, https://www.togetherforsharon.com/ reaches thousands of individuals across the country for PD Awareness. George currently interviews individuals throughout the Parkinson’s community including various foundations, caregivers, and Parkinson’s warriors to help share their stories and causes.

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Conscious Caregiving with L & L is "Tackling the Tough Conversations."

The topic of this episode is "Dementia & Denial" featuring hosts Lori La Bey and Lance A. Slatton.

Lori La Bey:

She offers a variety of free resources to educate, empower, connect, and decrease stigmas; helping families and professionals live graciously alongside dementia. Lori is an international speaker known for her multiple platforms and training programs.

Lance A. Slatton - known as "The Senior Care Influencer"":

Known as “The Senior Care Influencer” Lance is a Writer, Author, Influencer, and Healthcare professional with over 20 years in the healthcare industry.

Lance's book, "The All Home Care Matters Official Family Caregivers' Guide" was the recent recipient of the 2024 International Impact Book Awards.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Anne Belden, Paul Gullixson, and Beth Eurotas-Steffy as guest to the show. About "Inflamed": “Inflamed” is a story about the abandonment of more than 100 senior citizens at a luxury senior living complex during a catastrophic wildfire in California’s Wine Country in 2017. The book offers an hour-by-hour account of the desperate attempts by family members and others to reach and rescue their loved ones from Villa Capri, an assisted living and memory care center, and Varenna, a massive independent living community. The book then chronicles the battle for truth and accountability against the facility’s powerful owners who tried to deny what happened and silence their critics, going as far as financing a million-dollar recall of the district attorney who investigated the botched fire evacuation. About Anne Belden: Anne Belden runs the journalism program and advises the newsroom at Santa Rosa Junior College. Before teaching, she spent 18 years as a journalist, working as a reporter and editor on the San Francisco Peninsula where her news, feature, and investigative articles were recognized by the California Newspaper Publishers Association, San Francisco Peninsula Press Club, and Parenting Publications of America. Anne holds a bachelor’s degree in mass communication from UCLA and a master’s degree in media studies from Stanford University. She lives in Sebastopol, California. About Paul Gullixson: Paul Gullixson is a seasoned journalist with more than 35 years of experience working for West Coast newspapers, including The Press Democrat, the San Francisco Chronicle and other Bay Area newspapers. As columnist and editorial writer for The Press Democrat, he played a key role in the newspaper winning the 2018 Pulitzer Prize for coverage of the October 2017 fires. Paul currently serves as Communications Manager for the County of Sonoma. He lives in Santa Rosa, California.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton welcome Cheryl Beversdorf as our guest to the show.

About Cheryl Beversdorf:

A Vietnam era Veteran, registered nurse, former not-for-profit association executive, and public communications specialist, Cheryl Beversdorf produces and hosts AGING MATTERS Radio, weekly radio programs and podcasts offering interviews with guests who talk about aging related topics of interest to older adults, their care partners, and families.

Cheryl also produces and hosts AGING MATTERS TV Show, featuring interviews with experts about aging issues that include demonstrations of how aging related subjects benefit older adults’ lives, and stories of life of guests who talk about how their life experiences made a difference to them and to their community.

Cheryl is a member of the Board of Directors of Arlington Neighborhood Village (ANV), a volunteer-driven, non-profit organization dedicated to helping older residents age in place. She chairs the ANV Communications and Marketing Committee and hosts ANV’s weekly Coffee and Conversation program. Before AGING MATTERS, Cheryl partnered with an elder mediation attorney to create Talking About the Tough Stuff, interactive dramatizations and commentary for families needing to have difficult conversations about aging issues. She also helped establish Epilogue LLC, which offered support groups to help men and women over age 50 find new jobs or reinvent themselves in retirement.

About AGING MATTERS Podcast and Radio Show:

The weekly radio program presents individuals with expertise about a broad array of aging related topics. The show is broadcast on podcast sites and made available for downloading on grassroots community radio stations affiliated with Pacifica Network. Produced in an interview format, guests educate and inform listeners about timely topics that impact the lives of older adults and their families.

The program's focus is to help ensure longer and healthier lives for older adults. About AGING MATTERS TV Show: The TV Show offers interviews with aging experts and includes demonstrations of how aging related subjects benefit the lives of older adults and their families. A series of programs called “Stories of Life,” showcases guests who share ways their lives made a difference to them and to their community.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Pamela Mills as guest to the show.

About Pamela Mills:

Pamela Mills, Associate Director of Care Management for Corewood Care holds master’s degrees in Counselor Education and Management of Aging Services. She holds certifications as a care manager through the National Academy of Certified Care Managers and as a Certified Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care Trainer with the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners.

She is also an advanced professional with the Aging Life Care Association. With over 30 years in the field of aging services, Pamela guides people living with cognitive change, through the journeys of caregiving and receiving, where each person can feel independence, comfort, joy, and achievement. In addition to spending time with family, Pamela enjoys kayaking, photography, volunteering, and tending to the flock of backyard fowl and household animal companions.

About Corewood Care:

Corewood Care, founded in 2016 by Mary O’Donoghue, is an expanding home care and care management agency serving older adults in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. Mary's background as a certified nursing assistant (CNA) and her personal experience with her father's early-onset dementia have deeply influenced her approach, making Corewood a trusted partner in the community. Initially, Corewood was a one-person operation, with Mary herself providing care to the first clients. She collaborated with local schools to recruit younger adults passionate about senior care.

These individuals offered light assistance and companionship, making it easier for clients to transition to more comprehensive care when needed. Corewood’s innovative approach of integrating care management services—initially seen as a risky move—proved beneficial, setting the agency apart in the industry. Mary’s collaborative attitude fostered partnerships with other care managers and home care agencies, enhancing Corewood’s reputation and credibility. As the company grew, so did its team.

Her CNA training helped her build strong relationships with the care team. Additionally, the Company is committed to caregiver satisfaction, highlighted by benefits like 401k plans, contributes to a positive work environment and better care for clients. Corewood Care stands out for its personalized, relationship-driven approach, its collaborative spirit within the industry, and its proactive, forward-thinking strategies that keep it ahead of industry trends.

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The Care Advocates is a new YouTube & Podcast show from the All Home Care Media team that will focus on providing family caregivers and their loved ones with support, resources, and discussion on the issues facing them in the matrix of long-term care.

About Lance A. Slatton:

Lance A. Slatton is an author, writer, host, producer, healthcare professional for over 20 years, and renownedly known as "The Senior Care Influencer".

Lance A. Slatton is the host of the Award-Winning podcast & YouTube show All Home Care Matters. He is also a senior case manager at Enriched Life Home Care Services in Livonia, MI.

Lance was also named a 50 under 50 for 2023 and received the distinction as the Top Influencer for Healthcare and Advocacy for 2024. Lance is also a columnist for multiple healthcare and news websites and print.

About Sharon's Son, George:

George wanted to honor his mother and continue to help in the Parkinson’s awareness cause and did not know how to bring change. We started TogetherForSharon® as a family for the purpose of keeping my mother, Sharon Riff Ackerman’s, memory alive and to share the message of Parkinson’s Awareness and hope for a cure.

Today https://www.togetherforsharon.com/ reaches thousands of individuals across the country for PD Awareness. George currently interviews individuals throughout the Parkinson’s community including various foundations, caregivers, and Parkinson’s warriors to help share their stories and causes.

Connect with Lance A. Slatton:

Official Website:

https://www.lanceaslatton.com

Official Website for All Home Care Matters:

https://www.allhomecarematters.com

Connect with Sharon's Son, George:

Official Website:

https://www.togetherforsharon.com

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The Caregiver's Journal hosted by Lance A. Slatton with Cindy (PT) & Christina (ST) Hardin-Weiss.

The Caregiver's Journal is the show where we are sharing the caregiving experiences, stories, and wisdom of family caregivers.

Chapter 6 - "Finding Care":

In this journal entry, we welcomed Michelle Stevens who shared her caregiving journey and how she is "Finding Care".

About Michelle Stevens:

Michelle Stevens spent 20 years as a caregiver, with the last 13 focused on dementia care, helping elderly patients with Alzheimer’s and Lewy Body Dementia. The past three years were especially intense for her as she cared for her mom full-time during her fight with LBD, staying with her until the very end.

Since 2016, she has also gained expertise in ostomy care after her mom had her bladder removed due to cancer, which added an extra layer of complexity to her dementia care. Michelle's goal is to share her experiences to guide and support others on this difficult journey. She wants to be an advocate for both patients and caregivers, bringing some ease and calm to the process. Through her work, she hopes to turn her own painful experiences into something positive, helping others navigate their way with empathy and understanding.

Connect with Michelle Stevens:

Instagram:

@dementia_caregiver_chronilces

YouTube:

@dementiacaregiverchronicles

Email: dementiacaregiverchronicles@gmail.com

About Cindy (PT) & Christina (ST):

Christina graduated from Eastern Illinois University with a Master’s degree in Communication Disorders & Science. She spent most of her career treating patients in skilled nursing facilities. She enjoys working with individuals who have dementia and educating their families. She also likes helping people who have difficulty eating, chewing, and swallowing due to illness or disease.

Cindy and Christina are the founders of Adaptive Equipment Caregiving Corner (AEC).

Visit the Official Site for Adaptive Equipment Caregiving Corner(AEC): https://adaptiveequipmentcorner.com/

About Lance A. Slatton:

Lance A. Slatton is a dedicated Writer, Author, Influencer, and seasoned Healthcare professional with a rich background spanning over 20 years in the healthcare industry. As a beacon of knowledge and support in the realm of senior care, Lance’s journey is not just a career but a calling to make a meaningful difference in the lives of families, caregivers, and their loved ones as they navigate the complexities of long-term care. Lance was named a "50 Under 50" in 2023 by the NYC Journal.

Lance's show All Home Care Matters has won multiple awards for its advocacy and impact in helping caregivers and those in the long-term care space.

Connect with Lance A. Slatton: Official Website:

https://www.lanceaslatton.com

Connect with All Home Care Matters: Official Website:

https://www.allhomecarematters.com

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Conscious Caregiving with L & L is "Tackling the Tough Conversations."

The topic of this episode is "Nutrition & Seniors" and features an All-Star Panel.

Dr. Helena Popovic MBBS (Australian equivalent of MD) Company - Outwitting Alzheimer’s:

Dr. Helena Popovic MD is a leading authority on improving brain function, an Australian family physician, and 10-year care-partner for her father who had mixed Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia. She has written two best-selling books about their adventure with dementia, and she teaches health professionals, people living with dementia, and members of the public how to stay as sharp at age 90 as they were at age 30. Her philosophy is that education is more powerful than medication, and she believes in growing bolder rather than older.

Kerry Mills Rutland, Founder, Health Coach, Advocate at Age Well Simply, LLC:

Kerry Mills Rutland, MPA, is a National Board-Certified Health & Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC) with nearly 20 years of experience in dementia care. A specialist in the Bredesen Protocol, she focuses on preventing and reversing cognitive decline through personalized care.

Kerry’s expertise has led to appearances on major platforms like PBS’s The News Hour with Paul Solman and CBS alongside Dr. Max Gomez, where she has shared her insights on dementia care. Her extensive background includes leadership roles in Alzheimer's care, founding Engaging Alzheimer's LLC, and contributing to groundbreaking research with the Brain Health & Research Institute. In 2021, Kerry launched Age Well Simply to integrate lifestyle medicine into cognitive health.

She has authored award-winning books and continues to be a passionate advocate for transforming dementia care through education, training, and innovative strategies.

Lance A. Slatton and Lori La Bey Co-Host and Produce Conscious Caregiving with L & L.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Jonathan Hunt-Glassman CEO and Co-Founder of Oar Health as guest to the show.

About Jonathan Hunt-Glassman:

Jonathan Hunt-Glassman is the CEO and co-founder of Oar Health. Jonathan founded Oar Health after struggling with alcohol misuse for more than 15 years before taking back control over alcohol with help from medication. Before founding Oar, Jonathan held healthcare strategy leadership roles at Humana, Optum and Bain & Company.

About Oar Health:

Oar Health is a telehealth platform that simplifies access to a daily pill to drink less. Oar has helped more than 35,000 members get started with safe, effective, FDA-approved medication that helps them drink less or quit alcohol altogether.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Author Sarah Cart as guest to the show.

Writer Sarah Cart shares how she became one of 39 million Americans taking care of an ailing loved one in ON MY WAY BACK TO YOU, One Couple’s Journey through Catastrophic Illness to Healing and Hope (Forefront Books; April 2, 2024). “My husband, Ben, just past his mid-fifties, was irrepressibly healthy and energetic until, suddenly, he wasn’t.”

In suspenseful and heart-rending detail, Cart recounts how, beginning with an incurable autoimmune disease, her husband developed one life-threatening condition after another. As each month passed, she felt her best friend, this brilliant businessman, successful entrepreneur, and energetically engaged and organized father to their four sons, slipping away, until eventually they received devastating news: Ben needed a heart transplant. But that was only the tip of the iceberg.

Two weeks after the COVID-19 lockdown, they realized Ben’s body was shutting down and his only hope was to get on the list and get that transplant now—in the midst of a pandemic.

About Sarah Cart:

Sarah Cart was raised and educated in New York and New England and wrote for multiple local publications while she and her husband, Ben, raised four sons in northeastern Ohio. Upon becoming empty nesters, the two moved to the Florida Keys, but they returned every summer to the Pennsylvania Poconos, where each had lifelong family connections. Then came COVID-19. The pandemic, combined with Ben’s health issues, necessitated their sheltering in place in Florida for the entirety of 2020. In the wake of Ben’s undergoing miraculous lifesaving measures, they have been afforded the unanticipated gift of a future and, more than ever before, relish time spent with family and friends.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Norman McNamara the founder of the Purple Angel Foundation as our guest to the show. About Norman McNamara & the Purple Angel Foundation: The Purple Angel was born on 12th January 2012. It was formed as a steering group to try and make Torbay the first dementia-fNorrm began by asking his local shop staff to read 2 pieces of information so that they could better support people with dementia and their carers. He wrote the “Guide to Understanding Dementia” and put that together with “What is Dementia” written by our Alzheimer’s Society. Two weeks later he returned and, if staff had read, awarded a Purple Angel Logo for their window. Through Facebook, Norrm met many who wanted to join in. The purple angel was named because Norrm fondly refers to his wife Elaine as “his angel”! On the 16th of November, 2013, the first 50 worldwide ambassadors were inaugurated in Paignton, Devon, UK. There are now well over 1000 ambassadors, all with their own teams of volunteer-friendly resorts in the country. Norman McNamara a resident of Torbay, Devon, UK was diagnosed with dementia at only 50 years of age. Whilst out shopping one day he was rudely spoken to by a shopkeeper and decided to change the way people see dementia and treat others. Many towns in the UK began raising awareness with The Purple Angel, taking the information to their local shops and businesses. On a Facebook “Dementia Aware” page many others began to form dementia-friendly communities and were inspired by the success of the project. Many Purple Angel Dementia Action Alliances now have their own steering groups and the word is spreading to other areas. It became apparent that many other organizations needed to be included such as hospitals, first responders, rescue services, schools, scouts, etc. and resources were developed to address different situations. A book was written for young school children by Max Wallack in the USA and is being translated into other languages by Purple Angel ambassadors and talks held in schools so that our young can grow up understanding dementia. In places new memory cafes were organised and events took place across the world for the new Dementia Awareness Day fundraising for dementia charities all year. Many countries across the globe joined in the campaign and Dementia Friendly Communities started up together with Memory Cafes and other initiatives. Connect with Norman McNamara and the Purple Angel Foundation: Official Website for the Purple Angel Foundation: https://purpleangel-global.com/ Visit the Official Website for Lance A. Slatton: https://www.lanceaslatton.com Visit the Official Website for All Home Care Matters: https://www.allhomecarematters.com

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome the team behind the book "A Kids Book to Long-Term Care" Author Jenny Abeling & Illustrator Mary Mattews as guests to the show.

About Jenny Abeling:

Jenny Abeling brings two decades of unwavering dedication to advocacy and caring for our communities. A seasoned healthcare executive and nationally recognized force, she has relentlessly championed the rights of vulnerable communities, leaving an indelible mark on programs and communities nationwide. As a long-term care leader, she is a champion for older Americans and has earned recognition for her exceptional efforts in advocating for those often left unseen and unheard.

Recently, she pioneered the Essential Worker Healthcare Program which is a first-in-the-nation effort to lift up the health and wellness of long-term care workers. In every campaign, every program, and every endeavor, Jenny continues to prove that change is not just possible -- it's inevitable under the guidance of a visionary leader.

About Mary Matthews:

Mary Matthews is a communications creative with expertise in television, digital arts, branding, and marketing. With over 18 years of experience creating content and running creative communications for nonprofits, advocacy campaigns, and corporate clients, Mary delivers compelling production work to every project she takes on. Her impactful storytelling, strong work ethic, and distinct sense of humor produce highly creative projects that resonate across a variety of industries and platforms.

About Gal Pal Productions:

Gal Pal Productions was launched by two highly creative, accomplished, and driven advocates deeply committed to lifting the voices of the often unseen and unheard through impactful visual storytelling. Co-founders and Executive Producers, Jenny Abeling and Mary Matthews, work tirelessly to prioritize and elevate intergenerational narratives into the larger cultural conversation through film, video, photography, illustration, graphic arts, and publications.

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The Caregiver's Journal hosted by Lance A. Slatton with Cindy (PT) & Christina (ST) Hardin-Weiss.

The Caregiver's Journal is the show where we are sharing the caregiving experiences, stories, and wisdom of family caregivers.

Chapter 5 - "Finding Support": In this journal entry, we welcomed Laurette Klier who shared her caregiving journey and how she is "Finding Support".

About Laurette Klier: Laurette Klier is the founder of NANA’S BOOKS, a treasury of art and literature pairings in approachable, adaptive formats, mindfully designed to meet the needs of people living with brain change and their communities of care. A career educator, Laurette saw that her mother-in-law, ‘Nana Mary’, who was living with Lewy body dementia had entirely abandoned her daily newspapers and large print books, and decided to try her hand at creating books that Nana could read and enjoy once again. Because NANA’S book was such a hit, Laurette kept making more books, with topics requested by neighbors and friends who were also living with cognitive change. Based in nostalgia, the resonant themes struck such a chord with elders in life review, a common thread began to appear: books that honor identity and give elders the visual and auditory cues they need empower them to reminisce and converse with ease.

Now with 40 books in print and digital libraries, Laurette is focused on getting the word out to families, communities, and libraries seeking to re-ignite lifespan reading and unite generations. Laurette holds master’s and undergraduate degrees from Boston College, in education and speech communications. She is a Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP) certified senior advisor (CSA), certified in individual Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (iCST) and Habilitation Therapy, and is finishing up her Engagement Leader Certification with Teepa Snow’s Positive Approach to Care. NANA’S BOOKS have received a 2021 Maude’s Award for Innovation in Making Connections, a 2023 National Service to Seniors Award from CSA, and a 2023 National Mature Media Award for Innovation in Digital Resources for Caregivers.

About Cindy (PT) & Christina (ST):

Cindy graduated in 1992 with a Master’s Degree in Physical Therapy from Washington University in St Louis, MO. The majority of her career has been spent in Home Healthcare. She is passionate about helping people maintain their independence, especially when it makes a difference in their ability to remain in their homes. Christina graduated from Eastern Illinois University with a Master’s degree in Communication Disorders & Science. She spent most of her career treating patients in skilled nursing facilities. She enjoys working with individuals who have dementia and educating their families. She also likes helping people who have difficulty eating, chewing, and swallowing due to illness or disease. Cindy and Christina are the founders of Adaptive Equipment Caregiving Corner (AEC).

Visit the Official Site for Adaptive Equipment Caregiving Corner (AEC):

https://adaptiveequipmentcorner.com/

About Lance A. Slatton: Lance A. Slatton is a dedicated Writer, Author, Influencer, and seasoned Healthcare professional with a rich background spanning over 20 years in the healthcare industry. As a beacon of knowledge and support in the realm of senior care, Lance’s journey is not just a career but a calling to make a meaningful difference in the lives of families, caregivers, and their loved ones as they navigate the complexities of long-term care. Lance was named a "50 Under 50" in 2023 by the NYC Journal. Lance's show All Home Care Matters has won multiple awards for its advocacy and impact in helping caregivers and those in the long-term care space.

Connect with Lance A. Slatton:

Official Website:

https://www.lanceaslatton.com

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Conscious Caregiving with L & L is "Tackling the Tough Conversations."

The topic of this episode is "Myths, Stigmas, Lies, & Seniors" and features an All-Star Panel.

Samuel A. Simon, known as the "The Dementia Man" is a Playwright, Producer, and Actor:

Samuel A. (Sam) Simon started his career in Washington, DC as a lawyer for Ralph Nader’s first advocacy group in 1970. He then spent 25 years as head of a public affairs firm. In that work, he was often in the news, appearing on Face The Nation, Phil Donahue Show, Oprah Winfrey Show, Good Morning America, and many more. Sam calls his playwriting and theatre work is 4th Age. His first play, The Actual Dance, Love’s Ultimate Journey Through Breast Cancer, toured from 2013 to the present. In 2021 The Actual Dance was turned into an award-winning biography.

In 2018, Sam was diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment or MCI. In 2022, he was diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease. He began documenting his journey with Alzheimer’s in 2023 by writing a new play, Dementia Man, An Existential Journey, which debuted with a performance at the Capitol Fringe Festival that same year.

Sam lives in Mclean, Virginia, with his wife Susan. They have two adult children and four grandchildren. Sam’s work in law and theatre has been recognized by his inclusion in Who’s Who in American Law and, in 2023, Who’s Who in America.

Tracy Cram Perkins, Author:

Tracy Cram Perkins, is a four-time dementia caregiving survivor with sixteen-years of experience caring for four family members with dementia. She is the author of Dementia Home Care: How to Prepare Before, During, and After. Dementia Home Care. She teaches hands-on solutions for reducing repetitive questions, melt downs, and wandering.

She includes tips using simple, inexpensive fixes found at hardware and office supply stores.

Lance A. Slatton and Lori La Bey Co-Host and Produce Conscious Caregiving with L & L.

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All Home Care Matters host, Lance A. Slatton speaks with Marianne Sciucco & Christy Byrne Yates from AlzAuthors about his book "The All Home Care Matters Official Family Caregivers' Guide" and the motivation behind the book.

About the Book:

At the heart of every family is the profound bond shared with our aging parents, a bond that becomes both clearer and more delicate as the sunset of their lives approaches. "The All Home Care Matters Official Family Caregivers' Guide" is a beacon of wisdom, meant to guide you through the complexities and emotional tides of becoming a caregiver. This pivotal guide is your ally, from witnessing the early signs of your parents needing assistance to managing the crescendo of their medical and emotional needs.

About Lance A. Slatton:

Lance’s passion for helping others was the guiding light that led him to become a Senior Case Manager at Enriched Life Home Care Services, where he has been instrumental in providing care and support to those in need. His dedication to the field extends beyond his day job, as Lance has taken his commitment to a global audience through his award-winning podcast and YouTube channel, All Home Care Matters, as well as co-hosting The Caregivers Journal with Cindy and Christina of AECorner, as well as Conscious Caregiving with L&L alongside Lori La Bey. Beyond the accolades, Lance’s work is fueled by a genuine desire to empower individuals and families facing long-term care challenges.

He leverages his platform to share crucial information, resources, and support, ensuring no one feels alone in their journey. His involvement with the Board of Directors for a senior center in Monroe County, Michigan, further illustrates his commitment to community engagement and support at the grassroots level.

Connect with Lance A. Slatton:

Official Website:

https://www.lanceaslatton.com

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Bruce McIntyre, CEO of the Oklahoma Parkinson's Alliance and Kristin Rossi the CEO of the Michigan Parkinson Foundation as guests to the show.

About Bruce McIntyre:

Bruce McIntyre serves as the CEO of the Oklahoma Parkinson’s Alliance. He is the author of five books: Receiving Peace, Thrive Anyway, Parkinson Positive, Graceful Transitions, and Resilient Life. Bruce shares his expert guidance and warm humor with thousands of people each year. He has keynoted such events as the 2016 National Caregiving Conference in Chicago, the 2019 Regional Caregiver Conference SW, as well as over 100 disease conferences, caregiving gatherings, and church events. As a caregiver for his wife since 2004, Bruce understands the world of chronic illness and caregiving. He earned a Master of Divinity in 2002 and has led the Caregiver Fundamentals Project in Oklahoma City and served family caregivers as a church, business, and nonprofit leader. You can learn more about him at BruceMcIntyre.com.

The Oklahoma Parkinson’s Alliance works to inspire hope and transform life for people with Parkinson’s in Oklahoma. With offices in OKC, Tulsa and Lawton, the Alliance offers almost 90 support, exercise and voice groups across the state as well as free family consultations, education events and research opportunities. .

About Kristin Rossi:

Kristin Rossi is the Chief Executive Officer of the Michigan Parkinson Foundation. Kristin has spent the last 16 years in nonprofit leadership. She earned her Masters of Public Administration with a focus on nonprofit management from Western Michigan University and has worked with various areas of the nonprofit sector from university foundations to the social sector to arts and culture and currently a statewide voluntary health foundation. Prior to taking the helm at the Michigan Parkinson Foundation, Kristin worked for many years at the Alzheimer’s Association where she developed a passion for neurodegenerative diseases, the effect they have on families, and the importance of ensuring that families and caregivers connect with community resources and support so that no one feels isolated or alone.

She loves working with and learning from older adults and is committed to supporting healthy aging initiatives across the state of Michigan and beyond. Kristin believes that the nonprofit sector truly has an opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives and has dedicated her career to making in impact in this arena. In her free time, Kristin enjoys reading, all things Italian, traveling and spending as much time as possible with her husband and two small children. #caregiving #parkinsons #parkinsonsdisease

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Angela Fairhurst the Founder & CEO of Geri-Gadgets as guest to the show.

About Angela Fairhurst:

Angela Fairhurst is a seasoned entrepreneur with a passion for innovation. As the CEO and Founder of Geri-Gadgets®, Angela has carved out a niche in the realm of senior care with her groundbreaking patented products. Angela's expertise spans multiple domains; She’s a seasoned television and event producer, and an Executive in Charge of Production at Fairhurst Productions, Inc, and former Executive Director of the Chambers Group, a consumer products marketing firm. Now she's bringing her wealth of experience and creativity to the forefront of dementia care.

About Geri-Gadgets®:

Geri-Gadgets® leads the way in providing safe, sensory, and sustainable silicone products tailored for individuals with Alzheimer's, dementia, and cognitive issues. Our innovative solutions redefine caregiving by enhancing engagement, minimizing fall risks, providing caregiver relief and improving behaviors.

These groundbreaking solutions come in three distinct patented buckets, each tailored to address the unique needs of these adults. From the hands-on stimulation of the manipulatives in the Fidget Gidget Bucket to the sustainable and stimulating pieces of the Shapes Bucket, and the therapeutic sensory colorful flowers, leaves and vase of the Flower Bucket, Geri-Gadgets® offers a comprehensive approach to enhancing well-being. With a commitment to non-pharmacological methods, Geri-Gadgets® offers transformative options to support individuals and their caregivers, bringing joy and improving quality of life for all concerned.

Connect with Lance A. Slatton:

Official Website:

https://www.lanceaslatton.com

Connect with All Home Care Matters:

Official Website:

https://www.allhomecarematters.com

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Esther Kane and Debbie Elkins from The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD). About The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD): Online at theaftd.org, AFTD is the largest national nonprofit devoted to providing resources to help families affected by FTD today, and advancing research to foster accurate diagnosis, treatments, and a cure. Our volunteer founded organization – driven by thousands of volunteers and donors – reflects a community's profound determination to #endFTD. With the FTD Disorders Registry, we are proud to partner with families, researchers, biopharma companies, state and federal policymakers, and health professionals across the country to improve care for people and families facing FTD – efforts that could ultimately be importance to all facing dementia or neurodegenerative disease. About Esther Kane, MSN, RN-CDP: Esther Kane, MSN, RN-CDP joined AFTD as its Director of Support and Education in November 2020. Previously, Esther served as Director of Wellness at CareOne Management, a company that provides elder-care services throughout the Northeast U.S. She brings clinical, educational, managerial, and marketing skills along with a passion for quality care for those who are living with neurological conditions. Her work reflects a strong commitment to the importance of education and training throughout the spectrum of diagnosis and delivery of quality care. At AFTD, Esther ensures that support services and educational programs advance early diagnosis and improve access to quality care and effective support, and that that clinical information provided to healthcare professionals and the AFTD community is current and evidence-based. Debbie Elkins, RN and AFTD Ambassador for West Virginia: After her husband’s journey to an FTD diagnosis, Debbie became an AFTD volunteer and hosted her first Food for Thought fundraiser. With a passion to raise awareness in her community and to make connections with others in rural areas of West Virginia and southeast Ohio, Debbie was invited to become an Ambassador in 2023. Working with AFTD staff, she began provider outreach visits hoping to connect the local medical community and others to AFTD. As a registered nurse, Debbie hopes to use her voice to bring FTD awareness to the public, provide education, and point families to the “gold mine” of resources and support that AFTD offers.

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Conscious Caregiving with L & L is "Tackling the Tough Conversations."

The topic of this episode is "Dementia Influencers" and features an All-Star Panel.

Norman McNamara, Living with Dementia, Founder of the Purple Angel

Rev. Katie Norris, Montessori Based Dementia Care Practitioner, Owner of Recourse Coaching:

She is a Trauma-Informed Montessori dementia care specialist for 14 years and is an AMI Montessori for Aging and Dementia Practitioner. She is the primary author of Creative Connections in Dementia Care and she teaches Montessori care to family members, care communities, and home health agencies. She is also a family dementia care partner as her father has Alzheimer’s and her mother had Lewy Body Dementia.

Vicki de Klerk-Rubin, Executive Director of the Validation Training Institute:

Vicki de Klerk-Rubin is the Executive Director of the Validation Training Institute and a certified Validation Master Teacher. She is the author of Validation Techniques for Dementia Care and Validation for First Responders. Together with her mother Naomi Feil, the founder of the Validation method, she co-authored the revisions of Validation: The Feil Method and The Validation Breakthrough.

Dr. Jennifer Bute, Living with Dementia, International Advocate:

Dr Jennifer Bute, worked in Africa as a doctor before working as a GP for 25 years involved in medical education. And was an honorary lecturer at Southampton university, She had to take early retirement when diagnosed with dementia but continues to use her skills She speaks at conferences, on radio, and has been spoken on International radio and appeared on UK television programmes raising awareness and understanding of dementia. She passionately believes more can be done to improve both the present and the future for those living with dementia. Her book ‘Dementia from the Inside".

Mary Underwood, Dementia Care Specialist. Founder of Empowermentia:

Mary Underwood is a social worker who has been in the field of memory care for over 35 years. She has worked in a variety of settings including home care, adult day programs, assisted living and nursing homes. Over the years, she has developed innovative programs and training sessions.

Cyndy Luzinski, Executive Director of Dementia Together - MS, RN, L® Practitioner:

Cyndy Hunt Luzinski is an advanced practice nurse with a nursing background which ranges from critical care to community case management. In honor of her dad, she founded Dementia Together, a nonprofit organization in Northern Colorado which offers education, enrichment, and hope.

Laurie Scherrer, International Advocate, DAA Executive Board Member and Programs Director:

Laurie Scherrer was diagnosed with Early Onset Alzheimer's & FTD at the age of 55. Unable to continue a professional career she turned her focus towards helping others through their dementia journey. Laurie serves on the Dementia Action Alliance Board of Directors. She is an international speaker and has been featured in many articles and documentaries.

Debbie DeMoss Compton, CEO & Founder, The Purple Vine LLC:

Debbie Compton is a three-time caregiver for parents with different forms of Dementia. She is a Certified Caregiving Consultant and Advocate, Educator for the Alzheimer’s Assoc., speaker, and author of 10 books. Debbie founded The Purple Vine, whose mission is to empower caregivers to reduce stress, block burnout, and laugh again. Debbie’s latest work is a collaboration book titled The Caregiver’s Advocate, A Complete Guide to Support and Resources, produced by Brave Healer Productions and available for purchase in early July 2024.

Ellen Belk, BC-DEd, CDP, Silver Living Strategist. Founder of Keep In Mind, Inc. & Creator of The Keep In Mind Dementia Education Community:

Ellen Belk is a board-certified Dementia educator, Holistic Dementia care solutions expert and founding owner of Keep In Mind, Inc. A sought after web-educator & Keynote speaker, Ellen has over 22 years of professional leadership in long term living operations combined with 24 years (and still counting) of primary family caregiving for both of her parents. Join Ellen on the 'Keep In Mind Dementia Education Community', where her mission is to Elevate the Global Dementia IQ - one Student at a Time!

Isabelle Mumby, Commercial Manager, Mumby’s Live-in Care: I

sabelle Mumby is the daughter of Trevor Mumby MSc. MBASW. AGPA (USA) and Commercial Manager at Mumby’s Live-in Care, a family-run specialist Live-in care provider in Oxfordshire, UK. Trevor is a co-director of Mumby’s Live-in Care, a recognized psychoanalyst, counsellor, and dementia publications author.

To learn more about this topic and the panel read the article that encompasses this episode here: https://alzheimersspeaks.com/?p=40650

Lance A. Slatton and Lori La Bey Co-Host and Produce Conscious Caregiving with L & L.

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The Caregiver's Journal hosted by Lance A. Slatton with Cindy (PT) & Christina (ST) Hardin-Weiss. The Caregiver's Journal is the show where we are sharing the caregiving experiences, stories, and wisdom of family caregivers. Chapter 4 - "Navigating Care": In this journal entry, we welcomed Lisa Nigro who shared her caregiving journey and how she is "Navigating Care". About Lisa Nigro: Lisa Nigro has always served marginalized communities, beginning with her work in the Chicago Police Department and continuing with her work in founding the Inspiration Corporation, which has served the homeless community of Chicago for the last 30 years. Currently, she is a full-time caregiver to her son, who suffered a brain injury in 2015, leading her to advocate for the disabled community. In 2010, Lisa was awarded the Presidential Citizens Medal for her ongoing community work and has been featured in magazines such as People, Mirabella, and, most recently, Parade. She has proven that one person can lead the way to making a difference in the lives of others.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton welcome Eric Kolb as a guest to the show.

Eric Kolb and his wife, Sheryl, founded Songs & Smiles in 2020. Building on lessons learned during their own experience caring for Sheryl’s mom, Trish, the couple started the nonprofit organization to help families navigate the challenges of the Alzheimer’s journey. Eric and Sheryl met and got married during college in Illinois. They have lived in the Dallas-Fort Worth area since 1994.

As the organization’s Executive Director, Eric oversees day-to-day operations. He has presented more than 800 in-person singalong shows at care homes, and his online singalong videos are enjoyed by people around the world. Eric has been singing his whole life: in choirs, in musicals, at church, at weddings, and at numerous sporting events.

Eric previously worked in public relations and publishing, including positions at ClubCorp Publications and the Texas Rangers Baseball Club. He brainstormed with former co-workers to develop Joyful Memories, a dementia-friendly magazine.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton welcome Katie Kristofic as guest to the show.

About The Carefullist:

Caring for a family member is the ultimate act of love. We know, we've been there. It can also be challenging and lonely. We've been there, too. As a matter of fact, that's how The Carefullist began.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton welcome Stephen Tweed as guest to the show.

Stephen Tweed, CSP, is an internationally known health care and business strategist, award winning professional speaker, prolific author, and strategic business coach. He has spent the last three decades working with home care companies that want to grow and with leaders who want to get ready for the future. Currently, he is CEO of Leading Home Care … a Tweed Jeffries company, and Founder of the Home Care CEO Forum. Stephen has authored or co-authored seven books written specifically for the home care industry. His most recent book, Conquering the Crisis: Proven Solutions for Caregiver Recruiting and Retention was published in August 2017 by Red Letter Publishing.

Stephen is also the editor and publisher of the industry’s leading electronic newsletter, Home Care CEO Report. As Founder of the Home Care CEO Forum, Stephen has organized and facilitated five Home Care CEO Mastermind Groups, where leaders of top tier home care companies come together to share ideas, solve problems, and support one another. Currently, there are over 50 companies in these five groups representing the Top 10%, Top 7%, and Top 5% of independent home care companies in the US.

Stephen brings a unique perspective as a consultant, speaker, and author in the post-acute care sector. He has served on the boards of directors of three not-for-profit home health care companies and an award winning inpatient rehab hospital. He has been the Interim President and CEO of a $25 million home care company. He is also a consumer of homecare, as the father of an adult son who is physically disabled, lives in a wheelchair, and uses the services of home care on a daily basis. No other speaker in America brings this unique experience to Conquering the Caregiver Recruiting and Retention Crisis.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton welcomed AlzAuthors to the show to learn about their new book "Poetry for the Dementia Journey - An AlzAuthors Anthology".

Marianne Sciucco - Co-Founder of AlzAuthors:

Marianne Sciucco is not a nurse who writes but a writer who happens to be a nurse, using her skills and experience to create stories that bear witness to the humanity in all of us. She writes contemporary, women's and young adult fiction. With more than 20-years’ experience as a staff nurse and case manager, she's worked with countless families dealing with issues related to aging, elder care, Alzheimer's, and dementia. In 2002, she put the two together and began writing about the intricate lives of people struggling with health and family issues.

She published her debut novel, "Blue Hydrangeas, an Alzheimer's love story," in 2013 to glowing reviews. This book led her to become a co-founder and manager of AlzAuthors, the global community of authors writing about Alzheimer's and dementia from personal experience to light the way for others. Started by three women who had each written a book about dementia in 2015, there are now more than 350 author contributors. She is the producer and host for Untangling Alzheimer’s and Dementia, an AlzAuthors Podcast. When not writing she works as a campus nurse at a community college in New York's Hudson Valley.

Ann Campanella - Manager and Director of AlzAuthors:

Ann Campanella is a former magazine and newspaper editor. She is the author of two award-winning memoirs and four collections of poetry. Her writing has appeared in newspapers, magazines, literary journals and online sites across the country and around the world. Her first memoir, Motherhood: Lost and Found, tells the story of her mother’s descent into Alzheimer’s at the same time Ann was trying to become a mother and dealing with a series of miscarriages.

This memoir was named “One of the best Alzheimer’s books of all time,” by Book Authority two years in a row. Celiac Mom, Ann’s second memoir, tells the story of her daughter’s celiac diagnosis and her family’s transition to a gluten-free lifestyle and has become a “go-to” resource for those with celiac.

Two of Ann’s poetry books, What Flies Away and The Beach Poems, capture poignant moments of living with and loving someone with dementia. Ann is a manager and director of AlzAuthors, a nonprofit organization representing hundreds of books about Alzheimer’s and dementia. In 2018, she was recognized by her hometown newspaper as one of the Most Influential Women in her community for her work promoting Alzheimer’s awareness. Ann and her husband live on Lake Norman in North Carolina and enjoy nightly sunsets.

Sue Fagalde Lick - Caregiver & Author:

Sue Fagalde Lick, who lives on the Oregon coast, has published three poetry chapbooks, Gravel Road Ahead, The Widow at the Piano, and Blue Chip Stamp Guitar, and a full-length collection, Dining Al Fresco with My Dog. Her prose books include Stories Grandma Never Told, Childless by Marriage, and No Way Out of This: Loving a Partner with Alzheimer’s. When not writing, she plays music wherever people will listen.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton welcomed the CEO and Founder of Keys for Caregiving, Christina Keys to the show to share how she is supporting family caregivers.

Christina Keys chased the American dream. She had a successful career, traveled, was financially stable, healthy and happy then on March 16,2013 at 3:42 everything changed. Her mother had a life changing stroke and was given 1% chance to live. She instantly went from career woman to caregiver. Within 3 years of caregiving for her mother she was financially, emotionally, mentally and physically bankrupt. The doctors told Christina She would be lucky to live 6 months if that. Her body was literally shutting down from the stress of caregiving and trying to do it alone. She had a choice to make, figure out how to change her life and live while caring for her mother or give up and start making arrangements on how her mother would be cared for after her death.

She chooses to live and not only change her life but now helps to change the lives of caregivers who struggle while caring for loved ones. Turning a mess into a message and making it her mission to make sure caregivers everywhere are seen, heard valued and appreciated and are Never Alone, She founded and ran a award winning local nonprofit called “Loving Them Forward” was the Director of Community Growth for a National company where she created and lead a team of almost 200 Caregiving Champions in cities all across the US. She is now a National Speaker and Advocate as well as the Founder and CEO of Keys For Caregiving where she is Connecting businesses, organizations, and Family Caregivers to collectively transform the Care Space community and amplify our voices for change.

Christina cared for her mother from until she passed for almost a decade from 2013-Dec 2022.

Keys for Caregiving offers:

• Consulting services

• Community Building

• Speaking and advocacy services for press, media, film, podcasts, etc.

• Caregiver Event project management and execution

• Education and Training for caregivers and businesses

• Fractional leadership

• Caregiver support and concierge services

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Conscious Caregiving with L & L is "Tackling the Tough Conversations."

The topic of this episode is on "Mental Health & Seniors" and features an All-Star Panel.

Dr. Linda Ganzenmuller, Doctor of Psychology:

Dr. Ganzenmuller is a Doctor of Psychology and president of Supportive Psychological Services of Long Island, where she has dedicated most of her career to focusing on Senior Citizens and their caregivers. She is the author of the Tiny Professors series of children's therapy books intended to help children and the adults in their families cope with life's most difficult challenges, which includes having a loved one with Alzheimer's; and Grief over the death of a loved one.

She currently practices on Long Island, New York caring for adults of all ages, with the hopes of helping at each stage and teaching the generations to learn how to understand, support, and rely on one another through the years.

Olivia Block, Registered Nurse in Minnesota:

Olivia Block is a Registered Nurse in Minnesota. Most recently she has been practicing as Director of Nursing in an Independent, Assisted Living and Memory Care community and part-time as a hospice nurse.

Her heart is in working on helping seniors continue to feel valued and whole as they adapt to changes in their lives.

Christina Keys, Owner and Founder of Keys for Caregiving:

Christina Keys went from a career woman to a caregiver on March 16,2013. Her mother had a life-changing stroke and was given a 1% chance to live. Within 3 years of caregiving for her mother, she was financially, emotionally, mentally, and physically bankrupt. The doctors told Christina She would be lucky to live 6 months if that. Her body was literally shutting down from the stress of caregiving. She had a choice to make, figure out how to change her life while caring for her mother or give up and start making arrangements on how her mother would be cared for after her death.

Christina chooses to live and not only change her life but now helps to change the lives of caregivers all across the US. Her mission is to make sure caregivers everywhere are seen, heard, valued, appreciated, and Never Alone, She founded and ran an award-winning local non-profit, and was the Director of Community Growth for a National company. She created and led a team of almost 200 Caregiving Champions in cities across the US. She is now a National Speaker and Advocate as well as the Founder and CEO of "Keys For Caregiving" Christina cared for her mother until she passed from 2013 to Dec 2022.

Lance A. Slatton and Lori La Bey Co-Host and Produce Conscious Caregiving with L & L.

Visit their website at:

https://consciouscaregivingll.com

To learn more about Lance A. Slatton and Lori La Bey you can visit their websites.

Connect with Lance A. Slatton:

Official Website:

https://lanceaslatton.com/

Official Website for All Home Care Matters:

https://www.allhomecarematters.com

Connect with Lori La Bey:

Official Website:

https://alzheimersspeaks.com/

Official Dementia Map Website:

https://www.dementiamap.com/

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton spent a day at the Frenchtown Adult Center in Monroe, Michigan.

Many family caregivers are unfamiliar with what an adult day center is and what resources are available to them through adult day centers. Many people hear the word ‘dementia’ and wonder what it is, described as a set of symptoms that may include memory loss and difficulties with thinking, problem-solving, or language.

Often these issues are small to start with and can become severe enough to affect daily life. Dementia is often time associated with Alzheimer’s disease, while this is true, Alzheimer’s is the cause of dementia, just like a series of strokes can lead to dementia.

Discover how the Frenchtown Adult Day Service program supports the individual and his/her Caregiver.

Connect with the Frenchtown Adult Day Center in Monroe, Michigan:

https://www.frenchtownsenior.com/adult-day-services-program.html

Connect with Lance A. Slatton:

https://www.lanceaslatton.com

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton sat down for an in-depth interview with Max Sherman the author of the book "Releasing the Butterfly: A Love Affair in Four Acts".

Max Sherman, with a notable career in public service and academia, has served as a Texas State Senator, President of West Texas State University, and Dean of the LBJ School of Public Affairs.

His leadership roles also include President of the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Vice President of the Harry S Truman Scholarship Foundation. Active on several boards, including the Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, Sherman is also the author of "Barbara Jordan: Speaking the Truth with Eloquent Thunder".

About "Releasing the Butterfly: A Love Affair in Four Acts":

Three years since its initial release, Releasing the Butterfly: A Love Affair In Four Acts, authored by former Texas State Senator Max Sherman and his wife, Gene Alice, continues to make a profound impact on individuals and families dealing with Alzheimer's disease. The book, which has been celebrated for its raw and honest depiction of life as a caregiver for someone with Alzheimer's, brings a much-needed focus to the often-overlooked experiences of caregivers.

Since its publication, Releasing the Butterfly has become more than a book; it's evolved into a movement of awareness and empathy for the millions of Alzheimer's caregivers worldwide. It tells the captivating story of Max and Gene Alice, who met as teenagers in a Texas Panhandle jail, forging a bond over shared interests in literature and the arts. Raised in humble, blue-collar families, their relationship matured in the 1950s, evolving into a partnership of mutual respect and equality. This decades-long love story, rooted in a strong foundation of education and faith, faces its greatest challenge when Gene Alice is diagnosed with Alzheimer's.

The narrative beautifully captures their enduring love and resilience, showing how deep bonds can withstand even the most heartrending trials. The book has received acclaim from healthcare professionals, Alzheimer's advocacy groups, and readers alike. It has sparked conversations about the critical role of caregivers in the journey of Alzheimer's, leading to greater recognition and resources for those in this challenging role.

Visit the Official Website of All Home Care Matters:

https://www.allhomecarematters.com

Visit the Official Website of Lance A. Slatton:

https://www.lanceaslatton.com

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome the pioneer of senior care technology Jack York as guest to the show.

Jack York is a pioneer in the field of technology and aging. He co-founded It’s Never 2 Late (in2l) in 1999, a company dedicated to helping older adults realize the full benefits of engagement technology. With a 15-year background in the Silicon Valley, he saw a vast potential in utilizing technology to foster these connections.

Jacks experience at iN2L left him thirsty to capture more of the stories of residents living in senior living communities. To that end, in 2022 Jack launched Talegate, a company 100% focused on capturing the stories of the remarkable residents living in senior living communities, and that staff that brings the heart.

Through mini-documentaries and whimsical drives interviewing elders, TaleGate changes the perception of senior living and aging. Jack has a passion for changing the paradigm and the stereotypes for aging, especially stereotypes tied to people living with dementia. His work has been recognized by the Wall Street Journal, NPR, and dozens of senior living publications.

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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton welcomed Laura Ellen Christian and Jessica Smith of AGE-u-cate as guests to the show for a special demonstration of their "Dementia LIVE" experience.

About Laura Ellen Christian - President:

Laura Ellen comes to AGE-u-cate with 17 years of experience in the senior living industry.

She began her career as an Activity Director for a senior living community, which quickly led to the opportunity to an expand her reach. For the past 14 years she has led The Arbor Company in the development and implementation of comprehensive dementia training programs for care partners and innovative engagement programs for seniors at large. “As evident in my tenure with the Arbor Company, I take pride in aligning myself with well-rounded, compassionate people. I quickly found that connection with the AGE-u-cate team several years ago and feel fortunate to open the next chapter of my career with this organization.”

Laura Ellen leads the strategic development of AGE-u-cate’s brand awareness, product accessibility across market channels and quality collaborative partnerships.

She is a graduate of the University of Georgia and lives in Smyrna, GA with her husband and two boys.

About Jessica Smith - Director of Senior Living Initiatives:

Jessica comes to AGE-u-cate with 12 year's of experience in the senior care industry. She started in home care as Marketing Director, to leadership positions including managing dementia care units and becoming a licensed nursing home administrator in Ohio and Michigan. She knows that education is a powerful tool for both family members and caregivers to advocate for their loved ones in their later years and is excited to be a resource to other senior living leaders and their communities by working with the AGE-u-cate team. Her passion for the seniors in her community began with a close relationship to her grandfather and a desire to give back to those who deserve a dignified life in their aging years.

She graduated from Ohio University, where she met her husband. They have two young children and enjoy living the country life in rural Northwest Ohio.

About AGE-u-cate:

Welcome to AGE-u-cate Training Institute! We impact people, organizations, and communities with powerful dementia training, innovative life engagement solutions and dynamic partner collaborations. Since 2015, together with our program partners, AGE-u-cate training and education programs have impacted over 2 million people both nationally and internationally. Our programs focus on elevating quality of life for elders, especially those living with dementia and their care partners. AGE-u-cate 5 solutions: Dementia Live, Compassionate Touch, REVEAL Aging online learning courses, Intergenerational Arts Programming for People Living with Dementia and Flashback.

About Dementia LIVE:

Dementia Live® is a high impact, dementia simulation experience that immerses participants into life with dementia, resulting in a deeper understanding of what it’s like to live with cognitive impairment and sensory change. This program is offered through a train the trainer model, training Dementia Live® Coaches who are empowered to train and educate internal staff, family caregivers, healthcare professionals and the community-at-large. As a training institute, AGE-u-cate supports all program partner with ongoing education and resources to connect Dementia Live® to business goals and desired outcomes.

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Conscious Caregiving with L & L is "Tackling the Tough Conversations."

The topic of this episode is on "Legalities & Seniors" and features an All-Star Panel.

Mary Farquhar - CEO of Roger Fisher’s Care:

Mary Farquhar started as a colleague to her husband, Roger Fisher when he was diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment in October 2018. As Roger’s disease progressed to Alzheimer’s, Mary reluctantly promoted herself to CEO of Roger Fisher’s Care.

Attorney Ramsey Bahrawy:

Attorney Ramsey Bahrawy has 43 years experience as an Estate Planning and Elder Law Attorney. During that time he has advised countless clients (individuals and families) in both simple sophisticated estate planning strategies. He also advises families with special needs, whether children or adult, on estate planning matters. Attorney Bahrawy represents elders and caregivers to plan for future or, in some circumstances, an immediate need for institutional medical care. In this regard,

Attorney Bahrawy assists elders in protecting assets in order to qualify for Medicaid, making or adjusting estate plans such as Wills, Trusts, and Advance Directives, administering estates, guardianship of elderly persons, and financial elder abuse. Attorney Bahrawy is a former member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys

Deborah Snyder – Care Partner for Her Husband and Aging & Disability Resource Center Specialist:

Deborah Snyder is a Care Partner in her husband’s care who is experiencing brain change with Behavioral variant Frontotemporal Dementia (BvFTD). He was diagnosed in 2019, and life changed. She is a Certified Independent Consultant with Positive Approach to Care, Teepa Snow, and has worked in the arena of senior care and aging resources since 2017. Deborah presently works for North Star Counsel on Aging as an Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) Specialist.

Lance A. Slatton and Lori La Bey Co-Host and Produce Conscious Caregiving with L & L.

Visit their website at:

https://consciouscaregivingll.com/

To learn more about Lance A. Slatton and Lori La Bey you can visit their websites.

Connect with Lance A. Slatton:

Official Website:

https://lanceaslatton.com/

Official Website for All Home Care Matters:

https://www.allhomecarematters.com

Connect with Lori La Bey Official Website:

https://alzheimersspeaks.com/

Official Dementia Map Website:

https://www.dementiamap.com/

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome the former Governor of Wisconsin & Author of "My Two Elaines: Learning, Coping, and Surviving as an Alzheimer's Caregiver" Martin J. Schreiber as guest to the show.

Former Wisconsin Gov. Martin J. Schreiber is an award-winning crusader for Alzheimer’s caregivers and persons with dementia. Reaching audiences nationwide at live events and through various forms of media, Marty uses humor and compassion as he shares lessons from his ongoing, decade-plus journey as caregiver.

His speaking tour takes him to conferences, civic organizations, senior communities, libraries and more around the country. He has given more than 300 presentations since launching his awareness campaign in late 2016. Whether in Texas, Idaho, New York, Missouri, Florida, Ohio or closer to home, caregivers tell Marty that his message gives them encouragement and hope that they can manage their challenging situation.

Marty’s book, My Two Elaines: Learning, Coping, and Surviving as an Alzheimer’s Caregiver, is winning acclaim from caregivers across the country. It was rated as the No. 11 “Best Alzheimer’s Book of All Time” by bookauthority.org, and was named to Caring.com’s list of “Best Caregiving Books” of both 2017 and 2018.

Now in its fourth print edition, My Two Elaines also has been released as an e-book, an audiobook and on CD. Net proceeds are used to promote Alzheimer’s caregiver support.

Prior to writing My Two Elaines – and while still caring for his wife at home – Marty helped the Alzheimer’s Association launch Operation: Stronger Together in 2015. This multi-year awareness program has helped the Southeastern Wisconsin Chapter connect record numbers of families to education and resources that are vital to successful caregiving.

He also collaborated with Wisconsin state government and various business groups to help create the online Dementia-Friendly Employers Toolkit, which is now used by human resources departments and employee assistance programs. These initiatives have led to Marty being recognized with awards from the Alzheimer’s Association and other organizations.

Marty’s work on behalf of older citizens goes back decades to his 16 years in public service as a state senator, lieutenant governor and governor focusing on elderly concerns, improved quality of nursing home care, and development of the in-home Community Care Organization. He went on to become a successful insurance executive and publisher before starting his own government relations firm in 1988.

He attended Valparaiso University in Indiana and the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee, and earned a doctorate of law from Marquette University in Milwaukee.

Marty and his wife Elaine, who died in 2022, are the parents of four children, Kathryn Lyon, Martin Schreiber, Kristine Haas and Matt Schreiber. They have thirteen grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Luke Gilligan the founder of Resense as guest to the show.

Luke Gilligan is the founder and CEO of Resense, a company that creates innovative and restorative products for individuals living with Dementia. Luke has a passion for care and creating unique, dementia-friendly products and experiences for individuals living with Dementia. As an upcoming Graduate from Grove City College, studying Entrepreneurship, Luke has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, and Pittsburgh Post Gazette, and was honored with Top 5 under 25 Founders in Pittsburgh.

Luke recently joined the Dementia Friendly Pennsylvania Dementia Advisory Committee and is excited to continue to get involved in this space.

About Resense: Resense, is a company specializing in tailored engagement activities for individuals with dementia and neurodegenerative diseases. Our latest offering, the Resense Register, is a unique dementia-friendly newspaper with exclusively positive news articles, large fonts, accessible word puzzles, and beloved columns like "Dear Abby."

Additionally, Resense offers the Connect + Comfort Kit, comprising 5-8 expert-designed activities. It serves as an ideal welcome package or activity toolkit for your clients or for use at home with their loved ones and care partners.

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The Caregiver's Journal is the show where we are sharing the caregiving experiences, stories, and wisdom of family caregivers.

Chapter 3 - "The Unexpected Crisis":

In this journal entry, we welcomed Angelena Taylor, Debbie Weiss, and RoxAnne Daignault who shared their stories and experiences on "The Unexpected Crisis".

Angelena Taylor is a proud daughter, military caregiver, cat mom, world traveler, and reigning Ms. USA Ambassador. A native of Detroit, Michigan, Angelena works part-time as a behavior analyst but her most prominent and favorite role to date has been as a caregiver for over 8 years to her father Benjamin who is a stroke survivor and veteran. Becoming a caregiver at the age of 28 without much assistance or support birthed Angelena's passion for advocating for her fellow caregivers and restructuring the care infrastructure.

She has been heavily involved as a fellow with organizations such as Caring Across Generations and The Elizabeth Dole Foundation where she has been able to connect with hundreds of other caregivers, collaborate with elected officials, and more. Featured in The New York Times and on The Tamron Hall Show, Angelena’s story is one of 53 million caregivers (and estimated 5.5 million military caregivers) in the USA with the special redemption song of winning the prestigious title of Ms. USA Ambassador 2023.

Angelena created Crown the Caregiver as a platform of awareness and advocacy in the caregiving community and plans to launch services as a Certified Caregiving Specialist soon.

Debbie Weiss became a family caregiver at 17 after her father’s massive stroke. Her caregiving experience intensified after her son’s diagnosis with autism spectrum disorder and then ADHD, depression and anxiety and after her husband became permanently disabled. Over the last decade, Debbie learned to balance caring for her family with taking care of herself. Even after losing her husband in 2022, she’s still here, caring for her boys, navigating widowhood, but also living life on her terms.

RoxAnne Daignault is the parent of a child who has struggled with mental illness for over 17 years and is now an independent adult successfully living on their own. She spent much of her time attending support groups, workshops, and courses related to mental health, coaching, and supporting other caregivers in search of finding a community that she could connect with on these challenges.

She has spoken at various event about her experiences, notably the Vancouver Mental Health Conference in 2013 and most recently the Two-Eyed Seeing Conference in 2023. She now shares my expertise and creating an environment of peer support, education and empowerment with other parents and caregivers through organizations that she partners with; Parent’s for Children’s Mental Health, Firefly, Lake of the Woods District Hospital and Canadian Mental Health Association Fort Frances, so that others can find a sense of belonging and experience the same sense of community that she found when it mattered most.

The Caregiver's Journal is hosted by Lance A. Slatton & Denise M. Brown.

Visit the Official Website of The Caregiver's Journal:

https://thecaregiversjournalpodcast.com

Visit the Official Website of All Home Care Matters:

https://www.allhomecarematters.com

Visit Lance A. Slatton's Official Website:

https://www.lanceaslatton.com

Visit Denise M. Brown's Official Website:

https://join.caringourway.com/

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Conscious Caregiving with L & L is "Tackling the Tough Conversations." The topic of this episode is on "Staffing Issues for Senior Services" and features an All-Star Panel. Joel Prevost, CMO, Prevost Partners: Joel Prevost is a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator and Licensed Health Services Executive with more than 20 years of experience in long-term care and aging services. He has a deep understanding and passion for our senior population. He has successfully led regions, campuses and communities including skilled nursing, assisted living, home care, hospice care, palliative care, transitional care, and adult day. Deb Nygaard, LALD, Dir. Of Development at Arthur’s Senior Care: Deb Nygaard has worked with Arthur’s Senior Care and the sister company ACR Homes for 35 years. She is currently responsible for admissions and outreach and is the Licensed Assisted Living Director. Deb does the dementia training for all new employees, as well as doing dementia training in the community, and most recently for employees of the Minneapolis / St. Paul airport with a team of volunteers from the Dementia Friendly Airports Working Group. Ron Bowen, Executive Director at The Pines at Hilton Head a WindRiver: Ron Bowen started his career in Healthcare in the late 1980’s after graduating from college with a BA in Mass Communication/Business. He found his passion working with the Older Adult population specifically those afflicted with Alzheimer’s/Dementia. Ron has a Master’s in Human Development and Gerontology specializing in dementia. Ron’s philosophy and success have been incorporating Aging Theories into our knowledge of Alzheimer’s and other related dementias. Even though some diseases can change personality, the older adults he has dealt with have had a life time of being themselves. Knowing a persons’ past personality, passions, triggers, and fears will better equip our caregivers to deal with behaviors and to gain trust with the individual we are serving. Conscious Caregiving with L & L is Co-Hosted by Lance A. Slatton and Lori La Bey.

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome back the team behind the film "No Country for Old People" as guests to the show as they discuss the story behind the film with our host, Lance A. Slatton. About Susie Singer Carter: Susie Singer Carter is a multi-award-winning, Oscar qualified filmmaker, writer, director, producer, actor, podcast producer, host, & Caregiver Advocate. She is best known for writing, directing, and producing the 2018 Oscar qualified short film, My Mom and The Girl starring Valerie Harper in her final performance, writing and producing “Bratz the Movie” for Lionsgate, & co-producing “Soul Surfer” for Sony. Susie also produces and hosts the podcast Love Conquers Alz – awarded BEST PODCAST 2020 by New Media Film Festival and is #4 on Feedspots’ 2022 25 Best Alzheimer’s Podcasts list. Susie is also the co-creator, co-writer, co-star, and director of the outrageous horror/comedy narrative podcast I Love Lucifer, nominated Best Audio Fiction 2023 by Indie Series Awards. She is currently writing, producing, and directing a docuseries, No Country For Old People, which centers on the Nursing Home Neglect and the systemic healthcare crisis responsible for it. About Rick Mountcastle: Mr. Mountcastle is the former United States Attorney for the Western District of Virginia (2017-2018) and is a retired award-winning federal and state prosecutor. He led the prosecution of Purdue Pharma for fraudulently marketing OxyContin, as portrayed in the Emmy-nominated limited miniseries "Dopesick" (streaming on Hulu). About Don Priess: For over two decades, Don Priess has shunned sleep in order to become a highly sought-after, award winning writer, producer, director and editor. He co-founded Modern Media, now one of the top marketing and infomercial production companies in the world. After six years and hundreds of TV and radio commercials, Don decided to spread his wings and since his credits include projects for CBS/Dic Entertainment, Nickelodeon, Buena Vista, American Movie Classics, Lifetime, Hanna-Barbera, Playboy Entertainment and more.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Dr. Barak Gaster M.D. as guest to the show to discuss the current state of evaluation and management of Alzheimer's disease. About Dr. Barak Gaster M.D.: Barak Gaster, MD is a professor of medicine at the University of Washington where he serves as the director of the Cognition in Primary Care Program which designs training and tools to improve dementia care in the primary care setting. He served on the leadership committee which guided the most recent CDC Healthy Brain Roadmap, he is a co-investigator at the University of Washington Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center and is a governor-appointed member of the leadership council for the Washington Dementia Action Collaborative. He has more than 20 years experience as a primary care provider, and he is a nationally recognized expert on dementia in the primary care setting.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Steve Ventura the Founder of USA Bio Care LLC as a guest to the show to discuss the issue of hoarding.

About Steve Ventura:

Born and raised in Northville, MI. A graduate of Northville High School. Steve attended Ferris State University on a Track Scholarship while earning a Bachelors degree in Business. After graduation Steve attended New York University earning his Masters Degree in Sports Business Management.

After 20 years in the Sport & Entertainment industry Steve’s entrepreneurial spirit couldn’t be contained and he launched two different businesses: USA Bio Care & Hoarding and Ventura Ventures Franchise Consulting. Both are based here in SE Michigan and are heavily involved with partnerships with local non-profits and the VA in Ann Arbor through their Hometown Heroes Program which hires vets when they arrive home from active duty. Steve resides in Milford, MI with his wife and two children.

About USA Bio Care LLC:

USA Bio Care LLC has three divisions: USA Bio Care which works directly with Federal, State and Local law enforcement performing Bio Hazard Remediation in homes, commercial settings and vehicles, USA Hoarding which supports individuals and families dealing with Level 1-5 Hoarding situations and USA Cleaning which is a traditional Janitorial Cleaning division that also does carpet cleaning and HVAC decontamination.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Laurette Klier, Christine Droney, Elisa Bosley, and Paula Muller as guests to the show to discuss "Spirituality, Faith, & Care."

About Laurette Klier - Founder of NANA'S Books:

As the founder of NANA'S BOOKS, Laurette Klier brings a wealth of experience and expertise to elder care and compassionate communication. With a lifelong commitment to teaching and caregiving, Laurette holds undergraduate and master's degrees in speech communications and education from Boston College. A certified dementia practitioner and cognitive stimulation therapist, Laurette is dedicated to enhancing the lives of elders through innovative techniques and purposeful resources.

An Aetna fellow and teacher consultant for the National Writing Project, Laurette blends academic knowledge with hands-on caregiving experience. Her pioneering approach to re-imagining the culture of elder engagement has earned her a 2021 Maude's Award, a 2023 National Mature Media Award and a 2023 Service to Seniors Award from the National Society of Certified Senior Advisors.

About Christine Droney, LCSW, MSW, CT, MPH-C, NCTTP: Christine's journey began 3,217 miles away in Belfast, Northern Ireland, during the Troubles, the war of the 1970s. Her parents bravely left everything they knew behind to pursue a life of peace and opportunity for their family in the United States. Christina has noticed the barriers to an individual’s (and their family’s) emotional, social, and cultural experiences while going through complex life events. These barriers contributed poorly to their mental health.

After years of starting a family and raising children with a bleeding disorder, she was determined to embark on a path of being part of the solution to the problem. Christine's emphasis on whole-person wellness provides a holistic treatment to your psychological well-being. Therefore, she inherently invest in the best outcome for her clients.

Christine is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Her desire to help others has pushed her to serve her community for over thirty years. She was inducted into the New Jersey Women’s Hall of Fame in 2017 for her contributions to social services and volunteerism. She has made over 400 visits to the United States Senate, House of Representatives, and legislative offices advocating on behalf of patients for much-needed change. She has a passion for education issues, brain health, Men’s, Women’s, and LGTBQIA+ health, and has worked on several nonprofit boards.

About Elisa Bosley, Chaplain:

Elisa has more than 40 years of experience leading non-denominational Christian worship services and Bible studies in both church and parachurch settings. She also has over 20+ years of experience interacting with older adults with dementia, a population she absolutely loves. (Her own father-in-law developed Alzheimer’s disease in the early 2000s, and she and her husband were intimately involved with his journey until his death in 2012.)

In 2016, she combined her spiritual-care experience with my dementia-care experience and became a licensed chaplain for elders with dementia. She serves at a long-term memory care community near her home in Boulder, Colorado. She is now caring for a parent living with dementia.

About Paula Muller, Ph.D.:

Founder of CareLink360™, brings a wealth of experience in healthcare technology, including a background in Biomedical Engineering, EEG analysis in Switzerland, Ph.D., and Post-doc work with Parkinson patients. Her career spans tech and software development roles at companies like SiriusXM, Net-Scale Technologies, and Authentidate. Paula’s vision for CareLink360™, inspired by her commitment to family bonds, aims to bring seniors and their loved ones closer together.

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The Caregiver's Journal hosted by Lance A. Slatton and Denise M. Brown.

The Caregiver's Journal is the show where we are sharing the caregiving experiences, stories, and wisdom of family caregivers.

Chapter 2 - "The Path to Diagnosis":

In this journal entry, we welcomed Jesus Loreto, Sharon Hall, and Effie Parks who shared their stories and experiences on "The Path to Diagnosis".

Jesus Loreto:

Jesus is a Certified Caregiving Facilitator and member of the Patient Advocacy Council Guthy Jackson Charitable Foundation Caregiver for his beautiful wife Maria Elena who was diagnosed with Neuromyelitis Optica NMOSD (NMO) for 16 years. Jesus had been running a caregiver's support group for almost a decade and found it very rewarding to help others to navigate their diagnosis and manage their disease day to day.

Jesus believes that by telling your story you can save lives, you make people realize they are not alone. They have readjusted to their new normal, and love life. They live with NMO but NMO is not their life.

Sharon Hall:

During Sharon's 18 years of caregiving, she has navigated the medical community, the social service community, and the support community. Her husband was diagnosed with frontotemporal degeneration, so she has added experience in young onset dementia.She was a care partner speaker at the Research Summit on Dementia Care and Services at the NIH in 2017.

She has also presented at the 2017, 2018 and 2019 National Caregiver Conferences. Sharon has been a speaker in many webinars on dementia. She facilitates a local support group and an online chat for care partners. She also has a podcast with a dementia expert to give families much needed information. Sharon also contributed to the “Fighting Alzheimer’s” insert in USA Today. Sharon is active in social media within the dementia community.

Effie Parks:

Effie Parks, originally from beautiful Montana, has become a guiding light in the rare disease community following her son Ford's diagnosis with CTNNB1 syndrome. Settling in Washington, she transformed her family's journey into a crusade for advocacy, support, and empowerment for families navigating similar challenges. As the host of the "Once Upon a Gene" podcast, Effie has been recognized for several awards including WEGO Health and Podcast Magazine for her impactful storytelling and resource-sharing in the realm of rare genetic disorders.

Effie extends her advocacy through speaking engagements at medical and patient advocacy conferences, sharing her experiences and insights from her work to bridge the gap between all rare disease stakeholders. Her skill in community engagement, developed through her advocacy, empowers her efforts in building a supportive network and raising awareness. With a mission to leave the world better than she found it,

Effie is dedicated to fostering a more informed and empathetic environment for those impacted by rare diseases. Her work embodies resilience and compassion, inspiring and uniting the rare disease community. Effie’s journey is not just about sharing stories, it's about driving change and creating a lasting impact in the world of rare genetic conditions.

Visit The Caregiver's Journal Official Website:

https://thecaregiversjournalpodcast.com/

Connect with Lance A. Slatton:

Official Website:

https://www.lanceaslatton.com

Official Website:

https://www.allhomecarematters.com

Connect with Denise M. Brown:

Official Website:

https://join.caringourway.com/

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Conscious Caregiving with L & L is "Tackling the Tough Conversations."

The topic of this episode is on "Compassion, Kindness, & Seniors" and features an All-Star Panel.

Stephen G. Post, Ph.D.

Post’s most recent book is Dignity for Deeply Forgetful People: How Caregivers Can Meet the Challenges of Alzheimer’s Disease (Johns Hopkins University Press, May 2022). His work on caregiver ethics and spirituality has been supported by grants from the NIH National Institute on Aging and the National Institute on Mental Health, as well as the Human Genome Institute.

His writing and advocacy are recognized as the baseline for national ethics guidelines in dementia care in the United States, Canada and Japan, among others. Post’s book The Moral Challenge of Alzheimer’s Disease (Johns Hopkins University Press) was designated a “medical classic of the 20th century” by the British Medical Journal (2009), whose editors wrote, “Until this pioneering work was published in 1995 the ethical aspects of one of the most important illnesses of our aging populations were a neglected topic.” Post is recipient of the Alzheimer’s Association national distinguished service award “in recognition of personal and professional outreach to the Alzheimer’s Association Chapters on ethics issues important to people with Alzheimer’s and their families.”

Loretta Woodward Veney:

Loretta Woodward Veney is an inspirational speaker and certified LEGO® Serious Play® facilitator who offers a wealth of information, encouragement, and humor to her audiences. Loretta is the author of Being My Mom’s Mom, Refreshment for the Caregiver’s Spirit, and Colors Flowing from My Mind.

Kim Hamer:

Kim is the author of "100 Acts of Love: A Girlfriend's Guide to Loving Your Friend Through Cancer or Loss," an invaluable must-have life guide offering practical tips to support employees or friends experiencing life’s little “hiccups.” As a captivating speaker, Kim’s stories empower audiences to navigate the complexities of life, fostering a culture of compassion and resilience in both personal and professional spheres.

Cyndy Luzinski:

Cyndy Hunt Luzinski is an advanced practice nurse with a nursing background which ranges from critical care to community case management. In honor of her dad who experienced dementia, she founded and serves as executive director of Dementia Together, a nonprofit organization in Northern Colorado which offers education, enrichment, and hope, while cultivating joy and building stronger connections for people living with dementia, their care partners, and the community. As the first SPECAL (pronounced “speckle”) practitioner in North America, Cyndy is leading the way to share the simple, positive, UK-originated SPECAL Method with anyone who wants to learn how to make living well with dementia the expectation, not the exception.

Lance A. Slatton and Lori La Bey thank you for joining them for another episode of Conscious Caregiving with L & L where they are "Tackling the Tough Conversations"

Visit Lori La Bey's Official Website:

https://www.alzheimersspeaks.com

Visit Lance A. Slatton's Official Website:

https://www.lanceaslatton.com

Visit All Home Care Matters' Official Website:

https://www.allhomecarematters.com

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All Home Care Matters is helping to shine a light on the importance of the arts in the dementia space.

We are honored to welcome three instrumental individuals who are helping to incorporate the arts into dementia care and the dementia space. The members of this esteemed panel of guests are Alexis Baker, MT-BC, CDP who is founder of Bridgetown Music Therapy, Laurette Klier founder of NANA'S Books, and Dr. Marc Rothman founder of Dementia Spring and the CEO of Lizzy Care.

About Alexis Baker, MT-BC, CDP - Founder of Bridgetown Music Therapy:

Alexis Baker is a board-certified music therapist of 10 years and owner of Bridgetown Music Therapy, which she founded in 2017. She is passionate about using music to make a difference in the lives of older adults, especially those living with dementia.

About Laurette Klier - Founder of NANA'S Books:

About Dr. Marc Rothman CEO of Lizzy Care & Founder of Dementia Spring:

Dr. Rothman is a physician executive with deep experience in home- and community-based services for older adults, physician practice management and clinical operations, value based care and Advanced Alternative Payment Models, regulatory affairs, quality improvement, and post-acute and long-term care.

Dr. Rothman is the Chief Executive Officer of Lizzy Care, a new model of Dementia Care Management that provides the people, technology and resources needed to keep those with Alzheimer’s and dementia safe and vibrant at home.

Founded in 2022, Lizzy Care services clients in the New York, New Jersey and southern Connecticut area. Prior to Signify Dr. Rothman served as Senior Medical Officer at Aspire Healthcare where he led the nationwide provider network, the Aspire TeleHealth palliative care service line, as well as all centralized telephonic care services. Before Aspire he was the Chief Medical Officer of Kindred Healthcare, Inc., at that time the nation’s largest provider of integrated post-acute care services with over 2,400 locations in 45 states. There he led the medical affairs division and held responsibility for physician engagement, quality, patient experience and pharmacy services. Kindred acquired Gentiva Health in 2015, and was then taken private and sold to the Humana/Welsh/TPG consortium in 2018.

Prior to joining Kindred, Dr. Rothman directed post-acute medical services at the Kaiser Permanente San Francisco Medical Center and practiced geriatric, post-acute and palliative medicine with the Permanente Medical Group. Dr. Rothman is the founder of the Dementia Spring Foundation, a 501(c)(3) that supports visual and performing artists who are portraying dementia and Alzheimer’s disease in a new light through their work. He currently serves as a Director for the Mission Healthcare Corp. in Southern California, with the Vistria Group, and until recently was a Director for the Healthdrive Corp., which was acquired by Cressey and Co. in 2023.

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome Miriam Allred the Head of Partnerships & Dan Ogren the Head of Design from Careswitch. About Miriam Allred: Miriam Allred is the Head of Partnerships at Careswitch, the first AI-powered home care agency management software. Prior to working at Careswitch she worked at Home Care Pulse, where she led partnerships, launched and hosted Vision: The Care Leaders’ Podcast, and managed events such as the Home Care Growth Summit. When she’s not working you can find her cycling, rafting, or cross-country skiing with her husband Daniel. About Dan Ogren: Dan Ogren is a designer and entrepreneur with 8+ years of experience creating visually compelling brands, experiences, animations, interactions and systems. He has worked in-house with Fortune 500 companies (adidas, IBM) and for world-class design consultancies (frog) designing B2B and B2C software solutions for health care, financial services, oil and gas, IT services, e-commerce and agriculture. Dan also co-founded Rappora, a software company providing non-medical home care agency management solutions, designed to simplify office work, reduce risk and improve the quality of care. About Careswitch: Careswitch is the first AI-powered home care agency management system. Its platform uses generative AI to speed up administrative work within a home care agency—saving time for administrators, ensuring better information and communication with caregivers, and ultimately improving quality of care for care recipients.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome the founder of NANA'S Books, Laurette Klier as guest to the show. About Laurette: As the founder of NANA'S BOOKS, Laurette Klier brings a wealth of experience and expertise to elder care and compassionate communication. With a lifelong commitment to teaching and caregiving, Laurette holds undergraduate and master's degrees in speech communications and education from Boston College. A certified dementia practitioner and cognitive stimulation therapist, Laurette is dedicated to enhancing the lives of elders through innovative techniques and purposeful resources. An Aetna fellow and teacher consultant for the National Writing Project, Laurette blends academic knowledge with hands-on caregiving experience. Her inspiring perspective on re-imagining the culture of engagement goes beyond cognitive stimulation, to soul and spirit-tending, connecting care partners in all phases of life. About NANA'S Books: NANA’S BOOKS® is a treasury of nostalgic companion books. Mindfully designed to support older adults living with brain changes and their communities of care, we honor the individual through dignified reading and compassionate sharing. NANA’S BOOKS pair vintage literature and art with sensitivity and intention to elicit fond reminiscence and eased conversation. Grounded in faith and identity, our print and voice-enabled digital libraries affirm personhood and soothe the spirit. NANA’S BOOKS are for soul-tending. Our adaptive formats, hyper legible fonts and considerate layouts make visiting comfortable by enabling readers to savor books and good company once again.

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The Caregiver's Journal is the show where we are sharing the caregiving experiences, stories, and wisdom of family caregivers. Hosted by Denise Brown & Lance A. Slatton of All Home Care Matters Chapter 1 - "Diagnosis Day" In this journal entry, we welcomed Bruce McIntyre and Roberta Carson who shared their experiences from their "Diagnosis Day". Bruce McIntyre: Bruce is the author of Receiving Peace, Thrive Anyway, Parkinson Positive, Graceful Transitions and Resilient Life. He serves as the CEO of the Oklahoma Parkinson’s Alliance. Bruce shares his expert guidance and warm humor with thousands of people each year. As a caregiver for his wife since 2004, Bruce understands the world of chronic illness and caregiving. Roberta Carson: After the death of her teenage son from brain cancer, Roberta started The ZaggoCare System, a nonprofit organization, to provide information and tools to help others better manage illnesses and injuries. Zaggo enables patients and families to become empowered, engaged, effective members of their medical teams to help them receive the best care possible. With an easy-to-use guidebook and organizational tools, the unique, award-winning ZaggoCare System helps patients and families through every step of a healthcare journey. Additionally, the Zaggo blog provides practical information to help patients and family caregivers navigate the medical world. Visit: https://www.thecaregiversjournalpodcast.com

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome Amit Shrivastava as guest to the show to discuss his new revolutionary platform for helping families find and hire caregivers.

Unfortunately, they had to sell their company because of their son’s health as his body was not liking the cold and they moved to Austin, Texas a few years ago.

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Conscious Caregiving with L & L is "Tackling the Tough Conversations."

The topic of this episode is on The Bureaucracy of Care & Seniors" and features an All-Star Panel.

Amy D. Spring; Owner/Founder, Wise-Transitions:

Amy Spring, the guiding force behind Wise-Transitions, is a physical therapist with a passion for improving the caregiving landscape. Her professional journey spans over 30 years in diverse healthcare leadership roles, including home care agencies, hospitals, and skilled nursing facilities.

A graduate of D’Youville College in Buffalo, NY, Amy's rich experience provides her with an invaluable understanding of the healthcare system's regulations, dynamics, and potential blind spots.

Donna de Villiers - Dementia Prevention Consultant, Vivira Brain Health:

Donna de Villiers is a Dementia Prevention Consultant. She helps daughters and granddaughters of people living with Dementia prevent the disease by balancing hormones, building beautiful brain health habits, and tweaking lifestyles. With two thirds of Dementia cases being women, it's time to really start digging into what we can do to reduce the risk factors of this disease! Donna started working in Health and Social Care here in the UK in 2007 and after many roles, and many qualifications. She built her business to help combat disease and give quality of life back to people.

Longevity isn't fun without the quality of life to go with it. The mission of Vivira Brain Health is to help reduce the tripling figures of Dementia diagnosis, and support as many women as possible in their pursuit to live full, healthy, and happy lives.

Malika Moore – Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Founder of Aging & Amazing®:

Malika Moore, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, is an Aging Life Care Professional™ and also a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the District of Columbia and Maryland.

Ms. Moore founded Aging & Amazing®, a company that strives to support older adults, caregivers, and the networks that surround them. Her niche and life mission is ensuring care and interaction with older adults is more than a checkbox.

Ms. Moore has over a decade of experience as a professional, clinician, public speaker, and business owner and has a genuine passion for older adults and caregivers. Her work in behavioral health, community education, and healthcare have prepared her for her current venture of serving the aging population, family caregivers, and professionals who specialize in aging.

Malika is a leader who enjoys uplifting and inspiring others. Ms. Moore was recognized and awarded the 2022 Aging Life Care Association "Rising Star" award. She also serves as a board member for All Home Care Matters and Home Care Partners. Malika holds dearly and values her family and friends and is personally invested in ensuring we all know that it is possible to live and be Aging & Amazing®!

Mary Farquhar Family Caregiver:

Dr. Anne Kenney - Geriatrician and Palliative Care Physician, Author and founder of Together in Dementia:

Anne Kenny, MD is a geriatrician and palliative care physician, author of Making Tough Decisions about End-of-Life Care in Dementia and Founder of Together in Dementia - an educational/informational blog/coaching/course platform with a mission to provide physician-informed approach to care from someone who has also traveled the dementia journey.

Dr. Kenny has a new book co-authored with Teresa Webb, woman living with and advocate for Frontotemporal Dementia. The book, Your True North: A Guided Journal for Those Living with Cognitive Loss or Dementia about Legacy, Love and Wishes for the End of a Life Well-lived, will be available in the fall.

Tracy Cram Perkins, Author:

Tracy Cram Perkins, is a four-time dementia caregiving survivor with sixteen-years of experience caring for four family members with dementia. She is the author of Dementia Home Care: How to Prepare Before, During, and After. Dementia Home Care is the 2022 Chanticleer (pronounced chant-ih-clear) International Book Awards (CIBAs) winner for Instructional and Insightful How-To Manuals.

It is Tracy's mission to supply caregivers with proven shortcuts to reduce the stresses of dementia care. She teaches hands-on solutions for reducing repetitive questions, melt downs, and wandering. She includes tips using simple, inexpensive fixes found at hardware and office supply stores.

All guests contact information and links are available on the official website of Conscious Caregiving with L & L: https://consciouscaregivingll.com/

Thank you for joining your co-hosts Lori La Bey and Lance A. Slatton for another episode of Conscious Caregiving with L & L where we are "Tackling Tough Conversations"

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Lizette Cloete the owner of "Think Different" Dementia to the show as our guest.

Lizette Cloete, the passionate owner of “Think Different” Dementia, helps families navigate dementia together, using science-backed strategies. Her formal training is as an Occupational Therapist, who graduated from the University of Pretoria in South Africa in 1992. With her extensive knowledge and experience, she has become an international thought leader in dementia caregiving. In 2023, she was awarded a grant from the South Carolina Alzheimer’s Resource Coordination Center to develop an innovative online education, group dementia coaching and collaborative community for family care partners, entirely accessible from a cell phone, which launches March 2024. Lizette holds numerous specialty dementia certifications and is the only Occupational Therapist in South Carolina to hold the Skills2Care certification, an evidence based framework to decrease challenging behaviors so common in dementia care.

With over 30 years of experience, Lizette is a sought-after national and international speaker on dementia-related topics. Her new podcast, Dementia Caregiving for Families is your primary way to connect. As a proud mother of two daughters and one son-in-love, Lizette is also a lover of animals. She and her husband currently reside in South Carolina with their two cats, one dog, and many backyard chickens.

Summary of "Think Different" Dementia, LLC:

“Think Different” Dementia, LLC was established in 2020 after the founder and owner, Lizette Cloete, OTR/L identified a societal need to change how we think about dementia caregiving. After spending time in dementia support groups online, the owner recognized the often negative nature of these groups and identified a lack of reliable and accurate information being distributed to the members of these free communities.

Recognizing that dementia caregiving is complex, progressive and often results in “challenging behaviors”, we also believe that it is possible to help family caregivers of people living with dementia navigate the process while maintaining their own wellbeing and relationships. Using evidence-based practices, we know that having a systematic and caregiver focused approach to dementia caregiving makes the whole caregiving process easier. We provide family caregivers the simple tools they need to live their lives to the fullest.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome the CEO & President of Compassion and Choices Kim Callinan and the National Director of Engagement and Education Jessica Empeño to the show.

About Kim Callinan:

Kim Callinan has served as Compassion & Choices president and chief executive officer since 2018. Kim launched Compassion & Choices’ Finish Strong initiative designed to empower patients to take charge of the final chapter of their lives, with a specific focus on helping people plan for a possible dementia diagnosis and closing the disparities in end-of-life care and planning that exist for communities of color.

Kim holds a master’s degree in public policy from Georgetown University, an MBA from the University of Maryland Global Campus, a bachelor’s degree in government from Oberlin College and a certificate in the fundamentals of gerontology through a joint program offered by the American Society on Aging and the University of Southern California Davis School of Gerontology. She also recently received an end-of-life doula certificate from the University of Vermont.

About Jessica Empeño:

Jessica Empeño is a medical social worker with over 23 years’ experience as a clinician, leader, educator and advocate specializing in end-of-life care, dementia, caregiver support, program development and leadership. Jessica has a Masters of Social Work degree from San Diego State University and certificates in Health Law & Policy, Dementia Positive Approach to Care, Human Services Management and Interdisciplinary Palliative Care.

About Compassion & Choices:

Compassion & Choices improves care, expands options and empowers everyone to chart their end-of-life journey. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. We envision a society that affirms life and accepts the inevitability of death, embraces expanded options for compassionate dying, and empowers everyone to choose end-of-life care that reflects their values, priorities, and beliefs.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome back the team from PHOTAVIA and Lori Snow from Spiro100.

Joe Hausch is President/CEO/CCO/Co-Founder, Investor and a Director. He has been part of day-to-day operations since 2014, raising funding, building a team and evaluating all opportunities in order to maintain controlled growth and profit expectations. He also owns and manages Hausch Design Agency specializing in building brands. Entrepreneur, Inventor, Artist, Designer, Musician; Joe has been doing Strategic/Creative Services for start-ups, small businesses and consulting not-for-profit organizations in Wisconsin since 1984.

Clients have included NFL HOF QB Brett Favre to Bemis Corporation. Penfield Children’s Center to PHOTAVIA. As CEO/CCO he oversees PHOTAVIA’s day-to-day operations, maintaining awareness, and the shaping of its external and internal landscape. Joe has helped build over 500 brands, from startup to Fortune 500 and has personally been a vested part of 6 startups to date.

John Wright, CAPS, CSSP, Channel Partner/Affiliate, National Sales/ Sanus Lifestyle Solutions, Owner, Senior Living and Technology executive with 21+ years of progressive leadership experience that optimizes financial and operational performance. Extensive experience in all aspects of senior living, age in place, and revenue cycle management.

A successful career spent building healthcare strategies, launching impactful technology solutions, and growing diverse senior living businesses. Has strong entrepreneurial acumen and business development skills which led to partnerships with in-home care providers and senior living communities nationally.

Roger Anunsen is a former trial attorney who, for over two decades, has been breaking new Applied Brain Science ground in higher education and by designing and testing non-pharmaceutical cognitive interventions. From 2011 to 2022, Roger taught college neuroscience courses based on two textbooks that he co-authored, The Aging Mind and Cognitive Activity Design. After 11 years, Roger stepped away from teaching and is now dedicating his time to research with companies such as PHOTAVIA.

Lori Snow is the VP of Strategic Partnerships.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Kristin Nelson as a guest to the show. Kristin is the founder and CEO of Audivi Memory Banks.

About Kristin Nelson:

Kristin Nelson is Founder/CEO of Audivi Memory Banks, a business inspired by her experience as a caregiver for her mother with dementia. Seeing firsthand how her mother's long-term memories provided comfort and familiarity, Kristin developed Audivi Memory Banks to help individuals & families save and play back memories, anytime, anywhere, with the click of a button. Prior to this work, Kristin served for over 20 years on the senior leadership team of Partners In Health, an international nonprofit dedicated to providing quality health care to the poorest of the poor. Kristin is passionate about ensuring provision of services to those who need them most: in this case, memories to those losing their memory. She has been certified as a Dementia Care Practitioner, a UCLA Memory Trainer, and is an Advisor at University of Vermont's Women in Leadership Program at the Grossman School of Business.

About Audivi Memory Banks:

Audivi Memory Banks is an app-based reminiscing activity and tool. Ask a question, record a memory, upload a photo & play back memories anytime, anywhere with the click of a button. Audivi's audio-visual platform creates an engaging trip down memory lane that ensures on-going access to memories and the benefits of reminiscing. For those experiencing memory loss, Audivi Memory Banks provide a comforting touchstone to the past, a springboard to connect & converse, and a tool for caregivers to redirect moments of anxiety, confusion, irritability.

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Conscious Caregiving with L & L heard you and we have answered! We are proud to share with you an exclusive interview with Lance A. Slatton & Lori La Bey. Lance A. Slatton is co-host of Conscious Caregiving with L & L and the host of All Home Care Matters. Lance's professional job is as a senior case manager at Enriched Life Home Care Services in Livonia, MI. In 2023 Lance was named a 50 under 50 for 2023. Lance is a regular writer for McKnight's Home Care News, DailyCaring.com, and AgeBuzz. Lori La Bey is co-host of Conscious Caregiving with L & L and has been a pillar of the dementia community for many years and is was recognized as a top influencer in the arena of dementia. Lori is also the host of Alzheimer's Speaks Radio, Co-Founder of Dementia Map, and author of "Betty the Bald Chicken: Lessons in How to Care". Lori has been recognized by Oprah Winfrey, Dr. Oz, and Maria Shriver for her tireless work and advocacy for families, caregivers, and loved ones living with dementia.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Todd "TJ" Keitz as guest to the show. Todd has been a lifelong social good evangelist! He has woven community engagement and social impact into his life since he was a teenager volunteering in senior living centers. Over decades, he has created inter-generational programs to build bridges within families and communities, volunteered as a “hugger” for Special Olympics, developed business curriculum for high schools, taught in inner-city schools for Junior Achievement, been a mentor for Big Brothers Big Sisters, and worked in the healthcare industry – consulting with major employers, hospital systems, pharmaceutical companies, and other entities. Further, he’s also proud of the work he did consulting in the 2000s with the South Korean government related to technology companies. Through all of this, Todd became even more driven to translate his personal ethos on a much larger scale within his professional life. In 2012, he co-founded and served as CEO of Stock4Good, to make the process infinity easier for individuals to donate stock of publicly held companies to 501(c)3 organizations. In 2018, he relocated to Florida to become primary caregiver and patient advocate for his mom and dad – each with life threatening diseases. During those experiences, Todd saw first-hand the many challenges all caregivers and patient advocates face. That led him to create My Care Friends, a unique, new website for caregivers and patient advocates to connect and support each other. Additionally, Todd currently serves on the National Advisory Council of the American Association of Caregiving Youth, which brings greater awareness to the needs of over 5.4 million caregiving youth in the U.S. He also sits on the board of SayAh! - a nonprofit focused on improving health literacy across the U.S. About My Care Friends: My Care Friends TM was born out of caregiving and advocacy experiences that the founder/CEO, Todd Keitz, has had throughout his life. This started at nine years old for his uncle and continued 20 years later for his sister after a horrific car accident. Over the following decade, he helped his mom care/advocate for his grandparents before they passed, and since 2018 he has been primary caregiver and advocate for her and his dad who have been battling life threatening diseases. Considering the depth of all that, combined with Todd’s business experiences over decades in and with the healthcare industry, it’s apparent where the passion and mission for My Care Friends comes from! That mission is two-fold: 1) To enable caregivers and patient advocates to meaningfully and easily connect in a safe online community, with others in similar roles – so they are “seen”, “heard” and “understood.” Whether communicating about a caregiving, patient advocacy, or personal interest topic, My Care Friends provides many ways for community members to Connect. Share. Support.TM 2) To provide online and offline educational programs and resources, which puts forth robust and relevant content that gives caregivers and patient advocates information and tools to be more knowledgeable, confident, and effective in their roles. My Care Friends encourages all caregivers, patients advocates, loved ones and patients themselves to create a FREE account at www.mycarefriends.com to Connect. Share. Support. each other and to stay informed about offline programming!

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome Raphael Rubens the co-founder of MemoMate as a guest to the show. Raphael Rubens is originally from Amsterdam, The Netherlands, but has resided in Tel Aviv, Israel for the past three years. He holds a BSc in Business & Hotel Management and an MA in Behavioral Economics. Raphael, together with three co-founders founded MemoMate, inspired by his grandmother's wish to document her life story. Leveraging generative AI, Raphael and his team aim to enrich the lives of seniors. With a robust background in business and a keen understanding of human behavior, he is deeply passionate about eldercare and the role of technology in enhancing it. MemoMate, his second start-up, aims to preserve the precious memories of seniors while supporting their well-being. Summary of MemoMate: MemoMate is a pioneering platform designed to support seniors in recording their life stories. Using AI, it not only helps in preserving precious memories but also monitors the wellbeing of its users. These insights are then translated into personalized wellness recommendations, empowering caregivers with actionable data to enhance the care they provide. At the core of MemoMate is the belief that every story matters, and every aspect of wellbeing is vital.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome a good friend of show as our guest, Dr. George Ackerman the found of TogetherForSharon.

Dr. George Ackerman is from Brooklyn, N.Y. Now residing in Florida, he works in the fields of law, police, and education. George lost his mother, Sharon Riff Ackerman on 1/1/2020 due to Parkinson’s Disease.

George wanted to honor his mother and continue to help in the Parkinson’s awareness cause and did not know how to bring change. With my family, we started TogetherForSharon® as a family for the purpose of keeping my mother, Sharon Riff Ackerman’s, memory alive and to share the message of Parkinson’s Awareness and hope for a cure.

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome award winning author, Tracy Cram Perkins as guest to the show.

An award winning author, Tracy Cram Perkins is a four-time dementia caregiving survivor with sixteen-years of experience caring for four family members with dementia. She is the author of Dementia Home Care, How to Prepare Before, During and After. It is her mission to supply caregivers with proven shortcuts to reduce the stresses of dementia care.

Tracy teaches hands-on solutions for reducing repetitive questions, melt downs, and wandering. She includes tips using simple, inexpensive fixes found at hardware and office supply stores.

Summary of "Dementia Home Care: How to Prepare Before, During, and After":

Dementia Home Care meets an unmet emotional need that bridges the isolation and the not knowing what to do that comes with dementia care. Written with the caregiver in mind, the book is large print and easy to read. It is designed for the stressed-out caregiver, supplying them multiple options to try or mix and match to meet their loved one’s ever-changing needs.

It teaches how to use the hardware and office supply stores to make a home more dementia friendly on a budget, how to prepare for emergencies and how to distract and redirect a loved one. It gives caregivers a tool to identify why their loved one is melting down and steps to prevent the meltdown that can be shared with respite caregivers, family members, and friends.

It reduces the stresses of dementia care--giving and receiving. It contains 130+ resources and services from adaptive clothing to wandering prevention. It includes resources for those in underserved communities, including financial and legal resources. It addresses care for those with English as a second language, and the Deaf and LGBTQIA+ communities, and includes resources for people of color and Spanish speaking communities.

For those in rural communities with access to the internet, it supplies links for global resource directories for services they could not find locally. It is a dementia map, how-to manual, and toolbox for readers to flip to the page that meets the challenges of the day from diagnosis to beyond death.

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome back Becky Reel the founder of Reel Home Care Consulting. After 15 years in marketing and sales with Fortune 500 companies, Becky took over her family’s home care business, For Papa's Sake Home Care in Chicago. When Becky stepped in, For Papa’s Sake was in complete disarray and headed towards bankruptcy. Under Becky’s leadership, she transformed For Papa's Sake’s reputation and brand, grew revenue over 300% year over year along with receiving countless awards for Business Leadership, Provider of Choice, Employer of Choice, and Leader in Excellence from Home Care Pulse. In addition, in 2022, For Papa's Sake was ranked the #1 home care agency in North America by Home Care Pulse. In 2023, Becky successfully sold For Papa's Sake to Avid Health at Home. She launched Reel Home Care Consulting; a coaching and consulting firm focused on improving our home care industry as a whole and working directly with agencies to address their individual needs. She works with both independent and franchises to increase revenue, develop and streamline processes, improve work/life balance for their employees and beyond. Becky is an active member of the Arlington Heights Chamber of Commerce and serves on the Board of Directors for a local non-profit FamilyForward. In addition, Becky was awarded ‘Business Leader - Heart of Gold Award’ in 2022 through the Village of Arlington Heights. She resides in Arlington Heights with her husband and 2 young children, Hazel and Harrison.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Michelle Gomes and Michelle Costa the co-founders of Evaheld as guest to the show.

Michelle Gomes was the MD of a Sydney based marketing and communications content production agency, specializing in financial services until she resigned to focus solely on Evaheld. For nearly a decade, she had also been volunteering to help people in their end of life period create memorialisation content, delivering it for them posthumously, and this was how the idea for Evaheld was born.

Michelle Costa has had a long career in the finance and banking industry and is currently a Chapter Lead for a team of Business Analysts at the Commonwealth Bank of Australia. Michelle’s experience with caring for a father who suffered through a long and arduous battle with dementia, and the sad realization that she did not possess any audio or video content of him once it was too late, and was her catalyst for Co-founding Evaheld.

About Evaheld:

Preserve your personal and family legacy for loved ones and future generations. Evaheld helps people privately create and safe-keep messages and memorialization content, resting assured that they will be securely and independently delivered to your loved ones and memorialized as intended, posthumously.

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Conscious Caregiving with L & L is "Tackling the Tough Conversations."

The topic of this episode is on Seniors and the Holidays Co-Hosts, Lance A. Slatton and Lori La Bey.

During this discussion Lance and Lori discuss and share common issues that may arise for families and their loved ones during the holiday season and offer and explore tips, suggestions, and resources to help ensure a joyous holiday season.

Lance A. Slatton is the host of All Home Care Matters and Lori La Bey is the founder of Alzheimer's Speaks and the co-founder of Dementia Map.

Visit Conscious Caregiving with L & L "Tackling the Tough Conversations" for more resources, tips, and conversations on the tough issues by visiting their official website: https://consciouscaregivingll.com/

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Ted Fischer the Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer of Ageless Innovation as guest to the show. Ted has spent his 30-year career building, working with and leading collaborative teams committed to achieving positive financial and social impact. As CEO of Ageless Innovation, Ted is focused on accelerating the growth and impact of the JOY FOR ALL brand, that he and his former Hasbro team spun out and acquired from Hasbro in 2018. He joined Hasbro in 2015 as Vice President of Business Development to help lead the identification and execution of new growth platforms, focused in the Health and Wellness space. Ted and his team launched the JOY FOR ALL brand in 2015 and continue the exciting work focused on unleashing the power of play to positively impact the lives of older adults and their families. About Ageless Innovation: In 2015, an innovation team was formed at Hasbro and given the unique challenge to leverage the company’s assets in new markets and new channels at scale. Focusing on the health and wellness space, they were convinced that creating engaging products that foster meaningful connections through play, joy and happiness would have a positive impact. Fueling this new initiative was the insight that there was a void of products which bring fun and play to the older adult market and the belief that play knows no age limit. It was with that critical insight that the Joy for All brand was born. Based on consumer insights, immersive market research, and constant feedback from aging loved ones and their families the team knew that there were opportunities to provide the joy and playful companionship of pet ownership with the new line of interactive Joy for All Companion Pets. Designed with extensive input from older adults, Joy for All launched the Companion Pet Cats in December 2015. Within the first few months, the effects that these products were having on aging loved ones and their families was undeniable. Stories and testimonials from caregivers on the positive impact on isolation, loneliness, and all forms of cognitive decline continued to validate what the team had believed all along – that the power of play was relevant at all stages of life.

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome the directors of the film UNSEEN: How We're Failing Parent Caregivers & Why It Matters, Tom K. Dyer and Amanda Dyer. Tom K. Dyer is an award-winning director and cinematographer living in Nashville, Tennessee. Tom has extensive experience directing films for brands and nonprofits, traveling around the world to create television commercials, short films, online content, fundraising stories and more. Amanda Dyer runs a digital marketing agency in Nashville, Tennessee, where she oversees the strategy and execution of marketing and design initiatives as president and creative director. Amanda has led marketing and creative teams in a variety of corporate and nonprofit settings. About the Film: Unseen: How We’re Failing Parent Caregivers & Why It Matters exposes the challenges and barriers faced by many parents caring for disabled or medically complex children and adults, with the goal of increasing support and resources for caregiving families. Through the power of unfiltered, compelling stories, the Unseen documentary cultivates compassion and serves as a catalyst for change for the caregivers in our communities. Why This Film?: An estimated 16.8 million people in America are caring for a child with disabilities or complex medical needs. The demands of daily life and chronic stress can negatively affect the mental and physical wellbeing of parent caregivers. With few who understand their situation and limited accommodations, caregivers often feel alone in their struggle. The Unseen documentary takes a raw, honest look at the parent caregiving experience. If caregivers are ever going to get the support and resources they deserve, they first have to be seen and heard. Unseen puts faces and stories to this issue to enable change for millions of caregivers and their families. Synopsis: Unseen follows Jess and Ryan Ronne, a blended family with 8 children, including Lucas, who has profound disabilities requiring total care. Their situation has gotten more and more challenging as Lucas gets older and stronger. With limited resources and support, caregiving takes a toll on their physical and mental health. It’s a common story among parent caregivers: the isolation, uncertainty about the future, lack of options, and a never-ending daily to-do list means the role of caregiver overpowers nearly every other facet of life. Video diaries from diverse caregivers featured in the film illustrate this universality, while interviews with mental health and policy/legal experts provide a broader view on the societal impacts. Through the power of unfiltered, compelling human stories, Unseen cultivates compassion and tangible support for the caregivers in our communities.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Mary Fridley as guest to the show. Mary Fridley is on the faculty at the East Side Institute in NYC, co-creator and leader of The Joy of Dementia (You Gotta Be Kidding!) and co-founder and coordinator of Reimagining Dementia: A Creative Coalition for Justice. Mary practiced social therapy for 12 years and uses the social therapeutic approach as an experienced teacher and workshop leader. She is author or co-author of several articles and chapters, has been interviewed by numerous media outlets and presented at national and international conferences on the Joy of Dementia and on the Coalition. Additionally, Mary is a guest columnist for agebuzz.com, a playwright and theater director and makes her living as a non-profit fundraising consultant. About Reimagining Dementia: Reimagining Dementia: A Creative Coalition for Justice is an international group of people living with dementia, care partners, family and community members, dementia activists and allies, health professionals, advocates, artists, academics, policymakers, and others. Reimagining Dementia a committed to creativity, belonging, caring relationships, joy and growth for everyone. Launched in September 2020, Reimagining Dementia currently has over 840 members* in 35 countries. Unique to Reimagining Dementia is a belief in creativity (the arts, theater, music, movement, improvisation, performance and more) as an innovative way to challenge the stigma and stereotypes of dementia and the inequities experienced by people living with it, and to effect individual and social transformation. Over the last three years, Reimagining Dementia has emerged as a grassroots catalyst for change and a visible “hub” and community of support for all. By leveraging the collective resources, experiences and successes of our members and others with whom we are collaborating, Reimagining Dementia is giving everyone impacted by dementia the tools, understandings and support they need to thrive. We will not stop until all people across the globe have access to life-affirming alternatives in every aspect of their lives.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Dr. Gretchen Hawley as guest to the show.

Gretchen Hawley is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and a Multiple Sclerosis Certified Specialist.

Dr. Hawley utilizes the concept of neuroplasticity in her online MS wellness program, The MSing Link, to help her clients reduce fatigue, get stronger, improve their balance, and walk better. Her clients feel more energized, empowered, in control over their life with MS. Dr. Hawley has been a keynote speaker at several MS conferences, lectures frequently for MS support groups, and continues to keep herself up-to-date on the newest & best MS practices by attending the MS Consortium each year.

Dr. Hawley also uses social media to create more awareness around neuroplasticity exercises that can help improve the quality of life for individuals living with MS worldwide.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Tia Newcomer the CEO of CaringBridge as guest to the show.

Tia is an experienced board member and health technology leader known for building cultures that create enterprise value through customer experience excellence and purpose driven brands supported by scalable technology platforms. She joined CaringBridge as the CEO in 2021, ensuring all operations contribute toward the CaringBridge vision – a world where no one goes through a health journey alone.

Prior to joining CaringBridge, Tia was the Chief Commercial Officer at Generate Life sciences and has spent the last 20 years in executive roles with a foundation in blue chip technology and consumer packaged goods companies. She has led commercial value creation, creating successful go to market strategies in Global Fortune 100, Private Equity and VC backed companies primarily in the Health Tech industry.

In addition to serving on the CaringBridge board of directors, Tia is an independent board member for Inherent BioSciences, a biotechnology company pioneering epigenetic medicine for complex diseases. She also serves on the Advisory Committee for the American Cancer Society National Breast Cancer Roundtable. And is a member of the Dean’s Advisory Board for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of Journalism and Mass Communications.

About CaringBridge:

CaringBridge is a nonprofit, free communication platform for family caregivers and the loved ones they support on a health journey. We make it easy to share updates while organizing and activating a support network.

Facing a health challenge is overwhelming, isolating, and lonely. It’s not easy to share updates, ask for help, or coordinate care. During these vulnerable times, people need a trusted place to feel comfortable and protected while receiving support from family and friends.

CaringBridge believes that healing happens when we’re surrounded by loved ones. Since 1997, we’ve supported people to simplify group communication and share sensitive health information – on a personal CaringBridge page that’s free from ads, private, and easy to use.

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome Alexandra Drane the CEO of ARCHANGELS as guest to the show.

Alexandra is co-founder and CEO of ARCHANGELS. She co-founded Eliza Corporation (acquired by HMS Holdings Corp: HMSY), Engage with Grace, and three other companies (all boot-strapped). A serial entrepreneur, she is also a cashier-on-leave for Walmart. She believes communities are the front line of health, that caregivers are our country’s greatest asset, and that we need to expand the definition of health to include life.

Alexandra sits on the RAND Social and Economic Policy Advisory Board, the Leadership Council for the Rosalynn Carter Institute, the Entrepreneurs Council for The United States of Care, and Harvard Medical School’s Executive Council of the Division of Sleep Medicine. She is a member of the Board of Directors of C-TAC and has served as a vice chair of the Trustee Advisory Board at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center from 2012-2020 and returned to the role in 2021. She also serves on the Board of Advisors for Open Notes. She served for 7 years as a Governor appointed member of the Executive Committee for the Board of Directors for MassTech, until March 2022.

Alex was named to the first ever Care100 list in 2020, a Top Women in Healthcare’s Entrepreneur of the Year by PR News, one of Disruptive Women in Health Care’s Women to Watch, one of Boston Globe’s Top 100 Women Leaders, and listed in Boston Business Journal’s “40 Under 40”, as well as an inventor on multiple patents. She joined Prudential Financial as a Wellness Expert for a film series called “The State of US” that was turned into a national ad campaign and generated close to two billion impressions. She has one hobby outside of her passion for revolutionizing health care, and her love of family and adventure…car racing.

Connect with ARCHANGELS:

Official Website: https://www.archangels.me/

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Conscious Caregiving with L & L is "Tackling the Tough Conversations." The topic of this episode is on Seniors & Travelling and features an All-Star Panel. Jan Dougherty is a nursing expert and leader in dementia care crafting award winning programs to support people living with dementia and their family caregivers. She is founder and president of TravALZ, LLC a company focused on dementia capable travel. Her book entitled, “Travel Well with Dementia: Essential Tips to Enjoy the Journey,” offers the first comprehensive look at supporting travel for people with dementia and their families. Jan is active in creating Dementia Friendly Airports while also certifying professional travel companions to support disabled and older adults to travel with success. Dave Johnston is a retired pastor who has lived with, worked with, traveled with. and loved seniors up to 100+ years old his entire life. Laurie Scherrer was diagnosed with Early Onset Alzheimer's & FTD at the age of 55. Unable to continue a professional career she turned her focus towards helping others through their dementia journey. Laurie serves on the Dementia Action Alliance Board of Directors. She is an international speaker and has been featured in many articles and documentaries. On her website, dementiadaze.com Laurie shares her feelings, challenges, symptoms and adjustments in hopes of encouraging other Persons with Dementia and care partners to explore ways to live beyond dementia. Together with her husband Roy, they work hard trying to identify the obstacles that trigger Laurie’s challenges and symptoms and then figure out what adjustments they can make to overcome the barriers. “We don’t automatically accept that I CAN’T do things anymore, instead we try to figure out HOW I CAN.” Lynn Smith has been involved with the Sunflower program for the last three years, creating awareness, managing products and distribution, and helping companies implement throughout their organizations. Lynn is also the CMO for The Sourcing Group, the previous North American partner for the Hidden Disabilities program. She is dedicated to making the Sunflower a national symbol for non-visible disabilities throughout the US. Conscious Caregiving with L & L is proudly hosted by Lori La Bey and Lance A. Slatton. Visit the Official Website for Conscious Caregiving with L & L: https://lnkd.in/gu8sSTvG Lori La Bey is the host of Alzheimer's Speaks Radio and the Co-Founder of Dementia Map Resource Directory. Lance A. Slatton is the host of All Home Care Matters and is a Senior Case Manager for Enriched Life Home Care Services.

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"Real Talk with Real Caregivers" is proud to welcome you to the show where we have real talk with real caregivers featuring the Caregiver Champions from Caregiving.com. This is the show where we bring real caregivers together to discuss the real issues that are facing caregivers. The topic of this episode is "Life After Caregiving". "Real Talk with Real Caregivers" is here to help support you and your loved ones on your caregiving journey through discussions, advice and insights to help you know that you are not alone. The show is brought to you by Caregiving.com & All Home Care Matters with Co-Hosts Christina Keys and Lance A. Slatton.

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome Janice Shokrian the Founder & CEO of Tausi brands.

The idea for Tausi came to founder Janice Shokrian in 2018, when visiting her father in a nursing home. Sleeping upright in his chair was incredibly uncomfortable, and causing him a lot of neck pain. She wanted to help him be more comfortable, and provide support for his head and neck. Pillows and props kept slipping, and would not stay in position, and ultimately did not offer enough support. She knew there had to be a better way.

Over the next few weeks she searched to find an existing solution but came up empty-handed. She realized there was a huge need for a better way to support the head and neck while sleeping upright in a chair. So she took matters into her own hands, and with limited sewing skills, rolled up her sleeves to tackle the challenge head-on. She collaborated with her father in the initial development stages, and Tausi was born.

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All Home Care Matters was privileged to welcome Mr. Ian Kremer, J.D. as guest to the show. Ian is the Executive Director of the LEAD Coalition (Leaders Engaged on Alzheimer's Disease). Ian N. Kremer, JD, has worked on federal, state and local dementia policy since 1996. Since 2012, Kremer has served as Executive Director of the LEAD Coalition (Leaders Engaged on Alzheimer’s Disease: http://www.leadcoalition.org), the uniting voice of over 200 member and allied organizations. The LEAD Coalition accelerates transformational progress in care and support to enrich the quality of life of those with dementia and their caregivers, detection and diagnosis, and research leading to prevention, effective treatment, and cures. The LEAD Coalition has helped to secure historic funding increases for the National Institutes of Health (NIH), expand Medicare services for people with dementia and protect dementia-relevant components of Medicaid and the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, expand the role of people with dementia and their care partners in medical product development, build a nation-wide network of dementia-friendly communities, and worked with a dozen federal agencies to overcome health disparities, clarify regulatory pathways, combat elder abuse, and improve cognitive impairment detection and diagnosis, clinical care, and access to home and community-based services.

Currently, Kremer serves on the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Medicare Evidence Development & Coverage Advisory Committee (MEDCAC), the Public Policy & Aging Report editorial board, and on steering and advisory committees for the National Institute on Aging (NIA) IMbedded Pragmatic AD/ADRD Clinical Trials (IMPACT) Collaboratory, the CDC-funded NYU School of Medicine BOLD Public Health Center of Excellence on Early Detection of Dementia and University of Minnesota Public Health Center of Excellence on Dementia Caregiving, the CDC National Healthy Brain Initiative Tribal Project (American Indian and Alaska Native Resource Center for Brain Health), the NIA-funded Hopkins’ Economics of Alzheimer’s Disease and Services (HEADS) Center and the WeCareAdvisor Study, the UCLA Dementia Care Study, the Alzheimer’s Disease Patient and Caregiver Engagement (AD PACE) initiative, the Dementia Friendly America initiative, and the Davos Alzheimer’s Collaborative Champions Cabinet.

Previously, Kremer served on the steering committees for the NIH’s 2017 and 2020 National Research Summit on Care, Services, and Supports for Persons with Dementia and Their Caregivers, the CDC Healthy Brain Initiative’s (HBI) Leadership Committee developing the 20-18-2023 and the 2023-2027 Public Health Roadmaps, and the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) Prescription Drug User Fee Act Stakeholders Working Groups for PDUFA VI and PDUFA VII. Kremer was an external reviewer for the 2021 National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine report, “Meeting the Challenge of Caring for Persons Living with Dementia and Their Care Partners and Caregivers: A Way Forward.” Kremer also has served on steering and advisory committees for a wide variety of organizations and projects including the International Collaboration for Real-World Evidence in Alzheimer’s Disease in the US (ICARE-AD-US) Study, the Gerontological Society of America Workgroup on Cognitive Impairment Detection and Earlier Diagnosis, the PCORI Dementia Research Methods project, the Brain Health Partnership, the Alzheimer’s Disease Partnership for Evidence and Value (AD EVAL), and Dementia Alliance International. Kremer holds degrees from Washington University in Saint Louis and the University of Michigan School of Law.

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome Scott Fulton as guest to the show. Scott is the President of Home Ideations LLC, President of the National Aging In Place Council (NAIPC), and Member of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. Scott's engineering and research career scraped the underbelly of industries, tickled the vast expanse of science and innovation, and tangoed between corporate and entrepreneurship. Today, Scott teaches Longevity at the Universities of Virginia and Delaware campuses. He’s a podcast host and co-author of 3 books. WHEALTHSPAN is next, due out in late 2023. The LIVABILITY PROJECT is a model home Scott designed and built for 21st-century longevity living with his wife Cindy. Regarded by many as an innovative and pragmatic thought leader in the aging space, Scott says he mostly just wants to help us all be better informed and ask better questions.

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Conscious Caregiving with L & L is "Tackling the Tough Conversations. The topic of this episode is on Seniors & Scams and features an All-Star Panel. Grace Whiting, J.D., is a national expert in health policy and long-term care and a passionate advocate for family caregivers. In previous roles, she has served as the Chief Executive Officer of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys and the National Alliance for Caregiving. Detective Ryan Weber has been a police officer for the Roseville Police Department for 10 years. Detective Weber is currently assigned as a Fraud Detective where he has investigated various fraud, forgery, identity theft and scams for the past three years. Detective Weber also has experience as a Use of Force instructor, SWAT operator, street crimes investigator and patrol officer. Jay Haapala is Associate State Director of Community Engagement with AARP Minnesota and leads their Fraud Watch Network program which serves to educate consumers about fraud, scams, and identity theft. He and AARP Fraud Fighter volunteers have met with hundreds of community groups, law enforcement officials and fraud investigators, continually learning how people are being targeted by these criminals. He has worked and served in the nonprofit sector for 20 years building volunteer programs, and now is doing the same to build a network of Fraud Fighters with AARP. Ken Whelan’s mother, Linda Whelan, was the victim of scammers. She is proof scammers don’t care who you are or how kind you’ve been. Ken will share with us how Scammers affected not only his mom, but his family. Jeffry Borglum went to Hawkeye Technical College in Waterloo, IA where he received an AAS degree. Jeffry is the founder of Techie Dudes. John Sweeney, is an active and savvy 94 year old retired John Deere dealer. He was married for 71 years and lost his wife Virginia to dementia. John is very social and is known for his technology skills & his tenacity to correct injustice by leveraging his business acumen. John will cover scams he dealt with, but he also to a long-term insurance company to court in order to collect policy benefits for his wife.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Johann Ilgenfritz the founder of UK Health Radio as a guest to the show.

Johann Ilgenfritz attained his Master in Photography in Germany, working successfully as a Fashion Photographer for almost 20 years in Hamburg and London. His life changed drastically in 2011 when he had a heart attack and six month later was diagnosed with cancer. After unsuccessful Radio Therapy he was left to find other survival options which he did.

During his search for a cure he turned to the internet, soon realising that there was no one central point where you could turn to for health information, regardless of what your health issue are. He decided on creating just such a platform and six weeks later, launched the beta version of UK Health Radio, still fighting cancer at the time. Through Nutritional and Lifestyle changes he finally beat cancer and since then has been named “The Curator of Health Expertise” by the press. His mantra is “Good health is a choice”! He went from believing that cancer was the cause of his illness to realising that cancer was only a symptom of an already sick body. He knew if he could change the cause he would change the effect.

Through his vision, UK Health Radio (www.ukhealthradio.com) has attained a very clear purpose, this is to inform and animate people to take responsibility for their own health. This does not mean taking your health into your own hands, but to be part of the process of attaining and/or keeping your health freedom. It is all about being informed, being empowered and being healthy! UK Health Radio has the most in-depth information on the widest range of health and wellness topics - available anywhere today.

All aspects of health and wellness, fitness, diet and nutrition, illness prevention and environment issues, but with the main focus on prevention rather than cure. UK Health Radio presents it's information through 41 shows, that air 24/7, with 1.3M and growing, very dedicated listeners. There is a Listen on Demand section, the enormously popular digital monthly health & wellness magazine called Health Triangle Magazine. UK Health Radio is now also available on 15 podcast platforms across the world with a possible reach of almost 700M listeners. Podcast platforms that include Apple Podcast, Google Podcast, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeart, JioSaavn... Johann won the 'Inspiration - Holistic Therapist Business Awards' 2017 and 2019 he won the 'The Best You Awards' - in the category Best Up-And-Coming Inspirational Influencer. Summary of UK Health Radio: Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.

The enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of health is one of the fundamental rights of every human being without distinction of race, religion, political belief, economic or social condition. We at UK Health Radio have a very clear purpose and through our new, state of the art website, we hope to inform and animate YOU, in a positive way, to take responsibility for our own health! This does not mean taking your health into your own hands, but to be an active part of the process of attaining and/or keeping your health freedom.

We are The World’s no.1 ‘Talk Health’ radio station and podcast platform, airing 24/7 with 41 new health shows every week- our stated mission is to INFORM the world one show at a time!

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All Home Care Matters was privileged to welcome Kathy Driscoll as guest to the show. Kathy is the Senior Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer at Humana. About Kathy Driscoll: Kathy Driscoll is Senior Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer at Humana, where she oversees Humana’s community of over 10,000 nurses, care managers, social workers, and therapists. Under Kathy’s leadership, Humana has partnered with nearly 40 universities and funded the CenterWell Home Health Lab at Emory University to help address the nursing shortage and prepare nursing students for careers in home health. Kathy is also a Registered Nurse with more than 30 years of experience in nursing. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Seton Hall University and a Master of Science in Nursing Management and Executive Leadership from Sacred Heart University. Kathy also serves as President of the Board of Trustees for the American Nurses Foundation and is on the Editorial Board for Case Management Today. About Humana: Founded in 1961, Humana has evolved to become one of America’s best-known health and wellbeing companies, increasingly focused on two key areas: 1) insurance, offered primarily in Medicare Advantage health plans; and 2) payer-agnostic healthcare services, offered primarily under the CenterWell brand, as CenterWell Senior Primary Care, CenterWell Home Health and CenterWell Pharmacy. With nearly 260 locations across the country, CenterWell Senior Primary Care, along with its sister brand Conviva Care Center, make up the largest provider of senior-focused primary care in the U.S. CenterWell Home Health, with more than 350 branches in 38 states, is the largest home-health provider in the country. Humana employs more than 10,000 nurses along with other clinicians such as social workers, licensed clinical counselors, occupational, speech, and physical therapists serving in various roles across the enterprise.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Nima Ahmadi & Julie Roskamp from The Wound Company as guests to the show.

About Nima Ahmadi:

Nima Ahmadi is a proven healthcare entrepreneur and executive whose personal mission to bring effective and dignified care to wound and ostomy patients has driven his career. His unique background and professional experience position him with an unmatched ability to drive impactful innovation in the industry. Prior to co-founding The Wound Company, Nima worked as Head of Strategic Ventures and Digital Products at Cardiovascular System Inc, a global medical device company focused on peripheral vascular disease, wound care, amputation prevention, and coronary artery disease.

Before this Nima was the VP of Product at Icario, a health action company to improve health outcomes, which he pivoted and grew from 0 to 15 million Medicare Advantage and Medicaid patients under management for the top health plans. Nima graduated from Stanford University with a degree in Biomedical Computation and went on to receive two master's degrees in Bioengineering and Business Administration. Before beginning his studies, Nima lost an uncle to complications with lower extremity wounds.

The experience inspired him to go to Guatemala to build prosthetic implants for diabetic patients with foot wounds so they wouldn’t suffer a similar fate. This is what ignited his passion for finding a better way to treat and heal people who suffer from wounds and inspired his educational and professional career.

About Julie Roskamp:

Julie has been a Registered Nurse since 1987 and a Certified Wound, Ostomy, Continence Nurse since 1994. She received her training as a CWOCN at the Abbott- Northwestern ET Nursing Education Program. She has practiced in acute care, long term care and home health settings performing consultative visits on patients with wounds and ostomies, as well as preparing and presenting education programs for nursing staff on current assessment techniques and treatment strategies. She was the founder and president of Twin City Wound and Ostomy Associates, Inc., a private practice that serviced the 11 county metro area offering consultative visits in home health, long term care and acute care.

She is a current member of the Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nurses Society and participates on a national level with Wound Ostomy Continence Certification Board for the PGP committee. In addition to her professional responsibilities, she has volunteered countless hours with the St. Paul Ostomy Association for nearly 20 years.

About The Wound Company:

The Wound Company is a Minneapolis-based technology company dedicated to advancing wound and ostomy care. The company uses proprietary technology to connect providers with experienced and certified wound care specialists who can care for patients virtually or via in-person visits. The Wound Company partners with health plans, home care companies, and providers to bring dignity to patients with wounds and ostomies while increasing positive patient outcomes.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome the founder of The Purple Vine, Author, & Caregiver Debbie Compton as guest to the show. Debbie Compton is a three-time caregiver for parents with different forms of Dementia, Alzheimer’s , Parkinson’s and Vascular Dementia. She is a Certified Caregiving Consultant, Certified Caregiver Advocate, Educator for the Alzheimer’s Assoc. speaker, and author of 9 books. Debbie’s first book, Caregiving: How to hold on while letting go, offers actionable steps for caregivers as well as questions to ask doctors, in-home caregivers, facilities, and more. It is full of humor and inspiration. Debbie is the founder of The Purple Vine LLC, whose mission is to empower caregivers with the tools and strategies needed to reduce stress, block burnout, and learn to laugh again. Debbie believes it’s okay to get knocked down, but it’s not okay to stay down.

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome Dr. DeLon Canterbury as a guest to the show. Dr. DeLon Canterbury is the founder of GeriatRx and is helping to revolutionize the way we look at prescription medications and is educating the public on deprescribing. GeriatRx is a pharmacist-led medication management company that focuses on helping overwhelmed caregivers stop their loved ones from being overmedicated using genetic-drug screening, deprescribing, and health cost savings strategies. We specialize in developing medication action plans for patients of all ages, but with a specialty in Geriatric care. Unlike your traditional pharmacist, we develop a three-month strategy to address overmedicated patients using a holistic and evidence-based approach in accordance with your prescriber so that there are no gaps in communication of care. Founder of the Deprescribing Accelerator, DeLon envisions all pharmacists and senior care providers as Deprescribing Advocates and coaches professionals how to integrate, leverage, and monetize Deprescribing into clinical practice! The Deprescribing Accelerator trains passionate nurses, pharmacists, and prescribers on how they can be serve our overmedicated seniors by increasing your revenue’s practice with referrals and a value-based, sustainable care model within your business.

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome Julia Yarbough as a guest to the show. Julia is the creator of Keeping it REAL Caregiving. Prior to the creation of Keeping it REAL Caregiving she was a media personality and news anchor. About Keeping it REAL Caregiving: We all ultimately have two choices in this life. We continue to age and there is a good chance various items will start to go haywire with our bodies and health. We must accept we will need help. The alternative is that we die.That is the theory behind Keeping it REAL Caregiving. Those who accept and embrace AGING – the prize behind doorway number ONE; learn that getting old is not always easy. Nor is it for the weak of heart. But it is nature’s course. Keeping it REAL Caregiving creator Julia Yarbough, spent 20-years taking the lead ensuring her mother, Miss Nellie could live her last chapter feeling safe, loved and well-cared for. Through personal experiences in caring for Miss Nellie, Yarbough realized our current systems and frameworks for family caregivers often fall short of the practical help people need most. Keeping it REAL Caregiving Offers Guidance: To help others navigate the often rough waters of family caregiving, Yarbough created Keeping it REAL Caregiving to offer guidance, support and resources. They discuss the tough questions and reach out to subject experts and family caregivers to answer questions in topics including: • Adapting a home for the safety of your elder • Securing additional assistance • Understanding health insurance and hospital visits • Researching Senior Living Facility options and facilities • Identifying doctors trained in geriatric needs • Reviewing family finances & life-planning documents • Recognizing the emotional and career impacts to family caregivers Family caregiving can be one of the most rewarding jobs one will ever have but, let’s keep it REAL! It can also “kick your butt!” It should not be this difficult to care for our loved ones! KIRC strives to offer guidance, support, practical information and the opportunity to become more involved in advocacy efforts for our elders and ourselves: the next generation who will need care in our golden years.

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Conscious Caregiving with L & L is "Tackling the Tough Conversations" hosted by Lori La Bey & Lance A. Slatton. This month the topic is "End of Life Care" and features an All-Star panel. Dr. Anne Kenny: Anne Kenny, MD is a geriatrician and palliative care physician, author of Making Tough Decisions about End-of-Life Care in Dementia and Founder of Together in Dementia - an educational/informational blog/coaching/course platform with a mission to provide physician-informed approach to care from someone who has also traveled the dementia journey. David McNally: David McNally is a professional speaker and author of several bestselling books including Mark Of An Eagle and Be Your Own Brand. He has been married twice, both spouses of whom have passed away. His second wife, Cheryl, was diagnosed with Alzheimer's in June of 2019, and passed away in June this year. Cheryl made a decision after her original diagnosis that she would not go into memory care and when her quality of life diminished to where life no longer had meaning, she would VSED (Voluntarily Stop Eating and Drinking). Dr. Joseph Byrd: Joseph Byrd is a minister, theologian, and attorney. He has served as the Lead Pastor in congregations in North Dakota, Kentucky, Florida, Tennessee, and Michigan as well as serving as a seminary professor teaching practical theology and pastoral ministry. He has practiced law serving as County Attorney in Tennessee; a City Attorney in Florida; Assistant Attorney General in the Tennessee Attorney General’s Office; and most recently Disciplinary Counsel and Lead Attorney for Indigent Services with the Tennessee Supreme Court. Pastor Ben Murray: Ben Murray is the Lead Pastor at Northville Christian Assembly in Northville, MI. He has been in full-time ministry for 19 years and has filled many positions from a Children’s Pastor, an Associate Pastor, and now a Lead Pastor. Kim Callinan CEO of Compassion & Choices: Kim Callinan is the President and CEO of Compassion & Choices, where she has had a leadership role in realizing patient directed end of life care for the past eight years. She launched the Finish Strong initiative, designed to empower patients to take charge of the final chapter of their lives; played a leadership role in the authorization and implementation of medical aid in dying into six new jurisdictions; and launched an initiative to address the inequities in end of life care and planning for historically underserved communities. Patty Mouton VP of Alzheimer's Orange County: Patty Barnett Mouton, MSGc, has served as Vice President at Alzheimer’s Orange County since 2005. She is passionate about enhancing quality of life for older adults, and people with life-limiting illness. Among her roles in the community, Patty serves as Program Director for the Hoag Hospital Palliative Care education program, is appointed to the Senior Citizens Advisory Council to the OC Board of Supervisors, as well as the Provider Advisory Committee to CalOptima. Brian Fulcher: Brian Fulcher is the Family Service Manager at Sunset Kapala Glodek Funeral Home and Cemetery as well as Wulff Funeral Home. He leads a team of committed, compassionate Family Service Counselors who find fulfillment and professional satisfaction in helping individuals and families prepare for and plan their legacy. Carrie Rowell: As a mortician and funeral celebrant, she has a deep compassion and understanding when helping families through the life changing experience of the death of a loved one. As a teaching specialist with the University of Minnesota Program of Mortuary Science, and teaches the future funeral directors the importance of anticipatory grief that both families and the person with dementia experience. Visit Conscious Caregiving with L & L's Official Website: https://www.https://consciouscaregivingll.com

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Myrna Marofsky. Myrna is the author of "To The Last Dance: A Partner's Story of Living and Loving Through Dementia." Myrna Marofsky is an entrepreneur, consultant, mother, and grandmother. Having previously written two business books, it was her husband’s dementia diagnosis that led her down a new path that resulted in her writing a memoir called "To The Last Dance, A Partner’s Story of Living and Loving Through Dementia." She frequently speaks to audiences encouraging them to redefine “caregiving” to Care-Living. Currently, Myrna works as a Chapter Chair for the Women Presidents Organization where she facilitates peer groups of women business owners. Myrna is a contributor to Next Avenue, a PBS newsletter for older adults.

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All Home Care was honored to welcome Jimmy Zollo, the co-founder of Joe and Bella an adaptive clothing and apparel company.

Jimmy Zollo is co-founder and CEO of Joe & Bella, an adaptive apparel brand for older adults.

After graduating from Indiana University, Jimmy honed his sales and marketing skills with the NBA and WNBA before joining the team at GrubHub, one of Chicago’s most successful tech startups. He liaised with restaurants, forged critical partnerships that led to GrubHub’s expansion into new markets nationwide, and helped lay the foundation for much of their future sales strategy.

An aspiring entrepreneur, in 2017, Jimmy co-founded with his father, Peter Zollo, Collaborata, a market research startup that develops innovative large-scale projects focusing on key demographic groups. In 2021, Jimmy co-founded the Multicultural Insights Collective to help organizations assess and improve their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) strategies and practices.

Joe & Bella is Jimmy’s second collaboration with his father, Peter.

About Joe & Bella:

Founded by father-son team Peter and Jimmy Zollo, Joe & Bella is a Chicago-based adaptive clothing company that is committed to making innovative and fashionable clothing for an older audience. Our mission – to bring more dignity, joy, and ease to the lives of older adults and those who care for them – drives the design, construction and quality of our clothes.

With thoughtful adaptations, our clothes help older adults experiencing cognitive, motor and/or mobility changes dress and undress with less stress and pain while providing ease for caregivers.

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All Home Care Matters - Episode 252 (Please Subscribe)

All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Pete Hill as a guest to the show. Pete is the founder and host of The "D" Word which can be found on UK Health Radio.

Born in London Pete spent over 30 years in local government as a Chartered Environmental Health Practitioner while combining a part time career in sports radio. He spent two years seconded to the Health Protection Agency running a national partnership working project and was then appointed Head of Climate Change at Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council. His media CV includes presenting live sports commentaries for a number of TV and radio stations as well as writing regular articles for sports magazines. In 2013 he took up a post as news editor for an environmental website while running his own consultancy Jigsaw SPH which provided social media coverage for Public Health events.

Pete admits his outlook on life changed in 2016 when he was appointed as Group Activity Support Manager for West Essex by the Alzheimer’s Society. His duties involved managing six, weekly social groups for people living with dementia in the community. When the contract ended in 2018 Pete decided to combine his interest in dementia with his lifelong love of radio and start The ‘D’ Word as he was shocked that nobody had taken up the idea. The show which is hosted by UK Health Radio is now in its fourth year and approaching 200 episodes.

About The "D" Word:

The ‘D’ Word is the only weekly radio show that talks about dementia and as presenter Pete Hill describes it only happened because he was stuck inside on a rainy afternoon. “ One day I was bored because it was raining outside and decided to do an internet search on radio and dementia. I’d had an idea for a while about doing a radio show based around dementia but always thought someone out there would already be doing it.” To Pete’s surprise he found that despite being the biggest cause of death in the UK it was a subject that nobody was tackling on radio and the ‘D’ Word was born.

The story though really starts in the early 1980’s as Pete explained; “I volunteered as a teenager to present radio shows at Friern Hospital in North London and at the time I knew very little about dementia but soon found that was what a large number of the patients in the hospital were living with.” That started a semi professional career in radio while holding down a day job in local government as an Environmental Health Practitioner.

In 2013 Pete made the decision to set up his own public health consultancy but as he admits it was the decision to take up a post with the Alzheimer’s Society in 2016 that changed his life. “ I managed six, weekly activity groups for people living with dementia in the community and met some amazing people. It rekindled an interest I’d had back at Friern Hospital in the 80’s and gave me the desire to get people talking about dementia as they do about other health conditions,” said Pete. “I’d known Johann from a few years ago when I did a weekly public health feature on UK Health Radio so I contacted him to see if he would be interested in a show about dementia and the rest as they say is history.”

On The ‘D’ Word you’ll find Pete talking to people from all walks of life who have an interest in dementia, The reaction has been amazing with people from all over the world getting behind the idea and wanting to talk about their experiences on the station which has 1.3 million listeners a month worldwide.

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome the founder of Sue Ryan Solutions, Sue Ryan.

Sue’s mission is to empower and embolden individuals to maximize the opportunities and potential change will bring. As a speaker, change strategist, author, executive coach, caregiving coach and mentor, she lives this through two passions of her purpose. She guides and inspires leaders and emerging leaders committed to business growth and next-level leadership to be great leaders of themselves and others.

She guides non- professional caregivers to become confident, balanced, and supported in all phases of their caregiving journey. Sue specializes in helping individuals and teams thrive during times of change. Working with them to clarify, align, develop, and implement solutions in highly competitive markets, while creating their culture poised to face the challenges of change with resilience and right action in the direction of their goals, they successfully deliver long-term brand growth and value. Whether change is due to external factors such as market shifts, technology innovation, economic changes - or setting their sights on growth and expansion - understanding the dynamics and psychology of change enhances their ability for success.

Sue delivers these through her signature offerings Intentionally Navigating Transitions - Leadership Through the Dimensions of Change, The Prodigy ZoneTM, Leadership C.A.R.E.S.TM, and The Caregiver’s Journey. Sue’s corporate career of more than 30 years was in enterprise application software sales to companies across industries including Healthcare, Financial Services, Information Technology, Manufacturing, Hospitality, and Utilities. She was responsible for ensuring individuals were poised for change and their organizations were positioned for predictable success. While her performance was consistently recognized in the top tier, her most satisfying achievement was her nearly 100% client retention rate. Sue has been in roles of family caregiving support for more than forty years.

She’s moved from feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, and yes - sometimes frightened - to confident, balanced, and supported, navigating the transitions in her life, her care receivers, and those who support them on their journey. As a speaker, coach, author, educator, and mentor, she shares the lessons, tips, and strategies she’s learned to help others positively navigate their caregiving journeys.

Sue has been a volunteer mentor of emerging leaders for Menttium since 2011. Sue volunteers in the children’s ministry of Gulf Community Church, is a member of the Blue Zone’s Engagement Committee, and a passionate technology educator for seniors. Sue is a member of the International Coaching Federation. Through her coaching, Sue earned the John Mattone Platinum-Elite Executive Coach ranking. Sue supports the Leadership Collier Foundation and is a 2023 graduate of Leadership Collier. She volunteers as a speaker and Community Educator for The Alzheimer's Association, and is a speaker and volunteer for AlzAuthors. She has authored or co-authored three International best-selling books.

Two are in the field of business. Her non-professional caregiving book is Our Journey of Love, 5 Steps to Navigate Your Caregiving Journey. She created the online course The Caregiver’s Journey to support caregivers through their entire caregiving journey. Sue recently gave her first TEDx talk. Next stop, the TED platform.

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"Real Talk with Real Caregivers" is proud to welcome you to the show where we have real talk with real caregivers featuring the Caregiver Champions from Caregiving.com.

This is the show where we bring real caregivers together to discuss the real issues that are facing caregivers.

The topic of this episode is "The Financial Impact Before, During, and After Caregiving for a Loved One".

"Real Talk with Real Caregivers" is here to help support you and your loved ones on your caregiving journey through discussions, advice and insights to help you know that you are not alone.

The show is brought to you by Caregiving.com & All Home Care Matters with Co-Hosts Christina Keys and Lance A. Slatton.

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Seniors and Driving

We know Seniors and Driving is a hot topic in most families, but did you know cities, police, and our doctors worry about this issue too? Today our expert panel addresses common concerns, tips, and resources to help you address driving in a respectful and proactive way. Find more information on our panel and resource links below.

Panel of Experts

Cheryl Salo is passionate about helping mature drivers be safer on the roads. She has been an instructor with AARP Driver Safety for 10 years and is the Minnesota State Coordinator for the program. An important part of the curriculum is the unit on “What the Road Ahead Looks Like” with a discussion on alternate travel options.

Cheryl facilitates free in-person “We Need To Talk” seminars, for those dealing with the difficult discussion of a loved one’s diminishing driving ability.

Email cherylsalo@gmail.com

Mike Jaafar has nearly 30 years in Law Enforcement and serves as the Undersheriff of the Wayne County Sheriff's Office. Undersheriff Jaafar is a proud graduate of the FBI National Academy and the Eastern Michigan Police Staff and Command Center for Regional and National Security.

Email Mike’s Assistant Danielle Stephens Dstephe1@waynecounty.com

Michael Ellenbogen has been living with a form of dementia since the age of 49. He is a world-renowned International Dementia Advocate & Connecter, who has been featured in nationally syndicated TV, radio, and other media outlets.

Michael served on many national and international committees and has even represented the U.S./World for people living with dementia at the World Health Organization in Geneva.

Email authorellenbogen@gmail.com

Ronald J. Devers is Director of Agency Operations for PSI Insurance Agency located in Lansing Michigan. He began his insurance career in 1989. He developed his expertise by working for several companies and found his true calling for insurance and education. Ron has received numerous designations in his field and held multiple board roles.

Email rdevers@psiinsurance.net

Ann Forrest Clark has worked in the field of driver rehabilitation for over 40 years. She provides clinical evaluations through St. Luke’s Hospital of Duluth, MN, and is the owner of Safer Driver, LLC driving school. She enjoys helping people continue to drive safely through training in the use of adaptive equipment. She also supports people when driving retirement is indicated.

Email jsafc@aol.com

Dr. Brittany Lamb is a board-certified Emergency Medicine physician, dementia family educator and advocate. Outside of the ER, Dr. Lamb supports and educates dementia family caregivers, on the importance of, and how to, plan for future medical decisions. Her goal is to deliver the information needed to make informed decisions into the hands of family caregivers through social media, a blog, and an online self-paced program.

Email blambmd@gmail.com

Email Lance Slatton and Lori La Bey with Conscious Caregiving with L & L through their website https://consciouscaregivingll.com/ You can also access their other websites from here too.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Mary Ellen Spangler as a guest to the show to share her story.

Mary Ellen shares her story of finding out that her father who was successful was slowly dealing with health issues that the family was unaware of at the time and these issues would later lead to homelessness for her father.

This is Mary Ellen's story and what she went through trying to help her father with what was diagnosed as Alcohol-Induced Dementia.

Mary Ellen is 31-year-old copywriter from Rocklin, California. She was born and raised in Rockin, California and has no plans to leave the beautiful state any time soon. Writing is her greatest passion, but she is also an educator at heart and has her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology as well as a CA teaching credential.

In her free time, Mary Ellen is an avid reader, hiker, and love's to spend as much time with her family as possible.

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome a remarkable advocate for caregivers & author, Debra Hallisey as guest to the show.

Debra Hallisey is a past caregiver who lost her job due to caregiving. As a result, she founded her company Advocate for Mom and Dad. Deb writes on caregiving issues for adult children of aging parents at her website www.AdvocateforMomandDad.com which has consistently been named one of the top 50 caregiver blogs and featured in Aging Insider.

Her caregiving insights have been featured in articles, blog posts, podcasts and video chats. As an advocate for family caregivers, she works with them to effectively communicate with their caree, other family members and the healthcare system. Deb is the author of Your Caregiver Relationship Contract. The book, available in both English and Spanish: Su Contrato de relación como cuidador de un ser querido, is a practical, step-by-step guide for discussing relationship issues that arise between caregivers and their care partners.

She uses personal stories to illustrate how these techniques healed her relationship with her mother. And A Relationship Contract for Dementia Caregivers, which provides the reader with practical knowledge and necessary steps at each stage of the disease, to continuously adapt your practices and expectations to meet the needs of the person you care for and, more importantly, your own needs as the disease progresses.

Deb is a regional speaker for ARTIS Senior Living and has been a guest speaker and trainer for a variety of organizations including The Care Years Academy, Northwell Hospital System, The Parkinson Foundation of Oklahoma and United Way. Deb is a Certified Caregiving Consultant™, Certified Caregiving Educator, Certified Caregiving Facilitator and Certified Dementia Practitioner®.

She holds an MA in Leadership and Supervision.

Connect with Debra Hallisey: Official Website: https://www.AdvocateforMomandDad.com

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Take Ada´s free health questionnaire to see if you´re at high-risk for developing severe COVID-19 and find out if you're eligible for treatment.

Ada's eligibility questionnaire following this link:

https://ada.com/covid/antiviral-treatment-criteria-questionnaire/?mtm_source=ramped&mtm_medium=youtube&mtm_campaign=us_en_avh_px_uuj_completion&mtm_content=allhomecarematters&mtm_keyword=youtube

All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Dr. Catie Chung as a guest to the show to discuss senior care and how for many families they don't know what they don't know.

Catie Chung is a registered nurse with a PhD in Nursing, certified case manager, professor of nursing, coach, researcher, & certified mindfulness meditation teacher… and she’s a proud member of Generation X. When Catie was a teenager, her grandmother began struggling with dementia.

Those experiences sowed the seeds that would later lead Catie to a career in nursing, with the majority of her experience being as a registered nurse case manager in home health, serving seniors and their families. Catie also pursued a doctorate in nursing where she developed research and education skills.

When her dad was diagnosed with Stage 4 neck cancer in 2012, Catie saw from the patient side of the bed how truly overwhelming healthcare and senior care were. Currently, Catie is working with graduate nursing students and community organizations to boost the healthcare workforce for senior adults in southern Nevada. She also started the website NurseCatie.com to support, inform, and prepare Gen Xers “in the sandwich” for the coming Gray Tsunami of aging adults in the US.

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Welcome to Conscious Caregiving with L & L. The monthly show where we discuss the topics and issues affecting seniors and the senior care industry. In this episode we welcome leading and influential experts from around the world to discuss the issue of Elder Abuse. Lori La Bey & Lance A. Slatton are honored to welcome the following members of our esteemed panel: Bettina Morrow - Adult Protection Services - Specializing in Dementia Email: bettinamorrow1@gmail.com Paul Greenwood - Paul is a nationally and internationally renowned (retired) district attorney with over 40 years of practice specializing in elder abuse and felony criminal prosecution. Paul is dually qualified to practice law in the UK and California (Paul is English). In 1996 Paul established a new prosecution unit in San Diego that specifically focused on prosecuting felony elder abuse crimes and has prosecuted over 750 felony cases of elder abuse. Email: paul@greenwoodlawcorp.com Rick Mountcastle - Rick is a former Federal Prosecutor and is known for the award series on Hulu “Dopesick: which focused on his case and work to bring down Perdu Pharma. Rick has also had many cases against nursing homes and rehab facilities that have led to large financial penalties and fees for neglect and abuse. Email: rickmtcastle77@gmail.com William “Bill” Lightfoot – Bill is a (ret.) 36 year veteran with the Virginia police force and Special Investigators Unit with a focus on Elder Abuse. Email: lightfootwh976@gmail.com Susan Carson - Susan is a Registered Nurse in the E.R. specializing as a Forensic Nurse Examiner and is very familiar with Elder Abuse and the medical side of the issue. Susan has also worked along side Bill Lightfoot for many years. Email: scbearhugs@gmail.com Elion Caspi - Eilon is a Gerontologist and Dementia behavior specialist. He is currently conducting research on the issue of retaliatory actions for seniors reporting abuse they may have been subjected to. Email: eiloncasp@gmail.com Kristine Sundberg: Founder of Elder Voice Family Advocates. Email: Kristine_sundberg@hotmail.com Contact Lori La Bey: lori@alzheimersspeaks.com Visit Lori & Alzheimer's Speaks: https://alzheimersspeaks.com/ Contact Lance A. Slatton: contact@allhomecarematters.com Visit Lance & All Home Care Matters: https://www.allhomecarematters.com

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Take Ada´s free health questionnaire to see if you´re at high-risk for developing severe COVID-19 and find out if you're eligible for treatment. Ada's eligibility questionnaire following this link: https://ada.com/covid/antiviral-treat... All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Tracy Crump as a guest to the show. Tracy is a former ICU Nurse, caregiver, author, and Co-Director of Write Life Workshops. Tracy Crump dispenses hope in her award-winning book, Health, Healing, and Wholeness: Devotions of Hope in the Midst of Illness, based on her experiences as an ICU nurse and family caregiver. She is a writer, speaker, and editor best known for contributing more than thirty stories to Chicken Soup for the Soul® and other anthologies. Her course, “How to Write for Chicken Soup for the Soul,” is one of Serious Writer Academy’s top sellers, and she teaches workshops and webinars on writing for the series. Tracy has published more than one hundred devotions in The Upper Room, Light from the Word, Quiet Hour, Guideposts books, and other devotionals. Her articles have been featured in magazines such as Focus on the Family, ParentLife, Mature Living, and Woman’s World. She was a columnist for Southern Writers Magazine for more than four years and contributed articles to three newspapers. As co-director of Write Life Workshops, Tracy encourages others to “Writer Better! Write Now!” She edits a popular newsletter, The Write Life, that includes anthology story callouts and has inspired many to move forward with their writing. Her love of teaching takes her to conferences where she helps writers hone their craft. She is also a freelance editor, proofreads for Farmers’ Almanac, and served as registrar for the Mid-South Christian Writers Conference for seven years. In 2022, she started a blog for caregivers, our unsung heroes. But her most important job is Grandma to five completely unspoiled grandchildren.

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"Real Talk with Real Caregivers" is proud to welcome you to the show where we have real talk with real caregivers featuring the Caregiver Champions from Caregiving.com This is the show where we bring real caregivers together to discuss the real issues that are facing caregivers. The topic of this episode is "Not Losing Yourself and Still Living Your Life as a Caregiver". "Real Talk with Real Caregivers" is here to help support you and your loved ones on your caregiving journey through discussions, advice and insights to help you know that you are not alone. The show is brought to you by Caregiving.com & All Home Care Matters with Co-Hosts Christina Keys and Lance A. Slatton.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome best selling author, certified Leadership Coach, and Human Behavior Communication Expert Velma Knowles as guest to the show.

Velma Knowles is originally from Nassau, Bahamas. At the start of Velma's career she helped to build the conservation legacy of the Bahamas. It was there that she learned the systematic approach to creating a culture of belonging where people feel valued.

During this interview Velma shares her own personal story and experience of helping to care for her mother who was diagnosed with dementia and we discuss how her professional background had helped when caring for her mother.

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome Author and Co-Founder of AlzAuthors, Vicki Tapia. Trained as an educator, Vicki Tapia has a proclivity for caring, spending over 30 years working as a Lactation Consultant teaching mothers and babies the art of breastfeeding. When both her parents were diagnosed with dementia (Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s-related) within a few months of each other, she took on the role of caregiver. As a coping mechanism, Vicki kept a journal detailing the many challenges her family faced along the way. Over time, her diary became a roadmap of sorts, morphing into the award-winning memoir Somebody Stole My Iron: A Family Memoir of Dementia. Whether fretting over her mother’s false accusations that she was stealing their money to travel or coping with her father’s missing eyebrows, Vicki writes with honesty and humor, offering both encouragement and insight. She shares the many lessons learned on the journey, bringing hope to those whose lives have been intimately affected by dementia, letting them know that they are not alone. She is also the author of two other award-winning works, both historical fiction: Maggie: A Journey of Love, Loss and Survival based on the life of her intrepid great-grandmother, and her latest release, Harry and Grace: A Dakota Love Story written about her grandparents, who lived on the North Dakota prairie in the early 1900’s. Vicki is a founder and a director of the all-volunteer nonprofit, AlzAuthors.com. An ever-growing global community of over 350 authors, they share their personal stories, united in an effort to reduce the stigma and silence surrounding dementia. AlzAuthors also produces an award-winning podcast Untangling Alzheimer’s and Dementia: An AlzAuthors Podcast and most recently unveiled its newest initiative, the Custom Caregiver Collection. This collection brings table-top lending libraries, custom-filled with quality books, to places where people impacted by dementia gather.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Mr. Gary Barg as a guest to the show. Gary is the founder of caregiver.com, Today's Caregiver Magazine, and The Fearless Caregiver Conferences. A noted speaker, writer and publisher on caregiving issues since 1995, Gary Barg is Founder and Editor- In-Chief of the first national magazine for caregivers, Today’s Caregiver, as well the original online caregiver community, caregiver.com. Today’s Caregiver magazine and caregiver.com combine information, advice and reader’s stories with interviews with celebrity caregiver such as Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, Rob Lowe, Dana Reeve, Jennifer Grey, Ed Asner and Debbie Reynolds, among others. Gary created The Fearless Caregiver Conferences, hosted across the country, which brings together caregivers to share their knowledge and experience and wisdom.His first book, The Fearless Caregiver, includes practical advice, poetry and inspirational stories. His second book, Caregiving Ties that Bind includes many of the over 150 celebrity caregiver cover interviews that he has conducted since 1995. His newest book, You Are Not Alone, is filled with advice and wisdom learned from family caregivers at over 280 Fearless Caregiver conferences held since 1998. His awards include the Mature Media Award for writing, International Television Association Golden Reel Award and the Southern Gerontological Society Media Award.Gary serves as a member of the Board of Trustees, National Adult Day Services Association and a Member of the Board, American Association for Caregiver Education.His interviews include; The Today Show, Bloomberg Radio Network, Time Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, USAToday, Miami Herald, NPR Diane Rehm Show, Los Angeles Business Journal, and Parade Magazine.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Patty Sherin & Laura Herman as guests to the show to discuss their book "Brick by Brick Bonding Tool for Family Care: Bonding Activities for Seniors Living with Alzheimer's and Dementia and Their Care Partners." About the Book: Brick By Brick Bonding – Tools for Family Care: Bonding Activities for Seniors Living with Alzheimer’s and Dementia and Their Care Partners is the first book to introduce LEGO® Duplo® bricks and pieces to care partners and their carees living with Alzheimer’s and dementia with techniques and tools to embrace self-care, develop good support systems, release expectations, and practice mindful acceptance. About Patty Sherin: As a Certified Caregiving Consultant and creator of Brick By Brick Bonding™, she understands the fatigues and challenges that plague caregivers and has found strategies to help throughout the caregiving journey. When Patty Sherin is not spreading hope and creativity to her friends and family, she likes to use her superpowers to encourage family caregivers to bring joy and laughter to their carees living with Alzheimer’s and dementia using LEGO® bricks and pieces. About Laura Herman: Laura has spent years working with older adults with dementia, their caregivers and family members. Throughout her career, she has served seniors in just about every role, from direct caregiver to memory care facility administrator. Laura is especially passionate about helping others understand and communicate better with people with dementia and really enjoys coaching family caregivers directly.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome the founding members of the Caregiving Support Network as guests to the show to learn more about how they're helping to support and change lives of family caregivers.

The Caregiving Support Network was started in 2022 to lift the everyday burdens of caregiving off the shoulders of unpaid family caregivers who are struggling. This nonprofit ministry works to create a world where every caregiver feels relief from the burnout associated with caring for a loved one with a disability.

The Network helps them every step of the way on their journey, and caregivers know that they have a lifeline of support. The ultimate goal is for every caregiver to know the love of our Lord Jesus Christ, and have the hope of the Gospel in their hearts.

About Rebekah Dowhy:

Rebekah is the President of the Caregiving Support Network, a ministry dedicated to giving hope and practical relief to unpaid family caregivers. Using her Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership, she has worked in the nonprofit space for over six years specializing in operations management, communications, and fundraising. Her most important role was being a primary caregiver to her Mom, Sherrie who had Multiple Sclerosis for 21 years.

About Bill Dowhy:

Bill Dowhy is the Vice President of Donor Relations for the Caregiving Support Network. He specializes in fundraising, communications, and strategic planning. In 2018, he met his better half, Rebekah, while working at the Leadership Institute. Together, they would go on to found the Caregiving Support Network based on their shared passion for helping the underserved.

About David Beeton:

David Beeton is the Vice President of Programs for the Caregiving Support Network. David has had extensive experience with both executive management and ministry roles throughout his career. He is currently serving as an Elder at his church: Experience Community Church in Cannon County, Tennessee. He was a primary caregiver for his wife Sherrie, who had Multiple Sclerosis for 21 years.

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome renowned Elder Abuse advocate and 36 year Richmond Police Department Sergeant and Special Investigator, William "Bill" Lightfoot.

Former Sergeant Bill Lightfoot served with the Richmond Police Department for thirty-six years. He has served as an investigator with the Property Crimes Unit, the Robbery & Homicide Division, The Narcotics Division, the Criminal Intelligence Unit and the Domestic Violence Unit. He is a graduate of the Virginia Criminal Justice Instructors School and the National Intelligence Academy in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.. He holds a B.S. Degree in Criminal Justice.

Experience in the investigation of violent crimes, case preparation and evidence collection. Experienced in the design, development and management of training programs for law enforcement personnel, medical professionals, prosecutors, social services and other disciplines.

Has developed and delivered training in Domestic Violence in the workplace, Stalking Investigations, Stalking and the Elderly, Elder Abuse Investigations, Financial Exploitation of the Elderly, and Domestic Violence in Later Life, Human Trafficking and Domestic Violence in the Workplace. He has also assisted other agencies, both government and private, in the development of Domestic Violence and Elder Abuse protocols and policies, develops and delivers training to management and staff personnel.

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome back Christina Keys the Director of Community Growth at Caregiving.com to discuss the new partnership with All Home Care Matters to produce a new show once a month call "Real Talk with Real Caregivers"

Family Caregivers have always struggled finding local resources, support and feeling isolated. As a family caregiver our circle of people who truly understand what we are walking through becomes very small once we become a caregiver.

"Our whole life is affected, physically, financially, emotionally, mentally and spiritually when we are caring for a loved one. The goal of "Real Talk with Real Caregivers" is to help Family caregivers not feel so alone and help them redefine normal. How do we really walk through this journey? This show will be the type of support that is not only educational but healing for Caregivers everywhere.” - Christina Keys

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome Mr. Steve Gurney as a guest to the show to discuss tips and guidance for when it is time to shop for senior living options.

Steve Gurney founded Retirement Living SourceBook in 1990. Drawing from the experience of observing his family caring for Steve’s aging grandfather, he created a comprehensive publication to help others in the same situation. Over the next few years Steve expanded the publication to three regional editions, DC metro, State of Maryland, and the Philadelphia region. Steve has worked closely with nearly every regional and national organization on aging to help maximize their exposure and helping find solutions to their challenges.

In 1998, Mr. Gurney sold his company to The Washington Post where he served as General Manager of Sourcebook and the Senior Living Solutions Division. In 2019, Mr. Gurney acquired the resource back, and has re-branded as Positive Aging Community adding a new design and content, distribution partners, podcasts, and a robust schedule of live and interactive discussions with thought-leaders on a wide variety of topics.

In addition, Mr. Gurney founded ProAging Network meetings and leads the DC Senior Resource Group important resources for senior-serving professionals.

Mr. Gurney serves or has served on the board of directors for the Grass Roots Organization for the Well-Being of Seniors (GROWS), Alzheimer’s Association, Interages, Business and Aging Task Force, Virginia Intergenerational Task Force, and the Beacon Institute. Steve has served on countless committees and provided guidance to help organizations and businesses better serve the senior population. Mr. Gurney has received awards and recognition from the Seabury Resources for Aging, Maryland Assisted Living Association, the Senior Marketing Institute and other notable organizations. Steve is a regular speaker at local, regional and national events and has been featured in regional and national publications, electronic and broadcast media.

About The Positive Aging Community:

The Positive Aging Community supports that the right solutions and connections can help people live more purposeful lives—no matter their age or ability. For more than 33 years, we have fostered a community of older adults, families and influential professionals that helps make aging choices easier and more accessible. The Positive Aging Community communicates and connects with the community via print or online, searchable databases, live online discussions, or recorded podcasts.

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome author, Andrea Couture. Andrea is the author of the book "Embracing What Remains: A Memoir". Andrea is an author and mother of three children. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism from Saint Michael’s College in Vermont. Embracing What Remains is Andrea’s first memoir and book. She lives in New Hampshire with her husband, children, and her dog. Andrea is a member and Acquisitions Editor for the non-profit organization, AlzAuthors with the mission: “We are a community of authors sharing Alzheimer’s and dementia stories to light the way for others.”

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome two incredible individuals as guest to the show and the Co-Founders of Mirador Magazine, Nikki Jardin and Tavé Fascé Drake. About Nikki: Nikki Jardin has meandered down a variety of paths throughout her life, resulting in a somewhat haphazard but ultimately rewarding work history. She loves traveling, being in nature, playing music, and sharing the wonder and beauty of the world through words and imagery. About Tavé: Tavé Fascé Drake is an artistic director, writer, entertainer, and optimist. Having a mother who was diagnosed with MS at an early age informs much of her work, including earlier breeding and training of companion, therapy, and service dogs. She is also the proud mother of two grown daughters, speaks 4+ languages, and has ADHD. Summary of Mirador Magazine: Mirador Magazine is an ad-free, age-appropriate online and print publication for neurodivergent communities. Their growing readership includes those with various stages of dementia and people of all ages recovering from brain trauma such as concussion, TBI or stroke. They also have readers who experience chronic symptoms from autoimmune disease and people with autism and ADHD. The pages include short features on nature, science, history and the people who make our world wonderful. Mirador Magazine is about making connections within oneself, with others and building community. Each page and online offering can be enjoyed alone or with family members and friends cross-generationally.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome two remarkable guests, Peter Berry & Deb Blunt. They are cyclists, authors, and dementia advocates helping to raise awareness for dementia. Peter was diagnosed with early onset dementia eight years ago, when he was 50. Before his diagnosis, Peter ran a successful timber business. After a period of depression following his diagnosis, Peter made the decision to live well with the condition. He is very keen to help others understand his experience, both of the condition and the diagnosis process. When he’s not delivering presentations, Peter spends his days cycling around the Suffolk countryside, being the embodiment of his own doctrine of living well with dementia. Deb is a retired social worker. She took early retirement and moved from London to Suffolk five years ago. The friendship with Peter has helped Deb to fulfil one of her main life ambitions: to be a published author. But this friendship has also taught Deb has to re-evaluate her own life and to try to live in the moment and to appreciate the joys that life has to offer. Peter and Deb have written two books: “Slow Puncture, Living Well with Dementia” and “Walk with Me: Musings Through the Dementia Fog”.

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome Dr. Jennifer Stelter, Psy.D., CDP, CADDCT, DCS, DCSCT the Co-Founder, Chief Executive Officer, Creator of the Dementia Connection Model©, and Dementia Expert as our guest to the show. Dr. Jennifer Stelter, also known as The Oil Doctor, Psy.D., is a Clinical Psychologist, dementia expert, and Johns Hopkins Press author, who specializes in dementia care. She has 20 years experience in the healthcare field and over a dozen in the senior living industry. Dr. Stelter is the co-founder and CEO of NeuroEssence, LLC at the Dementia Connection Institute and the innovator and creator of the Dementia Connection Model© and a Master Trainer for the Dementia Connection Specialist Certified Trainer (DCSCT) Certification Program. Also, she is the author of The Busy Caregiver's Guide to Advanced Alzheimer Disease. About the Dementia Connection Institute: The Dementia Connection Institute provides education, training, consultation and resources for dementia healthcare providers and family caregivers. Our mission is to bring innovative ways to educate others on dementia and approaches to care that are non-pharmacological in nature, unique, empowering, and successful, based on the Dementia Connection Model©.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Professor and Author, Cindy Weinstein as a guest to the show. Professor Cindy Weinstein was born and raised in Verona, New Jersey. She received her B.A. in English and American Literature from Brandeis University, after which she went to UC Berkeley for her Ph.D. in English. She is currently the Eli and Edythe Broad Professor of English, and has been at the California Institute of Technology since 1989, during which time she has published three monographs on American literature, edited several volumes, and taught classes on Herman Melville, Edgar Allan Poe, Women’s Fiction, and Black literature. She has had several administrative roles at Caltech, including Vice Provost and Chief Diversity Officer. In 2018-19, she was an Atlantic Fellow in the Global Brain Health Institute based at UCSF and Trinity College Dublin, where she studied neurology with an interdisciplinary group of scientists, artists, social scientists, and physicians. During this time, she worked with Dr. Bruce Miller on "Finding the Right Words", which has been awarded the Memoir Prize for Books.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Nicole Will as a guest to the show. Nicole is helping to share and discuss the issues that matter to you and your loved ones.

Nicole Will is a passionate advocate for our aging community, equipping older adults, family caregivers, and eldercare professionals with valuable information and resources. As the founder of willGather, she enlightens and expands people's awareness of leaders and initiatives in the care economy space through the willGather Podcast: Navigating the World with Your Aging Loved One.

Nicole Will brings helpful resources, valuable information, and practical tools that will encourage and give hope to caregivers as they navigate the aging journey with their loved ones for a more meaningful and fulfilled life.

In honor of her grandma, she also founded Gigi Betty co. by willGather, a boutique gift shop raising funds and awareness for family caregivers. As a collective, we are a powerful force for good.

With over 20 years of experience in aging and senior living services, she holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Services: Social Gerontology and is actively certified with NCCAP. She spent years as a Director at a well-respected senior living community overseeing the Therapeutic Recreation, Volunteer, and Spiritual Care departments.

She also served on the MAPA board and as an adjuvant faculty member at the University of St. Catherine and continues her hands-on approach and advocacy with a deep understanding of family caregiver needs.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome, Mr. Kevin Jameson as our guest to the show. Kevin is the founder of the Dementia Society of America, as well as the Volunteer President and Chairman. Business Executive. Starting as a young entrepreneur from the age of 18, and having launched several start-up businesses in the security industry, Mr. Jameson carried on his career as a sales and marketing executive, which has included over 35 years with major corporate divisions of ADT, BOSCH, and Honeywell International. Author, singer, inventor, and patent holder, Kevin has traveled to Europe, Asia, India, Australia, the Middle East, Africa, South and Central America, and throughout North America to see how the world really lives. Kevin also has a personal story and connection to Dementia. His first wife, Ginny, together for 32 years, died from Dementia, and thus he leads the fight against all forms with thoughts, words, and deeds. In 2016, Jameson was awarded a Doctorate of Public Service, Honoris Causa (DrHC) for his life's work, by his alma mater. His establishment of the Dementia Society is a mission in the making. Mr. Jameson also serves on the Board of the Central Bucks Chamber of Commerce. About the Dementia Society of America: Dementia Society of America® (DSA) is the nation’s leading volunteer-driven all-Dementias awareness organization. DSA provides an information hotline (1-800-DEMENTIA®), many online resources, and an easy-to-use, web-based locator, which can help families and individuals find valuable support near to them. DSA underwrites through its Ginny Gives® Program, non-medical activities focused on: music and singing; dance and movement; the visual arts, touch, and sensory stimulation. The Dementia CARER™, Dementia SMART®, and Dementia QUEST® Programs provide recognition to those who serve the Dementia community through meaningful care, innovation and research respectively. Whether as a Volunteer Board Member or Advisor, if you believe you have the skills, connections, and a "passion for making change happen," please let them know. The Dementia Society of America is here to help!

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Marilyn Raichle the Executive Director of Maude's Awards and prior Maude's Award winner, Marigrace Becker as guests of the show. The Inspiration Behind Maude's Awards: Maude Ferry, matriarch extraordinaire, brought a long and lasting gift of love for all who walk in her path. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend with a big and generous heart. Loyal, thoughtful, encouraging and wise in her words and actions, she inspired joy and purpose. After the birth of their sixth child, her husband Richard co-founded and led Korn Ferry International to become the world’s premier provider of executive human capital solutions. Yet even with the growing success and demands of her husband’s company, Maude never lost sight of her values and her faith. Maude was a loving and supportive spouse—silent partner, goodwill ambassador, corporate wife, community volunteer and dedicated mother to their children as well as twelve grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Throughout the years, Richard and Maude were passionately engaged in their community and have supported numerous civic and charitable causes, with a focus on the Catholic Church, education and health care. In 2013, Maude was diagnosed with dementia and Richard continued their shared journey as a loving caregiver and tireless advocate. Together they are built a Legacy of Love. Maude’s Awards for Innovation in Alzheimer’s Care carries their commitment forward—encouraging, celebrating and sharing innovations that will enrich the quality of life for persons living with dementia and their caregivers for generations to follow.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome a Christina Keys as a guest to the show.

The doctors told Christina She would be lucky to live 6 months if that. Her body was literally shutting down from the stress of caregiving and trying to do it alone. She had a choice to make, figure out how to change her life and live while caring for her mother or give up and start making arrangements on how her mother would be cared for after her death. She chooses to live and not only change her life but now helps to change the lives of caregivers who struggle while caring for loved ones.

She is also a caregiver for her Ex boyfriend. Turning a mess into a message and making it her mission to make sure caregivers everywhere are seen, heard valued and appreciated and are Never Alone through her local work with Loving Them Forward the Non Profit she founded and the national work she is doing with Caregiving.com

Watch the national documentary highlighting what life is like for family caregivers called "The Love of Care.":

https://youtu.be/fLvQQ1NEPT4

Visit Caregiving.com to apple to become a caregiving.com Champion: https://www.caregiving.com/about/champions/join

Visit Non-Profit Loving Them Forward:

https://www.lovingthemforward.org

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome the host and founder of Connecting Caregivers Radio Linda Burhans as a guest to the show.

Linda Burhans is a national speaker and radio show host dedicated to the mission of caring for caregivers. As she says I am the gal who cares for caregivers with love, laughter and lessons learned.

Her caregiving journey began in 2006 when her mother moved from New York to Florida. Shortly after, her mother was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer. This was not the plan and this is something Linda hears from caregivers daily.

As an expert in Caregiver Advocacy, Linda has facilitated over 1500 support groups, speaking engagements and workshops for caregivers. She shares lessons learned and coping tools with thousands of caregivers who attend her events or read her work. Her weekly radio show, Tips for Caregivers and blogs provide expert guidance on resources and best practices for caregivers all over the United States.

In her book, Good Night and God Bless, Linda welcomes readers to join her on her emotional, rewarding, and sometimes frustrating journey as caregiver to her beloved mother, Jo McCauley, during the final 18 months of her life. The book offers inspirational messages of unconditional love, loss, joy, sorrow, and a healthy dose of humor for those caring for aging parents.

Linda describes those 18 months as the most rewarding and eye opening of her life. She discovered that there were no centralized sources of information and support for caregivers. She took on the challenge in becoming an expert on resources for caregivers. She learned about different support agencies, benefits, and helpful organizations available locally and nationally.

Armed with the knowledge, Linda set on a path to share these resources and provide support to caregivers everywhere. She speaks with electrifying energy, humor, infectious enthusiasm and contagious inspiration.

She is ever awed by the strength, resilience, and commitment of the caregivers she meets and seeks to remind them that they are not alone. Help is available and it is okay to accept that help. Caregivers that seek to take on everything on their own often decline in health. The most important thing she teaches is that caregivers need and deserve the time and space to take care of themselves.

Whether you read her books, or meet Linda in person, you will quickly realize that she truly lives by her mission: “To acknowledge and appreciate all caregivers as they care for those who can not care for themselves. It is my intention to empower the caregiver, ease their burdens and help them find the joy in the journey through education, comfort and support”

Linda lives in Seminole, Florida and travels throughout the U.S. to speak to audiences to share her story and support caregivers.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome the founder of The Caregiver Chronicles, Sarah Stelmach-Brown.

Sarah Stelmach-Brown is a caregiving advocate with a major focus on autism, neurodivergence and Alzheimer’s disease and the host of the podcast, “Caregiver Chronicles” and “Autism Out and About.” She is the mother of two boys on the autism spectrum. Sarah worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant and Certified Medication Technician at assisted living facilities, nursing homes and in-home care before leaving in July of 2021 after experiencing caregiver burnout.

She is raw and passionate as she speaks about her experiences as a caregiver in both personal and professional settings. Sarah is unafraid to tackle serious topics but also uses her wit to bring levity to almost any situation. She uses her podcast to help caregivers from all walks of life connect to others and get their messages out about making the world a better place for those we care for and those who care for us.

About Caregiver Chronicles Podcast:

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Sarah experienced caregiver burnout. She wanted to share her story to help anyone else who may have been experiencing the same thing. With the help of her husband, Jeremy, the pair of them started “Caregiver Chronicles” in their truck, recording episodes on a cell phone. “Caregiver Chronicles” has grown, allowing Sarah to connect with other caregivers from all walks of life. What started as a podcast by a single caregiver experiencing burnout has become a way for family caregivers to connect, learn and grow. The podcast has covered a wide variety of topics, from autism awareness and acceptance to dementia caregiving to education and assistance in applying for services. Sarah is not afraid to discuss any issue that a ects caregivers and the people they care for.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome two remarkable individuals who are making an impact, Susie Singer Carter & Rick Mountcastle.

About the Film "No Country for Old People": “No Country for Old People” is a critically needed documentary inspired award-winning filmmaker, Susie Singer Carter's (Oscar Qualified “My Mom and The Girl” starring Valerie Harper, Soul Surfer) experience tackling the front lines of our broken Long Term Care/Nursing Home System while caring for her beloved mother who, despite best efforts, died July 17, 2022 from what was inarguably egregious nursing home neglect and abuse.

Susie really understands the power of storytelling. This film promises to pack a much-needed gut punch that will force the public to look at our health-care system that is literally collapsing around us. Susie has partnered with former US Prosecutor and Attorney General, Rick Mountcastle (portrayed in the Hulu miniseries, “DOPESICK”), who spent years investigating and prosecuting nursing homes chains for fraud. She has attracted an impressive list of the most respected and staunch advocates to contribute to the film. The film is fiscally sponsored by The National Consumer Voice for Quality Long Term Care which provides them a 501(c)(3) status.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome two remarkable guests who are helping to change the caregiving landscape with their company, Adaptive Equipment & Caregiving Corner.

Cindy and Christina founded AECorner in 2015 because they saw too many seniors struggling every day to care for themselves. The majority of their clients have the same goal, and that is to remain as independent as possible in their homes. Many times, this goal can be achieved by simply having the right tools. AECorner.com is a trusted resource for family caregivers looking for equipment and techniques to help senior loved ones safely age in place and help caregivers work smarter and not harder while providing daily care. AECorner’s mission is to increase senior and caregiver safety during daily care and to improve and maintain the individual’s highest level of functional independence at home.

About Cindy, PT: Cindy graduated in 1992 with a Master’s Degree in Physical Therapy from Washington University in St Louis, MO. The majority of her career has been spent in Home Healthcare. She is passionate about helping people maintain their independence, especially when it makes a difference in their ability to remain in their homes.

About Christina, ST: Christina graduated from Eastern Illinois University with a Master’s degree in Communication Disorders & Science. She spent most of her career treating patients in skilled nursing facilities. She enjoys working with individuals who have dementia and educating their families. She also likes helping people that have difficulty eating, chewing, and swallowing due to illness or disease.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome, "Gramps Jeffrey", also known as Marc Joseph as a guest to the show. Marc Joseph is an author and the co-founder of babyboomers.org. Gramps Jeffrey’s children’s book, “I Don’t Want to Turn 3”, explores what goes through a toddler’s mind that parents are so desperate to understand. It is based on the true experiences he has had with his 6 grandchildren that were born 2 each to his 3 Millennial daughters. Gramps Jeffrey is the pen name for Marc Joseph whose first book “The Secrets of Retailing…How to Beat Wal-Mart” was written to help entrepreneurs and small businesses compete against the big guys. Arianna Huffington read his book and asked him to contribute to the Huffington Post. He has written over 100 articles about small businesses, education, the homeless and several other nonprofit topics dear to all of us. Gramps is currently the co-founder of the new site www.babyboomer.org which pulls together news and resources for the baby boomer community. Gramps and his lovely wife Cathy live in Scottsdale, Arizona where 2 of his grandchildren live. 2 more live in Austin, Texas and 2 in Orlando, Florida.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome back Tim England and Bettina Morrow to the show to discuss the use of restraints in the healthcare sector and to explore the various purposes and types of restraints.

Tim England is master’s-educated in dementia and an internationally recognized dementia champion.

Bettina Morrow is also master's-educated in dementia and masters-educated in social work specializing in adult services.

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The team at All Home Care Matters is humbled to share the exciting news that our channel has surpassed over 100,000 subscribers on YouTube. We would like to say thank you to our team, supporters, guests, friends, and most importantly our subscribers who may this achievement possible. Thank you to each of you! We are forever grateful!

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome, Dr. Reynolds A. Kairus or also known as "Dr. Rey" as a guest to the show.

Dr. Rey was raised in the 1990s by a single mother, on government assistance and living in a poverty-stricken NYC neighborhood. Nine out of ten of the people he was raised with are either dead, in jail or have been to jail. His father figures were loved ones who were in and out of correctional facilities, gangster movies and gangster rap artist. After several benign run-ins with the law and near-death experiences, he decided to get his act together.

Dr. Rey became an emergency medical technician in 2003. He started considering the possibility of becoming a physician in 2004, although he secretly thought that a person with his upbringing and social class couldn’t make this monumental achievement happen. After being introduced to the “Self-Improvement” section of Barnes and Noble, he began to realize the potential that he had - the potential we all have.

Receiving mentorship through books and high-level individuals allowed him to pursue the goal to become a medical doctor.

After graduating, the stress of not practicing medicine immediately, not working, considering eating food out the garbage, being on government assistance again, being a family of 4 while living in a room the size of a closet, being 60 pounds overweight, the initiation of an inevitable divorce, being surrounded by negative energy, amongst other things.... was overwhelming.

That is when he got sick and tired of being sick and tired. Dr. Rey then leaned on a healthy lifestyle as a safe haven and sought mentorship, started tracking his macronutrient intake, became conscious of the negative self-talk, took up martials arts and weightlifting.

Now you’ll note a man who got his life back, is confident, living his dreams, full of energy and living life on his terms and Dr. Rey wishes the same for you!

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Christy Byrne Yates, M.S., LEP as a guest to discuss her book "“Building a Legacy of Love: Thriving in the Sandwich Generation” and how she is supporting caregivers and their loved ones.

Christy is the mother of two – now adult – children. She is an expert in navigating the challenges and opportunities in life including living in the “Sandwich Generation” — that time period of raising children while also caring for an aging loved one. Her book, “Building a Legacy of Love: Thriving in the Sandwich Generation” recounts her journey and learning as a working mother of two who also managed the care of her parents, both of whom had some form of dementia. She incorporates meditation, mindfulness and other evidence based mind/body practices into her work to support growth, resilience, and a pathway to living life fully.

Christy has worked with caregiver support organizations, assisted living and memory care facilities, home care agencies, as well as with estate attorneys and financial professionals to offer workshops and trainings regarding the unique needs of and solutions for the Sandwich Generation and Whole Family Wellness. Christy has a master’s degrees in counseling psychology, and holds credentials as an Education Specialist and School Psychologist. In California she is a Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP), retired school psychologist, an author, speaker and coach/consultant.

Christy incorporates evidenced based mind-body wellness practices into her work and trainings. These practices are great for the whole family, and easily adapted to different age groups.

Mindful meditation, breath work, visualization, journaling and Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) are all modalities that Christy has been trained in and used with children, teens and adults. When wellness is a family value and family practice, it increases resilience, improves relationships, and has positive effects on school and work life.

About Christy's Book:

Christy’s book, “Building a Legacy of Love: Thriving in the Sandwich Generation,” might be the one you don’t know you need…yet!

Combining straightforward research and tender memoir, Christy shines a light on a challenge faced by nearly 50% of Americans – raising children while also caring for an aging parent or loved one. This book offers insights into the unique needs of parents squeezed between two generations who need them dearly, while offering insights and mindset shifts that can lead to greater compassion, resilience and well-being. She addresses difficult conversations and how to prepare for those, anticipatory grief experienced by family members, how to talk to children about death and dying, and the need for ruthless self-care in order to rise above the struggles.

Christy speaks from experience as a Sandwich Generation parent and as a psychologist and mental health professional with over 30 years of experience working with adults and children. Whether you’re a parent in the middle, or the aging loved one, “Building a Legacy of Love: Thriving in the Sandwich Generation,” will inspire you to have meaningful conversations.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Nathalie de Vazeille the co-founder of StackCare to the show.

Nathalie earned her degree in International Business from George Washington University and established a successful career in the fragrance and cosmetics industry in Europe. As a marketing and B2B sales professional, Nathalie developed her skills for crafting effective strategies and building strong client relationships.

In 2018, Nathalie embarked on a new chapter in her professional career as a co-founder of StackCare, a company dedicated to supporting the independent lifestyle of older adults. Having seen first-hand the challenges of aging in place, she recognized the potential for innovative technologies to enhance senior lives. While Nathalie never imagined herself working in the software industry, she found a profound sense of purpose in providing family caregivers with such a valuable tool.

About StackCare:

Independence and dignity are important to seniors. But anyone with a parent living alone understands the daily anxiety and stress of worrying whether Mom or Dad is OK. StackCare may be the perfect solution waiting for both of you! StackCare uses discreet motion sensors and artificial intelligence to learn individual behavior and activity patterns, sending notifications directly to your phone when something isn’t right. You get to see at a glance, simply and easily, if your loved one is sleeping ok, is visiting the bathroom too often, and whether his/her activity patterns have changed. Find out promptly, 24/7, if they might have fallen or aren’t feeling well. No cameras, no microphones, no wearables, just lots of love and care!

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome a remarkable guest to the show, Connie Chow. Connie is the co-founder of DailyCaring.com.

Connie was a hands-on caregiver for her grandmother for 20 years. She knows exactly how challenging, overwhelming, and all-consuming caring for an older adult can be. She also knows how important support is – especially in the form of practical solutions, useful resources, and tips for self-care.

Connie has an MBA from University of Southern California and a Bachelor’s in Economics from University of California at Berkeley. Prior to founding DailyCaring, she built and managed online products in the financial and tech industries.

About DailyCaring:

When caring for an older adult (and trying to stay sane), you need practical answers fast. DailyCaring.com helps you solve the frustrating day-to-day problems that make you lose your temper or keep you up at night.

At DailyCaring.com, they search everywhere to find the most practical and useful tips, advice, personal stories, and resources related to caregiving and aging. Then, they boil it down to the most important points you need to know.

The DailyCaring.com website is easy on the eyes. easy to navigate, and makes it a snap to find the information you need right now. Plus, you can subscribe to their free daily email newsletter so you never miss out on the latest info.

When you’re informed and empowered, you’ll improve health and wellness for both your older adult and yourself.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome three remarkable women who also happen to be sisters, JJ, Natalie, and Emilie. They are helping to share real stories of caregiving and are the trio behind the "Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver" podcast.

The trio of sisters begins with Jenefer Jane “JJ” who was and always will be “in charge”. She’s the peacekeeper. The responsible one, ensuring Natalie and Emilie remained alive growing up. A seasoned executive and business owner, JJ’s career path had her spend her first 17 years in the finance industry and the most recent 12 years as a business owner in the real estate, manufacturing, and retail sectors.

Next is Natalie, the middle child, who was and always will be Miss Congeniality. She’s the athlete. The rebel responsible for three babysitters exiting the summer of ’84. Natalie’s journey led her to the human services field. A CEO at 31, her passion for serving others fast tracked her way to the executive suite.

Then there is Emilie, the youngest, who was and always will be “the baby”. At 6’1”, she is the sensitive and quiet soul. The one responsible for the guinea pig that begged for lettuce and the stray dog we adopted from the bus stop. A natural born caregiver, this mother of three has spent the majority of her life caring for others. She would serve the public in the government sector for 10 years before ultimately becoming the full-time caregiver for her mother.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome three member of the Aging Life Care Association, also know. as ALCA.

The Aging Life Care Association® (ALCA), a nonprofit association with over 2,000 members, is governed by an 11-member Board of Directors who are elected to two-year terms and represent a diversity in practices and geographic locations.

The ALCA office is located in Tucson, Arizona, where a staff manages day-to-day operations as well as conference and meeting planning.

On these pages you can meet the association’s leadership as well as learn more about its governance, history, and standards.

Vision Inspiring excellence and setting the highest standards in the field of Aging Life Care™.

Mission Promoting and leading the community of Aging Life Care Professionals® through our unique knowledge base, continuing education, professional development, and the highest ethical practices.

Visit ALCA:

https://www.aginglifecare.org/

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome the team from Savvy Cooperative to learn how they are helping to revolutionize and improve healthcare and the patient experience.

Joining the show was Jen Horonjeff, Eriel Brown, and Vivek Krishnaswamy.

About Savvy Cooperative:

Savvy Cooperative is the first (and only!) patient-owned co-op. At Savvy, we believe that patients and caregivers should be involved in every aspect of creating a healthcare product or service. We do this by giving patients and caregivers direct ways to share their experiences with health innovators through gigs, and advocating that they be fairly compensated for their contributions. We empower patients and caregivers to co-create new solutions, and see that their voices and experiences not only are valuable, but are of critical importance to the healthcare industry.

Visit their Official Website:

https://www.savvy.coop/

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome a distinguished guest, Mr. Alban Maino the founder and CEO of Memory Lane TV.

Alban Maino is a noted Franco-American media producer passionate about integrative health. After personal experiences in his family with palliative care, he embarked on a social impact mission to help people living with memory loss. After several years of product development in Europe and New England, he launched in 2022 the first streaming platform for people living with dementia: www.memory-lane.tv.

Passionate about mindfulness and philosophy, cinematography and photography, goat cheese and wine, hiking and walking in noble silence, music and poetry...among other things…Alban believes that life’s purpose is to remain optimistic on all levels and do your best to make other people feel good.

Memory Lane TV is the Netflix of dementia care! A unique streaming platform using multi-sensory tools (even aromatherapy) to alleviate symptoms of dementia and increase well being or both people living with dementia & their caregivers. Memory Lane TV is a digital health tool that induces sensory stimulation to both activate memory and to mitigate many of the behavioral and psychological symptoms that often accompany Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. It is effectively a media streaming service (like Netflix or Hulu) so it is very easy to use and is widely available, but all of the content is scientifically designed to be therapeutically helpful for managing these symptoms.

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome the Founder & CEO of Busy Minds Box, Kristina Lubofsky.

Kristina Lubofsky, MS, is a gerontologist certified in brain health and dedicated to enriching the lives of older adults. After the third Alzheimer’s diagnosis in her family, she founded a company that distributes activities designed to promote learning, better brain health, and quality of life to older adults every month and this company is named Busy Minds Box.

As a caregiver, she would bring activities to her grandmother as a way to connect. She knew her fellow caregivers were constantly searching for ways to connect with their own loved ones with dementia. She understood that those living with dementia deserve a better quality of life, one where they feel like they have a purpose. She came to learn that older adults, with or without cognitive challenges, often find themselves homebound but still want to find ways to fill their time in a meaningful way.

Busy Minds Boxes fill these underserved needs, all while promoting better brain health by targeting different areas of the brain with each month’s collection of activities. Each Busy Minds Box features a fresh new theme each month and hours' worth of fun and engaging activities designed to target different areas of the brain. Activities include custom-designed arts and crafts, puzzles, games, books, and more!

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome Bianca Padilla the Co-Founder of Carewell to the show. Bianca and Carewell are helping to revolutionize the caregiving space for caregivers and their loved ones.

Bianca became her grandmother’s caregiver after major surgery left her nearly immobile. She felt overwhelmed without guidance regarding the products she needed and where to find them. She also had no one to turn to for advice. This experience led her to create Carewell with her now-husband, Jon Malgonick.

She graduated from New York University with a bachelor's degree in economics. Before founding Carewell, she worked as a software engineer at LiveNinja and as an analyst for CCMP Capital Advisors and Pantheon Ventures. She also founded the Charlotte chapter of Aging 2.0, to which she currently serves as an ambassador, and attended the Disney Institute. In 2022, she made the Forbes 30 under 30 list.

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All Home Care Matters was privileged to welcome Dr. Jennifer Bute to the show to discuss her story about how as a medical doctor she came to diagnosis herself with dementia.

Dr Jennifer Bute, lives in a Dementia supportive retirement village having previously lived in a Dementia inclusive one for 11 years She worked in Africa as a doctor before working as a GP for 25 years involved in medical education. She resigned early as she realised things were not right, and was diagnosed with dementia twelve years ago.

Jennifer speaks at conferences and on radio, has been involved in television programs raising awareness and understanding of dementia around the world. She passionately believes more can be done to improve both the present and the future for those living with dementia. Jennifer's book ‘Dementia from the Inside A Doctors Personal Journey of Hope’ is her story and explains these principles and has recently been translated into Chinese.

Jennifer has a Website www.gloriousopportunity.org containing many free resources including short educative videos and a short children’s cartoon about a dragon with dementia. She also posts weekly blogs explaining different aspects of dementia as she never stops learning www.facebook.com/gloriousopportunity

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This panel discussion examines and explores the ethical challenges and issues that arise with the rising influence of social media and how it can present challenges for deciding what is appropriate and what is not appropriate when sharing, recording, and posting individuals who have dementia.

We examine the ethical dilemma of asking if a person with dementia should have their likeness, video, and image shared on social media without their consent and how can you determine if consent is provided if it is informed and able to be given?

If a post is shared on social media of an individual with dementia and it is positive, educational, and/or helpful is that ok if no consent if given? Is consent not still required regardless of the purpose and motive of the social media post? We welcomed 9 of the world's most influential dementia experts, influencers, educators, and advocates to discuss this very important topic and to try and determine what is and what is not appropriate when it comes to sharing images, posts, and videos of individuals with dementia.

Our objective for this discussion was to help bring attention to an issue that has seldom been considered in hopes of furthering the conversation and to help protect individuals with dementia from the potential for abuse, exploitation, and having their images being shared on social media without their knowledge and consent.

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All Home Care Matters is featuring a 9 person panel of the world's leading dementia advocates, influencers, educators, and experts to discuss the "Ethics of Dementia and Social Media." The "Ethics of Dementia & Social Media" came about after having asked the question as to whether a person with dementia should have images and/or videos of themselves posted to social media if they are unable to provide consent? If the post is done in a positive way, does this change one's opinion as to whether it should be posted or not? Isn't consent still consent regardless of the purpose and perspective of what is being posted? Should there be guidelines, policies, and safeguards in place protecting these individuals with dementia from having their images posted to social media either as a photo or video? The 9 person panel discussion we hosted addressing these questions and this issue will be released on February 14th, 2023 on our Official YouTube channel and on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Joe Hausch, John Wright, and Roger Anunsen to the show to discuss Photavia.

Photavia is is a unique video content company.

We are time travelers. We are movie makers with purpose. PHOTAVIA creates all-inclusive short video experiences via art/photography, part video/musical experience, part education and part history.

Science: We follow the science that shows pleasant thoughts invoked by visual memory triggers can be of therapeutic benefit to individuals, caregivers and families dealing with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and PTSD, among others.

Art: Our lifelong learning tools that we are developing continuously can reduce anxiety and stress, create reminiscence, and ignite inter-generational conversations with "art that triggers memories”.

Edutainment: Our unique licensing agreements and focus on the The LIFE Picture Collection™ and photos from LIFE Magazine provides incredible iconic content for our G-Rated short two-minute programs that engage, educate and enhance environments. We create Reminisce with Relevance.

Cognitive Enhancement and Engagement Tool: With the specific cognitive benefits of Photo Reminiscence Therapy through all of our programming, we are perfect for seniors in any continuum of care, great in discovery meetings, important for families and extremely good for many living with Dementia or Alzheimer’s.

We can harness the power to Reminisce and there are so many positive health outcomes being discovered every day. In our recent “new world” presentations of new programs with various clients and communities, we are experiencing the Health & Social Benefits of Reminiscing with Relevance™ in real time. We watch better living through imagery happen every day. We’re changing caregiving and lives.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome the founder & CEO of Givers, Max Mayblum and the Director of Marketing, Katie Wilkinson as our guest to share how they are helping families and caregivers with resources and financial support.

Max Mayblum is the founder and CEO of Givers. Motivated by his personal exposure to family caregiving and his background in healthtech, he started the company on a mission to help caregivers get long overdue support and resources. Max is a Certified Senior Advisor (CSA)® and is passionate about helping caregivers find joy and connection in their role.

Katie Wilkinson is the Head of Marketing at Givers. Watching her dad take care of her mom when she was sick gave her a front-row seat to witness the weight of being an unpaid caregiver. Katie is passionate about the intersection of healthcare and technology, and making sure that unpaid family caregivers get the care and compensation they deserve.

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Imagine that you were scrolling through a social media site and someone you worked with or one of your family members posted an image or video of you that was less than flattering. Everyone not only saw it but started commenting on it and sharing it. How would this make you feel?

Now consider a person who not only never sees something like this posted about them but doesn’t even understand that they are being ridiculed or exploited. This is what it is like for someone living with dementia. They don’t have the ability to approve or consent to have images, videos and other identifying posts to be shared in this social media-crazed world. These people need to be protected.

It could be you. Every 3 seconds a new case of dementia is diagnosed somewhere in the world, joining the already more than 55 million people living with the disease. Dementia, a general term for a group of similar diseases including Alzheimer’s, is a progressive disease that destroys memory and other important mental functions. While there is no cure, medications and management strategies may temporarily improve symptoms.

We live in a world now where anyone can take a photo or record a video of someone and put it out on social media. But I am capable of making that decision because I understand what is being posted and shared and I understand what social media is. A person suffering with dementia does not and they need to be protected. We need to remember that every person with dementia is still a person and deserves and is entitled to respect and dignity.

This topic will be the subject of an upcoming “Ethics of Dementia and Social Media” forum featuring nine of the world’s leading dementia experts on the ethics of dementia and social media and will air on YouTube and other podcast providers worldwide on Feb. 14.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome a distinguished guest, Mr. Jim Towey. Jim Towey was a trusted advisor and personal friend of Mother Teresa of Calcutta for twelve years and did the first reading at her Mass of Canonization in Saint Peter’s Square. He headed the White House Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives under George W. Bush and served on his senior staff. Jim's career spans the presidency of two Catholic colleges for thirteen years, a seven-year stint as a US Senate staffer, and the leadership of Florida’s 40,000-employee health and human services agency. In 1996, with Mother Teresa’s encouragement, he founded the nonprofit advocacy organization Aging with Dignity and created the Five Wishes advance directive, which has sold over 40 million copies and is used in all fifty states. Towey met his wife, Mary, in Mother Teresa’s Washington, DC, AIDS home, and they have five children and three grandchildren. He continues to provide pro bono legal services for the Missionaries of Charity. His book, To Love and Be Loved: A Personal Portrait of Mother Teresa, was published by Simon and Schuster in September 2022.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome, Dr. Buffy Lloyd-Krejci as a guest to the show.

Dr. Buffy Lloyd-Krejci, president and founder of IPCWell, has always had a passion for mitigating infectious diseases through a data-driven approach. Even before the pandemic, Buffy realized how serious infections disproportionately impact vulnerable populations. COVID-19, in her view, merely sheds light on the systemic challenge of infection prevention and control and its adverse impact on patient care.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, IPCWell has taken a “boots on the ground” approach to support healthcare facilities such as nursing homes across the nation, doing in-person, deep-dive assessments to offer immediate support to healthcare workers on the frontlines. Dr. Lloyd-Krejci travels the country to long-term care facilities to assess, train, and educate with humor, vigor, and empathy. She has developed practical tools, led trainings and “train the trainer” programs, provided ongoing support to IPC teams, and created the “LTC playbook” for Doctors Without Borders infection control support for early use in hard hit areas of Detroit and Houston.

Recently, she published her first book, BROKEN: How the Global Pandemic Uncovered a Nursing Home System in Need of Repair and the Heroic Staff Fighting for Change, a novel which exposes the dire need of a massive policy overhaul within the nursing home industry.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome the founders of Prairie Elder Care & Connectivities as guests to the show to share how they are helping to support, stimulate, and care for loved ones with dementia.

Michala Gibson is a Registered Nurse with over 20 years of experience in the senior care industry. She has served as Director of Nursing and Director of Staff Development in local care communities. She is the co-founder of Prairie Elder Care and the Prairie Farmstead where residents live in small group homes on a small farm setting. As a Certified Trainer for Teepa Snow’s Positive Approach to Care, Michala works continuously to ensure that the elders in her care have the best opportunities for quality of life. Michala is co-author of the book, Now is Found, highlighting steps to giving back Community, Connection and Control to those living with dementia.

Mandy Shoemaker brings 20 years of experience in education prior to her career in dementia care, Mandy has a deep passion for creating programs that spark meaningful engagement. As an elementary school principal, she focused on supporting her families’ children. As co-founder of Prairie Elder Care and Connectivities, she has shifted her focus to ensuring a better quality of life for people living with dementia. Through co-authoring the book, Now is Found, Mandy has worked to minimize the stigma of dementia and help people understand how Community, Connection and Control can improve quality of life for those dealing with the effects of dementia.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Kim Newlove as a guest to the show to share her story of raising a son who was born with autism and the caregiving journey that she embarked on. Kim Newlove is a pharmacist, voice actor, podcast host, wife, Mom of 2 teenagers, and volunteer. She and her family live in the greater Toledo, OH area. Kim earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Pharmacy from The University of Toledo College of Pharmacy in 2001. She founded The Pharmacist's Voice ®, LLC in 2017, and launched The Pharmacist’s Voice ® Podcast in 2019. Her website is https://www.thepharmacistsvoice.com. Among other things, she narrates audiobooks for women pharmacist authors, provides medical narration to clients in the pharmaceutical, biotech, and continuing medical education industries, and narrates content for explainer videos and eLearning projects. Her delivery style is confident and trustworthy. In her spare time, Kim enjoys spending time with family, playing Ticket to Ride Switzerland, swimming, and riding her BMW motorbike.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Beverley Glazer as a guest to the show to discuss tips, resources, and support for caregivers and their loved ones.

Beverley Glazer MA., CCC., ICCAC, is a Psychotherapist, Internationally Certified Addiction Specialist, Coach and Founder of Reinvent Impossible Inc; a personal development company that educates, coaches, and empowers adults 50+ who’ve experienced life transitions that left them feeling powerless, to get grounded and focused, and create new possibilities built on their strengths.

After 30 years in private practice, helping people through traditional therapy, she turned her attention to coaching; supporting and creating programs for others, who’ve had an extreme wake-up call, to stay grounded and focused so they can carve a clear path with ease and peace of mind. She’s as a clinician, coach, speaker, educator, writer, entrepreneur, former talk-radio host, and the originator of The Reinvention Formula TM, a surprisingly easy coaching system combining scientific knowledge with down-to-earth wisdom, that gives the tools and support to bounce back with resilience and move forward to new horizons.

Her podcast, “Aging with Purpose and Passion” is aligned with her mission, that it is never too late to reinvent yourself and become who you’ve always imagined.”

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome the President of Talk About Aging, Janice Goldmintz.

Talk About Aging was founded in 2016. Janice helps children and their aging parents get in sync, any age, any stage. Janice's expertise came through both academic and personal experiences. With her Master's degree in Gerontology she was given wide insight into what can be done to assist our seniors in creating the highest quality of life possible, no matter what the challenges may be.

As a child of older adult parents, she had to sift through many options, changes and emotional situations which allowed her to help bring families together to create peace of mind and accord. What Janice provides is a way to untangle the overwhelm, whether from medical issues, family dynamics or work/life issues.

About 6 Not-So-Secrets to Successful Aging:

Our older adults deserve to live their life with the highest degree of quality. These 6 not so secrets address many of the challenges that face our seniors. They also focus positive light to what can be accomplished to create a meaningful and joyful life at any age. The topics we look at range from attitudes we have about aging to helping others create their best life. These are now no longer secret-and now we can have our older adults move forward and plan for a very positive future.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome the Co-Founder of AlzAuthors as a guest to the show, Jean Lee.

Jean Lee worked full time teaching elementary school while she was thrust into a caregiving role for her mom and dad when they were dually diagnosed.

Her memoir, Alzheimer’s Daughter, follows two sisters–– Jean living a mile from her parents, and her sister living 1,000 miles away––through a near-decade journey as they work together to move their parents out of their life-long home, and eventually to a locked memory care facility. At the end of this hand in hand decline, the sisters are honored to be together as their parents breathe their last breath. Sadness and loss contrast with tenderness and devotion as Jean uses the elderly couple’s WWII love letters, found during the final cleanout, as chapter beginnings.

After the publication of Alzheimer’s Daughter, Jean connected with other authors of Alzheimer’s books, to co-found AlzAuthors.com with the goal of eliminating the stigma and silence often accompanying a diagnosis. AlzAuthors enables caregivers and those living with memory impairment to find written resources – memoirs, novels, nonfiction, children’s books and caregiver guides – which educate and enlighten. AlzAuthors, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, is managed by six daughters of dementia and has posted weekly essays from over 300 authors with direct links to their books, all written from personal experience with Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Three years ago, they launched an award-winning podcast entitled Untangling Alzheimer’s and Dementia: An AlzAuthors Podcast. Their newest initiative brings real books to real people in real places through Custom Caregiver Collections, placing handcrafted, table-top lending libraries in locations where people whose lives have been impacted by Alzheimer’s and dementia gather.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome a good friend, board member, and founder of The Whole Care Network, Christopher MacLellan. However, you may know Christopher as the "Bow Tie Guy". When people ask him "why did you create the Whole Care Network"... he always come back to his caregiving experience and how fortunate he was to find resources that helped him and his partner Richard Schiffer manage their caregiving journey. Every caregiver has a story and through their stories, they find validation, resources and respite to help manage their caregiving day. Christopher feels fortunate to have had their story chronicled in a 2015 Pulitzer Prize-nominated 3-part story “In Sickness and In Health: A Couple’s Final Journey” which told their journey of caregiving. The story told of the challenges LGBT partners have in dealing with the medical and legal system, but it also told of the love and joy of his partner Richard's last years had on their relationship. Their story has been read by over 500,000 people worldwide since it was published in April of 2014. One of the reasons their story was so successful was because readers could place themselves in their shoes; dealing with the healthcare system, the legal system, balancing work and life, while facing the reality their time together was short. It was an afterthought that the story just happened to be about two men. When it comes to caregiving, there are no economic boundaries, no racial boundaries, no gender boundaries and no orientation boundaries. Caregiving impacts everyone, and it is through story sharing where diversity meets the road to collaborate on a common cause. And our common cause is to support caregivers before, during and after caregiving has ended.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome two remarkable difference makers in the dementia and Alzheimer's field, Lori La Bey and David Wiederrich. Lori La Bey is the founder of Alzheimer’s Speaks and is co-founder of Dementia Map global resource directory. Lori’s mother who lived with dementia for 30 years. Her goal has always been to shift dementia care from crisis to comfort around the world. She offers a variety of free resources to educate, empower, connect, and decrease stigmas; helping families and professionals live graciously alongside dementia. Lori is an international speaker known for her multiple platforms and training programs. Dave Wiederrich is the founder of JADCOM Media LLC, a business services company providing web design, publishing services, and social media support. JADCOM Media owns and operates a variety of websites with differing areas of focus. One of Dave’s dementia-oriented sites is Memory Cafe Directory, a collection of dementia-friendly events from around the world. His Memory Joggers are free activities for dementia care partners to engage their loved ones in mentally stimulating recall. Dave founded Dementia Map with Lori La Bey of Alzheimer’s Speaks to provide a comprehensive collection of valuable resources for the dementia community. Dementia Map includes a resource directory, events calendar, glossary, and blog.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome James McLoughlin the Partnership Director of Thank and Praise (TAP) to the show to discuss how we can show thank and praise to caregivers, care workers, and those helping to make a positive difference in lives from any profession. James has spent his career working for purpose-driven organizations, all committed to making a positive impact to society. James's role is to develop long-term relationships with corporate partners who share TAP's values, with the combined goal of recognizing and rewarding the Unsung Heroes in education and healthcare. Most of all, he appreciates the difference that TAP is making to the health and wellbeing of those working in education, healthcare and social care.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Alzheimer's advocate and 2022 Maude Award Recipient Mary Crescenzo as a guest to the show.

Mary Crescenzo is a recipient of the 2022 Maude’s Award for Individual Innovation for Dementia Care for her pioneer work in arts engagement with persons with Alzheimer’s and other dementias.

Her book, The Planet Alzheimer’s Guide: 8 Ways the Arts Can Transform the Life of Your Loved One and Your Own, is a how-to guide for care partners in the use of the arts to enhance connection and communication with persons living with this disease. Mary is also an award-winning author, playwright, and public speaker. In June, 2022, her play Planet A was staged as a fundraiser for the Alzheimer’s Association.

Mary is co-host with Lori La Bey, host of Alzheimer's Speaks "Dementia & Arts Education panel” radio podcast; and creator and facilitator of "Creative Writing for Caregivers" a safe place to find respite, relaxation and revelation. As speaker, workshop facilitator, and consultant for individuals and memory care facilities, her presentations provide comprehensive insight on Care Through the Arts℠ in the use of art to foster creativity, self-expression and joy for both caregiver and persons cared for. She is a member of AlzAuthors, Teaching Artist Guild, Society of International Female Professionals, The Dramatists Guild, and SAG-AFTRA.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Renee Schyjer as a guest to the show to share her story and book "It's Not a Rumour: A Rock & Roll Journey Through Life and Alzheimer's." Renaissance woman, truth-seeker, and storyteller, Renee Schyjer is devoted to sharing the life and legacy of her husband, 80's Power Pop legend Freddy Moore, diagnosed almost a decade ago with early-onset Alzheimer's. For years, Freddy was center stage, a prolific singer/songwriter/musician who sold out iconic Los Angeles clubs and opened for headlining bands like The Police, The Knack, and The Motels. Armed with their love story that spans decades and Freddy's memoir, It's Not A Rumour: A Rock & Roll Journey Through Life and Alzheimer's, Renee is reaching out to music lovers and families impacted by this disease. By telling untold stories of their lives "before and after," she hopes to provide support, healing, and connection while driving awareness and research for this disruptive and heartbreaking disease.

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Annalee started Care Right Inc, in 2011. Care Right is a nation-wide consultancy serving families across the US in developing customized Aging Plans. Prior, she worked as a social worker, marketing director, and executive director in long term care communities for 18 years and saw a need for families to start discussing the “what ifs” of aging sooner rather than later.

Annalee launched the Care Right Family Caregiver Solutions Facebook group, providing solutions, tips, support, education, and sense of community to family caregivers across the world.

Annalee is also working with two international Accreditation firms to create an academy, (ASCA—Aging Strategist Coaching Academy) allowing her robust Aging Strategist training program to be accredited and certify the coaches who go through the academy.

She trains financial advisors across the US in becoming an Elder Planning Specialist, teaching advisors to better identify AND address the needs of their aging clients or those clients who are adult children/family caregivers and burning out. Annalee also started the Care Crusade, a national campaign to improve the quality of care for our seniors and vulnerable adults.

Annalee is a national speaker and podcast guest on aging planning, aging issues, dementia care, improving family communication throughout the aging process, and many other topics. Annalee’s book, The Invisible Patient: the emotional, financial, and physical toll on family caregivers is available on Amazon.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Misti Freeman Staley as our guest to the show to learn the story behind FreeArm and The Freeman Foundation and how she is helping to change the lives of families.

Misti’s son Freeman Ellis Staley was born in 2015 with heart and lung complications. 3.5 months were spent in the Little Rock Arkansas Children’s Hospital NICU, home for 5 weeks, and then back in the PICU for another 5 months before Freeman sadly lost his battle with pulmonary hypertension at 10 months old. After Freeman’s passing, Misti devoted a full year of her time to Freeman Foundation, raising $250K to build a state-of-the-art, ADA accessible playground in downtown Helena, Arkansas. Freeman Playground, at opening, was the only Arkansas playground within 90 miles of Helena with ramps on the equipment and a poured in place rubber surface for children with special needs. Freeman Playground brings joy to the community while remembering Freeman and many other children who have left this world too soon. Misti continues to manage Freeman Foundation while also working as CEO of Staley House LLC, creator of the FreeArm.

Misti and her husband Will needed an extra hand tube feeding their son Freeman, so they created one- The FreeArm! The FreeArm holds gravity syringe feeds, pump feeds and infusions at the hospital, home and on-the-go, giving mobility and consistency to tube feeding and home infusion. The FreeArm has been on the market since late 2018 and is helping parents, Tubies and caregivers worldwide. The FreeArm is a patent pending, FDA class one medical device and billable for insurance coverage. The FreeArm and Freeman Playground give Freeman’s short life larger meaning. Misti is happy to continue to spread Freeman’s legacy of love.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Lori Lemasters who is the founder of Care Partners Resource & Author of "You're a Caregiver, Not a Saint: Yeah, Write." Lori Ramos Lemasters is the founder of Care Partners Resource and Consulting and a certified Journal to the Self ® Therapeutic Writing Instructor. She cared for her parents the last eight years of their lives and uses that experience to teach caregivers the benefits of using therapeutic journal writing to manage the challenges of caring for a loved one. Lori is an author, with publications under the last names of Lemasters and Cavallo. She has partnered with many local and national organizations to teach therapeutic journaling to caregivers. Lori created Caregivers Tuesday Talks Outside the Box and in conjunction with AARP Care-FULL Conversations both are available on Care Partners Resource YouTube Channel. Most recently Lori has published a book "You’re a Caregiver, Not a Saint: Yeah Write" which is available on Amazon or on the Care Partners Resource website.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Katy Plant, GM of Canary Health and Dr. Veronica Yank M.D. of UCSF to the show to discuss the Power of Peers Providing Caregiver Support with Building Better Caregivers with Canary Health.

Katy trained in Public Health and has worked in digital health for over 2 decades. She spent 15 years at Stanford University as a researcher at the School of Medicine where she worked on a variety of studies spanning women’s health, chronic disease prevention, cancer survivors, diabetes self-management, and caregiving. She has considerable experience with developing online programs for people with chronic health conditions and their caregivers and has co-authored numerous research papers. Katy has also spent time working at the National Council on Aging as a Product Director, and continues to have a passion for working with older adults.

Katy is an inventor of the Building Better Caregivers® online program offered Nationally at the VA. Katy is currently the General Manager for a digital therapeutics company, Canary Health. When Katy is not working, you can usually find her on a soccer field somewhere in Northern California.

Dr. Veronica Yank is a primary care physician-investigator. Her research focuses on informal (family/friend) caregivers and on improving care to prevent and manage chronic conditions in primary care, community, and home-based settings, particularly conditions associated with elevated cardiovascular disease risk (e.g., diabetes, chronic kidney disease), older adults, and heavy caregiver burden (e.g., dementia). She does health services research, community-based randomized controlled trials, and implementation studies using mixed methods with LatinX, urban, and rural underserved patients, families, and communities. She is core faculty within the Multiethnic Health Equity Research Center and Co-Director of the National Clinician Scholars Program at UCSF.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome a remarkable and distinguished guest to the show, Dr. Jason Karlawish. Dr. Karlawish is a physician, writer, and author. He researches and writes about issues at the intersections of bioethics, aging, and the neurosciences. He is the author of The Problem of Alzheimer’s: How Science, Culture, and Politics Turned a Rare Disease into a Crisis and What We Can Do About It and the novel Open Wound: The Tragic Obsession of Dr. William Beaumont. Dr. Karlawish has also written essays for the Los Angeles Times, The New York Times, The Washington Post, Forbes, The Hill, Nature, STAT, and the Philadelphia Inquirer. Currently he is a Professor of Medicine, Medical Ethics and Health Policy, and Neurology at the University of Pennsylvania and Co-Director of the Penn Memory Center, where he cares for patients. He is a member of the Board of Directors of The Greenwall Foundation. He lives in Philadelphia.

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome a good friend and even more remarkable guest to the show, Carrie Aalberts aka "Dementia Darling. Carrie has devoted herself to supporting and helping caregivers who are caring for loved ones with dementia.

Carrie Aalberts aka Dementia Darling has her Master of Science focused in Gerontology and has worked alongside seniors for the last ten years. She specializes in dementia care and engagement with experience in various settings such as adult day care and assisted living. Carrie is a Certified Dementia Practitioner and more recently a Montessori Dementia Care Professional. She is known for her social media persona, Dementia Darling. Carrie created Dementia Darling in fall 2019 to provide a safe space for Dementia Caregivers to find tips, education and support. Dementia Darling's mission is the ensure that no caregiver feels alone.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Gretchen Kingma to the show. Gretchen is an Occupational Therapist and Realtor who through her company Empowered Homes is helping to make it possible to safely age in place. Empowered Homes is a real estate and services company helping clients buy, sell, and invest in real estate as well as modify existing homes through the lens of skilled occupational therapists. Our combination of healthcare and real estate equips us to serve clients of all ages and all abilities in finding or creating a space that you can truly call a "forever home". With the use of technology, we offer all of our services nationwide and have created an Amazon storefront to streamline the search process of products to simplify life at home.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome a special guest to the show, Spencer Bishins. Spencer is an author and former attorney for the Social Security Administration.

Spencer Bishins has a master’s degree from the London School of Economics, and a law degree from Florida State University. After law school, he worked in the private sector for two years prior to joining the Social Security Administration (SSA) in 2010. He worked at the Appeals Council for almost four years, reviewing thousands of disability decisions for compliance with SSA’s complex rules and procedures. He then worked at the hearing level for seven years, where he drafted almost 2,000 decisions for SSA Administrative Law Judges.

After working for SSA for more than 10 years, he wanted to help demystify the complicated disability system. His first book, Social Security Disability Revealed: Why it’s so hard to access benefits and what you can do about it, explores the obstacles that disability claimants face as they try to access benefits.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome a remarkable mother, wife, speaker, and author to the show Kim Hamer.

Kim Hamer is the author of 100 Acts of Love: A Girlfriend's Guide to Loving Your Friend through Cancer or Loss, an easy-to-read book filled with 100 practical, quick, and effective ways to support a friend or coworker. She’s also an HR leader and speaker who lives in Los Angeles where she tries not to bother her relatively well-behaved college-aged children.

About the Book:
The book is about how to deal with a loved one who has Cancer, it also talks about how to deal with coworkers or colleagues who have cancer and/or coworkers or colleagues who have loved ones who have cancer.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome back a dear friend of the show, Marianne Sciucco R.N. Marianne is an author, board member of All Home Care Matters, and Co-Founder of AlzAuthors. She joined us to discuss and share about an exciting new project that she and the AlzAuthors team have launched, called 6-Word Memoirs. "In six words, what’s one takeaway from my personal journey caring for a loved one with dementia?" That's the topic on AlzAuthors Six-Word Memoir Project. They've partnered with Larry Smith and Six-Word Memoirs to share caregiver stories and raise awareness of Alzheimer's and dementia. Here are some stories already submitted: • Unexpected blessing from mother's dementia diagnoses. • Mom, Dad: dual diagnosis, simultaneous decline. • Diagnosis not unexpected, but still devastating. • Mom, do you know me today? • Becoming a mom while losing mine. • Other people’s stories guided my journey. • Friendships with other dementia daughters needed. You can share your story here: 1. Go to this link https://app.sixwordmemoirs.com/ where you’ll be prompted to login with a name/password/email. 2. Then go to Join Topics and use this code: a8tt44di OR visit https://app.sixwordmemoirs.com/topic/... 3. Share one or as many six-word stories as you like!

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome the Executive Director of For Papa's Sake Home Care to the show to learn about the history of For Papa's Sake Home Care and how they became voted the #1 agency in North America in the top 100 in Experience by Home Care Pulse in 2022. Becky Reel is the Executive Director of For Papa’s Sake Home Care and brings over 15 years of operations experience to the organization. She received her undergraduate degree from Columbia College in Chicago, focusing on media management and communications. She received her Master’s in Business Administration, focusing on organizational changes and international business from Lake Forest College.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome a wonderful friend of the show, Elizabeth Miller. Elizabeth is the founder and owner of The Happy Healthy Caregiver.

Elizabeth Miller is a family caregiver advocate, speaker, author, and Certified Caregiving Consultant. Elizabeth’s personal experiences caring for aging parents with chronic and terminal illnesses and for a sibling with developmental disabilities inspired her to create Happy Healthy Caregiver in 2015. Through her coaching services, speaking, award-winning podcast, book, and online community, Elizabeth helps family caregivers infuse caregiving and self-care with their busy lives.

Elizabeth is the host of the Happy Healthy Caregiver podcast on the Whole Care Network, author of Just for You: a Daily Self-Care Journal, and facilitates an Atlanta support group for family caregivers called the Atlanta Daughterhood Circle. Elizabeth is also an ambassador and retreat leader for the No Barriers USA Caregivers Program.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Liza Berger and Diane Eastabrook from McKnights Home Care for an in-depth discussion about McKnights Home Care and the home care industry.

Liza Berger is editor of McKnight's Home Care, a two-year-old business-to-business brand for the home care industry. In this position, she oversees the brand's website (mcknightshomecare.com ) and daily e-newsletter, which offer legislative, regulatory, financial and clinical-related news and features related to the personal care, home health and hospice industries. Prior to her current position, she served as senior editor of sister brand McKnight's Long-Term Care News. She also has worked in custom publishing and for a daily newspaper.

Diane Eastabrook is the staff writer for McKnight’s Home Care Daily, covering home care, home health, hospice and hospital-at-home. Since joining MHC in March 2021, her work has been recognized by the Society of Business Publication Editors. Diane previously managed the Chicago bureau for PBS Nightly Business Report and was a correspondent for Al Jazeera Media Network. She is 2021 Columbia University Age Boom Academy fellow and a 2020 Journalist in Aging fellow from the Gerontological Society of America.

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome a remarkable guest to the show, Malika Moore. Malika Moore, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the District of Columbia and Maryland.

Ms. Moore is the Founder of Aging & Amazing, a company that strives to support older adults, caregivers, and the networks that surround them.

She has over 10 years of experience as a professional, clinician, public speaker, and business owner and has a genuine passion for older adults and caregivers. Malika’s work in behavioral health, community education, and healthcare have prepared her for her current venture of serving the aging population, their caregivers, and professionals who specialize in aging. Malika has served in several different capacities in her professional career, including clinician, geriatric care manager, medical social worker, psychotherapist, support group facilitator, and adjunct professor. She is a leader who enjoys uplifting and inspiring others. Malika holds dearly and values her family and friends and is personally invested in ensuring we all know that it is possible to live and be Aging & Amazing!

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Ramie Liddle to the show for an interview about the viral sensation, "Driving Miss Norma" and to learn about saying "Yes" to living.

Ramie Liddle is the best-selling co-author of Driving Miss Norma: An Inspirational Story About What Really Matters at the End of Life (HarperOne, 2017) and is a dynamic a public speaker. As well as being a high school counselor, ordained minister, long-distance boat captain, and one-time cherry farmer, Ramie is foremost a nomad. She has traveled extensively by land and sea throughout the United States, Mexico and Canada with her husband, Tim, and their standard poodle and therapy dog, Ringo.

The traveling team became fortuitous caregivers for Tim’s 90-year-old mom, Norma, after she received a cancer diagnosis only two days after her husband, Leo, suddenly died. The approach they took toward Norma’s end-of-life care attracted the attention of millions around the world. Ramie has since become a vocal advocate for positive end-of-life experiences for both the dying and those who care for them.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Ramie Liddle to the show for an interview about the viral sensation, "Driving Miss Norma" and to learn about saying "Yes" to living.

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This is the final installment of our mini-series with Dr. Edward Smink that explores the many aspects of caregiving. This installment explores experiencing caregiving as a spiritual practice. For the previous two installments from this series please refer to our official YouTube channel.

The concert violinist or Olympic athlete did not arrive at the pinnacle of their success by simple will power. From their first dream to entering and making them real, each entered into a particular journey of practice. Flat notes and aching muscles became the learning opportunities for each to excel. Practice became routine, in fact often the center of their lives. Caregivers too, dream, and achieve different Licensures, experiences and educational opportunities. Insights are learned because of trials, struggles, joys and achievements. What keeps each committed, centered, and dedicated to live out their dreams Dr. Smink asks? In so many ways, he suggests that this is an Campbellian or heroic journey.

The task before the caregiver is to remain steadfast as they are sent into the arena of human joys and sufferings. Where Soul leads one to find reverie, refreshment and solace, the sinew that allows the caregiver to enter into the depths of their experiences is the art of reflection. Smink expands the notion of reflection as a normal human experience. Caregivers reflect on the needs of their patients, logos or rational side of caregiving. Little attention, however, is giver to the mythos or creative side of caregiving, where the caregiver meets the archetypal strengths of the hero, of the wounded healer, of the spiritual nature of caregiving, and the importance of practice. He explores the ancient history of the wounded healer and how it relates to the present age of the caregiver. Dr. Smink concludes that the art of caregiving is a spiritual practice as both the caregiver and the one being served are affected, and indeed transformed. He asks: “Are you a better person because of your work as a caregiver?

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All Home Care Matters was honored to sit down with Teepa Snow one of the world’s leading advocates and educators for anyone living with dementia or other forms of brain change to learn more about her story and to help provide tips and resources for families facing dementia.

Teepa is an Occupational Therapist with over forty years of rich and varied clinical and academic experience. Her philosophy is reflective of her education, work experience, medical research, and first-hand caregiving experiences. Her advocacy efforts led her to the development of the GEMS® State Model for understanding the progression of dementia and changes in abilities. She also created the Positive Approach to Care® training strategies, which are effective techniques for anyone seeking to optimize care and support for those living with brain change. As the Education Director of Eastern North Carolina’s Alzheimer’s Association, she also helped to create the nation’s award-winning DVD entitled Accepting the Challenge: Providing the Best Care for People with Dementia. Her user- friendly approaches provide guidance and leadership to national efforts to promote best practices in care.

Teepa’s company, Positive Approach to Care (PAC), was founded in 2006 and is now collaborating to improve dementia care in over thirty countries worldwide. PAC provides online and in-person services, training, and products to professionals, family members, the lay public, and people living with brain change. Please visit www.teepasnow.com for educational video clips, DVDs, books, information on individual certifications, online support groups, virtual and onsite trainings, or to subscribe to a free monthly newsletter. Teepa presents with extraordinary expertise and humor to audiences large and small throughout the world. Please join in her mission to improve the culture of dementia care, one mind at a time.

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All Home Care Matters welcomes Dr. Smink for the second part of his three part mini-series on The Soul of Caregiving. In part 2 we explore the importance of caregivers being heard and the importance of being able to share and tell their story. In part 1 of the mini-series, Dr. Smink explored the tension that most caregivers experience between service to others and self-care which he calls Soul-Care. Being heard implies an understanding of one’s story and the trust needed to communicate it. Navigating through the three cultural taboos challenges the caregiver to explore their interior strengths and values that is the ground or base of one’s being. Smink calls this Soul, the center of one’s being where body and the spirit meet. It is here that we are most human. Like a gem radiating different hues, Soul is multifaceted with unique characteristics and meanings. There are archetypal underpinnings to soul that Dr. Smink calls the principle of life. Caregivers struggle to listen so as to hear those they serve. These same skills of listening can be applied to being open and welcoming to hearing what is stirring within one’s Soul. There is a logos, or rational aspect to caregiving and also a creative aspect called mythos to caregiving. Just as Soul-Care is the antidote to compassion fatigue, Smink argues, so too is the ability to reflect on one’s experience the key to healing and transformation. Developing attitudes of hospitality and understanding oneself as a wounded healer assist in this process.

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome, Sarah Palya the founder and CEO of Gus Gear. During the interview we learn about her journey from caring for her son Gus to the creation of Gus Gear a company that is helping families and their loved ones with products that are making a difference in their lives. Gus Gear’s story began more than a decade ago when its founder and CEO, Sarah Palya, sought to find a way to respond to the ongoing medical journey of Gus, her son, who faced a myriad of medical challenges, including autism and dysmotility, that led to intestinal failure. Sarah felt overwhelmed and wanted to find a way for Gus to live a more “normal” life. Her biggest obstacle was protecting, securing, and taking care of his central line. Out of this challenge came our flagship product, the Central Line Vest. Since then, we’ve increased our product line and created a community for support to help those who are feeling as overwhelmed as Sarah was in the beginning.

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome Dr. Edward Smink the author of The Soul of Caregiving, A Caregiver's Guide to Healing and Transformation to share with our viewers and listeners the tips and support that will help caregivers as they embark on their caregiving.

This will be the first installment of a special 3-part Series with Dr. Smink.

Dr. Smink address what Dr. Michael Kearney calls Soul Pain which is one’s interior conscience or soul screaming out for attention. He expands the definition of caregiving. “Who are the caregivers?’ Smink asks. “We all are for at the heart of being human is the capacity to reach out to others and explore the relationships we build.” The strengths and pitfalls of caregiving from an archetypal perspective are highlighted to enhance the caregiver to access these strengths for recovery and healing.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Dani Waxman, the founder and creator of RecallCue a dementia day clock that helps to support families and their loved ones with dementia.

For the past 20 years, Dani Waxman has worked with leading Israeli high tech companies. In these roles he has served as a senior member of the product team defining product strategy, UX/UI, and managing development teams. In 2007 he Co-Founded and served as CEO of TriviaFix which quickly grew to one of the leading online sports trivia sites on the Internet. In 2017 he began work on RecallCue to help care for family members living with dementia and now focuses on creating innovative digital solutions for people living with dementia, their families and caregivers.

RecallCue’s Day Clock, an app used by thousands of families across the world, provides all the features of a traditional Day Clock with the added value of allowing family members and caregivers to be actively in touch with a loved one even from remote locations. RecallCue includes the ability to set reminders, send messages, share photos, display daily schedules and even have 2 way video calls - all on a standard tablet. Family members of all ages, can use their phones to easily manage the Day Clock and show loving care from near and far.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome three remarkable guests that all specialize in the field and study of dementia. Each of these guest are Master's trained and educated in dementia. The first guest, Bettina Morrow obtained a BA of Social Work from Deakin University, Australia, and a Masters in Dementia at the University of Tasmania, Australia. Bettina possesses experience with intellectual and developmental disabilities, child protection, hospital social work and over 16 years in adult protection services with the past seven years as a APS supervisor in Colorado. Bettina has worked in a professional capacity in Australia, England, and USA. Our second guest, Sarah-Kaye Page is currently inciting change within the aged care industry. She has worked within the aged care industry for the past 9 years in different roles including personal carer, lifestyle coordinator, and dementia consultant. She has also spent almost 20 years in the hospitality industry. She has helped to create face-to-face dementia-specific staff training programs and is currently undertaking her own research. As a qualified trainer and assessor, Sarah-Kaye also holds a Diploma in leisure and health, a Bachelor's degree in Dementia Care, and has recently completed the Masters of Dementia, the first of its kind in the world. Sarah-Kaye's road to her current position has not been straightforward or easy, and she has a passion for ensuring people living within long-term aged care are provided enough stimulating and engaging activities to feel useful, happy, and wanted during their final years. She is about to embark on her P.h.D specialising in lifestyle and recreation programs within aged care systems to provide engaging individualised activities for clients. It is her hope to offer this to the World Health Organisation and Alzheimer's Disease International for inclusion as part of their National Dementia Plan framework. The final guest, Tim England has been a guest previously and we are always honored to welcome him back to share his knowledge and expertise in the field of dementia. Tim demystifies and destigmatized dementia in the community and advocates for people living with dementia and their families to live well. Being a Dementia Care Specialist, an experienced Educator, an effective Consultant and an Advance Care Planner he encourages others to make a positive difference to people living with dementia in their community. Tim achieves this by sharing information about dementias pathology, the personal impact of dementia, and what can be done to help.

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All Home Care Matters welcomed Patti LaFleur as a guest to the show to share her and her mother's story of love and mixed dementia. During this interview Patti shares the incredible bond that her and her mother shared and her story of being a care partner with her mother. Patti had the ultimate opportunity to be the care partner for her Mom, Linda. They were meant to be. Linda adopted Patti when she was a baby and Patti had the amazing opportunity to care for her as she lived (and thrived!) with dementia and type 1 diabetes. Patti cared for her full time for about three years and her goal was to find joy every day as her care partner. It was a true partnership between them and you could always find them creating, singing, laughing and loving together every day! Patti's background is in Elementary Education and she was a Kindergarten teacher for the last 9 years. Patti had a true understanding that behavior is communication allowed her to maintain patience and love with her mom as they navigated this disease. Patti has recently started volunteering for the Alzheimer’s association and Dementia friends doing community outreach. Patti also runs a monthly informal support group for Young Caregivers of Loved Ones with dementia on Facebook and enjoy connecting with other care partners.

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All Home Care Matters welcomes Author and Director of AlzAuthors, Ann Campanella to the show.

Ann is the author of the book, "Motherhood: Lost and Found" and share her story of caring for her mother who was diagnosed with dementia. This remarkable story takes the reader through Ann and her mother's caregiving journey. Through Ann's journey and story she authored "Motherhood: Lost and Found" which would go on to be named one of the best Alzheimer's books ever.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome a remarkable guest, Katherine Klimitas. Katherine is an artist, public speaker, author, designer, and an inspiration.

Katherine is a New Orleans-based artist and designer who sold her first watercolor at age 10. As the daughter of veterinarians, Katherine expresses her family’s life-long love of animals through her meticulous life-like paintings. She earned a B.A. from Loyola University in 2011, and today at age 33, runs her multifaceted business KAK ART & Designs from home.

When clients learn that Katherine has Osteogenesis Imperfecta, also known as brittle bone disease, they are captivated by her unique perspective. She and her parents stopped counting her broken bones at 500 at age 10. She’s 2 feet 7 inches tall, gets around in an electric wheelchair, and creates all of her art, jewelry and commercial graphic design while lying on her side.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome two executive directors from the California Caregiver Resource Centers to share and discuss the tremendous work that the California Caregiver Resource Centers are doing to help support families and caregivers.

The California Caregiver Resource Centers (CRCs) are a network of 11 centers throughout California which annually serve over 18,000 family caregivers, who are caring for adults affected by chronic and debilitating health conditions, degenerative diseases, or traumatic brain injury. Combined, the CRCs serve every county in California. Each CRC tailors its services to its geographic area, and offers family caregivers a range of core programs from counseling and care planning, to legal/financial consulting and respite, at low to no cost.

John Beleutz, Executive Director of Del Mar Caregiver Resource Center and Michelle DiBuduo, Executive Director of Valley Caregiver Resource Center, are here to represent the CRCs.

John, Executive Director of Del Mar CRC since 2006, has dedicated his career to delivering quality health and social services for vulnerable people. His work experience includes: Director of the Health Education and Training Center for the Community Health Partnership, Director of US Programs and Romania Country Representative for Population Services International, and Executive Director of the Pitt County AIDS Service Organization.

Michelle, Executive Director of Valley CRC since 2011, has been involved with Valley CRC in many various capacities. In 2000, Michelle was introduced to Valley CRC through her mother’s illness, and then she became a volunteer. From 2000-2011 she was involved in caregiver education, outreach and fundraising. Her background includes accounting for her families’ companies for over 35 years.

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All Home Care Matters is excited to welcome Marie Vaudry the founder of Gleam in Your Eye. Gleam in Your Eye is a dementia activity and resource that is helping families with loved ones with dementia stay active and engaged. In 2021, Marie set out to create a more comprehensive experience that includes logical activities, while also addressing the sensory and physical needs of patients. Surrounded by a passionate team, she founded Gleam in Your Eye and developed an innovative product offering a monthly subscription box filled with fun and stimulating activities.

The boxes are delivered directly to the homes of patients, making life easier for caregivers. Each box includes five different games, designed to engage the senses, provoke logical thinking, invite play with words, stimulate artistic expression and encourage light physical moves.

Gleam in Your Eye is a monthly subscription box of games adapted for people with moderate dementia. Like everyone, these persons deserve a positive environment and interactions in their day-to-day lives. That’s why all the games have been designed to keep them entertained and stimulated.

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome back, Marianne Sciucco R.N. the Co-Founder of AlzAuthors to talk about an important event that they will be hosting on June, 7th.

This event is virtual and is free for all who wish to attend. Caring for a father with a dementia diagnosis brings to caregiving its own special set of circumstances and considerations. In this AlzAuthors Live!

There will be a Virtual Q&A where the speakers will explore these changes and challenges.

The four speakers that will be featured are:

Andrea Couture: Author of "Embracing What Remains" (A Memoir)

Irene Olson: Author of "Requiem for the Status Quo (A Novel)

Patti Davis: Author of "The Long Goodbye" and "Floating in the Deep End: How Caregivers Can See Beyond Alzheimer's (Memoirs and Caregiving Guide)

Tanya Ward Goodman: Author of "Leaving Tinkertown" (A Memoir)

Their stories will inspire and empower you on your own dementia journey with your dad. #dementia #authors #alzheimers Event Details The event is on Tuesday, June 7th at 2 pm EST via Zoom. You will receive the link to the event a day or so before.

The program will be recorded and added to the AlzAuthors YouTube channel. The event is free but donations are welcome.

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome Mr. John Ederer the founder and CEO of VerifyCare as our guest for an in-depth interview about how VerifyCare is helping to revolutionize the caregiving experience for families and their loved ones. VerifyCare is a support app for any kind of caregiver. Keep a detailed record of caregiving duties provided for your Care Recipients. Use Tasks to track vitals like heart rate, blood pressure, and much more. Manage medications, organize schedules, view detailed graphs, and coordinate care with family and friends.

Invite others to the Care Team to keep extended family and friends informed about their care. With a caregiver app like VerifyCare, managing care has never been easier!

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Lucy Stewart, Associate Curator of Education, Carnegie Museum of Art to share an exciting new program at the museum called "Mindful Museum".

The new "Mindful Museum" program is designed for visitors over 55 years old. The “Mindful Museum,” is a suite of accessible programs and activities that expand Carnegie Museum of Art as a destination that nurtures the mind, body, and soul for visitors over 55. Mindful Museum will begin in May 2022 and run through December 2022.

The following are the programs that are being offered through the "Mindful Museum":

Art Paths | Wednesdays, all day, May 4 - December 28, 2022; on-site only.

Drop-In Drawing | 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month, 9:30 - 11 a.m.; on-site only.

Chair and Wheelchair Yoga | 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month, 9:30 - 10:10 a.m.; on-site as well as access to online recordings.

Crash Course Art History Classes | Dates vary by month, 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.; on- site as well as access to online recordings.

The Bank: Access to online recordings | Available any time.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome the founder of Phyxable, Dr. Jim Feng to the show for an in-depth interview about Phyxable and how to help seniors age in place safely. Dr. Jim Feng is a graduate of University of Toronto with a Physical Health and Education Degree. From there, he attained his Doctor of Chiropractic from the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College. He has also completed theory levels 1 & 2 of the National Coaching Certification Program and is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association, Sport First Responder, and Certified Titleist Performance Institute Medical Professional. Dr. Jim Feng has made an extra effort in extending his knowledge in the human body by acquiring the Active Release Techniques (ART®) certification, as well as the Medical Contemporary Acupuncture provider designation through McMaster University.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Senior Care professional Jennifer Lagemann as a guest to the show.

Jennifer Lagemann is a marketing and operations consultant, researcher, and journalist in the home care industry with a background as a family caregiver, professional caregiver and home care administrator.

All Home Care Matters works to provide families, caregivers, and healthcare professionals with resources and discussions on long-term care issues.

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome a very special guest who has been helping to provide support, resources, tips, and research to families and caregivers who are caring for a loved one with dementia, Leah Waller the founder of DementiaTLC. Leah runs DementiaTLC as a voluntary social media, website, blog and community forum to offer help, advice and support to those living with, and caring for loved ones with, Dementia. Dementia is not just black & white, there’s a lot of grey areas.

DementiaTLC's aim is to work together, help each other and support each other to make each moment count 🧡 Leah understands that Dementia is close to many of us, with many of us having experience with the condition impacting our lives.

The aim of DementiaTLC is to educate and provide support for all those affected by Dementia...those living with the condition, their loved ones, caregivers, family, friends, colleagues, professionals and all those that could benefit from a little bit of knowledge or support.

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome back the founder and president of Zaggo, Inc. Roberta Carson to the show for an in-depth discussion and demonstration of the ZaggoCare System.

This is Roberta's second time joining All Home Care Matters. During her first visit she shared her story about her son and how her journey as a caregiver for him had lead to her creating Zaggo, Inc.

Zaggo is a national nonprofit organization founded by Roberta in 2010. Zaggo is dedicated to providing patients and their family caregivers with the information and tools they need to become empowered, engaged, effective members of their medical teams for the best possible care.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome Denise Brown for an in-depth interview about caregiving and to learn about how she is helping to support family caregivers.

Denise launched The Caregiving Years Training Academy in April 2020 after selling CareGiving.com, an online community she launched in 1996 to Ohio’s Hospice. Through its blogs posts, podcasts and video chats, CareGiving.com held one of the largest online libraries of caregiving stories at the time of its sale. In addition to creating training program and support services for family caregivers, Denise helps her parents.

Denise began caring for her parents in 2004 after her father’s bladder cancer diagnosis. Her parents, now 90 and 87, live near Denise in their own apartment. In a video created for the American Cancer Society, Denise shared her own personal caregiving story.

A recent online story in The Wall Street Journal also included Denise’s caregiving experiences. Next Avenue named Denise a 2017 Influencer in Aging, one of “50 advocates, researchers, thought leaders, innovators, writers and experts who continue to push beyond traditional boundaries and change our understanding of what it means to grow older.”

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All Home Care Matters welcomes the Co-Hosts of The Caring View Show. Mark Topps and Adam Purnell are leading advocates and thought leaders in the United Kingdom for the social care sector.

During this interview they share the impact that their advocacy in the United Kingdom has had in the social care sector. Throughout the interview we discuss multiple issues from the report that Adam had researched and created that led to him giving a speech to the House of Lords as well as Mark's petition drive that saw him garner over 500,000 signatures to help advocate for individuals with special needs during Covid to have access to testing and vaccines.

These two remarkable individuals are at the forefront of change for the social care sector and for care workers in the United Kingdom.

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Being a caregiver is a major responsibility, and when your time as caregiver ends, it can feel like you’re unsure and insecure about what you should do. You might wonder where to go, or how to continue. In some cases, it may involve grieving because of the loss of a loved one, and this can be stressful for people.

You’re not alone in this regard, as many caregivers do struggle with being able to fully move on after caregiving. In this episode, you’ll learn some tips about what you can do when your time as caregiver ends and what you should do so you don’t fall into destructive habits.

Destructive habits are common after losing someone you’ve been taking care of for so long, but you’re not alone. It can feel overwhelming and burdening, but luckily, with this episode, you’ll be armed with the tips to help you when the caregiving ends.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome the CEO and Co-Founder of Saltbox TV, Jerry Goehring. Jerry Goehring (Broadway/West End Producer) and his wife created Saltbox TV to provide entertainment, resources, and lifelong learning programming dedicated to senior citizens. Saltbox TV is a free streaming service dedicated to connecting older adults with diverse, informative, and engaging programs. Through a simple and user-friendly platform, Saltbox TV welcomes even those with no technical experience to enjoy unlimited access to programs they'll know and love. Saltbox TV’s robust content library is a one-stop-shop for all their entertainment, health, and wellness needs. No logins, no passwords, and no-hassle – it’s free! Saltbox TV has grown to be available to thousands of older users in retirement communities and those living at home nationwide. Saltbox TV is available on Roku, Firestick, IN2L or Independant devices.

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome author, speaker, and Alzheimer's advocate, Nancy Poland. Nancy Poland is a writer and speaker focusing on caregiving. As a volunteer educator for the Alzheimer’s Association, she brings her experience as a caregiver for her dad, who was diagnosed with Lewy body dementia. She published her first book, “Dancing With Lewy”, narrating their experience. Her second book, “Remarkable Caregiving: The Care of Family and Friends” is a collection of true stories from six caregivers thrust into unplanned circumstances as they emerge wiser and more resilient. Nancy is also a member of AlzhAuthors.

Nancy issues a monthly newsletter, “Caring for the Caregiver”, blogs about caregiving, and communicates to caregivers in social media and in person. She offers workshops, keynote talks and webinars offering true life stories and practical tools for caregivers. She just completed a series of four Christian Education classes at her church based on “Remarkable Caregiving.” They explored ways of developing sensitivity and support for caregivers, fulfilling the scripture “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2)

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All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome a truly remarkable person who is working to raise awareness about Alzheimer's and dementia and making a difference, Marianne Sciucco.

A lover of words and books, she studied the craft of writing as an English major at the University of Massachusetts at Boston and worked for a time as a newspaper reporter in New England. She eventually became a registered nurse to avoid poverty.

With more than 20-years’ experience as a staff nurse and case manager, she's worked with countless families dealing with issues related to aging, elder care, Alzheimer's, and nursing home placement. In 2002, she put the two together and began writing about the intricate lives of people struggling with health and family issues.

She published her debut novel, Blue Hydrangeas, an Alzheimer's love story, in 2013 to glowing reviews. This book led her to become a co-founder and director of AlzAuthors, the global community of authors writing about Alzheimer's and dementia from personal experience to light the way for others.

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Being a caregiver is not an easy feat. With many new challenges, new caregivers may find that it’s not easy for them to properly take care of someone.

This episode will go over some quick tips that can be great for those who are starting the journey of caregiving.

From the first hard conversation of how you want to engage in caregiving, to even what you need to do as a caregiver and the process of setting boundaries, all of these need to be discussed, since in the world of elder care, if it’s not, it can be quite detrimental to the mental health of the person offering caregiving.

Caregiver burnout is common, and plenty of people who do engage in caregiving struggle with this.

But hopefully, with this episode, you’ll learn everything that you need to know to be a good caregiver, and how you as a new caregiver can really help others.

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Dr. Alois Alzheimer was the man behind the discovery of Alzheimer’s, a neurodegenerative disease that wreaks havoc on seniors, and some younger than that. This condition, discovered by the tangles in the brain along with other symptoms, was a remarkable discovery at the time.

However, Dr. Alzheimer was not always taken seriously with his research, and this marked discovery actually was dismissed by the other psychiatrists at the facility he worked at.

So how did it come to be? How did this discovery shape the world of geriatric medicine, and how did it pave the way for discovering the makeup of Alzheimer’s and how does that help us better understand this today?

This episode will take a deeper look into the life of the man behind it all, the psychiatrist that discovered this condition, and at the end of this episode, you’ll learn everything you need to know about this man’s life, and how his discovery came to be.

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A caregiver is someone that provides care for your elderly loved one, but they can be so much more. Having a bond with their loved one can make the caregiving experience easier on your loved one, and on you. Being able to trust someone to provide care for your loved one can be a relief and allow you to enjoy spending time with your loved one more, and stress about everything involved with caring for them less.

A bond can help a caregiver and their patient in so many ways. Listen to today’s episode to learn more!

Thank you for tuning into All Home Care Matters. We know that caring for your loved one is an important job and can be stressful at times, so subscribe to our podcast and YouTube channel to get all the latest insight and information. We are here for you as you face this new journey.

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Dehydration is a serious condition that affects all ages, especially seniors. Seniors are more susceptible to dehydration due to a decrease in total body fluids and the body’s natural aging process.

Dehydration can make your loved one feel weak, confused, and can ultimately lead to death. Today, we are discussing the dangers of dehydration, the signs to look for, and ways you can help your loved one recover and prevent dehydration. Listen now to learn more!

Thank you for tuning into All Home Care Matters. We know that caring for your loved one is an important job and can be stressful at times, so subscribe to our podcast to get all the latest insight and information. We are here for you as you face this new journey.

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome, Joanne Eason the president of FIVE WISHES to the show to discuss the importance of advanced care planning. Joanne Eason is President of Five Wishes, an advance care planning program created by the national non-profit, Aging with Dignity. She works with the more than 40,000 partner organizations to assist in starting conversations with various audiences regarding discussions and documentation about medical care prior to a serious illness. She oversees program development, outreach and distribution of millions of Five Wishes documents annually.

Joanne has more than 25 years of communication experience – centered primarily in the health and insurance industries – and provides strategic counsel on how best to implement the Five Wishes framework. Joanne holds a Master of Arts in Communications from Michigan State University.

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February is Heart Disease Awareness Month and we hope to bring more awareness to our listeners with today’s episode. Heart disease is the number one cause of death in the world. Heart disease is not one specific disease, but it is a term that encompasses several different heart conditions and illnesses.

Today, we hear the stories of 3 individuals with heart disease and learn how they overcame the disease. Listen to today’s episode for first-hand accounts of survivors and what they say is the most important thing to remember.

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Have you ever tried to explain dementia to a child? If so, you may have had more questions than answers.

All Home Care Matters was honored to welcome the remarkable team behind the book, Dancing with Memories.

Dancing with Memories is a children's book that helps to demystify and explain dementia for children to have a better understanding on what dementia is and what a loved one may be going through.

If you interested in receiving a copy of Dancing with Memories please email the show directly and we will provide you a with a copy at no charge. Limited Supply

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If your loved one is no longer able to stay home alone, it may be time to look for a caregiver. There are many types of caregivers, which we have covered in previous episodes, but today we’re talking about the qualities to look for in a good caregiver. Listen to today’s episode to learn more about what to look for when hiring a caregiver and how you can find the perfect fit for your family.

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Being a caregiver doesn’t mean you neglect your body and personal needs. Staying active and healthy is vital for preventing caregiver burnout. In this episode, you’ll learn some quick tips to help you stay active and healthy as a caregiver, and some fun healthy tips that you can do right at home in order to prevent caregiver burnout from setting in.

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All Home Care Matters is privileged to welcome the founder and president of Zaggo, Inc. Roberta Carson to the show for an in-depth interview about her journey caring for her son Zachary and how this lead to the creation of Zaggo, Inc.

Zaggo is a national nonprofit organization founded by Roberta Carson in 2010. Zaggo is dedicated to providing patients and their family caregivers with the information and tools they need to become empowered, engaged, effective members of their medical teams for the best possible care.

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You may visit your loved one daily and occasionally help them out with chores around the house, but that doesn’t mean you are a caregiver, does it? If this is a thought you have recently been having, today’s episode can help you see that you are, in fact, a caregiver. Visiting every day, helping with chores, driving to appointments, and even just worrying about your loved one are all signs that you are a caregiver for your loved one. Listen now to learn more.

Sources:

https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/are-you-a-caregiver/

https://val-u-care.com/am-i-a-caregiver-how-to-know-if-you-are-a-caregiver/

https://www.apa.org/pi/about/publications/caregivers/faq/positive-aspects

https://www.easterseals.com/explore-resources/for-caregivers/being-a-caregiver-for-someone-you-love.html

http://www.shieldhealthcare.com/community/caregivers/2016/07/01/life-lessons-caregiver/

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Thank you for joining us for another Quick Tips episode of All Home Care Matters. Caring for a loved one comes with many challenges, one of them being resistance. Your loved one may resist your help, which can be frustrating as a caregiver. Today, we are going to be talking about dealing with resistance while caring for a loved one, as well as uncovering the reasons your loved one may be resisting accepting help in order to help you both work together better. Now let’s move on to the rest of the show. According to New Wave Home Care, caring for a loved one undoubtedly adds a mixed bag of emotions to the caregiving process. Not only does assisting an aging family member make you witness to any challenges they face, but you maintain a personal and sometimes painful connection to them while also navigating the difficult world of senior health care and wellness. Perhaps one of the most disheartening circumstances as a caregiver is when your help goes unappreciated, or even worse, unwanted. In caring for an elderly family member, you might carry out tasks for your loved one without any acknowledgment or thanks. Sometimes older adults flat out resist care altogether. It is not uncommon to witness your loved one reject the care of professional care services, or even protest against help offered by you or other members of your family.

If your loved one is resisting care, it can be harder for you to make sure they are safe and their needs are being met. Your loved one resisting or refusing care may annoy, exasperate, or anger you, but it is important to take a step back and evaluate the situation. Why are they resisting care? Try to look at things from your loved one’s point of view instead of from a caregiver’s perspective. Fallon Health says that from your perspective as a caregiver, it may seem that everything would be much better if only your loved one would stop being unreasonable and start cooperating. But the difficult behavior you see may actually be your loved one’s attempt to keep control and maintain a sense of autonomy.

Look at the situation from your loved one’s perspective. Whether physical or cognitive, decline can be accompanied by a strong sense of loss for the person experiencing it. As the ability to do things independently declines and dependence increases, frustration can grow.

Driving is a common pain point for many seniors and families. If you haven’t dealt with a loved one who continues to drive long after it’s advisable, then you probably know someone who has. The tangible and symbolic loss of independence that goes with giving up driving can be difficult to accept. Many refuse to look objectively at their driving, because they fear that they’ll have to admit it’s time to stop. And they recognize that, when they turn over the keys, their dependence on others will grow.

Driving is just one instance where your loved one eventually has to lose their independence. As they continue to need more and more help, they also continue to lose more and more of their independence. Oftentimes, your loved one isn’t trying to resist you, but they are resisting losing their independence, and I think that is something we can all understand.

Now that you know why your loved one is resisting care, let’s discuss how you can help your loved one when they do not want your help.

When caring for a loved one, it is important to continue to treat them with respect. You and your loved one are both going through a difficult time and there will most likely be times when you slip up and treat your loved one more like a child than someone with years of lived experience, and that’s okay, but you should always try to make the effort to treat your loved one with respect. This goes both ways, though. Your loved one should treat you with respect. If this ever becomes an issue for you and your loved one, sit down and have a conversation with them about it and let them know how it makes you feel. You also have to be ready to own up to your own mistakes, apologize, and be ready to make the necessary changes to continue with your caring relationship.

When dealing with resistance, you should first evaluate what care your loved one needs. If you are providing more care than your loved one needs, pulling back and allowing them more independence may help your situation. If your loved one is able to do more for themselves, they may resist less.

The next thing to do is sit down with your loved one and asked them about their preferences. Mayo Clinic suggests asking if your loved one has a preference about which family member or what type of service provides care? While you might not be able to meet all of your loved one's wishes, it's important to take them into consideration. If your loved one has trouble understanding you, simplify your explanations and the decisions you expect them to make. Being involved in their own care decisions can help mitigate resistance, as well.

Mayo Clinic also tells us that to encourage cooperation, you might suggest a trial run. Don't ask your loved one to make a final decision about the kind of care they receive right away. A trial run will give a hesitant loved one a chance to test the waters and experience the benefits of assistance. Allowing them to make the decision also helps them maintain more of their independence.

If you are still experiencing resistance after trying the strategies we have discussed so far, try bringing in other family members or friends to assist you. Leaving the situation, even just for a few hours, may help your loved one be more cooperative, especially if you spend a lot of time together. Everyone needs a break at times and caregivers need breaks more than others to avoid caregiver burnout. For more information on caregiver burnout and for ways you can care for yourself while caring for others, visit our YouTube channel where we have a dedicated playlist for Caregiver Support.

The last strategy we are going to be covering today is bringing in a professional. According to Smith Life Home Care, professional medical practitioners or reliable family members, whom your aging loved ones admire and respect, can play a significant role in offering them perspective and insight. Ask your family physician or other reliable professionals to come over and talk to them and emphasize how the care will improve their quality of life as well as your peace of mind.

It is often seen that the seniors and caregivers become well-acquainted with each other after a point of time, and the elders start appreciating their company. But, to turn that into reality, you will need to give them time to learn how this new setup will be beneficial for them.

And, who else can explain it to them better than a doctor or professional they trust wholeheartedly? A professional can elevate their skepticism towards accepting care by explaining how a caregiver will speak their language and make their lonely hours relaxing and enjoyable.

Keep in mind that your loved one is experiencing a lot of changes. Needing your help can be tough for them. Remember to put yourself in their shoes and see how you would feel if you were no longer able to care for yourself. And above all, practice respect and kindness wherever you can.

We want to say thank you for joining us here at All Home Care Matters, All Home Care Matters is here for you and to help families as they navigate these long-term care issues. Please visit us at allhomecarematters.com there is a private secure fillable form where you can give us feedback, show ideas, or if you have questions. Every form is read and responded to. If you know someone who could benefit from this episode, please share it with them.

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/caregivers/in-depth/caring-for-the-elderly/art-20048403

https://www.newwavehomecare.com/how-to-respond-to-an-elderly-loved-one-resisting-care/

https://www.fchp.org/caregiver-blog/2018/November/dealing-with-resistance.aspx

https://www.smithlifehomecare.com/how-to-extend-love-and-support-to-seniors-who-resist-care/

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Today on All Home Care Matters we are privileged to welcome a very special guest, Dr. James Vickers. Dr. Vickers is the Director of the Wicking Dementia Research and Education Center at the University of Tasmania.

Furthermore, Dr. Vickers has published over 180 research papers and was awarded a DSc from the University of Tasmania in 2005 in recognition of his contribution to neuroscience research. Professor Vickers has been involved in developing a range of health courses at the University of Tasmania, including Massive Open Online Courses on dementia. He developed the ISLAND Project which seeks to understand who is the Tasmanian population is most at risk of dementia and how our population can self-manage modifiable risk behaviors to build resilience to dementia.

Links:

Masters course (https://www.utas.edu.au/wicking/mdem). This is a modularised program based around four thematic areas relevant to dementia – Health and Social Care, Neurobiology, Policies and Systems and Public Health. There is also substantial content around understanding research related to dementia.

Other educational offerings are the MOOCs. The next course, Understanding Dementia, is available to start in February. https://www.utas.edu.au/wicking/understanding-dementia.

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Today’s episode will explore the signs and symptoms that can tell us when to be concerned about a loved one. We will also talk about the first steps you should take when you are concerned about a loved one. Now let’s move on to the rest of the show.

We are all constantly experiencing change in our lives. As we age, we watch our loved ones age, as well. According to the Caregiver Resource Center, every six seconds, a person in the US turns 50 years old. The rapidly increasing aging population is creating a care crisis in the United States, and all over the world. In the next four years, there is expected to be over two million people that reach the age of 100. As life expectancy increases, so do the number of families that are taking on responsibilities for aging loved ones.

If you are anticipating helping or providing care for a loved one in the future, you may be wondering what signs and symptoms you should be looking for in your loved one, as well as what the aging process generally looks like. According to the Merck Manual of Geriatrics, aging is a process of gradual and spontaneous change, resulting in maturation through childhood, puberty, and young adulthood, and then decline through middle and late age. Healthy aging refers to a process by which deleterious effects are minimized, preserving function until senescence (a productive form of aging leading to organ death), makes continued life impossible.

According to the Caregiver Resource Center, studies conducted by The MacArthur Foundation have shed new light on the concept of aging. Findings show only 5.2% of all older persons end up in nursing homes, 89% of persons aged 65 to 74 - reported no disability whatsoever, 73% of persons aged 75 to 84 - still reported no disability, 25% of persons aged 85+ - reported being fully functional, and 70% of the aging process is controllable - only 30% is stamped in our genetic code.

The last statistic, 70% of the aging process is controllable, is something we should be focusing on when we are younger. Creating healthy habits, like eating right and exercising regularly, can all lead to longer and healthier lives. Some things are totally out of our control, though, like dementia and other diseases, but even so, taking good care of ourselves can help diminish the risks and symptoms of the unavoidable aspects of aging.

The Caregiver Resource Center says that everyone experiences aging differently. Some individuals may experience mental and physical limitations that limit their level of functioning, while others will remain relatively high functioning. In looking at the process of aging, it is important to understand the difference between "normal aging", and that of illness and disease. Usually, people think of aging as beginning around the age of 65, when the changes to the human body actually begin as early as age 30. Research shows that the human body loses about 1% of functioning per year starting at age 30, but the human body is able to adapt to the changes unless some form of illness is present.

It is important to note that fundamental changes to a person's physical and mental abilities are a normal part of aging, but disease is not. All too often, an elder is forced to suffer unnecessary pain and discomfort, because their doctor or loved one, has chalked their aches and pains, incontinence, confusion, or depression up to "normal" aging; when many of these problems could be reversed or at least medically controlled.

During the normal aging process, changes occur to your cardiovascular system, your bones, joints, and muscles, your digestive system, your bladder and urinary tract, your memory and thinking skills, your eyes, ears and teeth, your skin, and your weight.

According to the Mayo Clinic, the most common change in the cardiovascular system is stiffening of the blood vessels and arteries, causing your heart to work harder to pump blood through them. The heart muscles change to adjust to the increased workload. Your heart rate at rest will stay about the same, but it won't increase during activities as much as it used to. These changes increase the risk of high blood pressure (hypertension) and other cardiovascular problems.

To promote heart health, you should include physical activity in your daily routine, eat a healthy diet, quit smoking, manage stress, and get enough sleep.

With age, bones tend to shrink in size and density, weakening them and making them more susceptible to fracture. You might even become a bit shorter. Muscles generally lose strength, endurance, and flexibility — factors that can affect your coordination, stability, and balance. To promote bone, joint, and muscle health, you should get adequate amounts of calcium and Vitamin D, include physical activity in your daily routine, and avoid substance abuse.

Age-related structural changes in the large intestine, as well other contributing factors like medications and lack of exercise, can result in more constipation in older adults. Eating a healthy diet, including physical activity in your daily routine, and not ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement can all help prevent constipation with age.

Mayo Clinic also says that your bladder may become less elastic as you age, resulting in the need to urinate more often. Weakening of bladder muscles and pelvic floor muscles may make it difficult for you to empty your bladder completely or cause you to lose bladder control known as - urinary incontinence. In men, an enlarged or inflamed prostate also can cause difficulty emptying the bladder and incontinence. You can promote bladder and urinary tract health by going to the bathroom regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, doing kegel exercises, and avoiding bladder irritants and constipation.

We’ve discussed at length changes that happen during aging that relate to memory and thinking skills. We recently released a series on the Seven Stages of Alzheimer’s that discuss the differences between age-related memory issues and dementia-related memory issues. Visit our website or YouTube channel to find these episodes and more, or listen to them wherever you get your podcasts.

According to the Mayo Clinic, your brain undergoes changes as you age that may have minor effects on your memory or thinking skills. For example, healthy older adults might forget familiar names or words, or they may find it more difficult to multitask. You can promote cognitive health by taking the following steps: including physical activity in your daily routine, eating a healthy diet, staying mentally active, being social, treating cardiovascular disease, and quitting smoking. Talk to your doctor if you’re concerned about any mental changes you may notice.

With age, you might have difficulty focusing on objects that are close up. You might become more sensitive to glare and have trouble adapting to different levels of light. Aging also can affect your eye's lens, causing clouded vision, or cataracts. For more information on vision problems and cataracts, listen to our episode on Understanding Cataracts.

Your hearing also might diminish. You might have difficulty hearing high frequencies or following a conversation in a crowded room. To promote eye and ear health, schedule regular check-ups and take the necessary precautions to protect your vision and hearing.

Age-related changes also occur to your teeth and gums. Mayo Clinic says that your gums might pull back from your teeth. Certain medications, such as those that treat allergies, asthma, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol, also can cause dry mouth. As a result, your teeth and gums might become slightly more vulnerable to decay and infection. To promote oral health, schedule regular check-ups and brush and floss regularly.

With age, your skin thins and becomes less elastic and more fragile, and fatty tissue just below the skin decreases. You might notice that you bruise more easily. Decreased production of natural oils might make your skin drier. Wrinkles, age spots and small growths called skin tags are more common. To promote healthy skin, be gentle, take precautions, and don’t smoke.

Lastly, how your body burns calories (metabolism) slows down as you age. If you decrease activities as you age, but continue to eat the same as usual, you'll gain weight. To maintain a healthy weight, stay active and eat healthily, and watch portion sizes.

Now that we know what the normal signs of aging are and a few ways you can help your body age healthily, let’s move on to some of the signs that you are not aging in a normal way.

According to the Caregiver Resource Center, depression to the degree that it interferes with usual daily functioning, confusion, delusions or hallucinations, changes in personality, and changes in basic intelligence are all functions that are not a part of the normal aging process. If you notice any of these things happening to a loved one, it may be time to have a conversation with them about their health and stress the importance of scheduling a doctor’s appointment. Go with them to the doctor so you can express your concerns, as well.

You know your loved one better than their doctor does. You are able to see more about your loved one’s daily behavior than their doctor is able to observe in a thirty-minute appointment. Keep a record of changes and behaviors you notice that concern you so you can present them to the doctor or other family members.

Talk to your loved one’s other family and friends and see what others have noticed, as well. Most importantly, let your loved one know that they have a support system. Aging can be scary and your loved one will worry about what will happen to them. Your love and support can make all the difference.

Sources:

http://www.caregiverresourcecenter.com/the_elder.htm#when_to_be_concerned

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/aging/art-20046070

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Today we are going to be talking about how you can respect a senior’s independence and help them maintain their dignity while providing care. We will cover ways you can help your loved one without doing everything for them, as well as ideas on how you can make your loved one’s space safer so that they can do more on their own. Now let’s move on to the rest of the show.

As we age, things that we used to do without giving it a second thought, like moving something out of the way or opening a door, become more and more difficult. If you are watching your loved one beginning to struggle with simple tasks, you may feel the urge to rush in and help, but that is the opposite of what you should do. As long as they are not going to injure themselves, let them do it on their own unless they ask for your help. If you are worried that they may be straining themselves too hard, ask for permission to help them.

Linda Ziac, founder of The Caregiver Resource Center, remembers a time when her elderly neighbor was emptying groceries from the trunk of her car. Linda says she rushed over to help but stopped dead in her tracks when her neighbor said to her, “You can’t do that. You need to let us do things for ourselves. We’ll ask for help if we need it.” Linda then asked her neighbor if she could help her with her groceries. With a big smile, her neighbor said “of course you can help.”

This story illustrates the importance of finding a balance between helping a senior and allowing them to maintain their independence and dignity. Helping is okay, it is encouraged, but you need to ask for permission first. Helping a senior do something they want to do on their own will only embarrass them and lead to resenting you, which we know is not at all what your goal was.

According to Home Care Angels, when your loved one starts to slow down, it can be tempting to take over and do too much for them. But for seniors, staying independent is an important part of maintaining dignity and respect—and it can contribute to physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Your job is to support their wishes and involve them in as much as they want and are able to do. Talk with your loved one about their interests and give them control over their activities whenever possible. Let them take the lead and then work out the logistics with, or for, them as needed.

An active lifestyle and social life can help your loved one maintain their independence, too. Home Care Angels says to help your loved one continue their regular activities like attending church, visiting with relatives, and reconnecting with old friends or groups they were involved in. If they are able to manage it, take them to library lectures, local theater, or any community event they’re interested in.

According to Walden University, independence is not solitude. And loneliness can be fatal, with one recent study showing that feeling extreme loneliness can raise an older adult’s chances of premature death by 14%. That’s why, when caring for your loved one, you should encourage them to remain socially active. Maintaining old friendships and cultivating new ones not only helps ward off loneliness but can also help older adults retain a sense of importance and independence.

If your loved one has trouble getting out of the house and attending social events, you can help them use a computer, tablet, or cellphone to have video calls with their friends and loved ones. Technology is a great way to bring people together when they are unable to be together physically. If your loved one has any interest in learning about technology, you can find senior-specific technology classes in your area. They can learn how to use their own devices with their friends and others their age and it can also save you time and sanity.

Teaching a parent can be difficult. It can take longer than you expect and remaining calm can be hard at times. It requires a lot of patience. For some people, teaching and learning together with a parent is a great way to spend quality time with them, but if that isn’t for you, that’s okay. A class tailored to seniors is a great solution to helping your loved one learn more about using technology and helping them socialize. Plus, once they understand how to work their devices, they won’t need you to help them call their friends and they will be able to talk to them any time they want.

Providing care for a loved one is a rewarding job and you get to spend more time with them. It can also be stressful and tiring. Helping your loved one be more independent, not only helps them but it helps yourself, as well. No matter what level of care your loved one needs, allowing them to participate in their care and make choices can help both of you maintain a stronger relationship with less bickering and fighting.

Smart home devices can also help your loved one have more control over their environment. According to Home Care Assistance, there are several voice-activated home devices on the market, made by companies like Amazon and Google. These devices are a great resource for people with disabilities. They’re great for those with low vision, difficulty with fine motor tasks, or mobility challenges. Voice-activated devices can do a lot of things, including play music, operate the television, lock and unlock doors, control the thermostat, control lights, tell the time, date, and weather, and make phone calls. You can even order a pizza.

Smart devices empower some people to live independently for longer. They allow people who can’t use smartphones or computers to access information. Plus, new uses for these technologies come out all the time.

Does your loved one often worry whether or not they locked the door when they are away from home? Another smart device that can be helpful for them is automated door locks controlled from your phone. With smart locks, your loved one will be able to open the app and immediately see if they locked the door, and lock it from wherever they are if they didn’t.

Many home security systems offer smart locks, as well as surveillance systems that can notify you and emergency response teams if your loved one has an accident. Make sure you talk to your loved one before having any cameras installed in the home. If they are uncomfortable with cameras, things like life alert necklaces and smartwatches can also be used to notify others in case of an emergency. Some smartwatches now have fall detections that will automatically call first responders if your loved one falls and doesn’t get up.

Don’t be surprised if your loved one is resistant to trying new things, even if it can help them do more on their own. Linda Ziac from the Caregiver Resource Center says that family caregivers often tell her that they feel frustrated and guilty when they try to help, but their loved one repeatedly tells them “I don’t need anything.”

One suggestion Linda often makes is that after learning your loved one’s wishes, it may be possible to give a gift to your loved one. You can give them a gift for no reason at all, or for a special occasion, such as a birthday, mother’s or father’s day, or during the holidays. These gifts can help improve your loved one’s quality of life in many ways.

Linda recalls one evening when she had a blackout in her area. She went next door to check on her elderly neighbor, only to find her walking around in the dark, searching for her flashlight. Once the power came back on, Linda decided to do some research to find a way to help prevent her neighbor from a potential fall during a blackout.

She knew that office buildings have emergency lighting systems and researched similar systems for personal use. She found a very reasonably priced product for home use, that didn’t require any installation. Linda purchased two emergency lights for her neighbor to be placed on an end table on each floor of her home.

These particular emergency lights lasted an hour before they needed to be recharged and allowed her neighbor time to move safely throughout her home and get settled to wait out the power outage.

Linda has a few other gift ideas she’s found over the years to be useful to other caregivers. She suggests creating a gift certificate for rides to the doctor’s office so that your loved one can redeem them with you or someone else and still feel like they aren’t taking advantage of you or being a burden, even after you have told them you are happy to take them.

If your loved one has pets, you can walk their dog, or come play with their animals, especially in inclement weather. If you don’t live nearby, ask someone in their neighborhood if they would be willing to walk your loved one’s dog. Even just once a week can be a welcome relief to your loved one.

Hiring someone to clean their house, put things away, and do laundry is a great gift for special occasions. Check your local senior center and see if they know of any cleaning services for seniors. Some companies offer free or discounted cleaning sessions.

A variety coupon book that includes services you or someone help provide is something else that Linda suggests. Cooking a meal, grocery shopping, and medication pick-up are all things you can include. You can also include going out to lunch and going to a museum or another activity that they enjoy.

Other gifts that can help your loved one at home can include, a LifeLine necklace, replacing doorknobs with doorknob levers so that they are easier to open, raised toilet seat with handles, and a phone or tablet specifically made for seniors and those with memory loss issues.

Whenever your loved one mentions something that they are struggling with, like turning the faucet on or off, try to make a note of it. If your loved one doesn’t want you to go out and fix everything they mention right away, you can give them items off the list you make as gifts. You can also talk to their friends and anyone they talk to regularly and have them give you gift ideas. Their friends may also be willing to help you give your loved one these gifts, as well.

Regular exercise is not only important for maintaining independence, but it’s important for a healthy lifestyle. You can help your loved one find an exercise class they enjoy, like yoga or water aerobics. Going to a class can also be something for your loved one to look forward to and is a lot of fun when taken with friends. Virtual exercise classes can be a good way to keep moving while at home.

Whatever your loved one likes to do to stay active, help them continue to do it and make it part of their routine. Even going on walks around the neighborhood can be enough exercise for your loved one to stay healthy. Home Care Angels says that if your loved one has exercises recommended by a physical therapist, remind them and encourage them to do them regularly. According to Home Care Assistance, regular physical activity can help prevent Alzheimer's and dementia plus improve strength and mobility, so make sure your loved one is getting the exercise they need.

According to Walden University, physical ailment and/or injury can significantly impact an elderly person’s ability to remain independent. While some of the degenerative aspects of aging are hard to prevent, accidents are not—it just takes an awareness of how accidents happen and how they can be prevented.

One of the most common accidents suffered by the elderly is falling. In fact, each year, one in every four people over the age of 65 will fall. However, by helping the elderly take simple safety measures—like securing rugs, installing handrails in bathrooms, repairing uneven flooring, and using a cane or walker—you can help them significantly reduce the risk of falling. Other safety measures you should encourage the elderly to take include maintaining smoke and fire alarms, keeping medications properly sorted, and outfitting stovetops and ovens with nobs that are easy to use and displays that are easy to see.

No matter what level of care your loved one needs, allowing them the opportunity to make their own choices is necessary for them to maintain their independence, and for you to have less on your plate. According to Walden University, if we feel powerless we cannot feel independent. That’s why it’s vital for you to ensure any senior you’re working with has a significant say in the choices affecting their lives.

From matters of health to living arrangements to diet to exercise, the elderly deserve the right to decide what they want. When you work with seniors, remember your job isn’t to coerce. It’s to empower. And that begins by treating the elderly with the same level of respect—and affording them the same amount of autonomy—you would give to any other adult.

Similarly, Home Care Assistance says seniors have their own opinions and preferences. Encourage your loved one to voice these opinions by making his or her own choices. For example, offer several options for what to eat, wear, and do every day, and allow your loved one to choose. Doing so helps your loved one maintain independence while still staying within reasonable, healthy limits.

Home Care Angels says that you should also involve your loved one in a day-to-day plan. Ask them to plan meals, fold the laundry and participate in the shopping, cooking, and cleaning where possible. Bake cookies together, even if they can only help stir the dough. Let them decide what TV shows, radio programs, and music they want to listen to.

Even if you know your loved one’s favorite shows and programs, they will appreciate you giving them the chance to tell you what they like or what they want to do, even if their answer is exactly what you thought it would be. And you never know when the time may come that they pick something that surprises you. If you don’t ask, you will never get a different answer.

We touched on this earlier when talking about gifts, but according to Home Care Assistance, age-friendly home improvements can enable older adults to be independent for longer. In the bathroom, you can install grab bars in the shower and near the toilet. You can add a shower chair and an elevated toilet seat. In the kitchen, you can store items on the counter or at eye level so your loved one doesn’t have to bend or reach. You can also buy weighted utensils to make mealtimes easier.

As you make changes to your loved one’s home, think through their daily routine. What challenges are they facing throughout the day? What tasks do they receive support with? Is there any equipment that would make things easier? Are there changes that you could make that would empower them to need less direct support? If you don’t know where to start, you may want to consult an occupational therapist. They can offer ideas of changes you can make to the home.

The Caregiver Resource Center also suggests arranging for a home safety audit to identify any areas of concern in your loved one’s home, along with a corrective action plan. A home safety audit can identify areas of risk in your loved one’s home that you may not have thought of on your own. You can also listen to our episode on Aging in Place for more information on ways you can help make your loved one’s home safer.

There will be many times where you and your loved one disagree over things as small as what to eat for dinner or as big as where your loved one should live. According to Home Care Assistance, as family caregivers, we want to protect our loved ones from everything that might harm them. From an unhealthy meal to a decision to keep living alone, our loved ones often make decisions that worry us. If we want to empower those we care for, we need to allow them the space to make decisions that we disagree with. Nobody can be safe all the time.

Caregivers must balance safety with autonomy. For example, maybe your mother is adamant about living at home. She might also be willing to allow a paid caregiver to come each evening for a few hours to prepare dinner and clean. While this may not be your preferred solution, it empowers your mom to live the way she wants to live. It can bring you peace of mind knowing that someone is checking on her each day. A caregiver can keep your parent safe at home by making sure she gets any assistance she might need.

Communication is key in helping your loved one maintain their independence. Sit down and have a conversation with them about things you both can do differently in order for them to do more for themselves. Your loved one may not want to bring up any issues to you on their own, but if you ask them specifically what they want and ways that you could help them achieve this goal, they will be much more willing to divulge the information you need. During this conversation, you should also bring any safety concerns you have to their attention. If you worry about them falling in the shower, let them know and work on a solution together.

According to the Caregiver Resource Center, all too often, a senior wants to retain their independence and doesn’t want to become a burden to their loved ones. In order to maintain their independence, the senior may attempt to hide the fact that they are struggling, and are in need of some assistance.

One way that you may learn of a problem, is when you receive a phone call in the middle of the night. When you answer the phone you hear your mother is in the emergency room, she’s fallen and broken her hip. As the closest living relative, you receive the call, and within minutes you are being faced with new responsibilities as your mother’s caregiver.

Not all problems occur as a crisis like this but instead evolve in a gradual series of warning signs spanning weeks, months, or even years. Look for those signs that your loved one needs help and is not voicing this need to you or anyone else. With open communication, your loved one will be able to safely maintain their independence and you will have peace of mind knowing that they will tell you if they are having trouble.

Sources:

http://www.caregiverresourcecenter.com/Respecting%20Seniors.pdf

https://www.homecareangelsinc.com/caring-for-aging-parents/5-ways-to-help-seniors-remain-independent/

https://www.waldenu.edu/online-doctoral-programs/phd-in-human-services/resource/helping-the-elderly-maintain-independence

https://homecareassistance.com/blog/supporting-seniors-promoting-independence

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Today’s episode has been handpicked by our listeners. We have gotten quite a few comments on our videos wanting to know the difference between Alzheimer’s and Dementia and we are going to be talking about the differences between the two and clearing up any confusion you may have. First, we are going to discuss what Alzheimer’s is and how it differs from Dementia before moving on to what dementia is and what it can look like. Now let’s move on to the rest of the show.

According to the CDC, Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia. It is a progressive disease beginning with mild memory loss and possibly leading to loss of the ability to carry on a conversation and respond to the environment. Alzheimer’s disease involves parts of the brain that control thought, memory, and language and can seriously affect a person’s ability to carry out daily activities. Age is the best-known risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease.

Alzheimer’s disease accounts for somewhere between 60 and 80 percent of all dementia cases. As the aging population rises, more and more people are being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. The CDC says that in 2020, as many as 5.8 million Americans were living with Alzheimer’s disease and this number is projected to nearly triple to 14 million people in the next forty years.

Individuals with Alzheimer’s can live for many years with the disease, but it does ultimately end with death, often due to the loss of the ability to swallow. On average, after a diagnosis is made, a person with Alzheimer’s usually lives for 4-8 years. However, someone with Alzheimer’s can live longer than that. Some have lived nearly 20 years after receiving a diagnosis.

Early diagnosis is key for this disease. The sooner a treatment plan can be started, the better. According to the CDC, researchers believe that genetics may play a role in developing Alzheimer’s disease. However, genes do not equal destiny. A healthy lifestyle may help reduce your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. If you have a family history of Alzheimer’s, make sure you inform your doctor. There are a few tests they can perform that may result in early detection.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer’s is a degenerative brain disease that is caused by complex brain changes following cell damage. It leads to dementia symptoms that gradually worsen over time. The most common early symptom of Alzheimer’s is trouble remembering new information because the disease typically impacts the part of the brain associated with learning first.

As Alzheimer’s advances, symptoms get more severe and include disorientation, confusion, and behavioral changes. Eventually, speaking, swallowing, and walking become difficult. Currently, there is no cure for this disease, but there are a few ways to treat it. If you suspect that a loved one or yourself may have Alzheimer’s, speak with a doctor. They will be able to determine if you have the disease, what stage you are in, and the best course of action for you to take.

This episode is closely related to our recent mini-series on the Seven Stages of Alzheimer’s disease. We won’t be talking about Alzheimer’s nearly as in-depth as we have in our mini-series, so if you would like to learn more about Alzheimer’s, listen to the series on our website, our YouTube channel, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Now that we’ve covered Alzheimer’s disease, let’s move on to dementia.

According to Forbes, dementia is the umbrella term used to describe several diseases that cause changes in the brain that lead to memory loss and language and reasoning difficulties, ultimately disrupting everyday functioning.

The National Institute on Aging says that Dementia is the loss of cognitive functioning — thinking, remembering, and reasoning — to such an extent that it interferes with a person's daily life and activities. Some people with dementia cannot control their emotions, and their personalities may change. Dementia ranges in severity from the mildest stage, when it is just beginning to affect a person's functioning, to the most severe stage, when the person must depend completely on others for basic activities of living.

Dementia is more common as people grow older (about one-third of all people aged 85 or older may have some form of dementia) but it is not a normal part of aging. Many people live into their 90s and beyond without any signs of dementia.

There are several different forms of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease and a person’s symptoms can vary depending on the type. Let’s take a closer look at the 5 most common forms of dementia. As you already know, the most common form of dementia is Alzheimer’s.

According to Mayo Clinic, Lewy body dementia, also known as dementia with Lewy bodies, is the second most common type of progressive dementia after Alzheimer's disease. Protein deposits, called Lewy bodies, develop in nerve cells in the brain regions involved in thinking, memory, and movement (motor control).

Lewy body dementia causes a progressive decline in mental abilities. People with Lewy body dementia might have visual hallucinations and changes in alertness and attention. Other effects include Parkinson's disease signs and symptoms such as rigid muscles, slow movement, walking difficulty, and tremors.

The third most common type is Frontotemporal dementia. According to Mayo Clinic, frontotemporal dementia is an umbrella term for a group of brain disorders that primarily affect the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. These areas of the brain are generally associated with personality, behavior, and language.

In frontotemporal dementia, portions of these lobes shrink, or atrophy. Signs and symptoms vary, depending on which part of the brain is affected. Some people with frontotemporal dementia have dramatic changes in their personalities and become socially inappropriate, impulsive, or emotionally indifferent, while others lose the ability to use language properly.

Frontotemporal dementia can be misdiagnosed as a psychiatric problem or as Alzheimer's disease. But frontotemporal dementia tends to occur at a younger age than does Alzheimer's disease. Frontotemporal dementia often begins between the ages of 40 and 65 but occurs later in life as well. FTD is the cause of approximately 10% to 20% of dementia cases.

The next form of dementia is vascular dementia. According to Mayo Clinic, Vascular dementia is a general term describing problems with reasoning, planning, judgment, memory, and other thought processes caused by brain damage from impaired blood flow to your brain.

You can develop vascular dementia after a stroke blocks an artery in your brain, but strokes don't always cause vascular dementia. Whether a stroke affects your thinking and reasoning depends on your stroke's severity and location. Vascular dementia can also result from other conditions that damage blood vessels and reduce circulation, depriving your brain of vital oxygen and nutrients.

Factors that increase your risk of heart disease and stroke — including diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking — also raise your vascular dementia risk. Controlling these factors may help lower your chances of developing vascular dementia.

The final common form of dementia is Mixed dementia, a combination of two or more types of dementia. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, In the most common form of mixed dementia, the abnormal protein deposits associated with Alzheimer's disease coexist with blood vessel problems linked to vascular dementia. Alzheimer's brain changes also often coexist with Lewy bodies. In some cases, a person may have brain changes linked to all three conditions — Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and Lewy body dementia.

Researchers don't know exactly how many older adults currently diagnosed with a specific type of dementia actually have mixed dementia, but autopsies indicate that the condition may be significantly more common than previously realized.

Autopsy studies play a key role in shedding light on mixed dementia because scientists can't yet measure most dementia-related brain changes in living individuals. In the most informative studies, researchers correlate each participant's cognitive health and any diagnosed problems during life with analysis of the brain after death.

According to the National Institute on Aging, researchers have also identified many other conditions that can cause dementia or dementia-like symptoms. These conditions include Argyrophilic grain disease, a common, late-onset degenerative disease. Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, a rare brain disorder. Huntington's disease, an inherited, progressive brain disease. Chronic traumatic encephalopathy, caused by repeated traumatic brain injury. And HIV-associated dementia, a rare disease that occurs when the HIV virus spreads to the brain.

The overlap in symptoms of various dementias can make it difficult to get an accurate diagnosis. But a proper diagnosis is important to get the best treatment.

Now that you know the difference between Alzheimer’s and Dementia, let’s move on to some of the causes, risk factors, and prevention methods of dementia.

According to Forbes, one common myth many people tend to believe is that you can’t reduce your risk of getting Alzheimer’s disease or other kinds of dementia—you either get it or you don’t. In reality, adopting healthy habits can lower your risk of developing dementia, or at least delay the onset. “Healthy body, healthy mind,” says Dr. Richard Caselli, associate director and clinical core director of the Alzheimer’s Disease Center at Mayo Clinic in Arizona. “What we can control, we should control.” Though he adds that even a lifetime of healthy habits is no guarantee of protection.

Among the 12 factors that increase a person’s risk of dementia outlined in the 2020 report from the Lancet Commission on dementia prevention, most are within one’s control. These include hypertension, smoking, obesity, diabetes, low social contact, excessive alcohol consumption, and being physically inactive. Risk factors that we cannot control include lack of education, traumatic brain injury, depression, hearing impairment, and exposure to air pollution.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, dementia is caused by damage to brain cells. This damage interferes with the ability of brain cells to communicate with each other. When brain cells cannot communicate normally, thinking, behavior, and feelings can be affected.

The brain has many distinct regions, each of which is responsible for different functions (for example, memory, judgment, and movement). When cells in a particular region are damaged, that region cannot carry out its functions normally.

Different types of dementia are associated with particular types of brain cell damage in particular regions of the brain. For example, in Alzheimer's disease, high levels of certain proteins inside and outside brain cells make it hard for brain cells to stay healthy and to communicate with each other. The brain region called the hippocampus is the center of learning and memory in the brain, and the brain cells in this region are often the first to be damaged. That's why memory loss is often one of the earliest symptoms of Alzheimer's.

While most changes in the brain that cause dementia are permanent and worsen over time, thinking and memory problems caused by the following conditions may improve when the condition is treated or addressed: depression, medication side effects, excess use of alcohol, thyroid problems, and vitamin deficiencies.

In most people, the cause of dementia is unknown, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t ways you can lower your risk of developing dementia. Knowing what risk factors, you have can aid in lowering your chances of developing dementia, as well.

According to the NHS, some dementia risk factors are difficult or impossible to change, like your age, genes, and level of education. The older you are, the more likely you are to develop dementia. However, dementia is not a natural part of aging and isn’t something that you should be expecting to develop. In general, genes alone are not thought to cause dementia. However, certain genetic factors are involved with some of the less common types. Dementia usually develops because of a combination of genetic and "environmental" factors, such as smoking and a lack of regular exercise. Other risk factors such as hearing loss, untreated depression, loneliness, or social isolation, and sitting for most of the day may also contribute to your likelihood of developing dementia.

Currently, there are no proven ways to prevent dementia, but doctors have a few suggestions for prevention methods. Even though you may not be able to alter your chances of developing dementia, following these suggestions can lead to an overall healthy lifestyle and can prevent many other illnesses and health issues. According to the NHS, you may reduce your risk of dementia by eating a healthy, balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, keeping alcohol within recommended limits, stopping smoking, and keeping your blood pressure at a healthy level.

Keeping your body healthy may help reduce your risk of dementia, but you also need to keep your brain active and engaged. According to Danone Nutricia Research, the brain communicates through a vast network of billions of nerve cells. These nerve cells or neurons connect with each other via junctions called ‘synapses. Synapses allow communication between neurons and make it possible to create and recall memories.

Throughout our lives, we continually lose and re-grow these important brain connections. In a healthy brain, the number of new synapses balances the loss of old ones, allowing for a sustained net number of synapses. In a brain affected by injury or illness, such as dementia, synapses die off faster than they are created. When this happens, it becomes difficult to create and recall memories. Regularly engaging your mind may help your brain create more synapses longer. Activities like crosswords, word searches, and reading are all great ways to engage your mind. Learning new skills can also help your brain create more synapses and the repetitive information you use while learning can double as a recall exercise.

Regular physical exercise can also help you keep your mind active. Going for a few 10-minute walks a day can help increase the blood flow in your brain and in the rest of your body. Participating in social activities and maintaining regular social interaction can lower stress and depression, which can affect one’s memory. Getting enough sleep and drinking enough water can both help your ability to focus and your memory.

Mayo Clinic says that doing things like playing bridge, taking alternate routes when driving, learning to play a musical instrument, and volunteering at a local school or community organization are all great ways to help keep your brain in shape and keep memory loss at bay.

Now that we have covered the causes, risk factors, and prevention methods for dementia, last move on to the last part of today’s episode, the importance of early detection and diagnosis.

Early diagnosis of dementia is key because it allows a person with dementia to begin treatment right away and preserve their memory and overall function longer than they would be able to without early detection of the disease. Not only does early detection allows someone to start a treatment plan right away, but it also allows them the opportunity to plan for the future.

According to Queensland Health, being familiar with the signs of dementia can help people receive a diagnosis as early as possible. Early signs that a person might have dementia can include: being vague in everyday conversations, memory loss that affects day-to-day function, short term memory loss, difficulty performing everyday tasks and taking longer to do routine tasks, losing enthusiasm or interest in regular activities, difficulties in thinking or saying the right words, changes in personality or behavior, finding it difficult to follow instructions, finding it difficult to follow stories, and increased emotional unpredictability.

If you have noticed any of these signs in yourself or a loved one, schedule an appointment with your doctor. Since many of these signs are also signs of normal aging, it’s important to talk to your doctor if you think you may be experiencing the early stages of dementia. As we’ve already mentioned today, it’s better to rule out dementia now than wait for a diagnosis later in life.

If you or your loved one are having memory troubles, consider keeping a journal. Your doctor may not be able to see any issues occurring during a short visit and it can be hard to remember everything you have experienced. Keeping a journal can help you remember what you need to talk to the doctor. It can also measure the progression of any potential memory loss.

While dementia can be scary, getting a diagnosis doesn’t mean your life stops. People with dementia are still able to take care of themselves, do their jobs, and most importantly, spend time with the people they love doing things they enjoy.

Having a support group can make all the difference when living with dementia. Reach out to friends and family when you need help and accept help when offered. Keeping connected can be difficult after a diagnosis. Many people turn away from their friends and family because they are embarrassed but isolating yourself will only make things worse.

Currently, there is no cure for dementia, but there are a few treatment options that can help preserve someone’s memory and ability to function. More research is always being done on the subject. In the next few years, there very well could be a better way to treat or even stop the progression of memory loss.

The population of people living with dementia is rising and as more and more people are diagnosed, communities are coming together to support those with dementia. Communities all over the world are coming up with ways to include those with dementia and make sure they are not left out after a diagnosis. A dementia-friendly community offers residents with dementia a safe place to engage in social activities and more even into the late stages of the disease. To learn more about dementia-friendly communities and to learn how you can help make your community dementia-friendly, listen to our episode on Dementia-Friendly Communities.

Before we end the episode, let’s have a quick recap of what we’ve covered today. Alzheimer’s Disease is the most common form of dementia, and they both result in changes in the brain that lead to memory loss and language and reasoning difficulties, ultimately disrupting everyday functioning. In both Alzheimer’s and dementia, early detection is key. Knowing the signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s and dementia can help you get an early diagnosis and in turn, an early start at treating the disease and planning for the future.

Sources:

https://www.forbes.com/health/healthy-aging/dementia-vs-alzheimers/

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/difference-between-dementia-and-alzheimer-s

https://www.cdc.gov/aging/aginginfo/alzheimers.htm

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-alzheimers

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/what-is-dementia

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/frontotemporal-dementia/symptoms-causes/syc-20354737

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dementia/symptoms-causes/syc-20352013

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lewy-body-dementia/symptoms-causes/syc-20352025

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-dementia/types-of-dementia/mixed-dementia

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/vascular-dementia/symptoms-causes/syc-20378793

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-dementia

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dementia/dementia-prevention/

https://www.nutriciaresearch.com/alzheimers-disease/synapses-the-building-blocks-of-memory/

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/memory-loss/art-20046518

https://www.health.qld.gov.au/news-events/news/dementia-signs-symptoms-recognise-what-to-do

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Finding a caregiver for a loved one can be stressful. There are several different types of caregivers to choose from that all provide different levels of care at different price points. Today we are going to be talking about the many types of caregivers and the differences between the types of care they provide. We’ll begin with the 5 types of in-home caregivers before moving on to the other 5 types of caregivers. Now let’s move on to the rest of the show.

Before we jump into the types of caregivers, let’s briefly talk about what a caregiver is. Hopkins Medicine tells us, in simple terms, a caregiver is a person who tends to the needs or concerns of a person with short- or long-term limitations due to illness, injury or disability. The term “family caregiver” describes individuals who care for members of their family of origin, but also refers to those who care for their family of choice. This could be members of their congregation, neighbors, or close friends. Family caregivers play a significant role in health care, as they are often the main source of valuable information about the patient.

Most people will either be caregivers or need care at some point in their lives, and oftentimes they will experience both sides. According to Family Caregiver Alliance, family caregivers, particularly women, provide over 75% of caregiving support in the United States. In 2007, the estimated economic value of family caregivers’ unpaid contributions was at least $375 billion dollars, which is how much it would cost to replace that care with paid services.

Family Caregiver Alliance says that caregivers tackle a wide range of tasks. They may do household chores like buy groceries, cook, clean the house, and do laundry. They may also help with personal care, like helping a family member get dressed, take a shower, and take medicine. They can provide medical-related assistance, like helping transfer someone in and out of bed, help with physical therapy, injections, feeding tubes, and other medical procedures. They can also help a loved one make medical appointments and drive to the doctor and drugstore. Many caregivers are the go-between for their loved one and are the ones that talk with the doctors, care managers, and others to understand what needs to be done. They also spend time at work handling a crisis or making plans to help a family member who is sick and is often the designated “on-call” family member for problems.

Now that we’ve had a refresher on what a caregiver is and the importance of a caregiver, let’s move on to the types of caregivers.

There are 5 types of in-home caregivers: family caregivers, informal caregivers, independent caregivers, private duty caregivers, and professional caregivers. Each of these types provide in-home care, but the way they provide care differs.

Caregiving can be expensive and many families are more comfortable doing at least a portion of the caregiving their loved one needs themselves. According to Jevs Care at Home, family caregivers are usually unpaid family members who take care of a spouse or loved one. These caregivers are almost always related to the person receiving care in some way. We are often asked if it is possible to have some of your caregiving expenses reimbursed and it is, but on average, about 21% of all caregivers work is unpaid.

That said, you may become a paid family caregiver by working with a home care agency. You may also find local resources to help with the cost of caregiving. According to Family Caregiver Alliance, sometimes, caregiving families may obtain financial relief for specific purposes, such as for respite care or to purchase goods and services, and in some cases, pay for caregiving. In some states, there are programs that pay family members to provide care to those receiving Medicaid and in very few states there are programs available to those who do not qualify for Medicaid. It is important to note, however, that these programs vary widely, often with complicated criteria for eligibility.

The second type of in-home caregivers are informal caregivers. According to Jevs Care at Home, informal caregivers provide similar services to those of family caregivers, but in most cases, they aren’t related to the person receiving care. Usually, these caregivers have some connection or relation to their clients, which is helpful for creating the companionship many seniors seek.

According to Family Caregiver Alliance, about 44 million Americans provide 37 billion hours of unpaid, “informal” care each year for adult family members and friends with chronic illnesses or conditions that prevent them from handling daily activities such as bathing, managing medications, or preparing meals on their own.

Many people act as informal caregivers without even realizing that’s what they are doing. Neighbors, friends, and family members provide informal care through tasks like meal prep, transportation to appointments, and errand assistance. They may see these tasks as just helping out when they are really providing care.

The third type of in-home caregiver is an independent caregiver. According to Jevs Care at Home, an independent caregiver gets hired directly by the person’s family needing care and is not affiliated with a home care company. They provide all of the necessary caregiving services and work with the family to determine their loved one’s care needs. This also means there are higher risks and liabilities when choosing this route.

Independent caregivers can often be 30 to 40 percent cheaper than a home care company and have fewer restrictions than a professional caregiver does. Paying for Senior Care says that as of 2019 if an independent caregiver is paid more than $2,100 per year, they are considered a household employee, and not an independent contractor. Thus, the family hiring the independent caregiver takes on all the responsibilities of being an employer, which includes payroll and taxes and all other requirements.

As the employer, you would write a job description for a potential independent caregiver that covers the level of care and all care tasks they will be expected to perform. Paying for Senior Care suggests listing tasks such as driving or accompanying the senior to and from appointments, running errands, providing supervision and companionship, managing medication, assisting with bathing and grooming, preparing meals, and housecleaning.

The personal qualities one is seeking in a caregiver should also be covered, such as a patient individual with a cheerful, upbeat personality. Independent caregivers can provide medical care, but they often only provide personal care.

The fourth in-home caregiver, a private duty caregiver, is similar to an independent caregiver. According to Jevs Care at Home, Private Duty Caregivers typically work for a home care company or independently and alleviate the difficulties of everyday life for a senior to allow them to continue living independently in their home. Depending on their level of training, a private duty caregiver is able to provide medical, nursing, cleaning, personal, domestic, and transportation services.

The last type of in-home caregiver is a professional caregiver. According to Jevs Care at Home, professional caregivers are career caregivers, so their primary occupation is caregiving. These caregivers work with a care recipient either in their home or in a facility to ensure they receive proper care. Professional caregivers work for professional home care companies, so they are typically assigned when you hire the company. They provide everything from homemaker services to medical care if necessary.

Professional caregivers work through licensed companies and oftentimes provide more care than the other four types of in-home caregivers. Because of this, a professional caregiver costs more than other caregivers do, roughly 30 to 40 percent more. Using a home care company means that you would not have to take responsibility as the employer like you would for an independent caregiver.

Now that we’ve covered in-home caregivers, let’s move on to the other types of caregivers you should know.

Hospice caregivers are up first on our list. Hospice caregivers can provide care both at home and in a facility. Hospice caregivers can be family members or professional caregivers. According to the National Institute on Aging, hospice care focuses on the care, comfort, and quality of life of a person with a serious illness who is approaching the end of life. A hospice caregiver provides the necessary care for your loved one, while also making sure they are as comfortable as they can be.

A hospice caregiver is often part of a team. Compassus says that the hospice team arranges for the delivery of medical equipment and medications. They work with you on a schedule for visits from nurses, therapists, chaplains, social workers, and volunteers. The schedule adapts to your needs.

According to Compassus, the responsibilities of a hospice caregiver include helping patients with the activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, feeding, and going to the bathroom. Ensuring your loved one has their prescriptions and that all medicines are given at the correct dose and time. Hospice nurses and aides can also teach proper techniques and provide basic medical care, including changing dressing, taking temperatures, and blood pressure readings. Hospice caregivers also understand how to use medical equipment, which may include oxygen machines, wheelchairs, lifts, and hospital beds. However, depending on the hospice provider and even state that you reside in – most hospice caregiver’s will visit 1-2 times a week and for a short duration of time. Many times, for families receiving hospice at home the hospice provider will recommend hiring a home care company to help with a loved one’s care needs.

If your loved one is receiving hospice care at home and needs to be transferred to a facility for pain management or any other reason, the hospice team will schedule transportation to the facility and will continue to provide care for your loved one and your family.

There may be times when your loved one is home alone and needs care and it may be unsafe for a caregiver to come to the home or a caregiver may be unable to visit. According to Jevs Care at Home, that’s where virtual caregivers come in. By using a tablet or other type of screen, caregivers interact with their clients through Skype or another form of video call to ensure their health is monitored. This type of caregiving should be supplemental to in-home caregiving but still, help in caregiving like with medication reminders or health screenings. It’s also helpful for companionship.

There are also technologies available that allow a virtual caregiver system to monitor your loved one in their home, like Addison Care. According to Addison Care, Addison, the virtual caregiver, is a state-of-the-art, 3D animated, connected caregiver designed to transform a residence into a digital Smart Health Home, providing chronic care management, rehabilitation, aging in place, behavioral health, and care coordination, for patients of all ages.

With a virtual caregiver system, you can connect devices, such as glucose monitors, blood pressure cuffs, and thermometers. The system can send alerts to you and your loved one and provides 24/7 support. Similar to life alert, if your loved one falls, a virtual caregiver system will notify emergency services. Virtual caregiving, even a system such as Addison Care, should still only be used as supplemental care and should not replace an in-person caregiver. Companionship is an important aspect of the caregiving relationship and it can be supplemented with virtual visits, but cannot be replaced by it.

Another caregiving option for your loved one that cannot be home alone is adult daycare. According to Jevs Care at Home, Adult Daycare offers the opportunity for seniors to have stimulating social, cognitive, and physical activity outside of the home for a portion of the day. If it’s possible your loved one may be unsafe alone, can’t perform daily activities, and is alone for most of the day, adult daycare may be a good option. These programs typically supplement an in-home caregiver, usually in situations where a family member, who is also the caregiver, has another job.

Not all daycare centers are the same. According to AARP, most offer therapeutic exercise, mental interaction for participants, social activities appropriate for their condition, and help with personal care such as grooming and using the toilet. Adult daycare centers differ in the specific areas of care they offer. Social centers concentrate on meals and recreation while providing some health-related services. Medical and health programs provide more intensive health and therapeutic services in addition to social activities. And specialized centers take participants who have only a particular condition, such as those diagnosed with dementia.

Depending on the type of care you are looking for and the length of time your loved one will be staying at a center, prices can vary. On average, adult daycare costs $70 a day. Medicare does not normally cover the costs of Adult Daycare, but you may find financial assistance in your area. Some veteran services may help cover the costs and local and state programs may also help pay for adult daycare.

AARP suggests looking into daycare when you start seeing signs that an older loved one is unable to structure their own daily activities when a loved one feels isolated and lonely and wishes for interaction with other older people, or experiences anxiety or depression and needs social and emotional support. You may also want to seek daycare services when your loved one has difficulty starting and focusing on an activity whether it's conversation, reading, or watching TV when they seem to be no longer safe on their own or feel uncertain and anxious about being alone.

Family caregivers also might consider adult daycare services when they need to work or be away from home for most of the day or if they are themselves experiencing ill effects such as anxiety, frustration, depression, or health problems.

Your loved one may be mostly independent and able to live alone, but still, need a caregiver to stop by for things like medication assistance. Assisted Living may be a good choice if this is true for your loved one. According to Jevs Care at Home, Assisted Living Facilities come in all shapes and sizes but are typically designed to provide a very basic level of care and assistance to their residents. These facilities offer social activities, a community setting, and other services to enrich the lives of those living there. Outside of these services, care is provided periodically and as needed, like in the case of administering medication. The assisted living staff provides care as needed and not constantly like in the case of a caregiver.

In addition to standard assisted living facilities, there are also specialized facilities, or sections of the facility, that work primarily with those who need more care. These sections are typically for those with injuries, chronic conditions, or diseases like Alzheimer’s or Dementia.

Many families choose assisted living facilities in order to help with daily living activities. Daily living activities are things that you do every day, like eating, bathing, and walking. For elderly loved ones that need help with a few of these activities every day, but do not need help with the rest of their activities, assisted living would be the perfect option. For example, if your loved one needs help walking around and getting in and out of the tub, but they can make their own meals, eat alone, and dress themselves, assisted living would allow them to maintain their independence while still having a caregiver’s help.

Medicare doesn’t usually cover any of the costs with assisted living, but just with the other types of caregiving we’ve talked about today, local agencies and services may be able to help cover some of the costs of care. Visit your local senior center to find out what programs are available in your area.

Assisted living facilities do not provide full-time care for your loved one. If your loved one needs full-time care outside of the home, a nursing home, or a skilled nursing facility, may be the type of care your loved one requires.

According to Where You Live Matters, in a skilled nursing facility, residents receive full-time care by a specially trained medical staff. People who require a higher level of medical care, either short-term or long-term, need what’s known as skilled nursing care, extended care, or long-term care. These facilities are licensed by Medicare and/or Medicaid and are focused on short-term rehabilitation and long-term medical care.

According to the National Institute on Aging, nursing homes focus on medical care more than most assisted living facilities. These services typically include nursing care, 24-hour supervision, three meals a day, and assistance with everyday activities. Rehabilitation services, such as physical, occupational, and speech therapy, are also available.

Some people stay at a nursing home for a short time after being in the hospital. After they recover, they go home. However, most nursing home residents live there permanently because they have ongoing physical or mental conditions that require constant care and supervision.

When choosing a nursing home, make sure you know what type of care your loved one needs and find a place that specializes in that care. Nursing home staff have many patients they are taking care of and, especially with the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, it’s important to make sure your loved one is getting the care they need. We’ve talked about the importance of advocating for your loved one before, and that still remains here.

When your loved one is receiving care, not at home, there is always the possibility that their care needs are not being 100 percent met. Being an advocate for your loved one in a facility means regularly visiting your loved one and staying updated on their care plan. Having a relationship with their care team can also make it easier to stay up to date on any changes that happen with your loved one while they are in the facility.

When choosing a nursing home, you should look at reviews, talk to friends and family members that have experience with the nursing home, take a tour of the facility, and ask about waitlists for the facilities in your area. Nursing homes can be difficult to get into, especially with the continuing rise in the aging population. When touring nursing facilities, the National Institute on Aging suggests looking for Medicare and Medicaid certification, handicap access, residents who look well cared for, and warm interaction between staff and residents. They also suggest visiting a facility a second time without calling ahead. Try another day of the week or time of day so you will meet other staff members and see different activities. Stop by at mealtime. While you are there for this second visit, you should see if the dining room is attractive and clean and if the food looks tempting.

We’ve now covered all the various types of caregivers. Choosing the right caregiver for your loved one is an important task that shouldn’t be taken lightly. If someone you know is currently looking into types of care for their loved one, share this episode with them. Knowing what types of caregivers are available can help you make a more informed decision when it comes to the type of care your loved one needs.

If you or someone you know is a caregiver, visit our YouTube channel and our dedicated Caregiver Support playlist for episodes to help the caregiver.

Sources:

https://jevsathome.org/types-of-caregivers/

https://www.caregiver.org/resource/caregiving/

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/about/community_health/johns-hopkins-bayview/services/called_to_care/what_is_a_caregiver.html

https://www.caregiver.org/faq/can-i-get-paid-to-care-for-a-family-member/

https://www.payingforseniorcare.com/homecare/hiring-independent-caregivers

https://www.payingforseniorcare.com/homecare/agency-or-independent-caregiver

https://addison.care/

https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/home-care/info-2017/adult-day-care.html

https://www.whereyoulivematters.org/assisted-living-defined/

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/how-choose-nursing-home

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Today, we are going to be talking about transitioning from a short-term rehab facility back to your home. We will be discussing discharge plans, communication strategies, home preparations, and most importantly, advocacy. Now let’s move on to the rest of the show.

Rehab facilities are somewhat the norm when it comes to transitioning from hospital to home. If your loved one finds themselves in the hospital, for a scheduled surgery, an unexpected illness, or even a fall, they may be moved to a rehab facility before they are able to come home. Last year, over 530,000 people were treated in inpatient rehab facilities. According to Wauconda Care, a rehabilitation center has the goal of getting patients rehabilitated to a point where they can live and function on their own, so these facilities offer short-term care focusing on equipping patients to get back to their life at home.

Many families are nervous about transitioning from rehab back to home. Kevin Smith, President, and COO of Best of Care, Inc. gives us an example of a family experiencing the transition from rehab to home. He says that your 88-year-old mother suffers a stroke in the home she and your dad have shared for 40 years.

You rush to the hospital. Mom appears frail. Her speech is slurred. She is having a tough time moving her arms. Yet, she seems to be in good spirits. You’re thankful dad called 911, that the ambulance arrived quickly, and that they caught and treated the stroke early.

But you’re more than anxious about what comes next. The hospital’s care manager wants to discharge mom to a rehabilitation facility in three days. From there, she’ll go back home to dad… who has also become increasingly feeble.

What was a normal part of mom’s day – bathing, cleaning, cooking, doing errands, moving around the home, walking the dog – is now impossible. You know that for mom and dad to remain in their home and age in place, major changes will have to be made. But where to begin?

This scenario plays out thousands of times a week in communities across the country. Having a care plan prior to this experience can help ease anxieties and make the process easier. If you have not yet made a care plan with your aging loved ones, we urge you to make one. For help with creating your care plan, visit our website or listen to our episode, “What is a Care Plan?” on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Back to the question at hand… where to begin? Really, the answer to this question is to begin before you start. When your loved one first enters the rehab facility, AARP says you should ask to speak with a hospital discharge planner or social worker for help planning your loved one's next steps, care, transportation to their next place, insurance coverage, and payment plans.

Next Step in Care recommends discussing the following items with the discharge planner or social worker as soon as you have the chance. With the social worker, you should discuss how much time you can devote to being a family caregiver, whether you will provide all or some of the needed care, whether you can continue to work at your job, or if you will need to take time off, whether you have any health problems or other limitations, such as not being able to lift heavy weights, whether you have other commitments, such as caring for young children, and any and all other questions and concerns you may have about being a family caregiver.

According to LeadingAge, during this time, you should also work with the rehab staff and request a home visit from the physical or occupational therapist so that they can assess the living environment and make recommendations.

Erin Wuerz, a physical therapist and rehab manager with Kindred Healthcare says that “like anything else in life, the key to success is planning ahead. Discharge planning should start upon admission, and it should be an ongoing dialogue between the family and the rehab team during the length of the stay.”

Plan ahead as much as you can. This is also why having a care plan is so important. A care plan takes away the guesswork and lets you and your loved one focus on their recovery. If your loved one is going to need additional care once they are discharged from the rehab facility, now is the time to look into care providers, as well.

Communication is key throughout your loved one’s stay in a rehab facility. Ask about your loved one’s progress daily. When tracking their progress, make sure you talk to the staff, as well as your loved one, but also be aware that your loved one may not accurately describe their progress to you. Your loved one may not be lying to you, but they most likely want to be discharged and go home and believe they are strong enough when in reality, they are not.

On the opposite side of this, Rehab Select tells us that transitioning home after a stay in a short-term rehab facility can be difficult. Recovery from a serious illness, injury, surgery, or stroke can be a long process, and the thought of going back home before they feel confident about fully managing on their own can be intimidating for your loved one and they may not believe they are ready to leave the rehab facility.

If your loved one is nervous about this transition, talk with your discharge planner or social worker about ways you can help your loved one feel more comfortable about their situation. You should also reassure your loved one that you will be there for them throughout this process, and so will their friends and family. They have a support system to cheer them on.

LeadingAge says that you and your loved one should expect things to not return to normal once they leave the rehab facility. Unrealistic expectations about being able to return to life as normal can lead to disappointment and frustration. Recovery can take a while, and in some cases such as a stroke, you may need to make modifications around the house or get extra assistance from caregivers in order to safely return home.

Recognizing that these adjustments will ultimately result in a safer and more comfortable living environment may relieve some of the stress associated with the transition.

Once your loved one is nearing their discharge date, it is time to reevaluate the discharge plan you created when they were first admitted to the facility. Now, with the help of the rehab’s discharge planner or social worker and the staff, you will need to prepare for what type of discharge your loved one will have. According to Next Step in Care, your loved one may be discharged to their home, with no needed services, to their home, with help needed from a family caregiver, or to their home, with help needed from a professional home care agency. The rehab team may also recommend your loved one receive long-term care, such as the care they would receive in a nursing home or assisted living facility.

Next Step in Care also recommends getting to know your loved one’s discharge team. Their team includes a doctor, who authorizes the rehab discharge. A nurse, oftentimes this is the head nurse of your loved one’s unit, who will coordinate any education regarding medications and other nursing issues. A social worker that coordinates the discharge, making sure that everything happens when it should. They also take care of and educate you on the many details about the facility’s discharge process. A physical or occupational therapist is responsible for evaluating your loved one’s progress in accordance with both professional standards and insurance requirements, as well as providing the therapy your loved one needs to regain their strength. The last member of your care team is you, the family caregiver. You likely are the one who knows your family member best and will be their number one supporter and advocate.

When considering any transition, it’s important to be an advocate for your loved one, and for yourself. If you are not yet ready for your loved one to come home, speak up. Needing more time to make the home accessible and safe for your loved one is something you should discuss with the discharge team and you can come up with a solution together.

There is also the possibility that the rehab facility decides to discharge your loved one before you may believe that they are ready to come home. According to Next Step in Care, sometimes the rehab program makes a discharge plan you do not want, agree with, or feel is safe. You have the right to appeal this decision and ask for a review. By law, the rehab program must let you know how to appeal and explain what will happen. Make sure the rehab program provides you with contact information for the local Quality Improvement Organization (QIO) that reviews such appeals. Appeals often only take a day or two. If the appeal is denied, then insurance will not pay for those additional days and your loved one will have to leave the facility immediately.

If you do have to appeal a discharge decision and are looking for additional support, reach out to your local senior center and elder affairs department. Both will be able to give you resources and information that can help you during the appeal process and after, whatever the decision may be. The rehab facility can also be a good resource to use, for the appeal process and for the transition home. LeadingAge says that your rehab facility can put you in touch with other community resources. Local communities have a wealth of services such as delivering meals, light housekeeping, transportation, and counseling, all of which will provide a helping hand to you and your loved one while still enabling independence.

Advocating for your loved one and yourself is such an important task that we want to make sure you are as prepared for as you can be. AARP recommends they you insist on the three “I’s”: information, inclusion, and instruction.

Our first I, Information: Obtain printed copies of all pertinent information, including your loved ones' current medications list and prescriptions, any changes to their medications, and a summary of their visit that includes their diagnosis, treatment, prognosis, surgeries, limitations, and any other pertinent information, rehabilitation recommendations, and discharge orders. You should also make note of any scheduled follow-up appointments and share this information with those who will care for your loved ones next, such as their doctors, facilities, home health aides, and professional caregivers.

Our second I, Inclusion: Proactively make certain that you are included in care planning discussions and are informed of changes and decisions. If you have health care power of attorney for your loved ones, you can make decisions for them if need be and you need to know what is happening so that you can make an informed choice.

And Lastly, Instruction: Nearly half of family caregivers are expected to perform follow-up medical and nursing tasks, so be sure to ask for detailed instructions and training, which is required by law in some states.

Now, let’s say you have received the discharge decision and you agree with it. What do you now? First, make sure your loved one’s living space is ready for them. If they live on their own, do you need to temporarily move in with them to help take care of them? You will need to ensure you have what you need at their home, a bed, clothes, food.

You will also need to make sure the living space is accessible and safe for them to get around in. For more information on making sure your home is safe and accessible for your loved one, listen to our Quick Tips episode on Aging in Place on our Official YouTube channel, our website, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Any equipment and supplies your loved one will need once they return home should already be there waiting for them before they even leave the rehab facility. You do not want to have to rush to find last-minute specialty equipment that your loved one needs, which is why it is important to obtain the necessary supplies and equipment ahead of time.

Some common supplies and equipment your loved one may need after being discharged from the rehab facility are hospital beds, recliner chairs, bedside commodes, oxygen tanks and supplies, incontinence products, skincare items, such as water-free shampoo and soap. The rehab facility may have suggestions on where you can get some of these items, so make sure you talk to them about any necessary supplies and equipment your loved one may need.

Supplies and equipment can be expensive and add up quickly. Check with your loved one’s insurance to see what supplies and equipment they will pay for. You can also find organizations in your area that can donate supplies or help you cover some of the costs in some way. Not sure who to reach out to? Start with your discharge team. They are there to make sure your loved one gets back to their best self, and getting the supplies they need will help your loved one.

When your loved one comes home, Next Step In Care says that you will likely do certain tasks as part of giving care. It is important that you know how to do these safely. Try to learn as much as you can while your family member is still in rehab. You can do this by watching the physical and occupational therapy staff as they do these tasks and asking them to watch as you try these tasks yourself.

Sometimes, the rehab staff will not teach these tasks until the day of discharge. This may not be a good time to learn if you feel rushed or overwhelmed. Learn what you can, and ask who to call if you have questions at home.

You might be told to call someone from the rehab program, a home care nurse, or other health care professional.

Speak up if you are afraid of doing certain tasks (such as wound care) or cannot help with personal hygiene (like helping your family member take a shower or go to the bathroom). Some caregivers are okay with changing their family member’s diapers while others feel very uncomfortable about doing this task.

Think about your own feelings as well as your family member’s. The rehab team needs to know what tasks you can and cannot do so they can plan for any needed help.

So far, we’ve talked about what you should do to prepare for the day your loved one leaves the rehab facility. Now let’s move on to what you should expect the day of discharge and beyond.

When the discharge day comes, you may need to pay for a service to transport your loved one home, depending on their needs. If they are unable to walk or sit, you may need to find an accessible cab, or something similar. The discharge team can help you pick the right transportation service for your loved one. Health Sense says that you will also need to have a plan for community transport such as wheelchair-accessible cabs, cars, or ambulettes (which are a specially equipped van for transporting disabled or convalescent passengers in nonemergency circumstances) for follow-up appointments with doctors in the community.

When your loved one comes home, they may have to eat a special diet and take medications. Talk to your loved one’s care team to make sure you understand your loved one’s nutritional needs and restrictions, as well as their medication schedule. Your loved one’s doctor should give you a list of medications, how long they need to take them, how often they need to take them, and how they should take them. You and your loved one should also be made aware of any side effects that their medications can cause and be on the lookout for them. If your loved one experiences any side effects while taking medications, call their doctor immediately.

Medications can also be expensive. Make sure to check with your loved one’s insurance to see what they will cover. If your loved one needs help covering the cost of their medications, again, reach out to the rehab facility and community resources for help. Some medications also have to be picked up at a hospital pharmacy instead of your normal pharmacy. If your loved one has a medication like this, make a plan of how you will get this medication and how often you have to pick it up. Some pharmacies offer delivery, as well, especially during the covid pandemic. Ask your local pharmacy and hospital pharmacy if delivery is an option for you. Getting your medications delivered can help you during this time, as it will be one less thing you will need to do.

LeadingAge says that you need to recognize that it's ok to have help and to ask for help. Some people are embarrassed about needing assistance after transitioning home, and some family caregivers think they can take care of their loved ones all on their own. It's important to be realistic about the level of care that will be required, and it's ok to have extra help. Getting help isn't a sign of weakness, but one of strength and care.

Amy Goyer, a family caregiver, recognized she needed help and asked for it while caring for her dad. She says that when her dad was discharged from the hospital with a feeding tube, she was given just a few minutes of explanation on how to deal with it. It was complicated, and they were back in the hospital multiple times when it clogged. She received help from the home health nurses, but you can bet the next time they had a hospitalization that she advocated more strongly for the information she needed to do her job as a caregiver.

At first, Amy didn’t ask for help and tried to do things on her own. Once she asked for help, she was able to better take care of her dad and gain the skills and confidence she needed to be a better caregiver.

Lastly, according to AARP, you need to be realistic about the future. Sometimes rehab facilities are unrealistic about what setting is best for our loved ones, or how much a family can handle in terms of future care. It’s up to you to stay rooted in reality. Ask a lot of questions, observe loved ones in therapy sessions, monitor their medications and assess their capabilities, and weigh it all along with their needs, wishes, and quality of life. You should also assess the home situation and potential facilities realistically. If you can’t provide all the direct care yourself, you are not a failure. You are still doing your job as a caregiver when you coordinate the care. Your loved one has a discharge team in the rehab facility, and they will still need a team once they leave. Line up the support you’ll need from care managers, care providers, family members, and friends and build your team.

Throughout the transition, make it a high priority to take care of yourself. As we have said an ample number of times and will continue saying, you cannot provide the best care if you are not your best self. While some transitions go more smoothly than others, no transition is perfect. Just do your best with the information you can gather. You can always make new decisions as the situation changes. Plan early, plan often, and be there for your loved one, because at the end of the day, that’s the most important job you have.

Sources:

https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/home-care/info-2021/transition-from-hospital-rehab-home.html

https://data.cms.gov/provider-data/dataset/ka5z-ibe3

https://waucondacare.com/2017/08/14/nursing-home-vs-rehabilitation-center-benefits-choosing-rehab-center/

https://leadingage.org/members/5-tips-transition-smooth-move-rehab-home

https://blog.rehabselect.net/transitioning-home-after-short-term-rehabilitation

https://bethesdahealth.org/blog/2019/03/14/steps-to-a-successful-senior-transition-from-short-stay-rehab-to-home/

https://www.nextstepincare.org/uploads/File/Guides/Rehabilitation/Going_Home/Rehab_to_Home.pdf

https://www.health-sense.org/discharge-time-rehab-facility-now/

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The holiday season is here and it can be especially stressful for caregivers. If you are caring for a loved one with dementia, today’s Quick Tips episode is specifically geared toward making holidays enjoyable for you and your loved one. We are going to talk about how you can create a safe and calm space for your loved one, how to adapt holiday activities, ways you can celebrate with a loved one in a facility, how you can prepare for visitors, and last but not least, how to make sure you are taking care of yourself this holiday season. Now let’s move on to the rest of the show.

Decorating for the holidays can be a fun family activity, but it can also cause added stress to you and your loved one. When decorating with a loved one with dementia, Mayo Clinic recommends that you tone down decorations. Avoid blinking lights or large decorative displays that can cause confusion and avoid decorations that cause clutter or require you to rearrange a familiar room. Don’t decorate doors or pathways that your loved one uses regularly. They may get confused if things don’t look the same. For example, don’t put up an advent calendar on the refrigerator, it may cause your loved one to skip meals.

According to Mayo Clinic, you should also avoid safety hazards like candles and large decorative items. Substitute electric candles for burning candles, but if you do choose to light candles, don't leave them unattended and make sure the lighter and matches are put away. Avoid fragile decorations or decorations that could be mistaken for edible treats, such as artificial fruits. You can still display fragile decorations, but make sure they are out of reach and secured safely. If you have glass ornaments or other decorations, consider replacing them with shatterproof options while your loved one is around.

If you have a tree, secure it to a wall and make sure it doesn’t block any part of your loved one’s regular path.

Make sure you give your loved one a chance to help with the decorating. Change can be scary for someone with dementia, but they will enjoy spending time with you and the rest of the family and may enjoy finding special family decorations that have been stored away all year. If your loved one is anxious about decorating, make sure you listen to what they’re telling you and maybe choose to decorate when they are not in the room.

Decorating may make your loved one upset, but know that if decorating your home is an important tradition to your family, you shouldn’t stop doing it altogether. You can work with your family to modify traditions and decorations so that it works for your current situation.

Another way to make your space calming while decorating is to play your loved one’s favorite holiday music, or any music they enjoy while decorating. Mayo Clinic also suggests that you adjust the volume to be relaxing and not distressing.

If your loved one regularly has a hard time adjusting to small changes, try only decorating small sections of your home at a time and only making small changes within those small sections. Slowly making changes around the holidays may help ease your loved one’s nerves about the changes happening around them.

Now that we’ve given you a few tips to create a safe and calm space, let’s move on to ways you can adapt holiday activities for your loved one to enjoy.

First, you should make a list of activities you know your loved one enjoys. They may enjoy baking cookies, singing carols, knitting, watching live performances, or looking at Christmas lights. Whatever your loved one may enjoy, make an effort to include a few of those things during the holiday season and plan ahead.

If your loved one enjoys baking, Home Care Assistance recommends that you bake holiday treats. You can be elaborate or keep it simple while baking. You could prepare cookie dough and have it cut and ready for decorations, or if baking the cookies is too much for your loved one or you no longer have time, you can buy premade cookies to frost together.

Weatherly Inn says that the holidays are a time to cherish your older family member's culture and history. Get everyone in the kitchen and bake their favorite holiday treats. One way to make this experience extra special is to use your loved one's recipes. You might need to make some ingredient adjustments, but this can be a great way to encourage his or her memory. If your loved one struggles to remember ingredients or measurements, that's okay. This experience is all about fun, so keep it lighthearted (and search the internet in secret) if they're stumped.

If you normally have a holiday party, consider asking a friend or family member to host instead. Having a large crowd can be overwhelming for your loved one. Keep gatherings small and intimate and watch for signs that your loved one is overwhelmed, like not participating in a conversation. For more information on how to tell when your loved one is overwhelmed, listen to one of our episodes on caring for a loved one with dementia. You can find them on our website, our YouTube channel, or wherever you get your podcasts.

When you do have guests over, Mayo Clinic suggests that you plan a gathering at the best time of day for the person with dementia. You want to keep daily routines in place as much as possible. You should also provide a quiet place for the person with dementia to have time alone or to visit with one person at a time. If you'll be attending a holiday gathering, plan to be brief or be prepared to leave early if necessary and make sure there is a place for your loved one to rest or take a break.

Another activity that your loved one may enjoy is watching holiday movies. According to Weatherly Inn, many families make a tradition of watching their favorite holiday movies together. Try to pick some older films that might spark a pleasant memory for your loved one.

Weatherly Inn’s favorite holiday movies for seniors are Holiday Inn and Miracle on 34th Street. Holiday Inn is a popular older Christmas movie starring Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire. It was responsible for making one of the most popular holiday songs in history, "White Christmas." Miracle on 34th Street is another classic your loved one will likely remember. The original Miracle on 34th Street debuted in 1947 and starred Maureen O'Hara and Natalie Wood.

Family movie night is a wonderful holiday tradition that you can even host while social distancing! You can plan a family watch party using Facebook, or using an app like Skype or FaceTime. Socializing through a device may also be easier for your loved one than in person, too, as they may feel less pressure when they are able to be comfortable in their own home and not surrounded by bodies.

Your loved one may also be able to participate in virtual movie nights if they are living in a care facility. It may be harder for your loved one to participate in holiday traditions and activities while in a facility, but they will appreciate being included and the time you are able to spend with them.

According to Mayo Clinic, if your family member lives in a nursing home or other care facility, try celebrating in the most familiar setting. Because a change in environment can cause distress, consider holding a small family celebration at the facility instead of in your home. You may even participate in holiday activities planned for the residents. It doesn’t really matter what you do with your loved one, what matters most is that you are there.

More family and friends may want to visit during the holiday season than normal. You should try to minimize visitor traffic as best you can. Arrange for a few family members to drop in on different days, because as we have already talked about, a large group may be overwhelming for your loved one.

Whether your loved one is in living with you or in a facility, people may want to stop in for a visit. Having visitors is something for your loved one to look forward to, but it can also be stressful. In order for your loved one to be prepared for a visit, the visitor must be prepared first.

According to Mayo Clinic, before anyone comes to visit, you should provide them with an update. Let guests know ahead of time about any changes in behavior or memory since their last visit. Providing a recent photo can help people prepare for changes in appearance, as well.

It may be helpful for visitors if you offer communication tips for your loved one. You can suggest ways for guests to listen patiently, such as not criticizing repeated comments, not correcting errors, and not interrupting. Visitors can also listen to our episode on the Dos and Don’ts of Visiting a Loved One with Dementia for more information.

Now that we’ve given you a few tips and ideas on how to prepare visitors, let’s move on to the final part of today’s episode, taking care of yourself this holiday season.

The holidays can be a stressful time, even before taking care of your loved one. It is important to take care of yourself during this time and to take time for yourself to enjoy the season. Mayo Clinic recommends that you pick and choose your activities. Focus on the holiday activities and traditions that are most important to you and remember that you can't do it all. You should also set realistic expectations for what you can contribute to family holiday celebrations and delegate tasks to others when possible.

Let family and friends help with cleaning, addressing cards, and shopping for gifts. Most importantly, as we have said already, make time for yourself. Ask a family member or friend to give you a break so that you can enjoy a holiday outing without caregiving responsibilities.

We here at All Home Care Matters wish you a happy holiday and hope that these tips will help you and your loved one enjoy this holiday season.

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/caregivers/in-depth/alzheimers/art-20047715

https://homecareassistance.com/blog/7-holiday-activities-loved-one-alzheimers

https://www.weatherlyinn.com/blog/holiday-activities-for-seniors-with-dementia

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Today, we are going to be talking about having a parent move in with you and your family. First, we’ll talk about how your relationship with your parent may change. Then, we’ll talk about what steps you need to take to make the transition from your parent living alone to moving in with you. Finally, we’ll end the episode on ways you can make the transition easier. Now let’s move on to the rest of the show.

We’re going to start out today’s episode with one couple’s story of living with an elderly parent. If you would like to read the story for yourself, you can find the link to A Place for Mom in our show notes.

Lynette and Marty Whiteman were getting used to losing sleep. After Lynette’s aging mother Mildred moved into their New Jersey home from her retirement community, she regularly woke the couple, asking for help at odd hours. To Mildred, the requests were urgent, but Marty didn’t see changing light bulbs or resetting microwave clocks as tasks to crawl out of bed for.

Mildred’s increasing care needs — and midnight knocks on the couple’s door — were taking a toll on the Whitemans’ marriage. Tension over caregiving roles steadily increased, while privacy decreased. Communication broke down, and stress piled up.

The Whitemans, like many adults who choose to care for aging parents, thought having Mildred in the home would not only keep her safe but lend convenience as well. They thought it would be easier than having to travel back and forth between their home and hers. As it turned out, that wasn’t the case.

“It was a great idea in concept,” says Lynette. “But we didn’t know what we were getting into.”

Caring for Mildred at home wasn’t urgent, but it seemed like a good idea to Lynette. Her mom would receive regular social interaction, and they could form a closer relationship together.

Before moving in with her daughter, Mildred had grown depressed and isolated. Her late husband — Lynette’s father — had been outgoing, and he kept the couple engaged in community life and social events. Without him around, Lynette was worried: What if Mildred became too lonely? What if she fell while she was alone?

“We figured she’d have somebody if something happened in the middle of the night, and we could help her with her bills,” says Lynette.

So, they built a small, attached apartment with a private kitchen and bathroom using some of Mildred’s savings. But the adjustment was more difficult than expected.

At first, Marty and Lynette had trouble accepting the constant late-night interruptions and repetitive dinners at home. It seemed like they’d put their lives — and their marriage — on hold to care for Mildred. However, the couple’s situation improved after they agreed to work as a team, make adjustments, and follow a few pieces of caregiver advice:

Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Make time for everyone, including yourself.
Accept that some things don’t change.
Set boundaries.
Acknowledge that you’re doing your best in a tough situation.

The Whiteman’s story is something more and more families are becoming familiar with as the aging population rises. This can be an extremely rewarding experience for you and your family, but it can also be extremely difficult. There are many things you need to consider when thinking about having a loved one come live with you.

First, you should be prepared for how your relationship with your loved one will change once they are living with you, especially if you are providing any level of care for them. Cohabitating with a parent for the first time since childhood can be strange for both you and your parent.

Next Avenue says you should avoid parent-child patterns from youth. Just because you’re back living under the same roof as your parents, you don't have to share the details of your life the way you may have as a child. Laurel Steinberg, a relationship therapist and psychology professor at Columbia University, cautions adult children to not seek approval for their actions and decisions. You now pay for the roof over your head and are responsible for the day-to-day routines.

She says it’s OK to ask a parent for help or for an opinion, but you shouldn’t fall into a pattern where a parent dictates how the household should operate or expect to be privy to every decision and detail related to the household. “Parents should only offer advice when adult children ask for it,” she says.

Next Avenue also recommends that you don’t ask for permission. Remember that even though you’re a grown-up who may have grown kids of your own, to your parent, you’ll always be their little boy or girl. That nostalgia can fuel parental expectations that your relationship will revert to what it was decades earlier. Steinberg says that “adult children often fall into the habit of asking for permission when parents live with them.” Gently assert your adult independence by setting boundaries on move-in day. You can politely tell your parent that you will not be reporting in every time you leave the house or take a phone call. The goal is to establish that you’re a self-sufficient adult who loves their parent, but has their own, independent life now.”

Prior to your loved one moving in, you need to sit down and have a conversation with them and your family to go over the house rules and any moving logistics, like what your loved one can keep with them and what areas of the house will be reserved for them. You want to make sure everyone living in your house has access to a space just for them, where they can go to be alone and have privacy.

If you have a guest house, an adjoining apartment, or a room with a separate entrance, this would be the perfect place for your parent to move in to, as long as their needs allow them to be in a secluded area by themselves. If you don’t have this extra space, you should consider what options you do have. Do you have a guest room or spare room they could use? Would your kids need to share a room? Do you or your parent have funds to build a place for them?

Having an entire living area to themselves, with a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and living area, can help your parent maintain their independence when living with their child, and can help the rest of the family keep more of their normal daily routines the same.

Even with a separate living area, routines will have to change, and communication will be key. Having a weekly schedule can be helpful for busy families. You don’t need to tell your parent when you are going to be gone, but writing on a schedule that you will be out on Tuesday and Thursday can be a good way to let your parent, and everyone else, know you will be unavailable. If your parent is unable to drive or doesn’t have a car of their own, a schedule can also be useful to know when they will need your assistance to get somewhere, like an appointment or a social gathering.

Alert 1 says that while it may seem overwhelming at first, both you and your loved one will come to love living under the same roof again.

Your parent will be there to help with things around the house so you don’t have to worry when you get home from work. They can help get the kids ready for school in the morning and for bed at night. Your pets will enjoy having someone around more often, and your dog can get your loved one outside and exercising.

Even if you don’t need the extra babysitting, your parent can still watch the house while you get away for the weekend. They’ll be there to listen and give advice when you’re feeling lost. Instead of having to hang up the phone, you can end the conversation with a hug.

Living with your parent, you’ll be able to support and care for each other while they enjoy their golden years. After all, what else is family for?

Now that we’ve told you some of the ways your relationship with your parent can change when they move in, let’s move on to what steps you should take during this transition.

Before your parent moves in with you, AARP has a list of questions you should ask yourself:

How will the move involve my spouse, children, and siblings?
How will my parent’s presence affect our family routine, activities, and privacy?
Are there any unresolved issues between me and my parent or my spouse and my parent?
Does this mean remodeling our house or adding a bedroom or bathroom?
Do I expect other family members to pitch in?
Can we afford the extra expense?
Should part of my parent’s income go toward living expenses?
Will I need to quit work or alter my schedule?
Will we take my parent with us on vacation or get respite care?
Are there issues such as smoking, drinking, or pets that we need to work out?
Does my parent have any tendencies that bother or upset me? Can they be resolved?
How will I establish boundaries?
How does my parent feel about moving?
How do I feel about accepting this role?

Once you have gone over these questions yourself, you should sit down with your parent and siblings to discuss things prior to the move. According to AARP, you should talk openly about expectations, fears, finances, and any lingering issues. It may make you uneasy, but this is the prime time to work it out or readjust your thinking. Sometimes it’s as easy as telling each other what bothers you. The other person may have no idea — and no trouble making a change.

Next Avenue also suggests that you seek outside counseling to help with the transition. “Having a parent age to the point where you are now essentially the ‘parent’ can be very powerful and difficult to navigate and trigger a range of emotions,” says Sara Sedlik, a licensed marriage and family therapist in Los Angeles.

You may experience unexpected anger, sadness, dread, or guilt in this situation, which can be overwhelming.

Sedlik also says that “there may also be relief or joy to have your parent close to you. Typically, there is a mix of emotions, which adds to the confusion.”

Without properly addressing these feelings or at least being aware of them, you may experience excess stress that can show up in other areas of your life, including personal or professional relationships, work performance, or even physical health.

Your family may also benefit from a session or two of group therapy. During this time, anyone can bring any grievances or issues they foresee to the rest of the family and have a moderator there to ensure everyone is given a fair amount of time to speak and be heard. If group therapy isn’t for you and your family, you can also hold a family meeting on your own and have everyone come prepared with written questions and concerns to discuss. Make sure to include your parent, too. If needed, you can have a few sessions, one with your children, one with your siblings, one with your parent, and one with everyone all together. Breaking into smaller groups can also be beneficial if anyone has any issues they want to bring to your attention without talking to the entire family at once, as that can be intimidating.

After you have met with your family and talked about your loved one moving in with you, you will need to take a look at your current living arrangements and see what all will need to change before your parent moves in.

Alert 1 recommends answering the following questions to see what sort of improvements will need to be made to your home.

Do grab bars need to be installed in the bathroom?
Does furniture need to be re-arranged to make more space for walking?
Do all of the lights work?
Do you have nightlights in bathrooms and along hallways?
Does your yard have hazards like uneven pavement or overgrown vines?

Before your loved one moves in, you also need to go over their care needs and discuss your boundaries. A Place for Mom says that maybe you’re comfortable cooking and doing laundry but are not as comfortable bathing your parent or helping them use the bathroom. If you are not able to provide such care, you should look into professional home care options or assisted living. If your parent doesn’t need care when they move in, you should also discuss what you would do if and when they may need care in the future. Would that role fall to you or would you hire outside help?

Once you have established what level of care your loved one needs and who will be doing what, it’s time to work on organizing your house and possibly donating items you won’t have space for.

Your loved one should have their own bedroom and, if possible, their own living room or living area to arrange as they please. It can be stressful to merge belongings together without a plan, so try to create a clear map and write down where everything will go. Make sure your parent knows beforehand how much space they will have for their belongings.

It’s important to remember that your loved one is downsizing to move in with you, so why not do the same for them? Use this time to go through and donate things you don’t use or need. This will help free up space for your loved one’s belongings and they will feel better knowing they are not alone in having to let go of things.

Once you have the space for your loved one and you have talked about care options, it’s time for them to move in! Make sure to keep a positive outlook during this time. It will help ease the transition on your parent, and after all, it should be a positive time! You get to spend more time with your parent and develop an entirely new relationship with them.

Once your parent has settled into their new living space, you can all begin to get comfortable in the new normal. Alert 1 tells us that having someone move in causes a disruption in everyday activity. If Grandma is active and mobile, add her to the household chore list. She can help out with preparing meals, doing dishes, gardening, and walking the dog. Don’t expect her to do any heavy lifting, though. You’ll still need to take out the trash and clean out the gutters.

Once your loved one is accustomed to living with you, you can go over your list of household chores and find the best way to divide them up together. You can also revisit this list and make changes as needed. While your loved one is living with you, you should both be able to come to one another and talk about what is or isn’t working at any time and make any necessary changes.

While we hope your experience living with your loved one once again goes smoothly, we also want to prepare you for the possibility that it won’t work out. According to Aging Care, caregiver guilt can be a significant obstacle for many, regardless of the specifics of your living situation. You feel an obligation to make this work, but when an elder exhibits troublesome dementia-related behaviors, creates unsafe or unsanitary conditions, sets a poor example for your children, interferes with your marriage, or refuses to contribute to the household or see to their own care, it puts a huge strain on your life.

If you’re feeling trapped caring for elderly parents in a situation that you cannot escape, it’s time to let go of the guilt and make other arrangements. It is time to acknowledge that you did your best and explore other elder care options. These might consist of an adult daycare or professional in-home care for respite or moving your loved one into assisted living, memory care, or a nursing home.

In order to avoid caregiver guilt, an unhappy relationship, a tense household, and an overall bad experience, it’s important to make sure you follow the steps we have talked about today. And always remember to take care of yourself and reach out when you need help.

So far, we’ve talked about how your relationships can change when a parent moves in and what transition steps you should take. Before we close for today, let’s talk a little about how you can make the transition easier for your loved one.

According to AARP, your parent may struggle getting acclimated to a new living arrangement and neighborhood. You can be of assistance by helping to locate the local pharmacy, bank, faith community, recreation center, and other services they may use. If your parent is interested in independent daytime activities, you can visit a nearby senior center for information on classes and programs. If your parent requires more intensive care, assess adult daycare centers that provide rehab, meals, counseling, and therapeutic activities. If you are providing full-time care in your home, look into respite or companion services to give you a break and help your parent expand his or her social circle.

If your loved one is moving from a different area, they may need your help keeping in contact with their friends. If your parent isn’t technologically savvy, you can help them set up a video call a few times a month to catch up with their friends. If you help them with their technical difficulties, you should also be prepared to help their friends if they need it.

If your loved one is interested in learning more about using technology, you can help them find a technology class at a senior center or library that’s geared towards seniors. If you’re interested in learning about how you can use technology as a caregiver, you can also check out our episode, Technology Tips for Caregivers. You can find it on our website, our YouTube channel, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

We hope this episode helps you prepare for living with your loved one again. Following the steps and tips we’ve listed today should help you navigate this time, but don’t hesitate to reach out to your support group whenever you need. There will be hard times, just as there are when you are living with anyone else. Be patient, be kind, and have fun. Enjoy getting to spend this extra time with your loved one.

Sources:

http://www.ec-online.net/Knowledge/Articles/movingin.html

https://www.alert-1.com/blog/general/when-grandma-moves-in-making-your-house-grandmas-home/5824

https://www.aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/living-with-your-aging-parent-doesnt-work

https://www.nextavenue.org/cope-aging-parent-moves-in/

https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/home-care/info-2018/living-with-aging-parents.html

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Today, we are going to be talking about seniors and isolation. We’ll talk about some common causes of isolation, as well as the risks that come along with social isolation. Then, we’ll conclude the episode with ways that you can prevent isolation and include seniors. Now let’s move on to the rest of the show.

Socialization is an important aspect of life. It’s a part of the third level of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, love and belonging. Only safety and ensuring one’s physiological needs, such as eating and sleeping, are more important than socialization. Lumen’s module, Introduction to Sociology, tells us that socialization is the lifelong process through which people learn the values and norms of a given society. Socialization is not the same as socializing. Socializing is to mix socially with others (for example, family, friends, neighbors, coworkers), whereas socialization is a process that may include socializing as one element, but is a more complex, multi-faceted and formative set of interactive experiences. It is also an adaptive lifelong learning experience, because society is constantly changing, and because we may find ourselves in new situations—such as a new job with different norms and values, or in a different familial role—such as that of a parent or caregiver to an older relative.

Oftentimes, we think of socialization as something children need to learn how to interact in society, but it applies to all age groups, including seniors. Asbury Communities says that social interaction has been a major part of cognitive development from the day you were born. Early relationships and interactions with parents, siblings, friends, and teachers taught you how to speak, interpret and express emotions, and expand your knowledge.

As an adult, socialization is just as important in keeping your brain active. Building social networks and participating in social activities are like exercises for your brain because they keep your mind agile and improve cognitive function.

Socialization can even help prevent mental decline and lower the risk of dementia. A 2017 study published by researchers at the Cognitive Neurology and Alzheimer’s Disease Center of Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine found that individuals 80 and above with the mental agility of 50-year-olds all had one factor in common: A close-knit group of friends.

Not only does socialization play an important role in cognitive function, but it also is necessary for maintaining your mental health and keeping you happy. Even just occasional social activity can lower stress levels, decrease depression and anxiety, and improve overall life satisfaction.

Dr. Cole, director of the Social Genomics Core Laboratory at the University of California, Los Angeles, says that loneliness acts as a fertilizer for other diseases. The biology of loneliness can accelerate the buildup of plaque in arteries, help cancer cells grow and spread, and promote inflammation in the brain leading to Alzheimer’s disease. Loneliness promotes several different types of wear and tear on the body.

Now that we’ve talked a little bit about the differences between socialization and socializing, let’s move on to some of the common causes of isolation. Specifically, causes of social isolation.

Vista Springs Living says that it’s very common for seniors and older adults to avoid socializing, but why? For some, it’s because of the decreased mobility they have as they age. When it’s hard to drive or get in and out of vehicles, or if you need to use a walker or wheelchair to get around, going out and socializing becomes a demanding and laborious task.

In addition to struggling with mobility, seniors can find themselves having much less energy throughout the day and becoming exhausted quickly—making evening dinners and events tiring rather than invigorating. It also becomes more difficult to navigate unknown environments, so staying at home becomes a preferable option to going out.

For some seniors, there are more than just physical barriers between themselves and socialization. As adults age, it can become more and more challenging to be emotionally available for family and friends. Seniors may be upset at their condition or frustrated in general, and want to avoid interactions and isolate themselves thinking that will be the better option. However, the opposite is often true.

According to Seniors at Home, older adults often experience their social worlds shrinking, as retirement, the death of friends and family, or lack of mobility make participating in social activities more difficult. For those who become socially isolated or who feel persistently lonely, the consequences can be dire and even life-threatening.

Traci Dobronravova, MSW, Director of Seniors At Home, says, “We see older adults every day who are disconnected from their community. Social isolation and the associated health risks for seniors is a critical issue facing our community.”

The covid-19 pandemic has created hardships for many during the past year and has isolated all generations. According to the Cleveland Clinic, experts have worried about the effects of the pandemic on mental health. This is especially a concern for older adults, who’ve been encouraged to be extra careful because they’re at greater risk for getting very sick with or dying from COVID-19 if they get it.

But being homebound and isolated from others can have unhealthy effects. For example, studies show that chronic loneliness can worsen memory in older adults and cause other declines in mental and physical health.

“Many seniors already deal with isolation, and we’ve seen it worsen during the pandemic,” says geriatric physician Kathleen Rogers, MD.

Now that we have discussed how social isolation, and isolation in general, can be detrimental to seniors, let’s move on to the health issues and risks that are associated with isolation.

A report by the Administration for Community Living’s Administration on Aging of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says that about 28 percent of older adults in the United States, or 13.8 million people, live alone. An older adult living alone is not automatically isolated, but they have a higher likelihood of being socially isolated than other age groups.

Living alone is the biggest risk factor for older adults when it comes to isolation, but according to St. Paul’s Senior Services, other risk factors include the death of one’s spouse, children moving away, a change in living environment, the deterioration of a friend network (often due to death), the fear of becoming a burden, the fear of going out and incurring an injury, difficulty communicating (i.e. language barriers and hearing problems), and illnesses (particularly dementia). Each of these factors can lead to increased loneliness in seniors and increased loneliness can, in turn, lead to a number of serious health effects.

Geographical isolation when living alone, or even with a caregiver or spouse, can make it difficult to get to appointments, run necessary errands like picking up prescription medications, and socialize in person. Technology has made it easier for older adults to meet with their doctors. Telehealth appointments, which are appointments where you meet with your doctor virtually, have been around for a few years, but have increased in popularity during the pandemic.

Telehealth appointments help older adults maintain their health but getting prescriptions is still an issue. Some pharmacies offer delivery, but only within a certain area, so seniors living in rural areas do not qualify for delivery. Companies that offer prescription deliveries may deliver to the senior, but they can be quite costly and the price of the delivery in addition to the cost of the prescription may be more than they can afford.

According to the CDC, social isolation significantly increases a person’s risk of premature death from all causes, a risk that may rival those of smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity. Social isolation is also associated with an estimated 50% percent increased risk of dementia, and the increase of dementia already increases with age.

Poor social relationships, characterized by social isolation or loneliness, is associated with a 29% increased risk of heart disease and a 32% increased risk of stroke. On top of all these, loneliness is associated with higher rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide. Loneliness among heart failure patients is also associated with a nearly 4 times increased risk of death, 68% increased risk of hospitalization, and 57% increased risk of emergency department visits.

If you are worried about your loved one being lonely or isolated from others, ask them if they are feeling lonely. They may not even realize they are lonely if no one presents the question to them. Your loved one may also be embarrassed to express their feelings of loneliness to you and may not tell you on their own.

If you believe that a senior in your life may be struggling with loneliness, St. Paul’s Seniors Services recommends that you look for these signs and symptoms: sadness or feelings of despair, loss of interest in hobbies, socializing, or other daily activities, lack of energy or motivation, sleep disturbances and memory problems, unexplained or aggravated aches and pains, and neglect of personal hygiene and other routines.

Identifying loneliness and isolation is just the first step. Reducing and preventing loneliness and isolation takes time and effort and the amount of socializing someone needs varies from person to person. Luckily, we have gathered a few suggestions on how to prevent isolation for you. But before we jump into ways to prevent isolation, let’s talk about a few of the benefits of socializing with friends and loved ones.

According to Psychology Today, an active social life may mean you live longer. People with more social support tend to live longer than those who are more isolated, and this is true even after accounting for the overall level of health of your loved one. Socializing also brings a higher likelihood that you will enjoy better physical health. Social engagement is associated with a stronger immune system, especially for older adults. This means that you are better able to fight off colds, the flu, and even some types of cancer.

Psychology Today also tells us that you will likely enjoy better mental health if you have a healthy social life. Interacting with others boosts feelings of well-being and decreases feelings of depression. Research has shown that one sure way of improving your mood is to work on building social connections. Some studies have even shown that socializing may lower your risk of dementia. More recently, there has been accumulating evidence that socializing is good for your brain health. People who connect with others generally perform better on tests of memory and other cognitive skills. And, in the long run, people with active social lives are less likely to develop dementia than those who are more socially isolated.

According to Home Care Assistance, socialization can increase the quality of life and promote purpose. As we have already talked about today, studies show that loneliness and senior health issues have been correlated and that loneliness is a risk factor of functional decline, and death in older people. Making sure we stay social and connected can not only extend the length of our lives but the quality of them as well.

Spending time with others helps us feel useful and that our life has a greater purpose. When we have something to do, somewhere to go, and someone counting on us, it feels good. Being around people we love makes life more fulfilling. When others count on us, we are more likely to take care of ourselves, and stay healthy for as long as we can. Both of these benefits, an improved quality of life and a purpose in life, create a cycle that encourages socialization. When we are enjoying spending time with people, we feel better, and we want to socialize more. And that cycle continues to repeat.

We’ve talked about the health issues and risks that come with isolation, as well as the benefits of socialization. Now let’s move on to how seniors, and you as their loved one, can prevent isolation.

Vista Springs Living says that there are plenty of ways for you to be social, or to help a loved one stay social as they age. Opportunities for socialization include:

Senior hobby groups (like gardening, bird-watching, cooking, or collecting clubs). Talking to others about what they enjoy and sharing in others’ enjoyment is a great way to socialize and can be a great incentive for those that may be shy or would not want to normally participate in conversations.

Volunteering is a great way for older adults to socialize and help out their community. Volunteer groups and organizations can also give a sense of purpose to older adults after retirement if they are beginning to feel lost. Helping others that are less fortunate than they are can also help put things in perspective for seniors, especially if they are helping other isolated individuals, and encourage them to participate in more social activities.

Walking or senior sports groups encourage socialization as well as physical health. Socializing while exercising can help motivate seniors to exercise, which can help improve their overall health and quality of life.

Using social media and technology can help homebound seniors connect to friends and loved ones, as well as supplement in-person visits for seniors that are unable to get out as often as they would like. Businesses and organizations have taken advantage of social media and technology over the pandemic and have started offering virtual classes, both paid and free, that seniors can take to stay involved and keep up with their favorite activities.

Speaking of activities, activity groups (like arts & crafts, movie watching, or book clubs) are another great way to involve your loved one in social activities and keep them engaged in conversation. Just like with hobby groups, activities that your loved one enjoys and can be done with, or around, other people are a great way to prevent isolation.

The last thing that Vista Springs Living suggests to prevent isolation is group health activities (like music therapy or meditation). These less intensive activities can improve your loved one’s overall health and are helpful for seniors that need any form of therapy. Water aerobics classes are a great example of this.

When seniors are self-isolating, it’s important to keep up efforts to engage them. Find out what their hobbies are and what groups are in your area that they can join. You can find groups and classes at your local senior center or library. Your doctor may also have suggestions or recommendations to prevent isolation. The CDC recommends the following national organizations for more resources:

AARP provides helpful information to seniors to help improve quality of life and provides access to Community Connection Tools.

Area Agencies on Aging, or AAA, has a network of over 620 organizations across America that provides information and assistance with programs including nutrition and meal programs (counseling and home-delivered or group meals), caregiver support, and more. The website can help you find your local AAA, which may provide classes in things such as Tai Chi and diabetes self-management.

Eldercare Locator is a free national service that helps find local resources for seniors such as financial support, caregiving services, and transportation. If you visit their website, you can also check out their brochure that shows how volunteering can help keep you socially connected.

National Council on Aging works with nonprofit organizations, governments, and businesses to provide community programs and services. This is the place to find what senior programs are available to assist with healthy aging and financial security, including the Aging Mastery Program that is shown to increase social connectedness and healthy eating habits.

National Institute on Aging, or NIA, provides materials on social isolation and loneliness for older adults, caregivers, and health care providers. Materials include health information, a print publication, a health care provider flyer, and social media graphics and posts.

So far, we’ve talked about how you can prevent isolation for your loved one, but let’s not forget to prevent isolation and loneliness for caregivers, as well.

Seniors at Home tells us that caring for a parent, spouse, or loved one is an enormous responsibility. Family caregivers often find themselves juggling their caregiving duties with paid work and raising children, leaving them exhausted and without time to enjoy hobbies or social outings. This can create feelings of loneliness and social isolation. Practicing self-care, taking a few minutes for mindfulness, seeking support, and hiring respite home care can all help family caregivers get the rest and the social connection they need.

As a caregiver, it’s important that you take care of yourself, as well. Caregiver burnout happens when you don’t make yourself a priority. Don’t hesitate to reach out for support when you need it. If your friends and family are unable to help either financially or physically, there are several community resources you can use. Talk to someone at your local senior center to find out what support is available in your area. You can also listen to any of the episodes we have done covering caregiver burnout on our YouTube channel, website, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

As we discussed earlier, the Covid-19 pandemic has worsened isolation for many seniors. Dr. Kathleen Rogers, a geriatric physician at Cleveland Clinic says that “Many seniors already deal with isolation, and we’ve seen it worsen during the pandemic. As a result, we’re seeing a lot more patients with anxiety, depression, and worsening memory loss.”

Even before the pandemic, older adults were particularly at risk for loneliness.

Dr. Rogers goes on to explain that “after retirement, people’s routines change. Their brain activity and their social interactions are different. This increases the risk of being diagnosed with anxiety and depression or both.”

As we get closer to the holidays, it’s important to keep your loved ones in mind this year, especially if they are unable to visit with you in person. Try setting up a zoom or FaceTime call with your loved one during times you would normally gather in person.

If your loved one is homebound or living in a facility, try setting up a rotating visitors list. You may not be able to visit as often as you would like, but others can visit your loved one, too. Setting up a few visits for your loved one can also give them something to look forward to if they are struggling with feelings of loneliness or depression.

There are several things you can do to prevent loneliness and isolation and we cannot fit them all in one episode. If you have any ideas or suggestions on preventing isolation and engaging seniors, leave us a comment or send us a message on our website.

Sources:

https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/social-isolation-loneliness-older-people-pose-health-risks

https://www.stpaulseniors.org/senior-care-blog/the-negative-health-effects-of-loneliness-in-seniors/

https://www.simplypsychology.org/maslow.html

https://courses.lumenlearning.com/wmopen-introtosociology/chapter/socialization/

https://www.asbury.org/blog/why-is-socialization-important-for-brain-health/

https://www.vistaspringsliving.com/blog/why-socialization-is-important-for-aging-adults

https://seniorsathome.jfcs.org/five-facts-about-senior-isolation-that-might-surprise-you/

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/pandemic-isolation-can-be-especially-hard-on-older-adults/

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/living-mild-cognitive-impairment/201606/the-health-benefits-socializing

https://homecareassistance.com/blog/health-benefits-of-socialization

https://www.cdc.gov/aging/publications/features/lonely-older-adults.html

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We have been going through the seven stages of Alzheimer's over the past few episodes and today's episode is going to be a recap of all seven stages and what you as a caregiver should do throughout each stage. If you know someone that has recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer's or has a loved one with a new diagnosis, this could be a good episode to share with them, as well. For more in-depth information on each individual stage, please listen to our recent episodes on the Seven Stages of Alzheimer's. Now let's move on to the rest of the show.

The National Institute on Aging tells us that Alzheimer's disease is a brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills and, eventually, the ability to carry out the simplest tasks. In most people with the disease - those with the late-onset type - symptoms first appear in their mid-60s. Early-onset Alzheimer's occurs between a person's 30s and mid-60s and is very rare. Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia among older adults.

Alzheimer's is currently the sixth-leading cause of death in the United States and nearly 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's right now. Scientists are still unsure of what causes this progressive disease, but they are actively learning more about it and trying to develop a cure. There might not be a cure at the moment, but there are treatments that can be helpful in slowing the progression of the disease.

Some treatments are only effective during the first few stages of the disease, so it's important to talk to a doctor as soon as you notice any signs or symptoms of Alzheimer's. Early detection of this disease really can make all the difference.

According to the CDC, Alzheimer's disease is not a normal part of aging. Memory problems are typically one of the first warning signs of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. In addition to memory problems, someone with symptoms of Alzheimer's disease may experience one or more of the following:

Memory loss that disrupts daily life, such as getting lost in a familiar place or repeating questions.
Trouble handling money and paying bills.
Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work, or in leisure time.
Decreased or poor judgment.
Misplacing things and being unable to retrace steps to find them.
Changes in mood, personality, or behavior.

All of these signs can also be signs of normal aging, which is why it can be hard to spot the disease in the beginning. Talk to your doctor if you notice any of these signs. There are a few tests they can run to see if someone has Alzheimer's or not.

Similarly, if Alzheimer's runs in your family, talk to your doctor to see if you have any genetic markers that can put you at a higher risk for developing Alzheimer's. The CDC also says that getting checked by your healthcare provider can help determine if the symptoms you are experiencing are related to Alzheimer's disease or more treatable conditions such as a vitamin deficiency or a side effect from medication. Early and accurate diagnosis also provides opportunities for you and your family to consider financial planning, develop advance directives, enroll in clinical trials, and anticipate care needs.

According to Penn Medicine, just like with many other diseases, changes in the brain that are related to Alzheimer's begin before symptoms are noticeable. Dr. David Wolk, MD, co-director of the Penn Memory Center, says that "This time period - often called 'pre-clinical Alzheimer's disease' - likely begins 10 or 15 years before people have symptoms. Currently, there is no treatment for this pre-clinical stage, but we hope in the future that we will have medicines that can halt the progress before people have symptoms and prevent the disease."

It is rare to detect the disease in stage one, but it can happen. People found to have Alzheimer's during this stage are diagnosed through medical history, EEGs, genetic testing, physical examination, MRIs, CT Scans, PET Scans, neuropsychological examinations, or a combination of any of these exams. At this stage, someone with Alzheimer's will have no impairment and will exhibit normal behavior. It will be impossible to tell they have Alzheimer's from simply observing them.

A BioSpace article tells us that jumping into stage 2 will show very mild changes in behavior. The symptoms can be simple and are usually not caught by doctors. Simple signs such as misplacing objects or trouble finding the right words to say may be a sign that someone is in the second stage. During stage two, all of the signs and symptoms of Alzheimer's mimic the normal signs of aging, and since they are only shown to be very mild, most people will assume they are only experiencing normal aging and not Alzheimer's.

Stage three is where we begin to physically see the signs and symptoms of Alzheimer's. According to Alzheimer's.net, at this stage, the family members and friends of the senior may begin to notice cognitive problems. Performance on memory tests is affected and physicians will be able to detect impaired cognitive function.

People in stage three will have difficulty in many areas including finding the right word during conversations, organizing and planning, and remembering the names of new acquaintances. People with stage three Alzheimer's may also frequently lose personal possessions, including valuables.

Dr. Wolk says that "For many, this stage brings noticeable changes, and it will become harder to blame it on age. It's common to be diagnosed in this stage because this is when a person's daily routine becomes more disrupted."

Penn Medicine also states that this stage may bring about more anxiety for your loved one, and some people may even deny that anything is wrong. These feelings are normal, but not talking to a physician will only allow symptoms to get worse. The best way to keep symptoms at bay is to talk to your loved one's physician about treatment options, including medications, and care planning.

If you suspect your loved one may have Alzheimer's or another form of dementia, keep a written record of signs and symptoms you notice and when you notice them. This record can be helpful for their doctor since they most likely will not be able to witness any bouts of forgetfulness themselves.

When the disease progresses further, you will be able to notice some level of cognitive decline in your loved one. Many people are diagnosed either at the end of stage three or the beginning of stage four.

According to Seniorlink, stage four comprises what is clinically described as early-stage dementia. A person with early-stage dementia (in stage four of the seven-stage model) will experience increased forgetfulness, often forgetting recent events, as well as difficulty concentrating, difficulty with problem-solving, and difficulty managing finances. They may have challenges when traveling to unfamiliar areas alone, and they may have difficulty performing complex tasks or organizing and expressing thoughts.

People in stage four may also be in denial about their forgetfulness and other symptoms, and as socialization becomes increasingly difficult, they may begin to withdraw from family and friends. In stage four, a healthcare provider can easily identify cognitive decline in an examination and interview with the patient. The average time spent in this stage is approximately two years.

In this stage, someone with Alzheimer's is still able to do things on their own and most likely do not need day-to-day help. In stage five, however, VeryWell Health says that some assistance with daily tasks is required. Problems with memory and thinking are quite noticeable, including symptoms such as an inability to recall one's own contact information or key details about one's history, disorientation to time and/or place, and decreased judgment and skills in regard to personal care. Even though symptoms are worsening, people in this stage usually still know their own name and the names of key family members and can eat and use the bathroom without assistance or with very little assistance. Each case of Alzheimer's is different, so the amount of help your loved one will need at any stage is hard to anticipate.

Penn Medicine says that until now, your loved one may have been able to live on their own with no significant challenges. You may have dropped in to check on them every so often, but for the most part, they were able to function without your regular assistance. In this stage, your loved one will likely have trouble remembering people that are important to them, such as close family and friends. They may struggle with learning new things, and basic tasks like getting dressed might be too much for them.

Emotional changes are also common during this stage, including:

hallucinations, which are seeing things that aren't there, delusions, or false beliefs that they believe to be true, and paranoia, which is the feeling that others are against them. If your loved one is experiencing any of these symptoms, they may be able to take medication that can help. Make sure you keep their doctor updated on any new developments so that they can make sure they are able to provide the best care they can to your loved one.

Stage six, also known as a severe cognitive decline, is where many individuals with Alzheimer's find themselves unable to live alone. Dr. Wolk says living on your own requires you to be able to respond to your environment, like knowing what to do if the fire alarm goes off or the phone rings. During stage six, this becomes difficult for people with Alzheimer's. Your loved one will be experiencing more significant symptoms at this time, which impact his or her ability to manage their own care and they will be more dependent on others.

VeryWell Health tells us that stage six is often the most difficult stage for caregivers because it's characterized by personality and behavior changes. In addition, memory continues to decline, and assistance is required for most daily activities. The most common symptoms associated with this stage include reduced awareness of one's surroundings and of recent events, problems recognizing one's spouse and other close family members, although faces are still distinguished between familiar and unfamiliar, sundowning, which is increased restlessness and agitation in the late afternoon and evening, difficulty using the bathroom independently, bowel and bladder incontinence, suspicion and paranoia, repetitive behavior (verbal and/or nonverbal), and wandering.

Most people with stage six Alzheimer's require 24/7 care. There are many types of care that can help your loved one, as well as yourself. There is 24-hour care, where professional home care provides trained staff to be with your loved one at all times. With this type of care, you could also provide some of the care and the company could help you supplement the time you are unavailable if that is something you are interested in. There are memory care units in facilities that are equipped to help your loved one live in a safe environment. If you would like to learn more about 24-hour care and live-in care, you can listen to our recent episode on that topic. We have also talked about other types of care in previous episodes. You can find all of our topics and episodes on our website, YouTube channel, or wherever you listen to your podcasts.

The final stage, stage seven, is a lack of physical control. According to Penn Medicine, Alzheimer's destroys brain cells, and eventually, this can cause severe mental and physical impairment. Your loved one's body may begin to shut down as their mind struggles to communicate and delegate tasks effectively. At this point, your loved one's needs will significantly increase. They may need round-the-clock care for help with walking, sitting, personal care, and eventually swallowing.

Because of their reduced mobility, their body can also become vulnerable to infections, such as pneumonia. To help avoid infections, keep their teeth and mouth clean, treat cuts and scrapes with an antibiotic ointment right away, and make sure they, and anyone they will be in contact with, including yourself, get their flu shot each year. Protecting your loved one from the flu can help lessen their chances of developing pneumonia, which is one of the highest causes of death during this stage.

In stage seven, death is unfortunately inevitable. The best thing you can do for your loved one is make them as comfortable as possible. They will need your help to move and to do everything else at this point. You will want to make sure they are moved every two hours to prevent bedsores and also ensure they are getting the fluids and nutrition they need. They won't need as much food and nutrients as they used to at this stage. When they become stationary, they don't use as much energy, but they will still need to eat, so make sure they get nutrients in their body, even if they no longer eat on their own. Choking is another risk factor in this stage. Be careful around mealtimes and make sure their mouth is clear of food, too.

Visiting a loved one with Alzheimer's can be difficult, especially if they are in the later stages, but it's still important to visit them, even if they don't seem to recognize you or pay attention to your visit.

DailyCaring gives us a few items we can do to create a visiting plan. They say to limit visitors to one or two people at a time. Too many people can be overwhelming. Schedule visits for the time of day when your loved one is usually at their best and minimize distractions by keeping the environment calm and quiet. Turn off the TV or loud music and ask any non-visitors to go to another room. Tell any visitors your visiting plan ahead of time so they will know how to interact with your loved one to make the most of their time.

There are many ways you can connect with your loved one during a visit. You can make a memory book, play games, or listen to music. We recently did an episode on How to Talk to Loved Ones with Dementia if you would like to learn more about how to talk to your loved one during your visit. This would also be a good episode to send to other visitors or people that are nervous about visiting.

Your loved one isn't the only one affected by this progressive disease, you are, too. As the disease progresses and their needs and level of ability and independence change, yours change, as well. It is important to assess your situation at all stages and determine when you need help. Caregiver burnout will happen if you are not taking care of yourself correctly, which can be hard to do when you are taking care of someone else.

To avoid caregiver burnout, reach out to your support group and ask for help. If you need a day off, let them know. Having even a few hours to yourself can help you come back and be ready to continue providing care. If it's hard for you to get away, try scheduling time for respite care in advance, or sign up for an adult daycare program. If you're interested in learning more about preventing caregiver burnout, we've done quite a few episodes covering the topic. Check out our website for more information.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's, you may be wondering what the next steps are and where you should go from here. The first thing you should do after getting diagnosed is research the disease and listening to this episode is a good place to start! Next, you should sit down with your family and anyone else you want to include and make your future plan. This plan is not going to be set in stone. You can change and adjust it along the way as you see fit, but being able to talk to your family about your wishes while you have the mental capacity to do so will help you and them later. They won't have to second guess themselves when they make decisions for you if you have already talked about it beforehand.

If you are still working, now is also a good time to talk to your employer and create a work plan. This plan should include ways you can do your job as the disease progresses, as well as an exit strategy. You can also start looking into financial planning at this stage. With the help of a lawyer, you should decide who you want to be in charge of your finances and healthcare decisions when you are no longer able to control them yourself.

You don't have to make all of these plans at once, either. You have time to plan, but the more you plan now, the more you will be prepared for later.

As the disease progresses, you will also want to make sure your living space is safe. You should remove items on the floor that could cause you to trip, like rugs and footstools, and install handrails in stairways and bathrooms. You should also ensure there is bright lighting throughout the home. As we get older, it gets harder to see in dim light. Having bright lights can help you see where you are going better and prevent you from falling.

There are several clinical trials happening right now that are focusing on Alzheimer's. You can talk to your doctor about getting on a clinical trial or contact an Alzheimer's Disease Research Center for more information.

We hope that learning about the seven stages of Alzheimer's and some of the strategies we mentioned can help ease your mind. If you are worried about how Alzheimer's will affect you and your loved ones, consider joining a support group or talking to a therapist. You can find a support group through your local Alzheimer's Association or Senior Center. Talking to someone in a similar situation can be helpful.

An Alzheimer's diagnosis is not the end of all things. Many individuals with the disease live up to twenty years after a diagnosis. More and more people are being diagnosed as the aging population rises, too. With a larger number of people living with Alzheimer's, the concept of dementia-friendly communities has been gaining popularity. For more information on dementia-friendly communities and how your local community can work on accessibility for those with dementia, visit our website or YouTube channel to listen to the episode we did on dementia-friendly communities.

Sources:

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/what-alzheimers-disease

https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/leading-causes-of-death.htm

https://www.cdc.gov/aging/aginginfo/alzheimers.htm

https://www.pennmedicine.org/updates/blogs/neuroscience-blog/2019/november/stages-of-alzheimers

https://www.biospace.com/article/the-seven-stages-of-alzheimer-s-disease-explained/

https://www.alzheimers.net/stages-of-alzheimers-disease

https://www.seniorlink.com/blog/the-7-stages-of-alzheimers

https://www.verywellhealth.com/alzheimers-symptoms-98576

https://dailycaring.com/visiting-someone-with-alzheimers-dos-and-donts-for-visitors/

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Today, is the third installment of our Seven Stages of Alzheimer’s series. On this episode we will be discussing the final stage, stage seven. The final stage of Alzheimer’s is often referred to as end-stage Alzheimer’s. First, we’ll discuss what happens during this final stage and how you, as a caregiver, friend, and family member can support your loved one during this time. Then, we’ll move on to how you can prepare yourself for what will happen. Finally, we’ll talk about the importance of a support system and asking for help. Now let’s move on to the rest of the show.

Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease that ultimately ends in death. This seventh and final stage is scary. Caring for a loved one with late-stage Alzheimer’s is difficult and impossible to do alone. We want to stress the importance of reaching out to your own support group when you need help. And, if you are finding yourself unable to take care of your loved one on your own, talk to your doctor. Depending on how much time your loved one has left, your doctor may suggest hospice care, a memory care facility, or professional home care. Taking care of a loved one with Alzheimer’s is difficult, but it can be even harder in this final stage, so make sure you are doing what is best for you, as well as what is best for your loved one.

According to Senior Link, stage seven is the final stage in the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. At this stage, most people lose their ability to speak or communicate and they often require assistance with most of their activities, including things such as toileting, eating, dressing, and bathing. Because people in stage seven often lose psychomotor capabilities, which is what helps someone think and act upon that thought, they may be unable to walk or require significant assistance when walking. On average, this final stage lasts two and a half years and ends when the person struggling with the disease passes away.

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive disease that gradually worsens over a period of four to twenty years. On average, however, most people live between four and eight years following a diagnosis. The progression of the disease is different for each individual person, but family members and caregivers should familiarize themselves with the typical stages that occur throughout the progression of the disease. It’s a challenging road to travel for both the person with Alzheimer’s disease and those who love them, but knowing what to expect can help to ease some stress and uncertainty.

Crossroads Hospice and Palliative Care states that it is important for caregivers to know when an individual with dementia is close to the end of their life because it helps ensure they receive the right amount of care at the right time. It can be difficult to know exactly when this time is due to the variable nature of dementia’s progression, but understanding common end-of-life symptoms of seniors with dementia can help. However, it cannot be overstated that symptoms, progression, and signs of Alzheimer’s can vary widely from individual to individual. A well-respected and renowned dementia expert that we work closely with has summed up the comparison of dementia patients perfectly when she explains to families that “when you see a person with dementia, you’ve only seen that one person.” Again, this is because it can vary widely between individuals.

In the final six months, many people with Alzheimer’s are diagnosed with life-threatening conditions, such as cancer, congestive heart failure, or COPD and they tend to have an increase in hospital visits and admissions. In the final two or three months, someone with Alzheimer’s will also lose their ability to speak. They may be able to speak short sentences at a time during the start of this period, but they will only be able to utter one or two words at a time if any by the end. They will also experience difficulty swallowing. Choking and aspiration is a very large concern during this final stage of Alzheimer’s. They will also lose the ability to walk or sit up without assistance. If they haven’t already, they will also begin experiencing incontinence.

In the final days and weeks leading up to the very end, your loved one will have increasingly cold hands, feet, arms, and legs. They will also lose their ability to swallow. Many people with Alzheimer’s pass away due to this reason. Many people with Alzheimer's see an increase in restlessness and agitation, as well as an increase in the amount of time sleeping or being unconscious. And finally, they will experience changes in breathing, possibly due to the inability to swallow. They may take shallow breaths or stop breathing for short periods of time.

If your loved one begins experiencing any of the symptoms we just listed, speak to your doctor about your loved one’s end-of-life plan. Patients with dementia are eligible to receive hospice care if they have a diagnosis of six months or less to live if the disease progresses in a typical fashion and these symptoms typically appear when someone with Alzheimer’s has six months or less left. Talk to your doctor and a hospice professional about how they can help provide added care and support for your loved one during this extremely hard and upsetting time.

Right now, Alzheimer’s is the sixth-leading cause of death in the United States and unfortunately, there is no cure for this disease as of yet. If you are currently dealing with this disease, either with yourself or a loved one, know that you are not alone. Over five million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s. Join a support group in your area to connect with others in your situation or consider going to therapy. Find whatever works best for you and your family. You can also call the Alzheimer’s Association’s hotline anytime, at 1-800-272-3900. They have a lot of resources and knowledge to offer.

Crossroads Hospice and Palliative Care also says that perhaps the hardest thing for families is when a loved one with dementia is no longer able to eat or swallow. Because an individual with dementia is unable to understand the benefits of feeding tubes or IV drips, they will often be incredibly distressed and attempt to remove them, causing added pain and risk of infection. Instead, focus on keeping the individual comfortable. Supporting them with mouth care to prevent their mouth from becoming dry will allow them to make their final transition in peace.

Now that you know what will happen to your loved one during the seventh and final stage of Alzheimer’s, let’s move on to how you can help your loved one during this time.

The Alzheimer’s Association says that as the disease progresses and intensifies, around-the-clock care is usually required. During the late stages, your role as a caregiver focuses on preserving their quality of life and dignity. Although a person in the late stage of Alzheimer's typically loses the ability to talk and express needs, research tells us that some core of the person's self may remain. This means you may be able to continue to connect with your loved one throughout the late stage of the disease.

At this point in the disease, the world is primarily experienced through the senses. You can express your caring through touch, sound, sight, taste, and smell. You can try playing their favorite music, reading portions of books that have meaning for them, or looking at old photos together. You can also make one of their favorite foods. Try rubbing lotion with a favorite scent into their skin and brushing their hair. Sitting outside together on a nice day can also be a way to engage them and spend time with them.

If your loved one is living in a facility, the best way to help them is to visit them, even if it is difficult for you. A touching story we read that we hope can help you and your family have a sense of hope during this time, is that of Tony Hawke, the skateboarder, and his mother. In a blog post for Alzheimer’s Association, Tony Hawke wrote that when he visits his mother now, she doesn’t recognize him. Sometimes there is a slight glimmer in her eye, sometimes she babbles incoherently, and sometimes she uncontrollably bursts into tears.

On this particular day, they mostly sat in silence. He gave her updates on their family and fed her Coca-Cola through a straw every few minutes (which she still loves, even in her catatonic condition). But then he noticed her fingers twitching. He’s not sure for how long; maybe they’d been moving the whole time and he wasn’t paying attention.

As he watched, he was reminded of her habit of typing unconsciously throughout his life. And even though it may have only been her body (yet again) betraying her, it gave him comfort knowing that perhaps she is still in there somewhere typing away about her life, her experiences, her feelings, and their current conversation. Most of his visits end with a feeling of despair and impending finality, but on this day, he left with a sense of hope.

You can find the entire story written by Tony Hawke in our show notes for this episode. If you have time, we highly recommend reading it. It can be helpful to see what someone else in a similar situation is going through.

If you are currently experiencing the early stages of the disease, we know you probably don't want to think about this last stage yet, but now is the time to talk about end-of-life care and any wishes your loved one may have for when the time comes. It is better to create a plan with your loved one than to second guess your own decisions later. If you decide to be the primary caregiver during this final stage, there are several things you can do to help make your loved one as comfortable as possible, and after all, that’s all you really can do at this stage.

One of the most important daily caregiving tasks during late-stage Alzheimer's, according to the Alzheimer’s Association, is monitoring eating. As a person becomes less active, they will require less food. But, a person in this stage of the disease also may forget to eat or lose their appetite. Adding sugar to food and serving them their favorite foods may encourage eating and their doctor may even suggest supplements between meals to add calories if weight loss is a problem.

The Alzheimer’s Association also says that difficulty with toileting is very common at this stage in the disease. The person may need to be walked to the restroom and guided through the process. Incontinence is also common during late-stage Alzheimer's and is something your loved one will likely experience. For more information on toileting, you can listen to our recent Quick Tips episode on Helping in the Bathroom. You can find the episode on our website, on our YouTube channel, or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find more episodes on Alzheimer’s and dementia on our YouTube playlist.

During this final stage, your loved one will have decreased mobility and will likely be unable to stand or sit up on their own. Being bedbound or chairbound can introduce new health risks for your loved one. Make sure to move your loved one every two hours to prevent bedsores and improve their blood circulation. Helping them do muscle exercises can stop their joints from freezing, but make sure you consult their doctor before doing any exercises with them. Similarly, make sure you have proper training on how to lift your loved one so that you do not injure them in the process or yourself. A nurse or a physical therapist can teach you how to properly lift someone, but for now, know that you should never lift someone by pulling on their arms or shoulders.

Your loved one will be more vulnerable to illnesses and infections during this stage. It is important to keep their mouth and teeth clean and clear to reduce the risk of bacteria that can cause pneumonia. The flu can also lead to your loved one getting pneumonia. Make sure you, your loved one, and those in close contact with them get the flu vaccine to lower their risk of developing pneumonia. Finally, treat cuts and scrapes immediately and call their doctor if they have a deep cut or if it doesn’t heal.

The Alzheimer’s Association states that communicating pain becomes difficult in the late stages of the disease. If you suspect that your loved one is in pain or is suffering from an illness, see a doctor as soon as possible to find the cause. In some cases, pain medication may be prescribed.

To recognize pain and illness, look for physical signs. Signs of pain and illness include pale skin tone, flushed skin tone, dry, pale gums, mouth sores, vomiting, feverish skin, and swelling of any part of the body. You should also pay attention to nonverbal signs. Gestures, spoken sounds, and facial expressions (wincing, for example) may signal pain or discomfort. And you should be alert to changes in behavior. Anxiety, agitation, trembling, shouting, and sleeping problems can all be signs of pain. If you suspect your loved one is in pain, call their doctor immediately. They can help make your loved one comfortable with medication.

Now that we’ve covered how you can help your loved one during this stage, let’s move on to how you can prepare yourself for what happens during this stage and after.

The National Institute on Aging says that Dementia causes the gradual loss of thinking, remembering, and reasoning abilities, making it difficult for those who want to provide supportive care at the end of life to know what is needed. Because people with advanced dementia can no longer communicate clearly, they cannot share their concerns. Is Uncle Bert refusing food because he’s not hungry or because he’s confused? Why does Grandma seem agitated? Is she in pain and needs medication to relieve it, but can’t tell you?

As these conditions progress, caregivers may find it hard to provide emotional or spiritual comfort. How can you let Grandpa know how much his life has meant to you? How do you make peace with your mother if she no longer knows who you are? Someone who has severe memory loss might not take spiritual comfort from sharing family memories or understand when others express what an important part of their life this person has been. Palliative care or hospice care can be helpful in many ways to families of people with dementia.

Sensory connections—targeting someone’s senses, like hearing, touch, or sight—can bring comfort. Being touched or massaged can be soothing. Listening to music, white noise, or sounds from nature seem to relax some people and lessen their agitation.

There are many things you can do to prepare yourself for this final stage of Alzheimer’s. As we mentioned earlier, during the first few stages of Alzheimer’s, you should make an end-of-life plan with your loved one so you can know how to best uphold their wishes. If you didn’t make a plan early on, it’s not too late to create one now. You may not be able to include your loved one while making their plan, but you can sit down with your family and caregiving team to create a plan together.

When making an end-of-life plan, think about what you think your loved one would want, but also consider what is best for them. You also have to think about what is best for you during this time. If you think your loved one would want to stay in your care at home, but you cannot take care of them by yourself anymore, that is something you need to seriously consider. Ultimately, you are trying to make your loved one as comfortable as possible during this last part of their life.

The National Institute on Aging also tells us that quality of life is an important issue when making healthcare decisions for people with dementia. For example, medicines are available that may delay or keep symptoms from becoming worse for a little while. Medicines also may help control some behavioral symptoms in people with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer’s disease. However, some caregivers might not want drugs prescribed for people in the later stages of Alzheimer’s. They may believe that the person’s quality of life is already so poor that the medicine is unlikely to make a difference. If the drug has serious side effects, they may be even more likely to decide against it.

When making care decisions for someone else near the end of life, consider the goals of care and weigh the benefits, risks, and side effects of the treatment. You may have to make a treatment decision based on the person’s comfort at one end of the spectrum and extending life or maintaining abilities for a little longer at the other.

With dementia, a person’s body may continue to be physically healthy while his or her thinking and memory are deteriorating. This means that caregivers and family members may be faced with very difficult decisions about how treatments that maintain physical health, such as installing a pacemaker, fit within the care goals.

Now that we’ve talked some about how you can prepare yourself for the final stage, we’re going to move on to the final part of this episode, which is what happens after.

The National Institute on Aging states that many family members taking care of a person with advanced dementia at home feel relief when death happens—for themselves and for the person who died. It is important to realize such feelings are normal. You may feel guilty that you are feeling relieved, and that’s normal, too. Calling the Alzheimer’s hotline or joining a local support group may be beneficial after your loved one has passed on.

After your loved one is gone, don’t forget to celebrate their life and remember that Alzheimer’s wasn’t their identity. Remember the person they were before the disease set in. Look over scrapbooks you made together and photo albums or other items that remind you of them.

The National Institute on Aging says that hospice—whether used at home or in a facility (such as a nursing home)—gives family caregivers needed support near the end of life, as well as help with their grief, both before and after their family member dies. If you used hospice during the final stage, they can be another great resource you can utilize even after the passing of your loved one.

Many people find it helpful to get involved after their loved one is no longer with them. Joining an Alzheimer’s advocacy group or donating to a research center are both good ways to stay involved in the Alzheimer’s community. You can also offer support and help to other families if you want to. You are in a unique position to help others that are currently going through what you have been through. Offering support to others can also help you reclaim a sense of purpose if you are struggling after losing your loved one.

This stage and this disease are hard to go through and impossible to go through alone. Reach out to your loved ones and your community for support. There is no cure now, but one day soon, we hope we will be able to End Alzheimer’s together. Visit the Alzheimer’s Association website to learn more about their End Alzheimer’s campaign.

Sources:

https://www.seniorlink.com/blog/the-7-stages-of-alzheimers

https://www.crossroadshospice.com/hospice-resources/end-of-life-signs/dementia/

https://www.alz.org/help-support

https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/late-stage

https://www.alz.org/blog/alz/october-2018-(1)/tony-hawk-shares-his-personal-alzheimer-s-story

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/end-life-care-people-dementia

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Today, we are continuing with our Seven Stages of Alzheimer’s series. Last episode, we discussed what Alzheimer’s is and some of the common signs and symptoms, as well gave a brief overview of the seven stages. We went a little more in-depth with the first two stages and today we are going to be moving on to stage three.

But first, we’ll discuss how stages one through three are seen as the early or mild stage of Alzheimer’s and what mild Alzheimer’s can look like. After that, we’ll jump straight into talking about stage three Alzheimer’s – mild cognitive decline. Now let’s move on to the rest of the show.

There are a few different models of the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. The seven-stage model we are looking at in this series, the five-stage mode, which combines a few stages of the seven-stage model, and the three-stage model, which is what you may be most familiar with. The three-stage model shows the progression as being mild or early-stage, and then it goes on to the mid-stage, ending with late-stage dementia or Alzheimer’s.

When talking about the first three stages in the seven-stage model, what we are discussing today, it is easiest to relate them to the preclinical stage in the three-stage model. The preclinical stage is Alzheimer’s before it has been diagnosed, which is why it isn’t listed as a stage in the three-stage model. In the model we’re discussing today, a diagnosis usually happens during the third stage – mild cognitive decline, which triggers the transition to stage four – moderate cognitive decline. Now, this isn’t the case for every single person with Alzheimer’s. Not everyone is diagnosed this early. But, according to the National Institute on Aging, a new study has found that half of the people living with Alzheimer’s may have mild Alzheimer’s rather than moderate or severe cases. Researchers studied a sample of one thousand people and found that among people with Alzheimer’s disease, 50.4 percent had mild disease, 30.3 percent had moderate disease, and 19.3 percent had severe disease.

According to the Senior Link, the preclinical stage of Alzheimer’s makes up the first three stages of the seven-stage model of Alzheimer’s. During these stages, a person is not considered to have Alzheimer’s until they have an official diagnosis. During these early stages, many of the signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s can easily be confused with signs of normal aging.

As we discussed last episode, there are no signs of the disease being displayed in stage one. There are changes happening in the brain, but nothing physically telling of the disease. A WebMD article explains that Alzheimer’s disease usually starts silently, with brain changes that begin years before anyone notices a problem. When your loved one is in this early phase, they won't have any symptoms that you can spot. Only a PET scan, an imaging test that shows how the brain is working, can reveal whether they have Alzheimer's.

The second stage, where some symptoms may start to appear, masks itself as normal aging, especially since most cases of Alzheimer’s happen in older adults. As we age, forgetfulness begins to become a part of our daily lives. Forgetfulness also happens to be one of the most noticeable symptoms of Alzheimer’s. Most of the time, a friend or family member may notice signs or symptoms during this stage before a person with Alzheimer’s does. WebMD also says that you still might not notice anything amiss in your loved one's behavior, but they may start developing small signs or symptoms, things that even a doctor is unable to catch. This could include forgetting words or misplacing objects. At this stage, subtle symptoms of Alzheimer's don't interfere with their ability to work or live independently. It’s also important to keep in mind that these symptoms might not be Alzheimer's at all, but simply normal changes from aging.

Stage three is usually where you can start noticing the signs and symptoms in a loved one with dementia. A neuroscience blog for Penn Medicine states that common difficulties in this stage go beyond forgetting names and misplacing objects. Your loved one may have trouble remembering recently read material, such as books or magazines, or they may find remembering plans or organizational tasks becoming increasingly difficult. They may also have more difficulty retrieving a name or word and experience challenges in social settings or at work.

This stage may bring about more anxiety for your loved one, and some people may even deny that anything is wrong. If you or your loved one have noticed any of these signs or symptoms, you should schedule an appointment with their doctor. These feelings of anxiety are normal, but not talking to a physician will only allow symptoms to get worse. The best way to keep symptoms at bay is to talk to your loved one’s physician about treatment options, including medications, and care planning. Early detection is key for this disease, the earlier it is diagnosed, the longer you loved one will be able to maintain their independence and enjoy a fulfilling life.

Now that we’ve gone over the basics of the first three stages of Alzheimer’s, let’s take a closer look at the changes that happen between stages two and three.

Alzheimer’s News Today tells us that patients with Alzheimer’s disease experience a slow progressive decline in memory and cognitive ability, among other symptoms, due to the spread of damage in the brain. Between stages two and three, changes in a person’s abilities or behavior may only be minor. As a result, the symptoms may not be noticed as a sign of Alzheimer’s, and may not be noticeable to others, except those who are close to the patient, like family members and close friends, which we have already talked about today.

Alzheimer’s News Today also says that people with early-stage Alzheimer’s are mostly independent and can usually perform the same actions they could prior to the onset of the disease, such as driving, working, and engaging in social activities. At stage three and moving into stage four, however, they may need assistance with some of the more complicated tasks. The most common feature of mild Alzheimer’s is lapses in memory and concentration, making it more difficult to recall recent events and to learn new things.

Alzheimer’s affects everyone differently. WebMD says that the stages don't always fall into neat boxes, and the symptoms might vary, but they can be a guide and help you plan for your loved one’s care. The symptoms your loved one may experience will differ from those that other people living with Alzheimer’s experience and some symptoms may not appear until the later stages of Alzheimer’s, or not at all. Once a symptom is evident, however, it tends to worsen with time. Although in some cases, some symptoms may disappear in later stages, such as irritability.

During stage three, the symptoms that your loved one were showing in stage two become more prominent and are more easily distinguishable between the signs of normal aging. WebMD states that there is no cure for Alzheimer's disease, so it can help to know what to expect so you can plan to meet your loved one’s needs in each stage.

According to Senior Link, since there is no medical consensus for Alzheimer’s stages, as there is with something like cancer, it is important for caregivers to be aware of the individual symptoms and situation that their patient or loved one is experiencing. While healthcare providers may refer to a patient’s condition as “late” or “early” stage, any specific stage is less important than the context and understanding of what this means for care going forward.

Senior Link also says that learning about the stage of Alzheimer’s disease that a loved one is experiencing helps provide perspective and context. This knowledge makes it easier to have conversations with doctors about the patient’s condition and how to approach future treatment options. Understanding the later stages of the disease also helps when planning for lifestyle changes, new equipment, and other items that may be needed. One of the other major benefits in understanding the overall progression of Alzheimer’s disease is preparing for future living arrangements, such as a memory care community or professional home care, that could become a preferred option during later stages of the disease. Because the cost of dementia care is high, families should begin planning as soon as possible following a diagnosis.

The Alzheimer Society says that the early stage of Alzheimer’s disease, also referred to as “mild Alzheimer’s disease”, marks a beginning that will bring with it significant changes for your loved one and the people that care about them. They will likely retain many of their abilities and require minimal assistance during this third stage. They may have insight into their changing abilities and therefore, can inform others of their experience of living with the disease and help to plan and direct their future care.

They may also be feeling overwhelmed and apprehensive about the future. It is normal for both you and your loved one to have many mixed emotions including feelings of grief and sadness. Many people are concerned about how the changes will affect them, how they will plan for the future, and how they will get the help and information that they need.

If you or your loved one are worried about how to handle some of the common symptoms of Alzheimer’s, the Alzheimer Society has a handy chart that you may find useful. We have a link to the document in our show notes if you would like to look at it yourself, but we’re going to be going over it here, as well.

If your loved one is experiencing some forgetfulness, try using labels, notes, calendars, alarms and timers, and pill dispensers to make their day easier. You can also create a memory station by the phone to post emergency numbers and people that they contact frequently.

Is your loved one having difficulty learning new things and following conversations? Try breaking tasks into smaller steps. Make sure you, and your loved one, acknowledge their limits. Knowing where to stop can be hard but setting boundaries ahead of time can save you time and frustration later. When visiting with groups, try to keep the size of the group as small as possible. The larger the group, the more confusing it can be for someone with Alzheimer’s to follow the conversation. Have a conversation with your loved one to understand what they need in order to participate in conversations. They may need to take more frequent breaks or rests or need to write things down to follow a conversation. Having this conversation with your loved one can make sure they have all the tools they need to participate in and enjoy a conversation and keep up with their social life.

Your loved one may have difficulty concentrating or have a limited attention span. Try picking activities that are manageable by them and do only one thing at a time. Listening to audio books or music or watching movies can also help them practice concentrating. Make sure they have the option to take breaks and be careful to avoid overstimulation. Following a daily routine can also help your loved one concentrate on tasks better.

Many people with Alzheimer’s develop problems with orientation, getting lost, and following directions. If this happens to your loved one, you can schedule rides with family and friends or call for a cab. When the time comes, make sure to have a conversation with your loved one about their ability to drive. During the early stages of Alzheimer’s, many people are still able to drive, but everyone is different. If it is unsafe for them or others on the road, your loved one should not be driving.

Communication difficulties are something many with Alzheimer’s face. Make sure that your loved one has enough time to talk or think through their answer. Inform friends and family that your loved one may be slower to respond, but to make sure to not try to fill in the silence between their responses. Go with your loved one to their appointments or make sure someone else is able to go with them if you are unable to make it. Your loved one may need someone there to help communicate for them and add much needed clarity that they may not be able to do themselves.

If your loved one is currently working, they will want to have a plan for when they have difficulty handling problems at work. It’s important that they are realistic about their abilities and that they don’t try to push themselves too hard. When necessary, they should also talk to their manager about reducing their hours or finding new tasks and opportunities. The part that they will need your help with the most is planning for a time when they will not be able to work. You can help them determine at what point they will step away and make a financial plan for that time, as well.

You loved one may experience mild coordination problems at times. You will want to make sure that they have safe and secure handrails and grab bars available. You should also make sure that their living space is free from items that may cause tripping hazards, like rugs. Brighter lighting can also help them to see better and make it easier, and safer, for them to get around.

If your loved one has an impaired ability to perform challenging cognitive tasks, again, discuss their abilities and limitations with them. Help them with tasks but try not to do the tasks for them. If they do a task, but it isn’t done quite how you think it should be done, don’t correct them, unless it could be dangerous or unsafe for them or someone else. If they don’t want to do tasks or get frustrated easily, focus on tasks you know they can manage and enjoy. Completing a task successfully can increase their self-esteem and help improve their mood.

We’ve already talked about mood shifts, depression, passiveness, and withdrawing from social situations and hobbies in previous episodes so we are not going to be going over these strategies, but you can see what the Alzheimer’s Society suggests by finding their link in our show notes.

Now that you’ve heard some strategies that you may find useful during stage three and beyond, we’re going to hear from people that have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and what they want you, as a caregiver, family member, or friend, to know.

One person, in regards to having a conversation and getting details of a memory wrong, says please don’t correct me. I know better – the information just isn’t available to me at that moment. Another says remember, my feelings are intact and get hurt easily. A third says try to ignore off-hand remarks that I wouldn’t have made in the past. If you focus on it, it won’t prevent it from happening again. It just makes me feel worse.

You may find that your loved one says the wrong word when referring to an item. For example, they may call a watch a hand clock. Another person with Alzheimer’s says I usually know when the wrong word comes out and I’m as surprised as you are.

I need people to speak a little slower on the telephone, one says. While another says speak to me clearly, one thought at a time; don’t ask a question when you can provide a statement.

Some people become confused at times. One person that experiences times of confusion says I may say something that is real to me but may not be factual. I am not lying, even if the information is not correct. Don’t argue; it won’t solve anything.

In group settings, someone with Alzheimer’s recommends that you please keep an eye on me because I can get lost easily! But please don’t shadow my every move. Use gentle respect to guide me. Another person says that if you can anticipate that I am getting into difficulty, please don’t draw attention to it, but try to carefully help me through it so nobody else will be aware of the problem.

When talking with your loved one with Alzheimer’s, there are many times where you can both accidentally offend or hurt the other’s feelings. One person living with Alzheimer’s says sometimes you give me the message that you think I am faking these problems. What you don’t see is my terrible confusion and my hurt knowing how you feel. Another person says I don’t mean to frustrate you. I know you get impatient and tired of telling me things, three times in a row. Please be patient.

People with Alzheimer’s also say they want you to ask them what they think or want. Don’t assume that you know and ask them in a straightforward language when you have their attention.

The most important quote we found is believe I still love you, even if I am having trouble showing it. You loved one is going through a lot of changes and struggles, and the change in dynamics of your relationship with them may be confusing, but they still love you, even if it becomes harder for them to tell or show you.

The Alzheimer’s Society says that despite your best efforts, caring for someone with dementia becomes harder as the disease moves on, and the person you are caring for becomes more dependent on you. This is a time when many family members need more support for themselves. Our goal is to be a place of support for you during this difficult time. We hope that this episode has helped you learn more about the third stage of Alzheimer’s and how you can support your loved one with Alzheimer’s through this stage of mild cognitive decline and into the next four stages.

If you would like to learn more about Alzheimer’s and how you can prepare now to support yourself or a loved one later, check out our website for resources. You can also visit your local senior center or the Alzheimer’s Association to see what help is available in your area. You can also check out our Alzheimer’s and Dementia playlist on YouTube for a complete list of all the episodes we have done on this topic.

We want to say thank you for joining us here at All Home Care Matters, All Home Care Matters is here for you and to help families as they navigate these long-term care issues. Please visit us at allhomecarematters.com there is a private secure fillable form there where you can give us feedback, show ideas, or if you have questions. Every form is read and responded to. If you know someone who could benefit from this episode, please share it with them.

Sources:

https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/half-alzheimers-disease-cases-may-be-mild

https://www.seniorlink.com/blog/the-7-stages-of-alzheimers

https://www.webmd.com/alzheimers/guide/alzheimers-disease-stages

https://www.pennmedicine.org/updates/blogs/neuroscience-blog/2019/november/stages-of-alzheimers

https://alzheimer.ca/sites/default/files/documents/progression_early-stage-3.pdf

https://alzheimer.ca/en/help-support/im-caring-person-living-dementia/what-expect-persons-dementia-progresses

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We want to thank you for joining us for another Quick Tips episode of All Home Care Matters. Today, we are talking about how to stay warm, stay safe, and stay active this winter. Winter can be beautiful, but dangerous for seniors. We want to make sure you can enjoy this cold weather safely! Now let’s move on to the rest of the show.

If you’ve been listening to the podcast for a while, you probably heard our episode on extreme heat. If you missed the episode, you can find our episode, Keeping Seniors Safe in the Heat, wherever you listen to your podcasts and also on our YouTube channel. In this episode, we talked about how our natural ability to regulate our body temperature diminishes as we age and seniors may have trouble cooling themselves off when exposed to heat for too long. Because of this, seniors often experience heat stroke and sickness. It’s no different when it comes to colder weather.

According to the National Institute on Aging, older adults can lose body heat fast—faster than when they were young. Changes in your body that come with aging can make it harder for you to be aware of getting cold. A big chill can turn into a dangerous problem before an older person even knows what's happening. Doctors call this serious problem hypothermia.

Hypothermia is what happens when your body temperature becomes critically low. For an older person, a body temperature of 95°F or lower can cause many health problems, such as a heart attack, kidney problems, liver damage, or worse. Being outside in the cold, or even being in a very cold house, can lead to hypothermia.

How cold is too cold? It can be hard to tell yourself if you are experiencing hypothermia. We found Bob’s story from the National Institute on Aging that illustrates how one senior experienced hypothermia. Bob says that Vermont winters can be very cold. Last December, he wanted to save some money so he turned his heat down to 62°F. He didn't know that would put his health in danger.

Luckily, his son Tyler came by to check on him. Tyler saw that his dad was only wearing a light shirt and that his house was cold. Tyler said he was speaking slowly, shivering, and having trouble walking. Tyler wrapped him in a blanket and called 9-1-1.

It turns out that Bob had hypothermia. His son's quick thinking saved his life. Now on cold days, he keeps his heat at least at 68°F and wears a sweater in the house.

Bob’s story luckily has a happy ending, but if his son hadn’t stopped by, it may have ended very differently. Hypothermia can happen when you least expect it. Knowing the signs ahead of time could save your life.

According to HealthInAging.org, the warning signs of hypothermia include cold skin that is pale or ashy, feeling very tired, confused, and sleepy, feeling weak, problems walking, and slowed breathing or heart rate. If you notice any of these signs, call 911 immediately and try to warm up.

HealthInAging.org also recommends taking the following precautions to prevent hypothermia:

Stay indoors (or don’t stay outside for very long).
Keep indoor temperature at 65 degrees or warmer.
Stay dry because wet clothing chills your body more quickly.
Dress smart – protect your lungs from cold air and layer up! Wearing 2 or 3 thinner layers of loose-fitting clothing is warmer than a single layer of thick clothing. Think about getting your thermals!
When going outside during the winter, make sure to wear a hat, gloves (or preferably mittens), winter coat, boots, and a scarf to cover your mouth and nose. You should also keep a backup of these items in your vehicle in case of an emergency.

Another major concern for seniors during the winter is frostbite. According to The AGS Foundation for Health in Aging, extreme cold can also cause frostbite, which is damage to the skin that can go all the way down to the bone. Frostbite usually affects the nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers, and toes. In very bad cases, it can result in loss of limbs. People with heart disease and other circulation problems are also at a higher risk of getting frostbite. To protect against frostbite, cover up all parts of your body when you go outside. If your skin turns red or dark or starts hurting, go inside immediately. You should also know the telltale signs of frostbite: numbness, skin that’s grayish-yellow or ashy, or skin that feels hard or waxy.

If you think you or someone else has frostbite, call for medical help immediately. A person with frostbite may also have hypothermia, so check for those symptoms, as well.

Seniors should also be cautious when walking outside. Snow and ice can make the ground hazardous by covering up cracks and making slick spots. Dr. Stanley Wang, a physician at Stanford Hospital in Palo Alto, California recommends older adults wear shoes with good traction and non-skid soles and stay inside until the roads are clear. Replacing a worn cane tip can make walking easier, and older people are advised to take their shoes off as soon as they return indoors, because often snow and ice attach to the soles and, once melted, can lead to slippery conditions inside.

For more information about reducing your risk of a fall, you can listen to our episode on fall safety tips. If you don’t have time for a full episode, we also have a quick tips episode on fall prevention. You can find these episodes on our website, our YouTube channel, and wherever you get your podcasts.

Seniors should also be cautious shoveling snow. No one really enjoys this task, but it can be dangerous for older individuals. If you have heart problems, trouble balancing, or are feeling weak, you should avoid shoveling snow. If you have any health issues, ask your doctor if it is safe to shovel snow.

During the winter, it’s nice to sit in front of a fireplace or a heater, but make sure you are properly taking care of these heat sources to prevent fires and carbon monoxide poisoning. Make sure to properly vent and clean your fireplace and appliances and know the warning signs of carbon monoxide poisoning.

According to HealthInAging.org, carbon monoxide poisoning can cause headaches, weakness, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, confusion, blurred vision, and loss of consciousness. Carbon monoxide poisoning is also behind several ghost sightings. Many people that believed they were living in a haunted house actually were suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning. Pacific Heating and Cooling warns that if you are hearing and seeing things, feeling zapped of energy, and sense a strange presence at home, it may be due to a carbon monoxide leak. If you suspect you may have a gas leak in your home, evacuate your home and call 911 immediately. You should also have a carbon monoxide detector in your house since we can’t detect it ourselves.

If anyone in your family is showing any signs of carbon monoxide poisoning, you should also get them to the emergency room as soon as possible. According to Pacific Heating and Cooling, even small amounts of carbon monoxide can cause irreparable damage, including brain and organ damage. See a doctor immediately if there is any evidence of carbon monoxide leaks in the home.

Now that we’ve told you all about staying warm and staying safe this winter, let’s move on to the final part of our episode, staying active.

It may be harder to exercise in the winter when you can’t walk outside as often, but you should still exercise in other ways. Signing up for indoor classes is a great way to exercise and socialize during the winter. If you don’t want to leave your home to exercise, you can take a virtual class or use items around your home to work out.

The Mayo Clinic suggests doing some of the following in your home workout routine:

Use cans of soup or water bottles as hand weights.
Go from a sitting to a standing position out of a dining room chair two to three times in a row instead of just once.
Walk up and down a hallway or large open space.
Go up and down your stairs multiple times.
Turn up the music and dance in your kitchen.

Staying active doesn’t just mean exercising. You should keep up on other social activities, as well. If you normally go for walks with a friend, consider walking around an indoor mall. Going to the movies or a museum is a great way to get out of the house and both of these activities can be done solo or with a group.

Whatever you do, don’t let the cold weather stop you from doing what you enjoy. As long as you bundle up and listen to your body, you can still enjoy the cold weather. Just remember to stay safe, stay warm, and stay active.

We want to say thank you for joining us here at All Home Care Matters, All Home Care Matters is here for you and to help families as they navigate these long-term care issues. Please visit us at allhomecarematters.com there is a private secure fillable form there where you can give us feedback, show ideas, or if you have questions. Every form is read and responded to. If you know someone who could benefit from this episode, please share it with them.

Sources:

https://www.hchcares.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/wintersafety_tips.pdf

https://www.healthinaging.org/tools-and-tips/tip-sheet-winter-safety-older-adults

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/cold-weather-safety-older-adults

https://www.care.com/c/winter-safety-tips-for-seniors

https://www.pacificheatingcooling.com/2018/12/27/carbon-monoxide-hauntings-co-furnace-safety/

https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/ways-for-seniors-to-remain-active-this-winter

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Today’s episode will be the first in a series on the seven stages of Alzheimer’s. For the first episode, we are going to be discussing what Alzheimer’s is and what the common signs and symptoms are, and how it is being treated today. Then, we’ll move on to a brief overview of the seven stages before taking an in-depth look at stages one and two. Now let’s move on to the rest of the show.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer's is a type of dementia that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. Symptoms eventually grow severe enough to interfere with daily tasks. Alzheimer's is the most common cause of dementia, a general term for memory loss and other cognitive abilities serious enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer's disease accounts for somewhere between 60 and 80 percent of dementia cases.

Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease. In most cases, symptoms worsen gradually over several years. After being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, a person usually lives anywhere from four to eight years, but in some cases, individuals have lived for over 20 years with Alzheimer’s.

Everyone experiences Alzheimer’s differently. There are many different signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s that you should be aware of, especially if you are concerned that you or a loved one may be experiencing any of the symptoms.

The Alzheimer’s Association lists 10 early signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s that you should be on the lookout for. The first sign they suggest is memory loss that disrupts daily life. As we age, we may begin to forget things and not be able to easily recall information, like names or specific memories, but we may be able to recall the information later. Not being able to recall the information at all is an early sign of Alzheimer’s. One example of this is your loved one asking the same question repeatedly because they don’t remember asking it or hearing your answer.

The second sign to look for is challenges in planning or problem solving. Trouble keeping track of finances or making a recipe they have made numerous times can both be examples of trouble planning or problem solving. Making the occasional mistake paying bills, however, is not an example of this. Mistakes happen but having an issue figuring out how to pay their bills or adding numbers may be a sign your loved one has Alzheimer’s.

Having difficulty completing familiar tasks is the third sign you should be looking for. Not remembering how to drive to a place your loved one has been to many times or not remembering how to write or organize their grocery list how they normally do can be an early sign of Alzheimer’s.

Another sign is being confused with times or places. Not knowing what day of the week it is can be an indicator that your loved one is confusing times or places, but it can also just be a normal sign of aging. Not knowing what season it is or not knowing where they are is mainly what we are referring to with this sign.

Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships is the fifth sign that the Alzheimer’s Association lists. Vision problems unrelated to cataracts can be a sign of Alzheimer’s. Having trouble judging distance or being unable to differentiate colors are both examples of this sign. These things can also make driving difficult and possibly unsafe for your loved one as well.

Another early sign to look for is new problems with words in speaking or writing. Someone with Alzheimer’s may have trouble following or continuing a conversation. They may forget words or the entire rest of their train of thought. Forgetting a word on its own may not be an early sign of Alzheimer’s, but constantly forgetting words or using the wrong word may be a sign your loved one has Alzheimer’s.

The seventh sign is misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps. For this sign, your loved one will lose things and not be able to figure out how to work backwards to find them. Many people with Alzheimer’s also tend to put items in unusual places, such as putting their keys in the freezer. As the disease progresses, they may even accuse others of stealing their things.

Decreased or poor judgement is another early sign of Alzheimer’s. Your loved one may begin to make poor decisions frequently, like not bathing regularly or taking care of themselves as well as they should and normally would do. Making one bad decision occasionally, like skipping a shower occasionally, or not filling up their car with gas when they should may not be an early sign of Alzheimer’s, but repeated decisions like these can be.

Another early sign of Alzheimer’s is withdrawal from work or social activities. This sign goes along with forgetting words and having trouble with conversations. Having difficulties following a conversation may lead to having difficulties in social settings and your loved one may withdrawal from activities they once loved. Occasionally being disinterested in hobbies or visiting with friends or family is not a sign that you loved one is withdrawing from their social life. There are times when you yourself don’t feel like being social and your loved one experiences times like those, as well. Continuously withdrawing from social situations is the sign you should be looking for in your loved one.

The tenth and last sign that the Alzheimer’s Association mentions is changes in mood and personality. Your loved one may experience moods more strongly than they once did. They may become easily upset when they are uncomfortable and lash out at their friends and loved ones.

If you notice any of these signs or symptoms in your loved one, schedule an appointment with their doctor. They may be experiencing normal age-related symptoms and not symptoms of Alzheimer’s or another dementia, but their doctor will be able to determine whether they are showing signs of Alzheimer’s. Early detection and diagnosis of Alzheimer’s can help their doctor develop a treatment plan that will allow your loved one to maintain their independence longer and help control some of the symptoms right away, making their day-to-day life easier.

Some symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease may seem like they are just signs of the normal aging process, but they are not. Increasing age is a risk factor of Alzheimer’s, but age itself is not a cause of Alzheimer’s. Most cases of Alzheimer’s happen after age 65, but some happen before that age. Alzheimer’s that happens before age 65 is called younger-onset or early-onset Alzheimer’s. Individuals diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s can be in any of the seven stages of Alzheimer’s at the time of their diagnosis.

As we said previously, early detection of Alzheimer’s is crucial. The earlier someone is diagnosed, the faster they can start treatment and get back to enjoying their lives and time with their loved ones. Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, but there are a few ways that doctors can treat the symptoms.

A new drug called aducanumab has recently been approved by the FDA to be used to address the underlying biology of Alzheimer’s disease. This drug is a treatment and not a cure. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, it is the first therapy to demonstrate that removing amyloid, one of the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease, from the brain is reasonably likely to reduce cognitive and functional decline in people living with early Alzheimer’s.

Approval of this therapy underscores the importance of early detection and accurate diagnosis. Treatment with aducanumab should be initiated in patients with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia stage of disease, the population in which treatment was initiated in clinical trials.

Aducanumab was studied in people living with early Alzheimer’s disease and mild cognitive impairment due to Alzheimer’s who showed evidence of a buildup of amyloid plaques in the brain. Because of this, this treatment has not yet been recommended for individuals with middle or end stage Alzheimer’s.

Other medications treat the symptoms of Alzheimer’s, but not the underlying biology, like aducanumab does. There are medications that help treat cognitive issues, like memory problems, and there are medications that help with behavioral and psychological problems. There are also several clinical trials going on to help improve both memory problems and behavioral and psychological problems due to Alzheimer’s.

There are also alternative treatment plans that don’t require medication. Some supplements and foods may help improve the symptoms of Alzheimer’s. A fairly new idea that we recently talked about in a Quick Tips episode is a Dementia Friendly Community. These communities make it safer for those living with dementia to maintain their independence and help them be a part of society after they have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. To learn more about treatments for Alzheimer’s, talk to your doctor today. They can go over treatment options and recommend a best course of action.

You can also call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 helpline for any questions you may have regarding Alzheimer’s disease. They can be reached at 1-800-272-3900.

Now that we’ve discussed what Alzheimer’s is, what some of the signs and symptoms to look for are, and how it is currently being treated, let’s move on to a brief overview of the seven stages of Alzheimer’s.

You may be familiar with the three most commonly referred to stages of Alzheimer’s, the beginning, middle, and end stages, but today we are going to be expanding upon those and talking about all seven stages of Alzheimer’s.

The Global Deterioration Scale for Assessment of Primary Degenerative Dementia, which is what we are referring to as the seven-stage model of Alzheimer’s disease progression, was created by Dr. Barry Reisberg to provide caregivers an overview of the stages of cognitive function for those suffering from a primary degenerative dementia such as Alzheimer's disease.

The first stage is referred to as no impairment or before symptoms appear. Changes in the brain are happening during this stage, but no noticeable signs or symptoms will be seen. Because there are no signs or symptoms during this stage, people are not normally diagnosed during stage one.

Dr. Wolk, co-director of the Penn Memory Center states that “this time period — often called ‘pre-clinical Alzheimer’s disease’ — likely begins 10 or 15 years before people have symptoms. Currently, there is no treatment for this pre-clinical stage, but we hope in the future that we will have medicines that can halt the progress before people have symptoms and prevent the disease.”

The second stage of Alzheimer’s tends to show up as a very mild decline in cognitive health. According to Senior Link, in this stage, a person with Alzheimer’s disease begins to experience the typical forgetfulness associated with aging. They may forget where they left their car keys or their purse. These symptoms are typically not yet noticed by the individual’s family members or physician.

The third stage of dementia shows noticeable memory difficulties and is sometimes referred to as a mild decline. Dr. Wolk explains that “for many, this stage brings noticeable changes, and it will become harder to blame age. It’s common to be diagnosed in this stage, because this is when a person’s daily routine becomes more disrupted.” These first three stages usually occur prior to a diagnosis. An early diagnosis is usually made in stage three, with early-stage dementia being stage four.

Stage four is known as moderate cognitive decline and, as we just said, is what is usually referred to as early-stage dementia. According to Dr. Wolk, in this stage, damage to the brain often involves other aspects of cognition outside of memory, including some difficulty with language, organization, and calculations. These problems can make it more challenging for your loved one to perform daily tasks. Because of the damage to the brain cells, your loved one may also experience other personality changes, such as feeling suspicious of others, having less interest in things, or feeling depressed. These kinds of symptoms can often be improved with medications.

Stages five and six make up mid-stage dementia. Stage five is known as moderately severe cognitive decline or decreased independence. According to the Premiere Neurology Center, from stages one through four, most people will continue to maintain their independence with only minor challenges. However, during stage 5, independence becomes harder since they begin to forget close friends and family, struggle to learn new skills, and may forget to perform basic tasks, like getting dressed. Additionally, emotional changes are also frequently seen during this stage. This can cause hallucinations, delusions, and/or paranoia.

With stage six comes severe symptoms or severe cognitive decline. Dr. Wolk says that living on your own requires you to be able to respond to your environment, like knowing what to do if the fire alarm goes off or the phone rings. During stage six, this becomes difficult for people with Alzheimer’s. Your loved one will be experiencing more significant symptoms at this time, which will impact their ability to manage their own care and they will be more dependent on others.

Late or end stage dementia is also known as stage seven - very severe cognitive decline or a lack of physical control. The Premiere Neurology Center says that the final stage of Alzheimer’s disease is when the brain has sustained so much damage that it fails to communicate with other parts of the body, causing mental and physical impairment. During this final stage, people require around the clock care and assistance for even the most basic parts of their daily routine.

Now that you know what the seven stages of Alzheimer’s are, let’s take a closer look at stages one and two.

Stage one is the preclinical Alzheimer’s stage or the no impairment stage. Most people are not diagnosed during this stage, but it isn’t impossible to be diagnosed during stage one. According to Healthline, you may only know about your risk for Alzheimer’s disease due to family history or your doctor may identify biomarkers that indicate your risk.

Your doctor will interview you about memory problems if you’re at risk for Alzheimer’s, but there will be no noticeable symptoms during the first stage, which can last for years or decades. Changes in the brain can happen up to fifteen years before any signs or symptoms of Alzheimer’s even develop.

While Alzheimer’s may be undetectable in stage one, knowing the risk factors of Alzheimer’s can help you spot signs and symptoms as soon as they appear, and as we have said a few times today, the earlier you can diagnosis Alzheimer’s, the better.

Age, gender, genetics, family history, head trauma, brain abnormalities, smoking, high blood pressure, obesity, limited physical activity, lack of mental activity, and a poor diet are all risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease.

According to Healthline, Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of growing older. However, age is a risk factor for developing this condition. One in nine people over age 65 and one in three people over 85 have Alzheimer’s.

Women are one and half to three times more likely to develop Alzheimer’s than men. Healthline also states that Researchers have found two classes of genes related to Alzheimer’s. Deterministic genes guarantee that people will develop the disease if they live long enough. Usually, people with deterministic genes will develop Alzheimer’s in their 30s, 40s, or 50s. The Mayo Clinic estimates that these genes caused the condition in about five percent of people with Alzheimer’s.

People with risk genes may or may not develop the disease. However, they are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s than people without risk genes.

If your family has a history of Alzheimer’s, you are also at a higher risk. The more family members you have had that had Alzheimer’s disease, the higher your risk will be, as well.

Researchers have found that if you have had serious head injuries you are also at a higher risk for Alzheimer’s disease. Healthline states that the risk increases if the injury involves losing consciousness or happens repeatedly, such as in contact sports. Along with head trauma, scientists have identified brain abnormalities in people who are likely to later develop Alzheimer’s. One is the presence of tiny clumps of protein, also known as plaques. The other is twisted protein strands, or tangles. Inflammation, tissue shrinkage, and loss of connection between brain cells are other clues that Alzheimer’s may develop.

Smoking can also increase your risk of developing Alzheimer’s, as well as numerous other health problems. High blood pressure is another risk factor tied to Alzheimer’s. Researchers have found an especially strong correlation between high blood pressure at middle age and the chances of later developing the disease.

Both obesity and limited physical activity increase your risk of Alzheimer’s. Being overweight can double your risk. An article published in Maturitas, an international journal of midlife health and beyond found that exercising twice a week during midlife may lower your risk of developing Alzheimer’s.

Lack of mental activity is another risk factor for Alzheimer’s. When we challenge our mental capabilities by trying new things and learning new things, playing an instrument, or doing other activities that use our minds, we create internal connections that can help protect against dementia.

Lastly, a poor diet can be a risk factor of Alzheimer’s. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables and other healthy foods can help lower your risk of developing Alzheimer’s later in life. Developing healthy habits early on can help you live a longer and healthier life overall.

Now that we’ve taken a closer look at stage one and some things to look out for while you’re younger, let’s move on to stage two.

With stage two comes some signs and symptoms that were not visible during stage one. According to Alzheimer’s dot net, the senior may notice minor memory problems or lose things around the house, although not to the point where the memory loss can easily be distinguished from normal age-related memory loss. The person will still do well on memory tests and the disease is unlikely to be detected by loved ones or physicians.

Healthline says that Alzheimer’s disease affects mainly older adults, over the age of 65 years. At this age, it’s common to have slight functional difficulties like forgetfulness. But for stage 2 Alzheimer’s, the decline will happen at a greater rate than similarly aged people without Alzheimer’s. For example, they may forget familiar words, a family member’s name, or where they placed something. During this stage, a loved one may notice symptoms, but not usually the person with Alzheimer’s. If you recognize any cognitive decline in your loved one, talk to them about scheduling an appointment with their doctor.

In the next episode in our series we will dive into the next stage of Alzheimer’s, which is stage three, noticeable memory difficulties. If you are interested in learning more about Alzheimer’s before the next episode airs, visit our YouTube channel where you can find an entire playlist dedicated Alzheimer’s and dementia. You can also check out the show notes for this episode for resources we used during this episode.

We want to say thank you for joining us here at All Home Care Matters, All Home Care Matters is here for you and to help families as they navigate these long-term care issues. Please visit us at allhomecarematters.com there is a private secure fillable form there where you can give us feedback, show ideas, or if you have questions. Every form is read and responded to. If you know someone who could benefit from this episode, please make sure to share it with them.

Sources:

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/stages

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/10_signs

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-alzheimers

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/what-are-signs-alzheimers-disease

https://www.pennmedicine.org/updates/blogs/neuroscience-blog/2019/november/stages-of-alzheimers

https://www.alzheimers.net/stages-of-alzheimers-disease

https://www.seniorlink.com/blog/the-7-stages-of-alzheimers

https://premierneurologycenter.com/blog/the-7-stages-of-alzheimers-disease/

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/treatments/aducanumab

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/treatments

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/treatments/medications-for-memory

https://www.fhca.org/members/qi/clinadmin/global.pdf

https://www.healthline.com/health/stages-progression-alzheimers#stage1

https://www.healthline.com/health/alzheimers-disease-risk-factors

https://www.maturitas.org/article/S0378-5122(09)00469-1/fulltext

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Today is our last installment of our mini-series on Seniors and Nutrition and to finish the series we will be talking about how to prevent and detect malnutrition in the elderly. First, we will discuss what malnutrition is and what it looks like in older adults. Then, we’ll cover some of the factors that contribute to malnutrition. Finally, we’ll end with ways you can help your loved one avoid poor nutrition, and in turn, malnutrition. Now let’s move on to the rest of the show.

Good nutrition is important for everyone, regardless of age, but is especially important for older adults. According to the World Health Organization, malnutrition refers to deficiencies, excesses or imbalances in a person’s intake of energy and/or nutrients. The term malnutrition covers 2 broad groups of conditions, undernutrition and overweight, obesity and diet-related noncommunicable diseases, such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and cancer.

Undernutrition includes stunting, which is low height for age, wasting, which is low weight for height, underweight, which is low weight for age, and micronutrient deficiencies or insufficiencies, which are a lack of important vitamins and minerals.

Approximately 2.4 billion adults worldwide are experiencing malnutrition, with 1.9 billion being overweight and 462 million being underweight. In some cases, people may be overweight and also exhibiting micronutrient deficiencies or may be underweight and have diabetes. Because there are many types of malnutrition, it can be hard to spot if your loved one is experiencing a form of malnutrition or not.

But left unchecked, malnutrition can cause a host of other issues. According to the Mayo Clinic, malnutrition in older adults can cause them to have a weakened immune system, which increases the risk of infections. It also can cause poor wound healing, muscle weakness and decreased bone mass, which can lead to falls and fractures, a higher risk of hospitalization, and an increased risk of death.

The Alliance for Aging Research has created a pocket film that covers who is at risk for malnutrition, the debilitating impact it can have on older adults, tips for identifying the condition, and how it can be treated and prevented. We’re covering some of the key points of the video, but if you would like to watch the full thing, you can find the link to it in our show notes for today’s episode.

According to the Alliance for Aging Research, Malnutrition can happen to anyone, but older adults are particularly at risk, as they are more likely to have chronic conditions that put them at risk for malnutrition. Some illnesses and diseases, like cancer and Alzheimer’s, can change an older adult’s appetite and metabolism and they can also require dietary restrictions that can make eating difficult.

When we picture malnutrition, we often picture starving children in third world countries or even the animals on the ASPCA commercials, but malnutrition is everywhere and far more common than we think. Malnutrition doesn’t always look like someone is starving. Actually, most malnutrition cases, at least in the US, tend to look like the opposite. What’s even more concerning about malnutrition, it can be impossible to see until it’s too late.

Older adults often experience illnesses, diseases, or accidents that require them to be hospitalized or require them to be in a long-term care facility, both of which lead to a higher risk of malnutrition. As we age, our bodies go through changes that also can lead towards malnutrition, which is another reason that older adults are at a higher risk.

As we get older, our sense of smell and taste weakens, and things that we once enjoyed may not taste as good as they once did. Our digestive system can also slow with age, and take longer to digest meals, making us feel fuller throughout the day, but leave us lacking essential calories and nutrients. As we get older, our bodies may not be able to absorb nutrients as well, either. So, your loved one may be eating the same foods that once brought them a lot of energy, but now doesn’t have the same effects.

According to the American Society for Prenatal and Enteral Nutrition, or ASPEN, malnutrition in seniors often mirrors the signs of aging. Unplanned weight loss, feeling weak or tired, loss of appetite, swelling or fluid accumulation, and being able to eat only in small amounts are all signs that your loved one is malnourished, but they are also signs of aging. If you suspect your loved one may be malnourished, talk to their doctor immediately so they can get the calories and nutrients their body needs. Now that you know what malnutrition is and what it can look like in older adults, let’s move on to factors that contribute to malnutrition.

Cognitive diseases like Alzheimer’s can make it difficult for your loved one to remember to eat. Mobility issues can also make it more difficult for your loved one to shop for their groceries, cook their own meals, and eat on their own. Some treatments and medications can also require dietary restrictions and cause your loved one to have a loss of appetite, leading them to become malnourished.

According to ASPEN, the causes of malnutrition in older adults are a complex blend of physical, social, and psychological issues — from the loss of appetite due to depression to the inability to get to the store for groceries. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of malnourished older adults is critical. If it goes on undetected for too long, irreversible damage and even death can occur.

Mayo Clinic lists several factors that contribute to malnutrition in older adults. Normal age-related changes in taste, smell and appetite generally decline with age, making it more difficult to enjoy eating and keep regular eating habits. Disease-related inflammation and illnesses can contribute to declines in appetite and changes in how the body processes nutrients. Impairment in ability to eat, like difficulty chewing or swallowing, poor dental health, or limited ability in handling tableware can contribute to malnutrition. Behavioral or memory problems from Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia can result in forgetting to eat, not buying groceries or other irregular food habits.

Some medications can affect appetite or the ability to absorb nutrients. Dietary restrictions for managing medical conditions — such as limits on salt, fat or sugar — might also contribute to inadequate eating. Older adults may have trouble affording groceries, especially if they're taking expensive medications. The lack of socialization can also cause malnutrition.

Older adults who eat alone might not enjoy meals as before and lose interest in cooking and eating. Adults with limited mobility may not have access to food or the right types of food. Grief, loneliness, failing health, lack of mobility and other factors might contribute to depression — causing loss of appetite. Older adults that suffer from Alcoholism are also at a higher risk of malnutrition, in addition to numerous other health problems. Too much alcohol can interfere with the digestion and absorption of nutrients. Misuse of alcohol may also result in poor eating habits and poor decisions about nutrition.

There are several factors that can contribute to malnutrition, as you have just seen, but the list goes on and on. Knowing some of these factors to look out for can make malnutrition easier to spot in your loved one. And it is important to know that just because they are eating, does not mean they are eating well or eating enough. If your loved one seems to be eating regularly, but is losing weight or experiencing low energy levels, they may have a nutrient deficiency and need to be on a special diet, so it is important that you talk to their doctor about any changes in their behavior, and their diet, that you notice, especially if your loved one is unable to notice it on their own.

Now that we have discussed what malnutrition is, what it looks like in older adults, and the factors that contribute to malnutrition, we can move on to our final section, how to help your elderly loved one avoid poor nutrition.

Mayo Clinic says that as a caregiver or adult child of an older adult, you can take steps to monitor nutritional health, watch for weight loss and address risk factors of malnutrition. You can monitor your loved one’s weight by checking their weight at home and keeping a weekly record of it. You can also do a visual check of how their clothes fit, as it can indicate weight loss, as well.

Observing their habits is another good way to keep track of their nutrition. You can spend mealtimes together at home — or during mealtime in a hospital or care facility — to observe eating habits and note what kinds of food are eaten and how much. Keeping a record of all medications, the reason for each medication, dosages, treatment schedules and possible side effects can also help your loved one avoid poor nutrition. As we age, many people need medication every day, and those medications can come with side effects that involve loss of appetite or other things that make eating more difficult. When consulting a doctor about poor nutrition, having all of this information on hand can help them determine if your loved one is malnourished faster, resulting in faster treatment that could potentially save their life.

Helping your loved one plan healthy meals or preparing meals ahead of time for them can help ensure that they have access to the nutrients they need. Helping them prepare a shopping list or shopping together can also help them make sure that they always have the items they need to make healthy choices at mealtimes.

There are many agencies and organizations that exist just to ensure that seniors have access to nutritional meals. Contact your local service agencies that provide at-home meal deliveries, in-home visits from nurses or dieticians, access to food pantries, or other nutrition services to see what help your loved one can be receiving. The local Area Agency on Aging or a county social worker can provide more information about services in your area.

If your loved one lives alone and is having trouble eating, they may benefit from social interactions during meals. You could try dropping by during mealtime or invite your loved one to your home for an occasional meal. Going out to eat at a restaurant can be a special treat for them, and they can use their senior discounts.

Lastly, daily exercise — even if it's light — can stimulate appetite and strengthen bones and muscles. Encourage your loved one to go on walks if they are able to. Not only can it help stimulate their appetite, but it can help improve their mood. If they are suffering from depression, even a slight mood improvement can increase their appetite, as well.

If your loved one needs help improving their nutrition, there are a few things you can do. Before starting anything new, always make sure you discuss the change with their doctor first. When planning meals for your loved, make sure you are including a variety of nutrient-rich foods. A good rule of thumb is to include the rainbow on their plate. Really, all that means is make sure you are including a variety of colored foods, as they all contain different nutrients.

Using different herbs and spiced to add flavor to meals can help your loved one improve their interest in eating. Experimenting with these things can help your loved one find a new favorite and cause them to be excited for their next meal.

If eating on their own is not enough, you can use supplemental nutrition drinks to help with calorie intake and you can add things like egg whites or whey powder to meals to increase proteins without adding saturated fats.

Observing your loved one during mealtimes is the best way for you to prevent and detect malnutrition in your loved one. Actually, being able to see what they eat and don’t eat and being able to witness any problems they have with eating can help you determine if your loved one has any problems that their doctor should be aware of. If you notice they are coughing a lot when they are eating and having trouble swallowing, they may have a medical condition that is causing that that if their doctor was aware of, could be fixed.

Knowing your loved one’s eating habits can also help when shopping or cooking. If your loved one is unable to go to the store or cook their own meals, know what they like and what they are able to eat can help ensure that they eat more, or less if that is the problem. Now, you don’t want to make your loved one feel like they have no control over their eating time or like they have lost their independence. We are not suggesting that you stand over them at mealtime. When you take them out to dinner or come visit for lunch, just be aware while you are with them and take note of their habits. It may be useful in the future, and it may not, but it is always better to be safe than sorry.

If your loved one is having difficulty eating or you notice any changes in their diet or weight, even if you don’t think they are malnourished, talk to their doctor. Malnutrition often goes undetected and undiagnosed until it is too late, so if you have any suspicions, it is always better to tell your doctor sooner rather than later. You may also find you need the help of a nutritionist when figure out what your loved one should be and needs to be eating. Your doctor or your local senior center can give you resources and referrals for nutritionists in your area. Your local senior center may even have a nutritionist on staff that you can meet with.

We want to say thank you for joining us here at All Home Care Matters, All Home Care Matters is here for you and to help families as they navigate these long-term care issues. Please visit us at allhomecarematters.com there is a private secure fillable form there where you can give us feedback, show ideas, or if you have questions. Every form is read and responded to. If you know someone who could benefit from this episode, please make sure to share it with them.

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/caregivers/in-depth/senior-health/art-20044699

https://www.who.int/news-room/q-a-detail/malnutrition

https://www.agingresearch.org/campaign/malnutrition/

https://www.nutritioncare.org/Guidelines_and_Clinical_Resources/Spotting_Malnutrition_in_Seniors/

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Today’s Quick Tips episode is congruent with our series on the seven stages of Alzheimer’s disease. We have been talking a lot about Alzheimer’s lately, but it is an important topic that we could never exhaust. Today’s Quick Tips episode is about recognizing Alzheimer’s disease. First, we’ll discuss what Alzheimer’s is. Then, we’ll move on to some of the common signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s and what to do when you notice signs. Finally, we’ll talk about resources, tips, and tools to help families dealing with Alzheimer’s. Now let’s move on to the rest of the show.

The National Institute on Aging explains that Alzheimer’s disease is a brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills and, eventually, the ability to carry out the simplest tasks. The disease is named after Dr. Alois Alzheimer. In 1906, Dr. Alzheimer noticed changes in the brain tissue of a woman who had died of an unusual mental illness. Her symptoms included memory loss, language problems, and unpredictable behavior. After she died, he examined her brain and found many abnormal clumps, what we now call amyloid plaques, and tangled bundles of fibers, what we now call neurofibrillary, or tau, tangles.

Alzheimer’s disease affects more than 6 million Americans over 65. This number is not including those under 65, usually in their thirties or forties, diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s. Currently, the biggest known risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease is age. As our population continues to rise, so will the number of Alzheimer’s cases.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, the most common early symptom of Alzheimer's is difficulty remembering newly learned information. The NHS, the UK’s biggest health website, lists some of the early symptoms of Alzheimer’s as forgetting about recent conversations or events, misplacing items, forgetting the names of places and objects, having trouble thinking of the right word, asking questions repetitively, showing poor judgement or finding it harder to make decisions, and becoming less flexible and more hesitant to try new things.

If you are noticing symptoms in yourself or in a loved one, it’s a good idea to start a journal or at least write down a list of symptoms when they appear so that you can have a log to take with you to your doctor. The next thing, and possibly the first thing you should do, is schedule an appointment with your doctor. A physician will be able to determine if you have Alzheimer’s or if there are any other medical problems going on.

Your risk for developing Alzheimer’s increases with a family history of Alzheimer’s. If you have family members that have had Alzheimer’s, make sure that your doctor is aware. Your doctor may want to do some testing to see if you have any genetic markers for the disease or to test for Alzheimer’s. If you have the genetic markers for Alzheimer’s, that doesn’t mean that you will develop Alzheimer’s, but that you have the chance of developing Alzheimer’s.

There is no way to actually prevent Alzheimer’s, but there are some ways to lower your risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Eating a healthy diet and exercising your body and mind may help lower your risk. According to the Bright Focus Foundation, researchers are trying to understand if how we eat and what types of food we eat will lower your risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Eating a diet high in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and fish, and low in sugar and fat, such as the Mediterranean Diet, can reduce the incidence of many chronic diseases such as heart disease and Type 2 diabetes. Scientists are currently studying if eating healthy can reduce your risk of developing Alzheimer’s and you may find that eating well increases your greater overall health.

The Bright Focus Foundation also says that physical exercise is an important part of a healthy lifestyle, and some studies suggest that it can improve cognitive agility. For an Alzheimer’s patient, exercise may also help maintain muscle strength, decrease frailty, and elevate mood. Some research suggests that “exercising our brain,” through activities like reading, learning a musical instrument, or playing chess, can help protect people from cognitive decline later in life, which is what people with Alzheimer’s experience.

The last thing Bright Focus Foundation recommends to lower your risk is to decrease your risk of head traumas. We are learning from people with battlefield or sports injuries that past traumatic head injury may be associated with Alzheimer’s. Your risk increases if the injury involved you losing consciousness, or if you’ve had multiple head injuries from playing contact sports. This discovery is fueling public health efforts to improve the protective quality of helmets, and reduce the rates of head injuries, in certain sports.

If you or your loved one has Alzheimer’s and you or your family are wondering how to support a loved one with Alzheimer’s, the Alzheimer’s Association is a good place to start. First, they recommend that you educate yourself about Alzheimer’s disease and learn about its signs and symptoms and how you should talk to a loved one with Alzheimer’s. Next, they say you should stay in touch. A card, a call, or a visit means a lot and shows you care. The person diagnosed with Alzheimer’s isn’t the only one dealing with a new stressful situation. Their friends and family are also adjusting to this new diagnosis and could use all the support they can get, as well.

Then, they say it’s important to be patient. Adjusting to an Alzheimer’s diagnosis is an ongoing process and each person reacts differently. If you can, offer a shoulder to lean on. The disease can create stress for the entire family. Simply offering your support and friendship is helpful.

You should also try to engage the person with dementia in conversation. It’s important to involve the person in conversation even when his or her ability to participate becomes more limited. They may be feeling isolated from others during this time and you taking extra care to include them will make them feel special and cared for.

When you are available, offer to help the family with their to-do list. Prepare a meal, run an errand, or provide a ride. You should also try to engage family members in activities. Invite them to take a walk or participate in other activities. They may not take time for themselves after a loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Similarly, offer family members a reprieve. Spend time with the person living with dementia so family members can go out alone or visit with friends. Your help can enable the family members and the person with Alzheimer’s to all participate in their normal lives, which they might not be able to do without support from others.

When you’re supporting someone with Alzheimer’s and their family, it’s important to be flexible. Don’t get frustrated if your offer for support is not accepted immediately. The family may need time to assess its needs. When supporting those affected by Alzheimer’s, the Alzheimer’s Association also says that you should support the Alzheimer’s cause. Supporting Alzheimer’s, either financially or with your time, helps your loved ones with Alzheimer’s, too. Knowing that other people in their community care about their situation can help them feel connected and cared for during a time when they are most likely feeling uncertain with their position in life.

If you are interested in learning more ways you can support someone with Alzheimer’s or their loved ones, visit our show notes for resources.

We want to say thank you for joining us here at All Home Care Matters, All Home Care Matters is here for you and to help families as they navigate these long-term care issues. Please visit us at allhomecarematters.com there is a private secure fillable form there where you can give us feedback, show ideas, or if you have questions. Every form is read and responded to. If you know someone who could benefit from this episode please make sure to share it with them.

Sources:

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/what-alzheimers-disease

https://www.brightfocus.org/alzheimers/prevention-and-risk-factors

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-alzheimers

https://www.brightfocus.org/alzheimers/prevention-and-risk-factors

https://www.alz.org/blog/alz/october-2019/10_ways_to_help_a_family_living_with_alzheimer_s

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Today, we are going to be talking about what to do when your loved one stops recognizing you. We’ll discuss at what stage someone with Alzheimer’s typically forgets who their loved ones are, as well as methods to prompt memory, connect without memory, and communicate. Now let’s move on to the rest of the show.

According to the National Institute on Aging, Alzheimer’s disease is a brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills and, eventually, the ability to carry out the simplest tasks. The disease begins making changes in the brain years before symptoms show. Over many years, the disease steals pieces of a person, but when will your loved one no longer recognize you? Let’s take a look at the seven stages of Alzheimer’s to find out.

During stage one, someone with Alzheimer’s will have no impairment due to the disease and will only be diagnosed through brain scans. Stages two and three are where symptoms begin to show. Someone with Alzheimer’s will begin to have mild cognitive decline. They may forget where they put the keys or struggle with paying their bills. During these first three stages, the symptoms all appear as the normal signs of aging, and many people go undiagnosed.

Stage four is where many are diagnosed. During this stage, someone with dementia will experience increased forgetfulness and may have difficulties in social situations. Those close to someone with dementia can usually see the early signs of dementia during this stage, as well. Your loved one may forget your name during this stage, but they can usually recall it after some time. They normally recognize you even if they can’t remember your name.

Stage five shows a moderately severe cognitive decline. Individuals in this stage often need help doing daily living activities, such as cooking, cleaning, and even possibly using the bathroom. At this stage, many people with dementia are unable to live on their own and need some level of care throughout the day and night. During this stage, your loved one will need help with daily living activities, but Alzheimer’s.net says that they will still maintain functionality. They typically can still bathe and toilet independently. They also usually still know their family members and some detail about their personal histories, especially their childhood and youth.

According to Seniorlink, stage six marks a period in which a person requires substantial assistance to carry out day-to-day activities. They may have little memory of recent events and forget the names of close friends or family members. Many people in stage six have limited memory of their earlier lives and will also have difficulty completing tasks or successfully exhibiting cognitive skills such as counting backward from 10.

People in stage six may also begin to experience incontinence of bowel or bladder, and speech ability is often diminished. Significant personality changes may also be noticeable at this stage, as individuals may suffer from delusions, anxiety, or agitation.

Alzheimer’s.net tells us that stage seven is the final stage of Alzheimer’s. Because the disease is a terminal illness, people in stage seven are nearing death, and will ultimately succumb to the disease. In stage seven of the disease, people lose the ability to communicate or respond to their environment. While they may still be able to utter words and phrases, they have no insight into their condition and need assistance with all activities of daily living.

For more information about the seven stages of Alzheimer’s, you can listen to our recent series on the Seven Stages. Don’t have time for all 5 episodes? We also released a recap episode on the Seven Stages of Alzheimer’s, as well. You can find it on our website, our Dementia and Alzheimer’s playlist on our Official YouTube channel, and wherever you get your podcasts.

It isn’t until the last three stages that your loved one will have trouble recognizing you. If your loved one is in the early stages of the disease, now is the perfect time to learn best practices and techniques to communicate and connect with your loved one. If your loved one is in the later stages, now is still the perfect time to learn, too! It’s never too late to try new ways to connect with your loved one. Your loved one can sense that you are making an effort to connect with them and feel the sentiments behind it even if they do not recognize you.

VeryWell Health says that sometimes people write off visiting loved ones with dementia by saying that since they won’t remember the visit a few minutes from now, it’s pointless to visit.

Research has demonstrated that it’s not just the memory that matters here; it’s also the emotion created by a positive visit. What’s important to note is that the positive emotion from an encouraging and supportive visit can last much longer than the specific memory of that visit.

You may have impacted that person’s whole day by changing her feelings and behavior. Although she might not be able to recall that you visited her, the feelings you created in her can change how she interacts with others and improve her mood.

Next time you think it doesn’t matter, think again. The benefit of your visit might last long after you’ve gone.

Your loved one may become confused at times, which as you know, is to be expected with this disease. According to Dementia UK, some people with dementia appear to ‘travel back in time’, reliving memories from when they were younger. They might expect grown-up children to be small again, or expect their parents to still be alive, or even revert back in their mind to previous marriages or relationships. Whenever your loved one is experiencing problems with their memory, there are a few memory cues you can provide to help them back into the present.

Dementia UK suggests putting up photos around the house of important times you were together, such as weddings, birthdays, and children’s parties. You should show the progression of time in these photos, so that they show a spouse or partner when young, but also throughout time and how they appear now. You can also keep a photo album on display with the photos clearly marked with people’s names, the year, and the event in chronological order.

What you wear can be a clue as to who you are in relation to your loved one. You can wear clothes around the house that your loved one would associate with you; these could include a favorite item of clothing, like a flannel or a piece of jewelry, or popular styles from when you were younger.

You should also make use of the other senses. Sight on its own can be a good enough memory cue, but combining it with the other senses can be an even greater help to your loved one. If you have a signature scent, such as an aftershave, perfume, or even deodorant, wear it around your loved one. Encourage your loved one to wear their favorite scents, as well. Often the sense of smell can evoke positive memories when words cannot.

Similarly, cooking aromatic foods your loved one likes can bring back memories. Cooking together, as long as you are taking all the necessary safety precautions, can be a fun activity to do together and if it is something you have regularly done together in the past, it can be a great example of a creative method of prompting your loved one’s memory.

Listening to music or watching a favorite movie or tv show together can also help your loved one remember who you are. It is important to note that you should not try to have a conversation while listening to music or watching television. It is hard for your loved one to concentrate on one thing and multitasking can confuse them more.

If your loved one doesn’t recognize you, no matter if you are coming for a visit or if they live with you full-time, do not ask them if they know who you are. This question will make them uncomfortable and they may also feel like you are belittling them if they don’t know the answer.

Whenever your loved one doesn’t know you, try to move past that and distract them with small talk. You can say it’s a beautiful day out, isn’t it? After they respond to you, you can then try one of the methods we just discussed to see if their memory will return. If they still don’t recognize you just move on. Your loved one doesn’t have to recognize you to still enjoy spending time with you.

Watching your loved one lose themselves and constantly interacting with the disease through them is draining. The Alzheimer’s Society says to give yourself permission to be human. You have good and bad days too. If you need to shorten, or even skip a visit from time to time to replenish yourself – that’s OK. You can alert a staff member or a friend and see if they can possibly arrange a visitor in your absence. It’s important to take care of yourself while caring for a loved one. For more information on preventing caregiver burnout, you can find resources, episodes, and more on our website and you can watch our playlist on caregiver support on our official YouTube Channel.

According to the Alzheimer’s Society, people with memory problems have suggested some of the following aids to help someone with dementia or other memory-related problems remember things. You might think of them as different tools for tackling different problems. You may have already used some of them.

Look for aids that fit with the skills you already have. For example, if you have never used a reminder function on your mobile phone, you may find it difficult to start using it now. Whatever aids you use, people around you can support you to use them.

A calendar or daily agenda can help your loved one know what to expect for the day. If you are on their calendar and they are expecting you to come for a visit, they may be more inclined to remember you. Similarly, sticky notes can help your loved one know to expect you for a visit. The bright, eye-catching color may stick out better than a calendar, too.

If your loved one is used to using technology, using a phone, tablet, or computer can also help them recall memories and people. They can browse Facebook and look at photos and names as a name and face recall exercise. Video calls can also help your loved one feel comfortable visiting with someone they may not recognize. Video calls usually have a person’s name on the screen, along with their face. Having a name on the screen can be helpful to your loved one when they are having trouble recognizing people.

We’ve discussed several methods of prompting a loved one’s memory, now let’s move on to finding other ways to connect with someone with dementia when they do not recognize you.

Dementia UK says it can be very difficult when someone with dementia stops recognizing you. But there are things you can do to keep your connection with the person, and your relationship with them, warm and open.

If you can, try ‘entering into their world’, and asking the person diagnosed with dementia about the memories they mention. Encouraging them to talk about what feels familiar will help them to feel at ease. Try not to remind the person with dementia of more recent realities that they’re having trouble grasping, such as the death of their parents, as this can cause distress and confusion. Instead, talk about happy memories and events that are important to them.

Taking part in activities together can be a good way to reconnect with a person with dementia. Anything you both enjoy can help you feel closer, such as playing familiar music, watching a favorite film, drawing pictures, going for a walk and talking about the things you see on the way, gardening or arranging flowers, or even doing a jigsaw puzzle if your loved one is able.

According to Next Avenue, remembering the past is often a soothing and affirming activity. Many people with dementia may not remember what happened 45 minutes ago, but they can clearly recall their lives 45 years earlier. Therefore, avoid asking questions that rely on short-term memory, like asking the person what they had for lunch. Instead, try asking general questions about the person’s distant past — this information is more likely to be retained.

You can also connect with your loved one through humor. Next Avenue also says that you should use humor whenever possible, though not at the person's expense. People with dementia tend to retain their social skills and are usually delighted to laugh along with you. Laughing with them during your visit can help improve their mood throughout the rest of the day, too.

As dementia progresses, memory loss will no doubt change the connection that you have with a parent – but that doesn’t mean you still can’t have a meaningful connection with your senior loved one.

Learn more about how to build a meaningful connection with a loved one who has dementia and how to maintain that connection throughout the progression of the disease.

Nancy Kriesmen shared a wonderful story about connecting with her mom during the late stages of Alzheimer’s in an article for Alzheimer’s.net. About a year before Nancy Kriseman’s mother Doris died, the two sat outside in the garden at her mom’s skilled nursing residence. By that time, Alzheimer’s disease had diminished most of Doris’ cognitive abilities, along with skills such as mobility and speech. Their time together wasn’t without meaning, though.

Doris, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s at age 71, had always loved going for walks. Years earlier, the daughter and mother often strolled to a nearby pond, where they enjoyed sighting butterflies alighting on flowers and dragonflies hovering above the water. Sometimes, the women enjoyed picnics at local parks.

By now, Doris could no longer pack a picnic lunch, but her love of fresh air and greenery remained intact. Kriseman would have loved to engage with her mom as she once did, laughing and talking, even dancing with her to Judy Garland and Tony Bennett songs. Instead, that day, she and her mom ate outdoors from a picnic basket that Kriseman brought along. Kriseman still sang to her mom and reminisced about those singers with Doris, who could still respond by listening.

Nancy Kriseman, a geriatric clinical social worker and owner of Geriatric Consulting Services in Atlanta, Georgia, and author of “Meaningful Connections: Positive Ways to Be Together When a Loved One Has Dementia” offers a few ways to build a meaningful connection with a loved one with dementia.

First, she says to ask another person to join you. Invite a family member or another resident to visit with you and your loved one. This takes the focus off just the two of you. It can also foster new relationships. Next, Kriseman suggests that you keep crafts age-appropriate. Although your senior loved one’s cognitive abilities are impaired, he or she is still an adult. Avoid things like children’s coloring books, opting for adult coloring books instead.

You should also notice how your mood impacts your visits with your loved one. Avoid visiting when you’re ambivalent, irritable, or tired of being there. Like we have talked about earlier in the episode, Kriseman also suggests that you tap into different senses. Stimulating hearing, sight, smell, taste, and touch can lift your parent or senior loved one’s spirit and reinforce the connection.

Finally, you should visit when your loved one is at their best. If they are in an assisted living facility or skilled nursing community, ask staff to recommend the best time to visit.

Now that we’ve covered a few ways you can connect with your loved one when they don’t recognize who you are, let’s move on to the part of today’s episode, which is methods for communicating with someone with dementia.

We have done several episodes on communicating with a loved one with Alzheimer’s and other dementias, so we won’t be talking about this in length, but it is still important to discuss. And as always, if you are interested in learning more about communicating with a loved one with dementia, please visit our website for more information.

Dementia UK has a few suggestions for effective communication with a loved one with dementia. They suggest that you keep yourself in your loved one’s eye line and try not to suddenly appear from the side or from behind. Speak clearly to them and use short sentences. Make sure that you give them time to respond, too. It may take them longer to figure out a response, even to a simple question like it’s a nice day out, isn’t it?

If your loved one is struggling to recognize you, introduce yourself and tell them about the connection between you, for instance: “Hello mom, it’s Julie and I have little Danny, your grandson with me.” If your loved one doesn’t recognize you after this, don’t try to repeat your relationship as it can upset your loved one. If your loved one regularly doesn’t recognize you, don’t ask them “do you know who I am?” Introduce yourself by your name and leave out your relationship.

While talking to them, be reassuring. Look your loved one in the eye and smile. Being reassuring may not always prevent your loved one from becoming agitated or upset. If your loved one is getting agitated, take yourself to another room for a few minutes before coming back in, calmly, and saying something like: “Hello, I’m back now, how lovely to see you.”

Lastly, Dementia UK says to not try not to correct your loved one if they get your name wrong or say something that isn’t true; this can lead to distress and frustration on all sides. Try to imagine how the person with dementia is feeling. They are stressed out, confused, and possibly frightened. Reassure your loved one that you are here to support them and enjoy the time you get to spend with your loved one. And know that even if they don’t remember you they will still remember the sentiments they felt while you were around.

We want to say thank you for joining us here at All Home Care Matters, All Home Care Matters is here for you and to help families as they navigate these long-term care issues. Please visit us at allhomecarematters.com there is a private secure fillable form there where you can give us feedback, show ideas, or if you have questions. Every form is read and responded to. If you know someone who could benefit from this episode please make sure to share it with them.

Sources:

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/what-alzheimers-disease

https://www.alzheimers.net/stages-of-alzheimers-disease

https://www.seniorlink.com/blog/the-7-stages-of-alzheimers

https://www.verywellhealth.com/tips-visiting-people-dementia-97960

https://www.alz.org/media/greatermissouri/visiting_loved_ones_with_dementia.pdf

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/staying-independent/memory-aids-and-tools

https://www.nextavenue.org/10-tips-connecting-someone-dementia/

https://www.alzheimers.net/build-a-meaningful-connection-with-a-loved-one-who-has-dementia

https://www.dementiauk.org/get-support/understanding-changes-in-behaviour/things-to-try-when-someone-with-dementia-stops-recognising-you/

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VeryWell Health says that sometimes people write off visiting loved ones with dementia by saying that since they won’t remember the visit a few minutes from now, it’s pointless to visit.

Next time you think it doesn’t matter, think again. The benefit of your visit might last long after you’ve gone.

We’ve discussed several methods of prompting a loved one’s memory, now let’s move on to finding other ways to connect with someone with dementia when they do not recognize you.

Learn more about how to build a meaningful connection with a loved one who has dementia and how to maintain that connection throughout the progression of the disease.

Finally, you should visit when your loved one is at their best. If they are in an assisted living facility or skilled nursing community, ask staff to recommend the best time to visit.

We want to say thank you for joining us here at All Home Care Matters, All Home Care Matters is here for you and to help families as they navigate these long-term care issues. Please visit us at allhomecarematters.com there is a private secure fillable form there where you can give us feedback, show ideas, or if you have questions. Every form is read and responded to. If you know someone who could benefit from this episode please make sure to share it with them.

Sources:

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/what-alzheimers-disease

https://www.alzheimers.net/stages-of-alzheimers-disease

https://www.seniorlink.com/blog/the-7-stages-of-alzheimers

https://www.verywellhealth.com/tips-visiting-people-dementia-97960

https://www.alz.org/media/greatermissouri/visiting_loved_ones_with_dementia.pdf

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/staying-independent/memory-aids-and-tools

https://www.nextavenue.org/10-tips-connecting-someone-dementia/

https://www.alzheimers.net/build-a-meaningful-connection-with-a-loved-one-who-has-dementia

https://www.dementiauk.org/get-support/understanding-changes-in-behaviour/things-to-try-when-someone-with-dementia-stops-recognising-you/

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Today, we are talking about a few apps and websites that are helping people with dementia keep their brains active. In previous episodes, we’ve talked about how an active brain can potentially slow the progression of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. If you are interested in learning more about this, visit our website for more information. We are going to be highlighting a few options we have found that you and your loved one may want to explore. Now let’s move on to the rest of the show.

An active brain can help slow the progress of dementia and other memory-impairing diseases. Doing daily exercises may help a person with dementia recall memories longer. One easy way to keep your brain active is by using the technology around you. In today’s world, we can access almost anything using a smartphone or computer, so why not use technology to help people with dementia?

The majority of people with Alzheimer’s or other dementias today are over 65. Many of these individuals are not what you would call tech-savvy, but many apps and websites today are designed specifically for seniors with dementia. They are easy to use and engaging.

The first app we want to tell you about today is called MindMate. It was created by three volunteer caregivers, Patrick, Suzanne, and Roger. The three have said they created MindMate because “Watching people we cared for succumb to memory loss left us with the belief that there must be something we can do to help the ones we love. Why weren’t there any tools to help care for those with Alzheimer’s and Dementia and keep caregivers sane?”

According to MindMate.com, united in their dedication to creating more resources, the three decided to develop a mobile app for other caregivers like themselves. With the help of Dr. Terry Quinn from the University of Glasgow’s Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, the team began to translate contemporary research in Dementia care into an actionable, digital platform. Based on this research, the MindMate App was born.

Estate Planning and Elder Law Services says that this free app, available for Apple, Android, and computers, offers brain games and workouts to help with attention, memory, problem-solving, and cognitive speed. MindMate also features other tools to stimulate brain and general health, promoting good nutrition, physical exercise, mental stimulation, and social interaction. The site allows you to take a memory test online and promptly emails you your results.

Another app similar to MindMate that you may be familiar with is Lumosity. It is one of the earlier brain-training apps in the market and there’s a reason that it is still widely used today.

According to Lumosity, there have been over 20 peer-reviewed publications in academic journals using Lumosity games or assessments. In one study, our scientists conducted a randomized trial involving 4,715 participants in order to study whether cognitive performance improves after training with Lumosity. The test group trained with Lumosity, while the control group trained using crossword puzzles. Both groups trained five days per week, for fifteen minutes a day.

After ten weeks, the Lumosity group improved in performance across a battery of cognitive assessments. In fact, they improved more than twice as much as the control group did.* More specifically, the Lumosity group showed statistically significant improvements on subtests of working memory, arithmetic reasoning, and processing speed.

There is a free version of the app, or you can pay $11.95 a month to have access to all that the app offers.

Another unique app we came across is the Spaced Retrieval App by Tactus Therapy. Tactus Therapy explains that this Spaced Retrieval Therapy app uses the scientifically proven method of spaced retrieval training to help people with dementia or other memory impairments to recall important information. Recalling an answer over multiplying intervals of time, such as 1 minute, 2 minutes, 8 minutes, and so on, helps to cement the information in memory.

Spaced Retrieval Therapy is an enhanced interval timer with independent data tracking and prompts. It automatically increases the time between prompts with correct responses and decreases it with incorrect ones. This app will help clinicians, family members, and students keep track of the intervals and performance as they practice up to 3 memory targets.

This app is specifically geared towards helping people with dementia remember new information longer. The app requires a one-time payment of $4.99.

Communication and strengthening existing social connections and relationships can help improve someone with dementia’s overall health. Many people with dementia want to maintain their relationships, but find themselves pulling away from their loved ones because they may not be able to easily follow conversations or stress over what others will think of them after a dementia diagnosis.

According to the creators of AmuseIT, isolation can be a problem for those living with dementia, and it can be difficult for those who care for them to know how to engage.

AmuseIT is an app designed to promote conversation. It contains over 1000 simple quiz questions with a strong visual component.

In addition to facilitating connection between dementia patients and caregivers who use the app, AmuseIT stimulates memory and reasoning and is easy to use, even for those intimidated by technology. You can buy the app for $3.49.

Your loved one may repeatedly call you or others as their disease progresses. Someone with dementia may not remember calling you only two minutes prior and call you several times. If your loved one is in a care facility and is having trouble adjusting to a new environment, they may also want to call you repeatedly and become agitated when they are unable to talk with you.

According to Estate Planning and Elder Law Services, Alz Calls is a chatbot designed for patients who repeatedly ask for their family, struggle with transitions to new environments, or need social interaction. Family members can record their voice, add a photo that will pop up for the patient to recognize, and answer frequent questions so that the patient can have an interactive conversation when the caregiver is not available to talk.

You can record yourself saying numerous phrases by following prompts provided by Alz Calls or making them yourself. A caregiver will help your loved one use the patient side of Alz Calls and will respond to their calls using your recordings. You have full access to all calls that your loved one makes through Alz Calls. Recordings are stored for two weeks at a time.

One therapy app that we are interested in is Constant Therapy. Constant Therapy Health talks about their app, saying that by combining AI and real-world evidence in our easy-to-use app, we’re delivering clinically proven, personalized brain exercises that can help people reignite their cognitive, speech, and language abilities. And we’re continuously optimizing the world’s understanding of the factors contributing to brain health so that we can serve people across a range of neurological conditions.

You can use the app on your own or with a clinician. The app is $24.99 a month but has a yearly option that includes an Amazon tablet, too.

The last thing we want to bring up today is a website called MEternally. This website is best suited for those that are not used to technology and would rather participate in offline activities. MEternally offers activity cards, videos, games, and other physical products that help people with dementia connect and reminisce with those around them.

MEternally tells us that they believe that our mix of life experiences, professional expertise and willingness to speak honestly about dementia, creates an environment where we are able to create products that are meaningful and thoughtful. Our own personal experiences with family members affected by Alzheimer's, Huntington's and Parkinson's Diseases reinforces our personal commitment to not just those with diagnosis of one of these horrific diseases but to those with other forms of dementia.

Reminiscence benefits not only those with dementia. When we tell people about our lives, we are sharing our history and our identity. By viewing photo collections we initiate conversations about our favorite things and share our life stories with others. This allows us to reflect on the things and people in our present and past. By doing so we are preserving and sharing our history and reflecting on our worth and the importance of our own existence.

If you would like to learn more about any of the apps or websites we talked about today, visit our show notes for the resources we used today. Do you have any favorite apps or websites that you or a loved one with dementia uses? Let us know on our website or social media pages!

We want to say thank you for joining us here at All Home Care Matters, All Home Care Matters is here for you and to help families as they navigate these long-term care issues. Please visit us at allhomecarematters.com there is a private secure fillable form there where you can give us feedback, show ideas, or if you have questions. Every form is read and responded to. If you know someone who could benefit from this episode please make sure to share it with them.

Sources:

https://www.formyplan.com/elder-law/alzheimers-dementia/2020/02/26/ten-apps-and-other-activities-for-people-with-dementia-and-alzheimers/

https://www.mindmate-app.com/

https://www.lumosity.com/en/

https://tactustherapy.com/app/srt/

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tactustherapy.srt

http://www.amuseit.nz/?fbclid=IwAR2EE9Gz0U_yiHgFompLtaVwvljj1l4lcm0llSj_GKaVF55NwNuq11Z91A4

https://alzcalls.com/instructions

https://constanttherapyhealth.com/constant-therapy/

https://meternally.com/

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On today’s episode, we are talking about what you should and shouldn’t do while visiting a loved one with dementia. Dementia can take so many things away from us and our loved ones, but we shouldn’t let it take away time. Today we will be discussing how you can ensure you have a successful visit if your loved one is in a facility, as well as what you should and shouldn’t do when visiting. We will also be focusing heavily on the importance of visiting a loved one with dementia. Now let’s move on to the rest of the show.

Visiting a loved one with dementia may seem scary to you and to others that have been close to your loved one. Visiting doesn’t have to be scary, though. It is often a rewarding experience for both the visitor and the person with dementia. It is our hope that this episode, as well as our podcast as a whole, can help give you the tools to have a successful visit and end the stigma around dementia.

If you have been listening to our recent episodes, you will have noticed that we have been talking a lot about dementia and Alzheimer’s. That is because we believe that the more educated people are on the subject, the closer our society and communities will be to becoming dementia-friendly. As the aging population increases, we are also going to be seeing an increase in dementia cases. As of the release of this episode, there is no cure for dementia. There are treatment plans, but dementia isn’t something that is going to go away in the near future. Taking the steps to establish dementia-friendly spaces in our communities now can help our loved ones, and even ourselves when the time comes.

Whether you are planning on visiting a loved one in a care facility or having visitors come to you, it is best to be prepared. Preparing for a visit is the first step of having a successful visit. Learning about dementia is a good first step before visiting a loved one with dementia. Our recent series on the seven stages of Alzheimer’s is an excellent place to start your learning, too. You can find all of our current and past episodes of our podcast on our website, our YouTube channel, or on any of your favorite podcast streaming platform.

If your loved one has recently moved into a care facility or is going to make the move to a care facility soon, there are a few things you can do to make their transition easier. The Family Caregiver Alliance says that during the first two weeks, visit often and stay as long as you want. If the facility has a policy of not allowing visitors for the first two weeks during the adjustment period, consider whether this is the right facility for you. In some cases, visiting may make the transition harder on someone with dementia, so make sure you talk to your doctor and the facility staff to determine what the best course of action is for your unique situation.

After you have chosen a care facility for your loved one, get to know the staff. They are the ones that are going to be caring for your loved one on a daily basis. They are also going to be the ones you will need to talk to for updates on your loved one and if any problems arise. Having a good working relationship with the staff can lessen some anxieties you may have about your loved one being surrounded by strangers.

Moving into a facility can be scary for your loved one. If they seem nervous or upset about the move, try to cheer them up by decorating their space, because this is their space. Putting up familiar decorations, pictures, blankets, and other comfort items they own can help them feel more at home in their new environment.

Family Caregiver Alliance also says that if your loved one is agitated about the move, have a story you use consistently about why he or she has to stay there “for a little while,” such as:

“The house is being painted and I don’t want you to smell the fumes.”

“I need to have a minor medical procedure and I can’t take care of you while I am recovering.”

“I am having some termite work done on the house, or”

“The city is fixing the sewer.”

This is to help with diverting their agitation away from the situation and refocus on something else.

If you are unable to divert your loved one’s attention with these fiblets, change the subject and discuss the latest ball game, the weather, politics, the grandchildren, etc.

When you first come in for a visit, introduce yourself to your loved one. For example, I would say, “Hi, Dad, it’s me, Lance.” Saying your name instead of your relationship can help avoid unnecessary confusion for your loved one. If calling them Mom or Dad upsets them, address them by their name, instead.

It’s not unusual that your loved one will tell you that they want to go home during your visit. Usually, when your loved one says they want to go home, they are really conveying that they are not yet comfortable in their new environment, and that’s totally normal. It can and it will take your loved one some time to adjust to their new place of residence. To avoid fighting about not being able to go home, ask them what they like about their home or ask them to tell you about their home.

After about two weeks, you can start decreasing the amount and length of visits. Instead of visiting every day, visit every other day and so on. Bring treats and things to do with you on your visits. You can bring their favorite dessert, a favorite game, or even a few photo albums. Your loved one will be excited to have gifts and it will give you a purpose for your visit. It can also be helpful to have a list of things you want to talk about, as your loved one most likely will not be able to give you conversation topics.

Once your loved one is settled in their new environment, you can go for a walk around the facility. Getting out of their room can help improve their mood even after your visit has ended. If the facility allows it, and if your loved one will not become confused or experience an outburst of negative emotions, you can even go on an outing outside of the facility. Many people enjoy going to a favorite lunch spot or park. Make sure you clear any outings with the facility first, though. Every facility will have their own policies and procedures and can be dependent on the type of facility they are living at.

You can continue to shorten your visits after the two week adjustment period. According to Family Caregiver Alliance, the person with dementia usually doesn’t remember if you have been there for five minutes or five hours. Ultimately it’s better to visit three times per week for 20 minutes and eventually once a week for an hour.

Once your loved one is adjusted to their new residence, encourage others to visit them. Bring one of your loved one’s friends along with you if they are nervous to visit by themselves. Limit visits to two people per visit to not overwhelm your loved one. You can also start a visitor’s book for everyone to sign if the facility allows items to be left in your loved one’s room.

The Alzheimer’s Society says that it can become difficult for a person with dementia to remember all the comings and goings in their day. By creating a visitor guest book, you can help the person you’re visiting to remember who has come to visit and how they spent their time together. Guest books can also be good conversation starters for other visitors and for the person with dementia to remember everything that has happened in their day.

A guest book can be an inexpensive notebook or a journal that is kept in a central, obvious location in the home where visitors will easily locate it (such as by the front door). Though it is best if the guest book is made so the person with dementia can enjoy it to the fullest, the following information should always be included: the date of visit, the visitor’s name, how you spent your time together that day, and when you will come again (try to be as specific as possible).

The Alzheimer’s Society also has two examples of what entries in a visitor book can look like. The first states the date on the first line. The first example is from a service worker or caregiver.

Dear Joanne,

This is your home care worker, Anthony. Today, I came around 3:00pm to do the laundry and I made your favorite, mashed potatoes with broccoli and chicken for dinner.

It was nice talking to you today about your husband, Jerry, and your dog, Pepper.

I will be coming back on January 26th, at 3:00pm.

See you in a few days.

Anthony

The second example is from a friend or family member.

Date: April 12, 2015

Hi Dad,

This is your daughter Aisha; I’ve had a nice visit with you today at 1:00pm. We shared a tasty lunch together and had a good walk around the neighborhood. We passed the convenience store where you told me that you used to buy your lottery tickets every weekend.

I will come on Wednesday, April 15th, for lunch time at 12:00pm. I will bring lunch so we can eat together at home. See you then.

Love you!

Aisha

You can find a link to these examples in our show notes if you would like to see how they are written out. We have done a few episodes on ways to talk to a loved one with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia in the past. There are tips and tricks in those past episodes that we don’t mention today and vice versa. You can check out our Dementia and Alzheimer’s playlist on YouTube for a complete list of episodes we’ve done covering dementia and Alzheimer’s.

Minimizing distractions can help you have a more productive visit. Try turning off the tv or any music that’s playing. Completely removing distractions in a facility may be an impossible request, but you can reduce distractions as much as you can. If you are visiting your loved one in a common area, make sure your loved one is facing away from any walkways so they will be less distracted by people moving around them.

If you are visiting your loved one in their room, it is much easier to limit distractions. Make sure to notify staff that you are visiting with your loved one so that they may avoid unnecessary interruptions. You should also learn your loved one’s schedule and come at a time when they are less likely to be distracted or busy. Try to visit during free time and not during an activity, as well.

DailyCaring has a few essential do’s and don’ts for visiting someone with dementia. Do keep your tone and body language friendly and positive. Don’t speak too loudly. Do make eye contact and stay at their eye level. Don’t say “do you remember?” as this can cause anger or embarrassment. Do speak slowly and in short sentences with only one idea per sentence. For example: “Hi Mary. I’m Jane, your friend.” or “What a beautiful day. The sunshine is nice, isn’t it?” or “Tell me about your daughter.”

Don’t argue. If they say something that’s not correct, just let it go. Do give them extra time to speak or answer questions and use open-ended questions because there are no right or wrong answers. Don’t point out mistakes. It just makes them feel bad and doesn’t help the conversation. Do be ok with sitting together in silence. They may enjoy that just as much as talking. Don’t assume they don’t remember anything. Many people have moments of clarity and assuming they don’t remember something when they do it can hurt their self-esteem.

Do follow their lead, don’t force conversation topics or activities. You should come prepared with an activity, like something to read out loud, a photo album to look at, or some of their favorite music to listen to, though. They may enjoy whatever you brought with you, but make sure you listen to what they are telling you through your time together.

Don’t take mean or nasty things they say personally. The disease may twist their words or make them react badly out of confusion, frustration, fear, or anger. At the same time, make sure you validate their feelings. Allow them to express sadness, fear, or anger.

Do enter their reality. Go with the flow of the conversation even if they talk about things that aren’t true or don’t make sense. If there are other people in the room with you, don’t talk about your loved one with them as if they’re not there. Most of the time, your loved one knows when you are talking about them, even if you don’t realize it. Always honor and respect their dignity.

Lastly, Do share and discuss memories of the past. Your loved one is more likely to remember things from long ago than they are things that happened recently. You can also show affection by giving hugs, gentle touches, or massaging their arms or shoulders, with their permission of course.

A simple touch can be a great way to convey feelings of fondness and is a good way to communicate without talking. If your loved one has trouble making conversation, which they may during the later stages of Alzheimer’s, they may still be able to communicate through touch. Touch and feeling is often a form of communication that outlasts the ability to comprehend conversations and words.

As we mentioned earlier and is reinforced by HealthCentral the most important thing to remember before you visit is dignity above all. If you keep that in mind you really can’t go wrong. Put yourself in this person’s place. How would you like to be treated if you had lost your ability to find the right words to communicate, make sense of what others say, swallow whole food and use the toilet? Before you visit, give this serious thought. Your instincts should guide you with the rest.

According to Alzheimer’s.net, a recent survey found that 42% of the public think it’s pointless to stay in contact with loved ones who have Alzheimer’s after they are unable to recognize the faces of family and friends. Alzheimer’s advocates and researchers caution against this line of thinking, saying that even as the disease progresses, people with advanced dementia can still hold an emotional memory, meaning that they remember how something made them feel long after they have forgotten the event that brought those feelings. Another survey found that more than 50% of people with Alzheimer’s were not participating in social activities and 64% said they felt isolated after receiving their diagnosis.

VeryWell Health tells us that research has demonstrated that it’s not just the memory that matters here; it’s also the emotion created by a positive visit. What’s important to note is that the positive emotion from an encouraging and supportive visit can last much longer than the specific memory of that visit.

Next time you think it doesn’t matter, think again. The benefit of your visit might last long after you’ve gone.

The holidays can be a time of dread for some when it comes to visiting our loved ones, but it is very important to visit our loved ones with dementia. As we get closer to the holiday season, make a plan to visit your loved one and include them in any festivities you can. Chief Executive of the Alzheimer’s Society, Jeremy Hughes, states “After spending time with friends and family over the festive period, New Year can be a bleak and lonely time for people with dementia and their caregivers. It’s so important for people with dementia to feel connected throughout the year. Spending time with loved ones and taking part in meaningful activities can have a powerful and positive impact, even if they don’t remember the event itself. We’re urging people to get in touch with us and find out how we can help you stay connected.”

The holidays can be stressful for your loved one, just as they can be for you. Not being able to participate in traditions they used to be able to can be upsetting and make them feel left out. These feelings can cause them to have outbursts and you and other visitors may feel less inclined to visit with them if you are constantly on edge and expecting a burst of anger.

Next Avenue and Caring.com both tell us not to be overly afraid of outbursts, either.

Sometimes we are so afraid of a person with dementia having an outburst that we shut down ahead of time and miss the opportunity to connect.

According to Korner, a dementia care specialist, “Don’t be afraid of listening to their negative feelings. It doesn’t necessarily mean things will escalate. You can empathize. If the conversation makes the visitor uncomfortable, then redirect the conversation. Ask permission to talk about something else. Say, ‘I’m hearing this is upsetting to you, so would you mind if I change the subject and we talk about an issue I’m having?’”

“Or get up and physically move, and make up a reason if needed,” says Korner. “Say, ‘I have a cramp in my leg, would you mind if we walked a little?’ Sometimes a quick change of scene or allowing time for the person to calm down if they get angry can quickly change the person’s mood. The good news is that even if they get angry, they may not remember it a few minutes later, so why should you hold onto it?”

We have already talked about not judging your loved one, but Korner also says not to “judge yourself too harshly, either. It’s not like any of us are prepared for the challenges you face trying to connect to a loved one with dementia. It’s not like you go to school for this. But you need to accept it and get up to speed as fast as you can when you’re faced with the situation.”

We hope this episode has helped you see the importance of visiting a loved one with dementia, even after they may no longer recognize who you are. You can use the do's and don’ts we discussed today to ensure you have the best visit possible with your loved one. And you now know that if your visit doesn’t go the way you have planned, it’s okay. You will try again next time and not worry about the previous visit. Send this episode to those who wish to visit your loved one so that they can properly prepare for their visit, as well.

We want to say thank you for joining us here at All Home Care Matters, All Home Care Matters is here for you and to help families as they navigate these long-term care issues. Please visit us at allhomecarematters.com there is a private secure fillable form there where you can give us feedback, show ideas, or if you have questions. Every form is read and responded to. If you know someone who could benefit from this episode please make sure to share it with them.

Sources:

https://www.caregiver.org/resource/residential-care-options-visiting-someone-dementia-care/

https://alzheimer.ca/en/help-support/i-have-friend-or-family-member-who-lives-dementia/making-meaningful-visits

https://dailycaring.com/visiting-someone-with-alzheimers-dos-and-donts-for-visitors/

https://www.healthcentral.com/slideshow/7-pitfalls-avoid-when-visiting-someone-dementia

https://www.alzheimers.net/2-24-16-loved-ones-with-alzheimers-benefit-from-visits

https://www.verywellhealth.com/tips-visiting-people-dementia-97960

https://www.nextavenue.org/visiting-someone-dementia/

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Today’s episode is the second installment of our Nutritional Health for Seniors three-part mini-series. Our last episode covered tips for dementia and mealtime. Today we are talking about healthy eating, specifically for seniors. First, we will be talking about what a well-balanced diet looks like. Then, we will go over how your needs and habits change and adapt with age. Finally, we will end with maintaining a healthy diet with age. Now let’s move on to the rest of the show.

A well-balanced diet is something that most nutritionists and doctors will recommend for everyone, but even more so for older adults. Eating the right amounts of foods that contain the nutrients we need can help us have the energy we need for the day, help our bodies work better longer, and can help with necessary weight loss or weight gain. Oftentimes as we age, our eating habits change. Like we discussed last episode, we may not enjoy the foods we once did as we get older and might start to pay less attention to the amount of food and the types of food we are consuming. It is important for older adults to maintain a health well-balanced diet so they can give their bodies what they need to thrive.

As we age, we are not able to bounce back as much as we were when we were younger. Our metabolisms slow, and our digestive systems change. Sometimes, the foods we used to eat on a regular basis makes us sick or is no longer satisfying. When we start to notice any of these changes, we should reevaluate our eating habits and see what changes we should be making.

The US Department of Agriculture has created My Plate as a tool to help make sure you are getting the nutrients you need. You can help your loved one take the My Plate quiz to see what areas of their diet they may be lacking in. After they take the quiz, you can use the My Plate app to help them set-up an account and keep track of their diet information. You can find the quiz and even more information on eating healthy at www dot My Plate dot gov. You can also find the link in our show notes for today’s episode.

According to Healthline, one in four older Americans has poor nutrition. Having poor nutrition, as we talked about in our mini-series, puts you at risk of becoming overweight or underweight and it can weaken your muscles and bones. It also leaves you vulnerable to disease. Luckily, there is a relatively easy fix for poor nutrition. A well-balanced diet can help you maintain a healthy weight, stay energized, and get the nutrients you need, all while lowering your risk of developing chronic health conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes.

You may remember the food pyramid from when you were in school, but now My Plate has taken place of the food pyramid. My Plate states that as we age, healthy eating can make a difference in our health, help to improve how we feel, and encourage a sense of well-being. A well-balanced diet can literally change the way you feel how your body works.

Every person’s My Plate is tailored to them and depends on many things, but generally speaking, women over 60 should be eating one and a half to two cups of fruits a day, two to three cups of vegetables, five to seven ounces of grains, five to six ounces of protein, and three cups of dairy every day. Men over 60 should be eating two cups of fruit, two and a half to three and a half cups of vegetables, six to nine ounces of grains, five and half to six and half ounces of protein, and three cups of dairy a day. This is just a general idea of what older adults should be eating, but your doctor or a nutritionist can help you make a plan that is right for you.

Now that you know what makes a well-balanced diet, let’s move on to how our nutritional needs and habits can change with age.

According to Healthline, as you get older, your nutritional needs, appetite, and food habits can change in several ways. The amount of calories we need to fuel our bodies for the day will most likely decrease with age and our appetite will most likely diminish, as well. Oftentimes, our sense of smell and taste weaken with age, which can cause a loss of appetite.

Medical conditions worsen or develop with time and age and can impact our appetites, our digestive systems, and cause us to have a restrictive or limited diet. Along with medical conditions comes medication. Many medications can cause a loss of appetite or cause symptoms that make eating difficult, like dry mouth, and some medications require you to not eat certain types of foods while taking them.

Oral problems can also arise with age. Many people need dentures as they get older, and they may make eating more difficult for some, especially if they don’t fit properly or you are just getting used to them.

With advanced age comes a weakened immune system. A weakened immune system makes it easier for us to catch illnesses, including food poisoning and other food-related illnesses. It is important to ensure your food doesn’t have any odors or discoloration before you use it. It is also a good idea to stick to the expiration or freshness guaranteed date. While the food may look normal, mold spores and bacteria can be invisible to the eye and cause you to become sick. Packaged and canned food items and frozen foods last longer than fresh items and can be safer to store for longer periods of time. They are also good to have on hand, especially if you have difficulties getting to or around the grocery store.

Losing a loved one can also impact your daily habits and eating patterns. Healthline says you may feel depressed, which can lead to lower appetite. If your family member did most of the cooking, you might not know how to prepare food for yourself, and some people simply choose not to eat, rather than cook a meal for themselves.

If you’re finding it difficult to prepare food for yourself, talk to a family member, trusted friend, or your doctor. If you notice that your loved one isn’t preparing foods or eating, try to bring them meals or invite them out to dinner. There are also local agencies, like Meals on Wheels, that can help get meals to seniors that they don’t have to prepare. Talk to your local senior center to see what programs are available in your area.

Healthy foods can be expensive, but they are a necessity, especially as we get older. According to the National Council on Aging, The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) can help you afford healthy food when you need it. Over 4 million older Americans use SNAP to buy food, and the average senior receives $113 each month. You can visit Benefits Check Up dot org back slash get SNAP to see if you qualify for the program.

Now that you know how some of our nutritional needs and habits can change as we age, let’s move on to our final section for today, maintaining a healthy diet with age.

To maintain a healthy diet as we age, we should focus on nutrient-dense foods, such as fruits and vegetables, beans and lentils, nuts and seeds, whole grains, low-fat dairy and lean proteins. Since we normally require less calories as we age, it is important to make sure you are eating foods from these groups, since less calories usually means you are eating less. When you eat less food, the food you eat matters even more than it did before.

You should also make sure you are eating enough fiber. Healthline says that fiber is essential for a healthy digestive system. Good sources of fiber include fruits and vegetables, beans and lentils, nuts and seeds, oats and oat bran, and whole grains. Eating foods rich in fiber can help you avoid constipation and other digestive issues. If you have trouble eating foods high in fiber, talk to your doctor about taking a fiber supplement instead.

One trick to maintaining a healthy diet is to shop for convenience. Frozen or low-sodium canned vegetables and frozen unsweetened fruit or low-sugar canned fruit can be easier to prep than whole fruits and vegetables and they last longer. Buying precooked grilled turkey or rotisserie chickens can save you time when preparing meals and make it easier to prepare, especially if you are cooking just for yourself. Low-sodium canned soup or stews make excellent and quick meals with zero work. And pop tops make them easier to open if you have arthritis. Bagged salad mixes and precut veggies can be a great addition to any meal and they already come prewashed, so all you have to do is throw them on a plate or into the pan and dinner is done. Instant oatmeal makes a simple and quick healthy breakfast, and you can add honey, peanut butter, or fruits on top to make it more filling and fun. Steamer bags of veggies in either the produce or freezer sections of the grocery store can make great side dishes that only take a few minutes in the microwave, or you can throw on some rotisserie chicken and instant rice for a complete meal that took you no time at all.

These convenience foods can make mealtimes less stressful, but make sure you always check the nutritional information before you buy anything. Prepackaged foods often contain higher levels of sugar, fats, and salt, so watch out for products that have high levels of those listed.

Staying hydrated is another important part of maintaining a healthy diet. Make sure you are consistently drinking water throughout the day. If you know that your loved one doesn’t drink as much water as they should throughout the day, you can also try giving them tea and coffee, low-sugar fruit juices, soups, or fruits and vegetables with high water content, like watermelon and celery. You can make fruit pops with their favorite fruits and juice during the hot months, too. It’s a nice treat for them and keeps them hydrated.

Just like we talked about last episode, making mealtime a social event can help make sure your loved one is maintaining a healthy diet. Eating with your loved one can help make mealtimes enjoyable for them again, especially if they have recently lost a loved one in their life. Grief and depression can both suppress your loved one’s appetite. Getting them out of their usual setting can sometimes help with depression. Taking them to their favorite restaurant or to somewhere new can be exciting and give your loved one something to look forward to. They can also use their senior discount when going out to eat. You can help them sign up for AARP to receive even more discounts if they haven’t already. Visit AARP dot org to learn more about what their benefits and offers today.

If your loved one is struggling with depression and you don’t know what to do anymore, contact their doctor. They may be able to prescribe medication that may help or may recommend therapy. Your local senior center may also have grief and depression programs or resources that may help.

As we get older, we should be limiting our salt intake and with less salt, some foods can taste pretty bland. Experimenting with herbs and spices can be a good way to bring flavor back to foods, without increasing the amount of salt. If your loved one enjoys gardening, you can bring them some kitchen herb pots so that they can grow their own herbs and spices. This is also a great way for them to enjoy a hobby they haven’t been able to do if they have mobility issues.

Encouraging your loved one to maintain a healthy diet can help them more than anything else we have talked about this episode. Having a support system can make any lifestyle change easier, and that includes maintaining a healthy diet. With you by their side, your loved one is more likely to stick to any diet changes they make rather than if they are doing it all by themselves.

Make sure you are mindful of their dietary needs and restrictions whenever you have them over for dinner or go out to eat. Preparing foods they can eat is a good way to ensure that they are maintaining their diet and shows them that you care.

Regular exercise is also a part of a well-balance lifestyle. Going for walks, playing golf without a golf cart, and playing other games that require movement are all a great way to exercise, and are a good way for your loved one to get some much-needed social interaction. Exercise can also help build-up your loved one’s appetite. If your loved one is having trouble with not feeling hungry, try getting them to go for a walk with you and see if they gain an appetite overtime. Just going for a walk every now and then most likely won’t increase their appetite, but daily walks may.

Interested in learning even more about healthy eating for seniors? Visit our YouTube channel, where you can find our Nutritional and Dietary Support for Seniors playlist. So far, we’ve talked about healthy nutrition tips and kitchen safety tips for seniors. We are continuously adding to our playlist and updating it, so check back often!

If you or your loved one have questions about maintaining a healthy diet, contact their doctor or a nutritionist. They can give you an ample amount of resources and help you come up with a healthy eating plan. You should also check with your insurance provider. Many cover nutritional planning.

Thank you for listening to the second episode of our three-part mini-series, Nutritional Health for Seniors. Be on the lookout for the next installment in the series

We want to say thank you for joining us here at All Home Care Matters, All Home Care Matters is here for you and to help families as they navigate long-term care issues. Please visit us at allhomecarematters.com there is a private secure fillable form there where you can give us feedback, show ideas, or if you have questions. Every form is read and responded to. If you know someone is who could benefit from this episode and please make sure to share it with them.

Sources:

https://www.healthline.com/health/healthy-eating-for-seniors

https://www.ncoa.org/article/healthy-eating-tips-for-seniors

https://www.myplate.gov/

https://www.eatright.org/food/nutrition/dietary-guidelines-and-myplate/healthy-eating-for-older-adults

https://aging.com/elderly-nutrition-101-10-foods-to-keep-you-healthy/

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/sample-menus-healthy-eating-older-adults

https://www.myplate.gov/tip-sheet/healthy-eating-older-adults

https://www.myplate.gov/life-stages/older-adults

https://www.aarp.org/rewards/?intcmp=GLOBAL-HDR-LNK-CLK-AARP_REWARDS

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Thank you for joining us for another Quick Tips episode of All Home Care Matters. If your loved one has Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, they may need help in the bathroom. On our last Quick Tips episode, we discussed mealtime tips for loved ones with dementia.

Today, we are talking about the difficulties your loved one faces with bathing and how you can help them while allowing them their independence and dignity. We also will be giving you a few helpful items and products to use in the bathroom. Now let’s move on to the rest of the show.

According to the Alzheimer’s Society, as a person’s dementia progresses, they will need more help with everyday activities such as washing, bathing, and dressing. For most adults, these are personal and private activities, so it can be hard for your loved one to adjust to this change. You can support a person with dementia to wash and dress in a way that respects their preferences and their dignity.

Personal care activities, including washing and bathing, can be a source of anxiety for people with dementia and their caregivers. Needing help with something so personal can be difficult to accept, and the person you care for may feel self-conscious or embarrassed. It is important to respect their privacy as far as you can.

In the early stages of Alzheimer’s, your loved one may only need a reminder to bathe. As they progress, they will need more and more assistance, eventually needing your help to do the simplest of hygiene tasks, such as brushing their teeth.

Daily Caring says that it’s important to keep your loved one's body clean to prevent skin infections, reduce the risk of urinary tract infections, and avoid unpleasant body odor. But trying to get them to take a bath or shower often results in arguments, hostility, crying, or screaming and ruins everyone’s day, skyrocketing your stress level, as well as your loved one’s.

Before you remind your loved one to bathe or tell them it is time to bathe, prepare the bathroom for them. Preparing everything for them in advance can help lessen their anxiety over the event and can help them do more on their own. You can put any shampoos and body washes they use in order, have towels out and ready, and any chairs or benches already in place. Making the room a nice temperature can also help your loved one be more comfortable during this time.

Daily Care recommends that you make sure there are no surprises or guesswork needed during bath time. Bathing takes so many steps, it’s no wonder that it’s overwhelming for a person with Alzheimer’s or dementia. But even if your loved one doesn’t know what to do next, they’ll likely still remember how to do it. At every step, let them know what’s going to happen and coach them through it so they can do as much as possible on their own. This gives them control and improves self-confidence. Plus, if they know what’s going to happen at every step, they won’t be as scared or anxious. For example, you could say “Let’s rub the soap on your arm now. That’s great. Now we’ll rinse the soap away with the water.”

When bathing a loved one, don’t change the way they bathed before they needed your assistance. If they prefer taking showers, don’t try to give them a bath instead (unless they are now a fall risk). And the same goes for baths. If they like baths more, don’t try to give them showers.

Using a shower chair and a transfer bench can help make bathing safer for your loved one. If they take showers, a handheld showerhead can also help reduce your loved one’s anxiety, as well as help them clean themselves easier.

If bathing is a constant battle, remember that your loved one doesn’t need to bathe every day, unless they are incontinent. Bathing twice a week is enough for most older adults. You can also help them bathe with sink baths in between bathing times if they have a lot of anxiety or anger during bath time. They can use no-rinse products during sink baths, as well.

Family Caregiver Alliance says that a fear of bathing may be related to a number of factors such as fear of falling, fear of the water, fear of being cold, loss of dignity in being naked in front of you, or feeling vulnerable in the coldness of a bathroom. Your loved one may not know how to voice their fears, but you should try to listen when they tell you they don’t want to bathe. There is usually a real reason, at least to them, as to why they shouldn’t bathe at that specific time.

Daily Caring suggests that you use positive reinforcement and don’t try to argue with your older adult about how many days it’s been since their last shower, any body odor they may have, or why good hygiene is important. Logic and reason don’t work with Alzheimer's. Instead, keep sentences short and simple and focus on the positive, fun activities that come after the bath.

For example, when the bathroom is warm enough, go over to your loved one, make eye contact, and smile. Extend your hand so they’ll take it, get up, and let you escort them as they walk (toward the bathroom). After they’ve started walking, say something like “Let’s go shower now and then we’ll have a yummy snack (cookies, juice, etc.) and do something fun.”

As you walk, keep the conversation focused on the snack or fun activity to avoid discussing or arguing about the shower. “Those chocolate chip cookies are your favorite, aren’t they? And we can put together that puzzle with the beautiful birds.”

If you consistently take this type of approach, taking a shower becomes associated with positive things like their favorite snack or activity. If they refuse to bathe and start to argue, drop the subject and move on to something pleasant. This avoids a fight that will create negative feelings that often linger. Wait and try again in a little while.

After-bath care is just as important as bathing. Having a bath time routine that includes after-bath care can make bath times go smoothly for everyone. The Alzheimer’s Association says that you should check for rashes and sores, especially if your loved one is incontinent or unable to move around. Have your loved one sit down while drying and putting on fresh clothes. Make sure they are completely dry. Pat them dry instead of rubbing and use cotton swabs to dry between the toes. Once they are dry, gently apply lotion to keep skin soft and use cornstarch or talcum powder under the breasts and in the creases and folds of skin. If your loved one will not use deodorant, you can use baking soda, instead.

After bathing and dressing, help your loved one get ready for the day. This may include helping them style their hair, shave their face, or put on make-up. If they need help with any of these activities, always ask first. Don’t ever try to automatically do something for someone with Alzheimer’s. Doing something for them without asking them takes away their autonomy and can embarrass them.

The Alzheimer’s Society says that you should be aware of the likes and preferences of the person with dementia, and not make assumptions about how they would like to look or what others think they should wear.

Outfits, accessories, or make-up that they choose may have religious, cultural, or sentimental importance to them and be an important part of their identity. As long as they are not at risk of harm, it is important that you allow your loved one with dementia to express their identity through choices about their appearance.

For more information on Alzheimer’s and how you can support a loved one with Alzheimer’s, visit our YouTube channel, where we have an entire playlist dedicated to Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Sources:

https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/daily-care/bathing

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/daily-living/washing-dressing#content-start

https://dailycaring.com/7-tips-to-get-someone-with-alzheimers-to-take-a-bath/

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/bathing-dressing-and-grooming-alzheimers-caregiving-tips

https://www.caregiver.org/resource/bathing-dementia/

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All Home Care Matters welcomes back, Alexis Baker MT-BC. Alexis joins All Home Care Matters to share an exciting and helpful new resource for families and caregivers that her company Bridgetown Music Therapy is offering.

Alexis and Bridgetown Music Therapy is offering online music therapy courses to help families and caregivers. During this interview we explore what music therapy is and how it can help families and their loved ones and to learn more about their new online music therapy courses.

Make sure to stay tuned towards the end of the interview to watch a full demonstration from one of their courses that was provided to All Home Care Matters.

Connect with Alexis and Bridgetown Music Therapy: https://linktr.ee/bridgetownmusictherapy

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome our guest, Dr. Richard Caro the co-founder of Tech-Enhanced Life.

Dr. Richard G. Caro is co-founder of Tech-enhanced Life, a Public Benefit corporation with the mission of improving the quality of life of the aging and their families. He is also CEO of TangibleFuture, Inc., an interventional management consultancy. Tech-enhanced Life is a Public Benefit corporation with the mission of improving the quality of life of the aging and their families.

Tech-enhanced Life: • creates insights for older adults and their families, published at www.techenhancerdlife.com; • provides advisory services for companies — who want to develop products and services that older adults actually want, and need; and • enables, and lead the Longevity Explorers: a unique sharing, evaluation, and ideation community— made up of older adults (in their 60’s, 70’s, 80’s and 90’s), and their friends, families, and caregivers.

Richard’s prior experience includes operational roles in high tech companies in Silicon Valley and Boston. He was CEO (founder) of Vital Insite, a venture-backed, medical device start-up, developing noninvasive monitoring products; Engineering Program Manager at Coherent, one of the world’s largest laser manufacturers; and CTO (employee #5) of Summit Technology, a pioneer in the laser refractive surgery (LASIK) business. Before entering industry, he was a member of the research staff at Stanford University. Richard has been responsible for development of a number of successful products; has 24 issued patents; and received a Ph.D in Physics from Oxford University, where he was a Rhodes Scholar. He is an active member of several Silicon Valley angel investor groups, with a particular focus on the intersection of healthcare, aging, and technology.

Connect with Richard and Tech-Enhanced Life: https://www.techenhancedlife.com/

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All Home Care Matters is privileged to share with our listeners and viewers an exclusive interview with the Director and Creator of the new dementia documentary, Renée Brack. Renée was also joined by Dementia Champion, Tim England. Tim was a part of the film as an expert consultant.

Throughout this in-depth interview and discussion of the film we explore Renée's journey from finding out her father was diagnosed with dementia to how this impacted her and her journey with her father. Ticketyboo: A Secret in Plain Sight is scheduled to be released around Christmas time of 2021.

Connect with Renée:

https://reneebrackacademic.com.au/

Link to the Reel of Ticketboo: A Secret in Plain Sight:

https://documentaryaustralia.com.au/p...

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Today’s Quick Tips episode is a part of our new Nutritional Health for Seniors mini-series. First, we want to thank all of our viewers and listeners for joining us for this mini-series, and please, let us know what you want our next series to be. For today’s episode, we’ve gathered some tips, tools, and resources that we think can help you and your loved one with dementia ensure that they are able to get the nutrition they need. Now let’s move on to the rest of the show.

Memory loss and the decline of cognitive abilities are often brought to mind when thinking about dementia and how it affects our loved one, but what about the other issues that dementia brings? Mealtimes often present an all-too-common issue that families face with loved ones who have dementia. Making sure your loved one is eating and getting the proper nutrition that they need is a daunting, but extremely important task that family caregivers face daily.

According to the Terra Vista Foundation, many individuals with dementia often experience unplanned weight loss due to things like decreased levels of activity, depression, side effects of medications, and lack of muscle coordination which leads to problems with chewing and swallowing.

When considering ways to help your loved one make sure they are getting the nutrients they need, always talk to their doctor first. Make sure you tell them any side effects of the medications your loved one is on are causing, such as trouble swallowing, so that they can make any adjustments to dosage or changes of medication as soon as possible. Your doctor also might have suggestions on how to help your loved one eat.

It’s important to make sure your loved one is drinking enough water throughout the day. If they are having trouble remembering to drink when they are thirsty, try using a measured water bottle with fun designs to help them drink more throughout the day. Popsicles are another great way to keep your loved one hydrated and you can make them yourself. Popsicles are especially great if swallowing hurts their throat. The ice can help soothe the inside, possibly making eating easier.

Engaging the senses is another way that entices dementia patients to eat or eat more. Using aromatic herbs and spices and vibrant colors can engage their vision and sense of smell. This is a good technique to use, as long as your loved one isn’t feeling nauseous. Fragrant foods may make them feel worse, so make sure you try to gauge how they are feeling before preparing any foods.

Your loved one with dementia may easily become overwhelmed and mealtimes are no different. Using smaller portions on a larger plate can help them focus more on eating and less on the amounts in front of them. Finger foods may also help them eat more, especially as their motor skills worsen. Silverware can take more focus to use and if they are having trouble getting the food to their mouth, they may get angry and refuse to eat. Finger foods, like cut up sandwiches and fresh fruit, can be easier for them to eat themselves, without needing help from you.

Limiting distractions during mealtime can also increase the likelihood that your loved one finishes, or even eats, their meal. Try turning off the television or music and refrain from having conversations during mealtime if your loved one usually gets distracted by these things. The less distractions around, the more your loved one is able to focus on the task at hand.

Exercising may also help increase your loved one’s appetite. Going for a walk with your loved one may help them begin to feel hungry and thirsty and they may decide it is time to eat on their own. Studies have also shown that exercising may help slow the cognitive decline in dementia patients.

If your loved one is able to eat in small quantities, but isn’t getting all the nutrients they need, focus on adding more to what they are able to eat. For example, if your loved one can eat a half a cup of fruit at once, try adding some yogurt or cheeses to add more fat to their diet.

When trying to make sure your loved one is gaining or maintaining weight, ensuring they are eating foods high in calories and proteins is essential. Cooking with butter or high fat oils is a great way to sneak in more calories that won’t affect the taste of their foods. Whole milk and fruit juice is also a good way to get them to drink calories.

Protein shakes like Ensure can also be helpful. You can also put ensure in the freezer for a few hours for a frozen snack they can eat with a spoon. We’ve heard from quite a few families and caregivers that Chocolate Ensure is best this way.

The Crisis Prevention Center says to just remember that each person is different, and care must be individualized depending on specific needs and through observation. What works for someone else may not work for your loved one, and that’s okay. If you are interested in learning more about Dementia, check out our Dementia and Alzheimer’s playlist on YouTube.

Similarly, if your loved one frequently forgets that they just ate and wants to eat again, try giving them multiple small meals. You can start with something like chicken, and then move on to rice, and then to asparagus. If your loved one is having problems with overeating due to memory loss, this technique can be especially helpful. You can give them smaller portions of the meal and spread it out over time.

The most important tip we can give you today is to observe. Let them eat as much as they can on their own so that they may hold on to some sense of independence. Observing also allows you to notice any patterns your loved one may have with eating. You may find that they have a favorite food or herb this way, or you may notice that they eat more when they use a spoon versus a fork.

We hope this episode has given you some helpful tips and tricks for dealing with mealtimes with dementia. We know that dementia is hard on everyone, not just your loved one, and we are here to help. If you would like more information on mealtimes and nutritional health for seniors, check out our Nutritional and Dietary Support for Seniors playlist on YouTube.

For more information and resources on nutritional health for your loved one with dementia, visit the Alzheimer’s Association’s website at ALZ.org. They have many resources that you may find useful. You can also find a link to their website in the show notes for today’s episode.

Sources:

https://www.terravistafoundation.org/eating-tips-alzheimers-disease/?gclid=Cj0KCQjw8vqGBhC_ARIsADMSd1BrOqbXQ3kxpTx3xPdfpE4pdgonrwhlgAQUE4wkBOfSIhd6EglaWtQaApgkEALw_wcB

https://www.crisisprevention.com/Blog/food-and-dementia

https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/daily-care/food-eating?gclid=Cj0KCQjw8vqGBhC_ARIsADMSd1CGFYJ1oB1S4noiJn3cMRRtD0VE4HV0I8PtomXpmVIzzbG4e3ZJ9McaApw3EALw_wcB

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome a very special guest, Vicki MacGregor.

Vicki is sharing her personal story and experience of her son, Stephen. Stephen was diagnosed with Williams Syndrome when he was 13 months old. We discuss what it was like as she was raising Stephen and the trials and accomplishments that they experienced.

Vicki is sharing her story for the first time in a very long time and shares how she handled this diagnosis and how through a mother's love helped Stephen to not be defined by a label. During this interview Vicki takes us through her journey raising him into a remarkable young man and we hope that you will be encouraged by her story and also become better informed about what Williams Syndrome is.

Connect with Vicki:

Email: victoria@victoriaspress.com

Website: https://www.victoriaspress.com

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome a very special guest on this episode, Bill Cohen CSA. Bill is a caregiver support group leader and speaker, an Alzheimer's Association volunteer and advocate, Certified Senior Advisor (CSA)®, and the owner of Cohen Caregiving Support Consultants LLC.

Bill's journey to becoming a Caregiver consultant did not happen immediately. It was the journey once his mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer's that would eventually lead him into the profession of helping others who are on the same journey that he himself has travelled. His 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, Bill was her primary caregiver and advocate, not just her elder son.

Bill shares his story and journey with his late mom, answers specific questions and concerns, and provides advice on how to manage care and behaviors, and how to practice self-care and prevention. Bill's unique perspective allows him to support caregivers to help avoid caregiver burnout as well as help provide them with the tools and caregiver resources to help them as they are caring for aging parents and loved ones.

Bill has completed multiple caregiving and aging courses through the Alzheimer's Association and the Society for Certified Senior Advisors™️, has a financial services and government background, and earned business degrees from Boston and Portland State Universities. He has lived in the Portland, Oregon area for over 36 years with his wife, Lori.

Connect with Bill and Cohen Cohen Caregiving Support Consulting:

https://cohencaregivingsupport.com

Facebook Caregiver Support Group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/billcohensupportgroup/

YouTube Channel for Caregiver Tips and Support:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVe4E5fw4OuibwgRSAk3-xA

LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/checkpoint/challengesV2/AQE0AaFi5RclSQAAAXu3IBKqrZTw8Jdw3Lhdf-5G9-XPA3laeWYwf4TP-Zo6aeFw4GkI2iI4CP9dCpiJWQIaKPUrHm1S49ioBg?original_referer=https%3A%2F%2Flinktr.ee%2F

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On today’s Quick Tips episode, we are talking about how to handle siblings who are in denial about a parent’s health. First, we’ll talk about ways you can understand denial and why your siblings may be in denial about your parent’s health. Then, we’ll move on to ways you can approach your parent’s health with your siblings. Finally, we’ll talk about a few different communication tactics you can use when talking about your parent’s health with your siblings. Now let’s move on to the rest of the show.

In a blog post for the Arbors, Sondra Jones writes that no one wants to watch their parents get older. If your brother or sister really doesn’t want to think about them aging and what that means for your family, they might be trying to protect themselves by refusing to accept the truth about the situation. In other words, they’re in denial.

Denial is a coping mechanism that your siblings use in order to protect themselves from having to think about what having an aging parent needing care really means for them and the rest of your family. Denial is normal, but it can be harmful if it is not overcome in a timely manner.

There are several reasons your siblings may be in denial. Like I just mentioned earlier, they may be using denial as a coping mechanism so that they don’t have to think about your parents getting closer to death.

Distance is another big factor for denial. If your siblings live farther away and are unable to see your parents regularly, they will be unable to see the state of decline you see in your parent’s health.

AgingCare states that even with updates and warnings, a long-distance sibling doesn’t always get the full picture of how their parent is doing or what caregiving entails on a daily basis. To complicate things further, elders will often perk up when their less involved adult children show up to visit. That’s only natural.

This phenomenon is often referred to as “showtiming,” especially in elders who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. The parent rallies, excited to see their long-lost child, much to the primary caregiver’s annoyance. But this isn’t just frustrating. Showtiming can also make it appear to occasional visitors that reports of their parent’s decline have been exaggerated.

Many times, especially in parents that have dementia or Alzheimer’s, once your sibling leaves and is no longer around and your loved one’s excitement has time to regress, they revert back to the state they are usually in and may even forget that your sibling had come for a visit.

Author of Minding Our Elders, Carol Bradley Bursack, shares her personal experience with this. She says that that happened once after my brother and his wife visited when our mom was declining. She had looked forward to the visit for weeks.

My brother and sister-in-law arrived as planned, spent time with Mom, and then traveled back to their distant home. Afterward, Mom continued to ask me when they were coming. She was still looking forward to their visit and had completely forgotten that it had already happened. It nearly broke my heart to tell her they had been here over the weekend, but I couldn’t lie about something so important to her. We caregivers have to do some pretty dreadful stuff.

Unfortunately, Carol’s experience is more common than we would hope it would be. Caring for a loved one with dementia or other cognitive health issues takes a lot of work and it is important to make sure that you have the support system you need to provide the care your loved ones need. If you are interested in learning more about caring for a loved one with dementia, please check out our website for more episodes!

Now that we’ve talked a little bit about what denial is and why your siblings may be in denial, let’s move on to ways you can approach your siblings about your parent’s health.

When your siblings are in denial about your parent’s health, they may not want to talk about it with you. Watching your parents’ health decline isn’t easy for you, and it’s not easy for your siblings either. The best thing you can do is to let your siblings know that you are there for them and that they can come to you with any questions or fears that they have about your parent’s situation. Letting them know that you are open to communication is a great first step to talking to your siblings about your parent’s health.

When you decide it is time to talk to your siblings about your parent’s health and care situation, set a date and time and plan a meeting in advance so that everyone can take time to prepare and make sure that they are available. Having the meeting in person is best, but you can do a video call if you are not all able to get together in the same place at once. Video calls still allow you to see how your siblings react to news and allow you to pick up on visual cues that you would miss if you only talked through a phone call or email.

As the sibling that is currently around your parents the most, it is your job to present the quote-unquote case to your siblings. You are the one that is around your parents the most and you know what state their health is actually in. Having recent doctor visit notes available can help you give more credibility to what you’re saying. Some people need facts and figures to really understand a situation, so having those handy can help your case.

If you think that you and your siblings will have a difficult time coming to an agreement regarding your parent’s care situation, consider having an elder care mediator present during your meeting. According to Five Star Senior Living, sometimes the mediator is an elder care attorney or therapist. They may be able to step in to keep conflicts from getting heated.

The mediator can also help ensure everyone has a chance to speak. Most importantly, the mediator will make sure everyone remains focused on the goal: To provide your aging parents with the best care and the best lifestyle possible in their senior years. A mediator won’t tell you what to do, but they will help you and your siblings to reach an agreement.

Hopefully, you can use some of these tips to help you approach your siblings about your parent’s health. Now, let’s move on to our final section, which is communication tactics you should use when talking to your siblings.

AgingCare suggests that first, we must take a good, hard look at ourselves and consider two tough questions when it comes to our siblings: One: Have you asked for help directly? and two: Have you made specific requests of them? When you answer these questions to yourself, you can then use your own answers, in turn, to help you decide where to start with your siblings. If you have yet to ask specific requests of your siblings, you now know that is an option.

Before talking with your siblings, make a list of everything you want to tell and ask them to make sure you don’t forget what you want to talk to them about. It’s also a good idea to make a list of things you notice while taking care of your aging parents.

Care is continuous, so it’s important to keep updating your family about your parents, their health, and any help you are in need of. Sending out weekly emails or texts is an easy way to keep your siblings in the loop. You can even ask one of your siblings to update the rest of the family for you in order to take some of the caregiving burden from you.

One of the most important tips we can give you today is that it is okay to take a break. If the conversation is becoming too tense, take a short break and let everyone relax for a bit. Having some time to reflect on what’s been said, or even vent to someone not involved in the situation, can help everyone come back a little more refreshed and able to see things from a new perspective.

Caring for a loved one is difficult and so is coming to terms with the new reality that your parent is no longer in good health and will not be around for too much longer. Just remember that your siblings are likely processing this information and they may need some time to adjust to a new normal, but they also just want what is best for your loved ones.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. Join us next time on All Home Care Matters where we welcome Bill Cohen. Bill was a caregiver for his mother and turned that experience into a career of helping other Caregivers and families. This is an informative and helpful interview that you won’t want to miss.

Sources:

https://www.agingcare.com/articles/siblings-in-denial-about-elderly-parents-health-140800.htm

https://arborsassistedliving.com/how-to-deal-with-siblings-in-denial-about-parents-needing-help/

https://www.fivestarseniorliving.com/blog-post/how-to-talk-with-siblings-about-senior-care-for-a-parent

https://www.aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/family-disputes

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Today, we are talking about how to talk with your children about their grandparents with dementia. First, we’ll discuss what dementia is and how it affects the whole family. Then, we’ll talk about a few ways to approach the subject with your children. After that, we’ll dive into ways your children can interact with a loved one with dementia. Finally, we’ll end the episode with questions and answers by and from real families experiencing dementia. Now let’s move on to the rest of the show.

Dementia affects millions of families each year. According to the World Health Organization, there are 10 million newly recorded dementia cases each year. Worldwide, five to six percent of all individuals over the age of sixty have some form of dementia and that number goes up with age. One-third of all adults over the age of 85 have some form of dementia. If you have a loved one with dementia, it may be helpful to know that you are not alone. Dementia and other cognitive health diseases are tough for the entire family, not just for the patient and their caregiver. That is why we have decided to talk about dementia and how it affects grandchildren today. We hope that today’s episode can help give you a few ways to talk to children about their grandparent’s diagnosis.

The National Institute on Aging says that dementia is the loss of cognitive functioning — thinking, remembering, and reasoning — to such an extent that it interferes with a person's daily life and activities. Some people with dementia cannot control their emotions, and their personalities may change. Dementia ranges in severity from the mildest stage, when it is just beginning to affect a person's functioning, to the most severe stage, when the person must depend completely on others for basic activities of living.

We have talked in depth about dementia before, so we won’t be defining it further today. If you are interested in more information on dementia, you can check out our YouTube channel, where we have an entire playlist dedicated to dementia and Alzheimer’s. You can also visit our website for even more episodes and resources.

Your loved one with dementia may go through a number of behavioral changes, mood swings, and loss of both social and motor skills, and most of these will worsen as time goes by. Watching your loved one’s mental state slowly deteriorate over time is difficult and something no one ever wants to have to do. Visiting with a loved one with dementia can help improve their day and their mental capabilities. Many families are anxious to visit their loved ones after a dementia diagnosis has been made, especially if they have children. They are worried that their children may accidentally set off their loved ones, or that their loved ones may not remember them.

Seeing our parents’ health decline is hard on most of us, and dementia makes it even worse. Caregivers in a memory care facility stress the importance of visiting loved ones with dementia, even if it is difficult. They’ve seen family members come from hundreds of miles away to bring something that their loved one with dementia needs, such as medication or paperwork, but they are unable to stay and visit because it’s hard for them to come to terms with their loved one’s current state. One caregiver says that if only the families realized what a difference it makes, they would want to come more.

Visiting a loved one in a facility is tough, and depending on how far away the facility is, it can be an all-day event. When your loved one is in a facility, even if you visit every day, you may notice changes every time you visit. When your loved one is living with you, you also notice changes, but most of them are gradual and it isn’t something you notice every time you look at them. Your loved one’s changes can way heavy on your mind, too, but one thing that should help to ease some of the stress is knowing that they are getting the care they need while living in a facility. These special memory care facilities are devoted to caring for patients with dementia and other cognitive health diseases and issues. The staff are trained to handle any difficult behaviors that may arise, and they are always there to provide comfort and care, and another option many families choose for their loved one is for them to remain in their home for as long as possible. The benefit to that choice is that their home is familiar to them and provides them with a sense of security and comfort and the care they receive from a professional home care provider would be specific to them, which helps with their care.

Deciding that you alone are not enough to take care of your loved one can be a frustrating decision to make but is ultimately better for your loved one. Dementia is not something that gets better with time and can go away, it sadly only gets worse. Dementia affects the entire family, not just your loved one with the diagnosis. If your loved one becomes hostile, they can make your home be somewhere that you and your family dread going back to, and that’s not how you want you and your family to live. Sometimes if their behavior is more aggressive then a facility is the best option for your loved one and your family. In a facility, you can make sure they are safe and watched over at all times, and you don’t have to worry about how their mental state and behavioral changes will shape the day.

Now that you know a little about what dementia is and how it affects your loved one and the family as a whole, let’s move on to ways to talk to children about dementia.

Haley Buress, writing for Lotsa Helping Hands says that teaching your kids, or other children in your family, about dementia, can be challenging. However, it can also be a positive shifting point in their relationship with their grandparent. Knowledge is power, right? So empower your kids by learning how to teach children about the dementia process.

Kids are inquisitive by nature, and they are sure to ask you questions about their grandparents and the changes they are noticing in them. Their questions can be a great start to a conversation on dementia and how it will be affecting their grandparents in the not-so-distant future. When your child brings a question to you, try to answer it as best as you can using age-appropriate terms. If they ask you why their grandparent doesn’t remember one of their favorite things, you can take the opportunity to tell them that your loved one will have problems recalling information and that it will not get better, but that it will only worsen as time goes on.

Telling them that their grandparents memory is only going to get worse will help them understand why their grandparent can no longer remember more important things, like their name, as their dementia worsens. You may want to shield your child from what is happening and protect them from any hurt their grandparents loss of memory may cause them, but you would be surprised how understanding your child can be and how much they can actually handle. Of course, you know your child best. You should use your best judgment when talking to your child about their grandparent with dementia. You probably wouldn’t tell your six-year-old the same thing you would tell your seventeen-year-old, but every child is different, and you are the one that ultimately decides what to tell. Our hope today is to give you the helpful information you will need to have a dialogue with your children when they ask you “What’s wrong with grandpa?”

The most important thing you can do is tell the truth. Don’t lie to your child and tell them that nothing is wrong and that they will get better, because something IS wrong and they WILL NOT get better and your children will know, regardless of what you tell them. Not telling them or lying to them will make them feel like you don’t trust them enough to tell them what’s really going on or they may be upset and feel like no one is listening to what they are saying if they ask you what’s wrong with grandpa and you repeatedly tell them that nothing is wrong.

Buress also suggests that depending on your child’s age, you can pull age-appropriate literature from your local library or the Alzheimer’s Association to help start a conversation or give a new point of view. Older kids can get a lot of information from books such as Still Alice or Dancing with Rose. Younger kids can enjoy books like Still My Grandma or The Memory Box. With younger children, consider reading the book and then following up later with a coloring session or puppet show that the child leads. It is often in these moments of free play that a concern or question finds its way out.

It isn’t easy to tell your kids about dementia, especially since you are likely in the middle of many different emotions yourself. Being a parent is hard work, but with a little honesty and vulnerability, you can find beauty in even this situation. Watching the intergenerational relationship between your kids and parents will last well into the dementia process and will be a gift to everyone.

When you are having the initial conversation about dementia with your child, make sure you tell them that nothing they did is why their grandparent is sick with dementia and that they also cannot get dementia or memory problems from their grandparent. It is still safe to visit, and they should visit!

Make sure your child knows that any feelings they are having when it comes to dementia and their grandparent are valid. If they are depressed, anxious, or confused, they can tell you and you can both talk about why they are feeling that way and discuss ways that can help them understand and conquer their feelings. For more help on how to talk to your child about dementia, check with your local Alzheimer’s Association. They may have support groups that can be helpful for you and your child. If your child is really struggling with this concept and doesn’t want to open up to you about it, a support group may help them more. They may have trouble telling you because of your closeness to the situation, but they may be able to talk to someone they don’t view as being a part of their life.

Now that we’ve gone over some ways you can talk about dementia with your child, let’s move on to ways your child can interact with a loved one with dementia that is beneficial for them both.

A Winchester Health article says that your child may be feeling left out and lonely from all the attention the grandparent needs to receive. Therefore, be sure to involve your child in the grandparent’s care during visits. Setting limits and boundaries before the visit will help reassure your child, too. For example, set a time period for the visit and schedule them regularly.

Tell your child that if their grandparent becomes upset, you both will leave and come back another time when they are not upset. Before your visit, talk about what they may notice their grandparent doing during the visit. Let them know that they may not do things the way you think they should be done, and that’s okay. Talking about this ahead of time can help reduce your child’s unexpected reactions to changes in their grandparents’ behavior.

Even though their grandparent has dementia, they may still be able to enjoy activities with their grandchild. If your child has any activities they look forward to doing with their grandparent, they can most likely still do those things together, but if you need a few ideas on what your child and loved one can do together, we’ve got a few for you.

They can play a musical instrument together. If your loved one has a piano, they may enjoy playing it with their grandchild. And playing music may bring back happy memories for them. They can read a book or a magazine together. Your child can bring their favorite book with them during their visit. They will be excited to show it to your loved one and patients with dementia usually react well to excitement. Coloring is another easy activity that they can do together, especially if your loved one is bed bound. Make sure that you don’t correct your loved one when they are coloring. If they make the grass purple, don’t tell them that that’s not what grass looks like. You may accidentally upset them and have to end the visit early.

They can play a favorite board or card game together. Games can also help your loved one exercise their mind, which can potentially help strengthen their brain. If your loved one needs a drink or a snack during your visit, let your child get it for them. Being able to accomplish a task that helps their grandparent on their own will give them a sense of satisfaction and help build their sense of compassion. Your child may be cautious about hugging their grandparent, but you should encourage them to hug. Your loved one will really appreciate this show of love and it is a way for them to communicate their own love for their grandchild when words become difficult for them. After your visit, offer to answer any questions your child may have about the time spent together. If you don’t know the answer or don’t know how to effectively answer them, let them know that you don’t know, but that you can figure out the answer together.

In an article for AgingCare, one grandson of a grandparent with dementia gives his take on what to do with a grandparent with dementia. He says that he’s learned to adapt as he goes. He’s learned to avoid asking questions that his grandmother won’t know the answer to and says he’s gotten good at shifting the conversation quickly to distract her from tricky things or topics that upset her. Even if you say something wrong, it’s okay. Just learn from it and try to redirect them to something happier. They will likely forget the incident in a short time.

He also says that it really helps if he uses his grandmother’s own words and phrases to describe things. She recalls the information better that way. For instance, if he says the name of the café they go to all the time, she doesn’t remember it. But if he refers to it as “the one with the steps to the courtyard outside,” she remembers straight away. Try to find small things like this that can simplify and improve communication.

Some days are better than others. On days where she’s having more trouble remembering things, he says that it’s good to make his grandmother feel like she’s not forgetting too much and reassure her that it’s okay. When she can’t remember a name, event, or detail, he acts like anyone could forget such a thing and tells her it’s not a big deal. Sometimes you have to play down pretty major things to help a dementia patient feel a little bit better.

He says he still likes spending time with his grandmother and that they were very close when he was little. Now, he gets lots of hugs from her, and she’s very adoring. He thinks it’s absurd, but it’s also kind of nice.

Most of our ideas for this episode have been geared toward younger children, but we’re hoping this real-life account by a teenager can help those with older children see how other families are navigating life with a loved one with dementia.

Now that you know some ways that your children can interact with their grandparents with dementia, let’s move on to our final section for the episode, which is questions and answers by and for families that are dealing with dementia.

For this last section, we’re taking a look at a question posted by a 7 cups user on their question-and-answer forum. 7 Cups is an on-demand emotional health service and online therapy provider. For more information on their services, visit their website at 7 cups dot com. You can also find a link to their website in our show notes.

The user-posted question we’re looking at today is My grandparent has dementia. How do I deal with this? What can I expect?

The highest-rated response is dementia symptoms vary but usually include a loss of memory, difficulties in communicating, and personality changes. If you love your grandparent, and I am sure you do, seeing him decline in these ways will be very challenging and you may find that you feel helpless and sad. These reactions are normal. Joining an Alzheimer's disease or dementia support group can help you cope with your feelings and can be very beneficial. Regarding your grandparent, the best approach to helping him is to be a good listener, be supportive and positive, and reassure him that he can still enjoy life regardless of the changes he is experiencing.

Another good response we found was that the most important thing to remember about verbal or physical aggression is that your grandparent is not doing it on purpose. Aggression from dementia is usually triggered by something—often physical discomfort, environmental factors such as being in an unfamiliar situation, or even poor communication. This is what you have to expect. Harsh responses. You have to try to cope with him, understand him, don't let yourself be offended or hurt.

Another user suggests making the most of the times when they are lucid. Spend as much time with them as you can spare, particularly in the mornings- dementia is often much worse later in the evening when the sufferer is tired. Ask them to tell you stories about their past. Most people say that the thing they regret the most is not spending time with them whilst they're still lucid. Of course, there are going to be bad times and good times, and it does get worse as time goes on. Getting support from and supporting your family can be very important in the bad times.

One of the most helpful responses we found was to know more about what to expect, find out what condition your grandparent has that causes dementia, because symptoms and prognosis can vary widely. In general, people with dementia suffer from severe memory problems, can be very disoriented, cease to recognize loved ones and familiar places, and have challenges caring for themselves. Whatever happens, don't take it personally if your grandparent doesn't recognize you.

Avoid arguing and trying to reason with a person with dementia. Avoid treating them like a child. They may be confused, but they still deserve respect and dignity. Learn to respond to the emotions behind what your loved one says, not the facts. For instance, if they say they refuse to take a bath because they don't want to drown, they might really be trying to say that they want their privacy, or they're frightened, or even that they're afraid the bath will be too hot or too cold. Therefore, don't think of seemingly random things the person says as nonsense, but instead view them as attempts to communicate with you. There are many professionals, such as occupational therapists, who can help you with advice on how to help your loved one live as happily and independently as possible. If you are a caregiver, get as much additional support as you can.

One creative response that might not work for every situation says that his son coped with a grandparent who would repeatedly ask the grandson whether he had eaten. The grandson would smile and tell the grandparent that yes, he had eaten, and show a spoon as proof. He always carried a spoon in his pocket when he was home. Then he’d ask the grandparent whether she had eaten, and the grandparent would look content… until she asked once again if he had eaten. This approach may not work for everyone, but it shows that remaining calm and creativity works sometimes and is worth striving for. At least some of the problems that dementia creates may be reduced this way.

Everyone is different and every situation is different, but we hope that you have been able to use something from today’s episode to help you and your family navigate the problems that dementia comes with. For more information on dementia, check out the sources in our show notes and also visit our website for all the latest information on long term care issues and tips.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. Join us next time on All Home Care Matters where we will be discussing a topic that can be difficult and emotional at times and that’s “When Siblings Don’t Agree”

Sources:

https://lotsahelpinghands.com/blog/how-to-teach-children/

https://www.verywellhealth.com/helping-a-child-whose-grandparent-has-alzheimers-98005

https://www.7cups.com/qa-family-stress-23/my-grandparent-has-dementia-how-do-i-deal-with-this-what-can-i-expect-390/

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dementia

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/what-dementia-symptoms-types-and-diagnosis

https://www.familylives.org.uk/advice/your-family/grandparents/helping-your-grandchildren-understand-dementia/

https://www.winchesterhospital.org/health-library/article?id=998960

https://www.agingcare.com/articles/5-dementia-tips-from-a-grandson-212858.htm

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Today we are talking about something many of our listeners, viewers, and especially those with parents that have cognitive issues, like Alzheimer’s and dementia, experience, and that is parenting the parent. First, we’ll talk a little bit about what we mean by parenting the parent. Next, we’ll talk about the role of an adult child in the caregiving role and help you prepare for this new role reversal in your life. Then, we’ll move on to ways you can effectively parent your loved one when they are unable to care for themselves alone. Finally, we’ll look at some of things adult children should and shouldn’t be doing while caring for a parent.

When we are young, most of us see our parents as strong, constant figures. As a child, I know I never thought of my own parents getting older, and I definitely never thought I would be in the position where I would have to take care of and be in charge of my parents. But our parents are not the stuff of legends, they don’t live forever, although we wish they may. Old age and sickness will prevail in the end and the child will become the parent.

Parenting a parent is scary. Seeing our parents decline is not something any of us wants to witness, but it is what most of us will come to know at some point in our lifetime. Parenting a parent is tough, yes, but it is also rewarding and allows you to spend precious time with your loved one. You will be shocked to know how much about your loved ones you don’t know until you undertake this new position of parent. Caring for your loved one at the end of their life creates a bond that is unlike any other. The child-parent bond is strengthened when child becomes the parent, as both sides get to walk in the other’s shoes. Many people find that they have more compassion, patience, and a desire for service after caring for a loved one.

We may find ourselves in the position of parenting our parents during their old age, when they are unable to go about their daily lives on their own. Alzheimer’s, dementia, and sudden illnesses, like cancer, can also cause us to have to care for our loved ones, even if just for a short while. No matter what reason we find ourselves parenting a parent, the end result is the same. Our parents, the ones we once thought invincible, need us.

They need our help to do things they may not have thought they would ever need help doing, like grocery shopping or cleaning the house. Parenting a parent isn’t easy for us, or for our loved ones. When your loved one gets to the place in their life where they find that they are needing constant help to do things they once thought was easy, it may be hard for them to come to terms with.

With the aging population growing, approximately 10,000 people turn 65 every day, the likelihood that your loved one will need support is higher than what it would have been a few years ago. According to a study on Financing end-of-life care in the United States, three-quarters of people who live to age 65 will develop cancer, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or dementia or will have a stroke in their last year of life.

At the end of their life, your loved one needs all the support, love, and care that you can give them. It is a scary time for your loved one, as well. Parenting your loved one lets them know that someone is there with them and will be there continuously throughout this strange new time, no matter how long it may last. Parenting a parent allows us to return the favor and show our aging parents how much their love and support has really meant to us throughout our entire lives.

Now that you know a little bit about what parenting a parent is and why it is so important, let’s move on to your role as the adult child caregiver and how you can prepare yourself for this new role reversal.

Many adult children find themselves in the position of caregiver for their aging parents and if you are listening or watching this episode, you have probably come to find yourself in this position or will be in this position soon enough. It is our hope that this episode, as well as the rest of our discussions and episodes, can help you and your loved one navigate this journey you both are on.

As a caregiver for your parent or loved one, you will find yourself in charge of many things other than just your loved one’s care. You will need to know your loved one’s medical information and history, information about their financial situation, who to contact to relay information to family and friends, their legal information, including their will and any wishes they have for after they are gone. The list goes on and on.

Many times, family caregivers feel overwhelmed when the time comes to provide care for their loved ones, and that is because they were not prepared. Preparing to care for your parents ahead of time can ease the transition of the care process and reduce everyone’s stress and raise your level of comfort. Talking to your parents about what to do when they are unable to take care of themselves can be uncomfortable not only for you but also them, but it is an important conversation to have, although it will likely be more than one conversation.

When talking about caregiving, make sure to include siblings and other important relatives, even if they are not in the area. Together, you can all come up with a care plan, whether it be one person providing continuous, around the clock care, or taking turns providing care for your parents. Who provides the care will likely be determined by where your loved ones will be living out the remainder of their days and how much care they will require.

Making these plans in advance allows everyone to have a say, or at least be heard. When the time comes that your loved ones need help with day-to-day living activities, they can be reassured by the knowledge that they already have a plan in place and know what will happen next.

Having a plan before the time comes is helpful, but it is also important to revisit and reevaluate the plan occasionally. Things can change. Your sibling that was going to move in with your parents may have moved across the country for a job and can no longer provide the care they had planned for. Or your loved ones may need more care than you initially thought and are unable to stay by themselves. You should also reevaluate the care plan when it is in place. While caring for your loved ones, you may find that your plan no longer covers all of their needs, and that’s okay. When you already have a plan, it is easy to adapt it to fit your current needs. Adapting a plan is much easier than creating an entire plan from scratch while also providing care.

As your parents’ caregiver, you will often find yourself making decisions. The most important decision you will have to make, though, is when to let your parents decide. Making all the decisions for your loved ones will end up making them feel inadequate and less like themselves. As a caregiver, you want to make sure you are allowing your loved ones to decide as much as they can, allowing them to maintain their independence for as long as possible. Your goal is to make sure that they are safe and healthy, your goal is not to control them. Making sure they are able to make decisions for themselves, even if it is just what they are eating for lunch or what shoes they are wearing for the day, gives them control over their circumstances when they don’t have control over much else.

In a How Stuff Works article, Jennifer Sellers writes that because people are starting families later, and older adults are living longer, many folks are taking care of their older parents while also raising children of their own. People in this group are known as the sandwich generation. An AARP report found that 44 percent of 45- to 55-year-olds had both at least one living parent and one child under the age of 21. If you are also a part of the sandwich generation, you will most likely find yourself parenting your parent, as well as your own children.

When taking care of two generations, you have to make sacrifices and decisions that you deem best. There will come a time when you have to decide between your child and your parent, and that is a tough decision to make. When making these decisions, make sure both parties are aware of any conflicts that arise. If your daughter has a soccer game at the same time as your parent’s doctor’s appointment, make sure they both know about the other’s occurring conflict. Hopefully, your children and parents will make the decision easy on you and no feeling will be hurt, but that might not always be the case.

Scheduling time alone, and together, ahead of time can help ensure everyone is getting the care and attention they need. A family calendar can be a good visual tool for everyone to use.

It is also important to schedule time for yourself, especially when caring for two generations. Caring for just a parent or a child is already a lot but adding in the other generation puts even more stress on you, so it is important that you plan time ahead for yourself. Planning ahead also makes it more likely that you will actually get this time to yourself, as everyone in the household will be aware in advance that you will be unavailable, unless of course for an emergency.

Now that we’ve talked some about your role as the adult child caregiver and how you can prepare for it, we’re going to take a look at some of the ways you can actually parent a parent.

Just like how your parenting style changes as your children age, the way you provide care for an aging loved one will change over time and will be dependent on your loved one’s physical and mental capabilities. You may gradually have to provide more and more care as your parents age and need more help. You may also suddenly find yourself providing care full-time. Each caregiving situation is unique, and your situation may be similar to someone else’s, but it won’t be the same.

Sellers has a few suggestions that can help you successfully provide care for your loved one and allow them to maintain their independence and dignity. First, participate in open communication with your parent and any other parties involved, such as your siblings or your parent's health care providers. You should also promote independence in the parent, whenever possible, even if there are limitations. You can reach out to support systems, such as family members and volunteer groups, when you need help. Observe your parent's routines and habits and be aware of any changes that happen. You should also familiarize yourself with your parent's financial and insurance details since as their caregiver, you will most likely be the one dealing with their finances. Lastly, educate yourself on eldercare issues. Knowing about issues that may affect your loved one can save you a lot of time and stress and can potentially save your loved one’s life.

When parenting a parent, it’s important that they continue pursuing their interests, as long as it won’t be detrimental to their health. If your parent likes gardening, you can help them garden outside. If they are unable to get on the ground, you could get them raised garden beds. If they are wheelchair or bed-bound and unable to easily get outside, you can bring the garden to them with a small, movable, indoor herb and flower garden. Our example is gardening, but you can help them to pursue any interests they may have. If you are unsure how to help them pursue their interests safely, you can start by getting them a book on the subject their interested in. Participating in things they are interested in helps keep their brain stimulated and helps fight off depression.

Another way you can parent your parent is by allowing them to participate and do things on their own. Making sure they still have the opportunity to feel needed and a part of the family, and not just someone you are taking care of, will help them retain some feelings of normalcy. Let them give you advice and feel helpful. They can help you pick out gifts for other family members or help you write thank you cards.

Letting them do things on their own means just that. Let them dress themselves, cook for themselves, and eat by themselves, even if it is time consuming and messy at times. You can invest in items that can help them do these tasks, like a long-handled shoehorn to put on their own shoes. Or precut veggies so they can cook dinner without having to chop things with a knife. Allowing them to do the things they are able to do, no matter how slowly, helps them maintain their independence. Just think how you would feel if someone was constantly doing simple tasks for you and wouldn’t let you even button your shirt by yourself. You would be frustrated. That’s how your loved one feels when you do these tasks for them.

Similar to how you have to babyproof your home before a new baby arrives, you will want to make sure your loved one’s living space is safe and accessible to them, whether it be your own home, theirs, or an assisted living facility. Installing brighter lights can help your loved one see better, as it can be harder for them to see in dim light as they get older. Rugs can be a fall hazard, so make sure you remove those, too. You will also want to make sure the entrances and exits of their home are safe for them to use. This could mean installing new handrails, fixing steps, and making sure outdoor lights are in working order.

Another important aspect of parenting is ensuring your loved one’s health. Going with your parents to their doctor appointments allows you to ask any questions you or your loved one has, and you can make sure to keep a record of their medical history and information when you are there in person. When you go with your loved one, you can also get first-hand information of what medications they are taking and what the side-effects are. As the caregiver, you are the one that will notice patterns in your loved one when they may not. You may notice a medical issue before they do and going to their doctor with them ensures that you have the chance to inform their doctor of any potential problems your loved one may have.

When parenting a parent, it is also important to remember that they are your parent, and they have a lot of life experience that you shouldn’t negate just because they need your help now. Treating your loved one as such will help the transition from total independence to whatever level of care they are receiving now.

If you are interested in learning more about how to provide care and what types of care are available for your loved one, visit our YouTube channel and checkout our Resources and Services playlist.

Now that you are familiar with some of the ways you effectively parent your parent, we’re going to move on to our final section for this episode, which is what you should and shouldn’t do while caring for your parent.

When it comes to what you should and shouldn’t do while parenting a parent, most things are dependent on the situation. And since every caregiving situation is different, you will have to decide for yourself what you should and shouldn’t do while parenting your parent. That being said, we’ve gathered a few things we think you should and shouldn’t do while parenting a parent.

First, you shouldn’t dismiss what your loved one has to say, even if you don’t think it is important. Sellers suggests that you should respect your parent's experience and knowledge. When you become like a parent to your own parent, it's easy to infantilize him or her. Remember that your mom or dad's failing health doesn't negate his or her lifetime of know-how.

You should also abide by your commitments. It's not healthy for you to be at anyone's beck and call, but when it comes to your parents, be sure to honor your promises and let them know what can be expected from you, and when it can be expected. If you continuously break your commitments to your loved one, they will feel unwanted, unneeded, and unloved and even could start to feel as a burden to you. Your intentions are not to hurt their feelings or make them feel this way, but when you don’t prioritize them, that is what you are doing. The same goes for yourself.

You should prioritize yourself and make and keep commitments to yourself. Just like how you have to put your own oxygen mask on first on a plane, you have to make sure your mental state is sufficient to take care of another person, and if it isn’t, you need to commit to taking a break and recharging so that you can come back and continue to provide care. For more information on how to prioritize and take care of yourself, check out our episode on Caring for the Caregiver.

Another thing you should do is visit often. If your loved one doesn’t live with you, loneliness can creep in and affect their physical and emotional state. You should also encourage your siblings, friends, and friends of your parents to visit, as well. You shouldn’t convince others to visit or force them to when they are not wanting to. Your loved one will most likely notice when someone doesn’t want to be there, and they won’t enjoy the visit. It will also make them feel like they are more of a chore for people, instead of an individual people are excited to visit with.

Lastly, you should know where your parent stands financially and legally. It's important to know details of your parent's accounts, such as whether or not they have long-term care insurance, which lawyer holds a copy of their will and whether or not their monthly bills are being paid on time. You shouldn’t hold their finances for them and make all their financial decisions for them, unless your specific situation calls for it. If your loved one has dementia or Alzheimer’s, you may be put in charge of their finances, but you should still try to let them have as much control as they can, as long as they can.

Hopefully you have learned a bit about parenting the parent today. We hope this episode has given you some idea of the role of the adult child caregiver and given you ways to prepare for the time when you are caring for your parent, as well as give you some idea of what you should and shouldn’t do while caring for a parent.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. Join us next time on All Home Care Matters where we will be discussing a topic that can be difficult for families with younger children, and that is What’s Wrong with Grandpa? This topic will discuss ways for families to help children understand when a grandparent has dementia.

Sources:

https://www.forbes.com/sites/jeffbevis/2018/10/24/parenting-your-parents/?sh=35a664b570a9

https://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/aging/elder-care/child-becomes-parent.htm

https://www.bls.gov/opub/mlr/2006/09/art1full.pdf

https://www.interimhealthcare.com/blog/july-2019/dealing-with-role-reversal-from-child-to-parent-ca/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1282187/

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Before we get started we want to give you a quick update on the interview we had schedule for today’s episode. Unfortunately, when we began the interview we started having some technical difficulties and due to the importance and nature of the interview we collectively decided it would be best to reschedule it.

So in place of the interview, we are going to be discussing an issue that has or will affect every family at some point and that is the long-term care crisis in America. First, we will talk a little about what long-term care is and who is in need of it. Then, we will gravitate towards why long-term care is becoming a crisis and what you need to do to prepare for it.

Maybe you’re already experiencing some of these issues or you’re looking towards the near future and are unsure what it may hold. Regardless of your current situation we hope that this episode will give you some ideas and suggestions for your long-term care situation. Let’s move on to the rest of the show.

As we age, many of us will end up needing long-term care, which is a type of care required if you are unable to perform daily activities on your own. According to Genworth, daily activities means things like eating, bathing, dressing, transferring, and using the bathroom. For many long-term care providers, the goal of long-term care is to allow the recipient, and as often as it is in our case our loved ones, to maintain their lifestyle. As caregivers for our loved ones, we are allowing them to maintain as much freedom as possible and to live out the remainder of their lives as they wish.

Being the primary caregiver for our loved ones is usually the most cost-effective option, but it is not the only way long-term care can be provided. Long-term care facilities and professional home care providers are all options when it comes to long-term care for our loved ones. Often times, it comes down to what a family can afford. Medicare and Medicaid and traditional insurances don’t usually cover the cost of long-term care (this is where long-term care insurance is typically used), leaving families to try and cover the costs on their own.

Today, seven out of ten older adults will need some sort of long-term care support and 63 percent of family caregivers have to use their own retirement savings to help fund and pay for care.

With the aging baby boomer generation, the long-term care crisis will soon reach an all-time high. The COVID-19 pandemic has already seen to it that hospitals and other care facilities reached their full-capacity. America does not currently have the medical infrastructure to support the influx of patients that the pandemic has brought, and it certainly doesn’t have the infrastructure to support the 71.6 million baby boomers that will be needing care in the coming years.

Long-term care helps with daily living activities, but it can also include community services such as meals, adult day care, and transportation services. These services may be provided free or for a fee. Preparing for long-term care ahead of time can not only give you peace of mind when the time comes that you need long-term care, but it also ensures that the financial burden will not fall on your loved ones.

According to Market Watch, long-term care is extremely expensive, and for many Americans, it is simply unaffordable. Most seniors simply don’t have the average $100,000 a year for a nursing home, $45,000 for assisted living, or $33,000 for in-home care.

A report by the Long-Term Care Financing Collaborative found that the out-of-pocket costs of such assistance can be catastrophic, and few people have the necessary resources…to meet this need. Private insurance can cover some of the costs, but it won’t cover everything. Market Watch states that the average premium today is $2,050 a year for a 55-year-old man and $2,700 for a woman of the same age — with premiums rising 25 percent to 100 percent annually. That is, if you can find a policy. Insurers are pulling out of the market in droves as lifespans and health care costs rise — and profit margins fall.

Medicaid will cover the costs of skilled nursing care for lower-income seniors, but they don’t help middle- or upper-class seniors and Medicare doesn’t cover any of the costs. Families that leave the workforce to provide care for their loved ones forego approximately $300,000 ($324,000 for women and $284,000 for men) in retirement income. For many families, quitting their own jobs to provide full-time care is the only option. At All Home Care Matters, we fully support families as the primary caregiver, but we want you to be prepared to be a primary caregiver, instead of being thrust into the roll unexpectedly.

The cost of long-term care isn’t the only reason for the crisis. There’s also a shortage of room in facilities and a shortage of staff and unfortunately, both of these shortages cause the price of long-term care to increase even more, creating a very costly cycle.

Now that we know about the long-term care crisis in America and how costly long-term care can be for the care recipient and their family, let’s take a look at who needs long-term care and what the specific long-term care options are.

In GenWorth’s 2018 Beyond Dollars report, they state how seven out of ten people will need long term care at some point, yet six out of ten people are convinced the need for care will never happen to them. In fact, 63 percent of care recipients and 61 percent of caregivers report that, prior to the moment care was needed, they had never considered that the need for long term care at some point was a very real possibility. Among those that had considered the need for care prior to the need revealing itself, less than 25 percent had made any plans to cover this type of situation because they didn’t want to talk about it or admit that care was needed and many also assumed that they had more time.

When we do think about a time that we will need long-term care, we often think of it as being when we are in the end-of-life stage, but that isn’t always the case.

Hank, a long-term care recipient, never thought he would need long-term care, especially at his age. On Father’s Day, he had a stroke and was unconscious for 48 hours. He thought he was going to die. Luckily, his son found him in time and got him help. After his stroke, Hank’s son stayed with him, helping him with his daily living activities, like bathing, until he got some of his strength back. His son was able to go back to school and continue classes because of a caregiver that was able to come into Hank’s home and help him with daily tasks like laundry and preparing food.

Before his stroke, Hank never thought about what if. He hadn’t prepared for the expenses that came with long-term care or for the lack of income and the bills that added up while he was unable to work for several weeks. Hank says he can’t change what happened in the past, but he can change what’s happening now. Nobody knows when something similar is going to happen that is going to require you to get help and Hank wants to make sure his son and others prepare for that moment ahead of time.

As we’ve seen with Hank, anyone can be in need of long-term care at any point in their life. Besides age, accidents, illnesses, strokes, and other chronic conditions can all lead you to need long-term care. Cognitive illnesses, such as Alzheimer’s and dementia are one of the leading causes for long-term care, as well. According to GenWorth, 5.8 million Americans currently have Alzheimer’s, and that number continues to grow steadily. In fact, by 2050, this number is projected to increase to almost 14 million. For more information on Alzheimer’s and dementia, you can visit our official YouTube channel for our playlist dedicated to Alzheimer’s and Dementia educational videos.

Age, gender, family and housing situation, health, and lifestyle all factor into whether or not you will need long-term care. As you get older, it becomes more likely that you will need long term care. Gender goes hand in hand with age, as women have a greater likelihood of needing long-term care than men because of their likelihood to live longer than men. People who live alone and are without a support system in their area are more likely to need care from a paid caregiver.

People living with family or having a support system in the area don’t have a lower risk of needing long-term care, but they most likely will not need full-time care from a paid caregiver, as they have loved ones near that may be able to help provide care in some way. Having any chronic health conditions, like diabetes or high blood pressure, or a family history of chronic health conditions may also increase your risk of needing long-term care. Just like with most things in life, having a poor diet and lack of exercise can increase your risk of needing long-term care.

Thinking about and preparing for the what if, as Hank said earlier, can make all the difference when the time actually comes that you need long-term care. Preparing funds ahead of time, whether it be starting a new account to save specifically for long-term care or other health costs or deciding on an amount of retirement money to use can help you and your family budget for a future that may include long-term care.

Getting regular check-ups and leading a healthy lifestyle that includes eating healthy foods, staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, and getting an adequate amount of exercise can help you combat the need for long-term care, but it won’t make certain that you won’t need long-term care in the future. We never know what will happen, so it is best to be prepared.

When planning for long-term care, having an idea of how you will pay for the associated costs is a good start. You will also need to determine if a family member will provide care for you in your own home, or possibly in theirs. If you choose to go with professional home care services, you will have to determine what sort of care you want to receive from them and they can help you in deciding what type of care may be best suited for your needs.

There are a few different options you can choose from for long-term care and many of them will depend on what level of care you will be needing, which you most likely will not know until the time comes. There are three main types of care settings you need to know about when choosing what type of long-term care is best for you, in home care, community care, and facility care.

The in-home care option means that a caregiver can help you with daily tasks such as personal care, hygiene, bathroom assistance, and memory care. They can also assist with any domestic needs that you may have as well like laundry, cleaning, cooking, transportation for shopping and appointments. One of the nice features of home care is that the care is customized specifically to the individual and not a one size fits all approach. People with cognitive illnesses can benefit from the home care option due to the close one-on-one interaction they will have with the caregiver and from being in their familiar environment at home.

Adult day care is an example of community care. Adult day care provides a safe place for a care receiver to stay while their loved ones are working or away for a few days. It also allows seniors to socialize and participate in activities they find enjoyable. Many families choose this option when they are the primary caregiver and work at the same time or when they want to make sure that their loved one is getting the social interaction they need. However, most adult day cares have criteria that individuals must meet to make sure they are a good fit for their programs.

Facility options include assisted living and nursing homes. Assisted livings are recommended for individuals that don’t require twenty-four-hour care and are able to stay on their own for a period of time. Depending on the facility, it could be a few hours at a time, or it could be overnight. Most assisted living facilities also have someone on standby in case of emergencies.

Nursing homes are a great option for patients that require full-time care and do not have the support system that is able to provide it at home or they need even more help than their family is able to provide. Often times people with cognitive illnesses will end up needing to live in some type of a facility during their long-term care. There are also specialized facilities for cognitive illnesses or specific memory units within a facility that take care of those patients. Patients in memory units quite often have more bad days than good by the time they end up living in a memory unit.

The long-term care crisis in America is only just beginning. With the aging population rising and the cost of health care at an all-time high, we can expect the crisis to worsen. It’s important to plan ahead now, so that when the time comes, and it may come sooner than you think, you will be prepared for it.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. Join us next time on All Home Care Matters where we will be discussing a topic that can be difficult for families and that is Parenting the Parent.

Sources:

https://www.marketwatch.com/story/americas-long-term-care-crisis-is-worsening-2019-07-22

https://www.genworth.com/aging-and-you/finances/what-is-long-term-care.html

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/what-long-term-care

https://web.archive.org/web/20200428233813/https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2020/04/28/millennials-overtake-baby-boomers-as-americas-largest-generation/

https://pro.genworth.com/riiproweb/productinfo/pdf/282301.pdf

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On this episode of All Home Care Matters, we are going to be talking about Common Issues to Address when Helping Aging Parents. We’ve gathered some tips, tools, and resources that we think can help you and your aging parents navigate this new, possibly difficult, and confusing path. Now, let’s move on to the rest of the show.

Many older adults don’t need any help in their day-to-day lives, but that may change with time, especially as lifespans are increasing and many adults are living well into their 80s, 90s, and some even live into their hundreds. As we get older and older, the likelihood that we will need some sort of help, either from family or from a medical service, increases greatly.

At some point, you may find yourself in a position where you will be helping your aging parents. According to Better Health While Aging, family members are by far the number one source of “long-term care supports and services” for older adults, so depending on your proximity to your parents, you most likely will end up helping your parents when they reach a certain age.

One of the most common issues to address when helping aging parents is the actual act of helping. Your aging parent may not want to admit they need help, but that is something they are going to have to come to terms with. Make sure you sit down with your loved one and your family to express your concerns for your loved one and establish a plan to help them in whatever ways are necessary.

It could be just helping them establish a time when you can take them to the grocery store and to their medical appointments, or it could be a deeper conversation about the type of help you think they need and they think they need. Make sure to keep them in the loop while discussing future plans so they are not completely blindsided. They are less likely to become argumentative if you approach the subject over a period of time and allow them to have input that you seriously consider.

When helping aging parents, another concern you will be faced with is their safety, especially when you are unable to be around them all the time. According to AARP, 60 percent of family caregivers are juggling paid work and caregiving. While you are away, you may worry about your loved one, and that’s normal. We all worry about our loved ones, even if they are not in a place where they are needing our help.

You and your loved one will need to think about whether or not they should be driving, their financial situation, and even how safe they are in their own home. For some tips and resources to ensure your loved one is safe at home, check out our recent episode on Aging in Place.

We’ve talked a lot about caring for the caregiver on this podcast, and today is no exception. It’s important to take care of yourself while you are caring for your loved ones. You should set up boundaries with your loved one and schedule time for yourself in advance. Scheduling ahead of time allows you to ensure that someone you trust, another family member, can be ready to help your loved ones if need be.

Medical and health issues are another common issues that you will likely have to address when helping aging parents. Many older adults develop chronic conditions and illnesses as they age and need medication daily to manage them. As we get older, we also have a harder time recovering from illnesses, so you may find yourself helping them recover, much like you would your child. Your loved one may not notice additions symptoms they develop, so going to their doctor appointments with them can ensure they are getting seen and treated for things before they get out of hand. And taking your loved on to their appointments also means you won’t have to worry about them driving themselves.

Planning ahead is one of the most important things you can do when it comes to helping aging parents. Before your loved one even comes to the point where you start to wonder if they are beginning to need help, you should sit down and make a plan of what they want to happen, what kind of assistance and care they want, whether they want to stay in their own home, move in with you, or live in a facility if the time comes when they are unable to live alone. Knowing how to use their financial assets ahead of time will also help in making a plan to help your loved one.

Better Health While Aging believes that planning ahead tends to reduce later stress, hassles, and sometimes expenses, and we firmly believe this, too.

We know this is not an exhaustive list of issues to address when helping aging parents, but we hope it may help you and your loved one and give you an idea of where to start.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. Join us next time on All Home Care Matters where we will be welcoming a very special guest who will be sharing their experience caring for their son with special needs and the heartwarming journey they both shared.

Sources:

https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/what-to-address-when-helping-older-parents/

https://www.aarp.org/ppi/info-2015/valuing-the-invaluable-2015-update.html

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All Home Care Matters had the privilege of welcoming music therapist, Alexis Baker to the show. During the interview Alexis demonstrates and shares how music therapy through a therapeutic process helps seniors and olders adults become engaged and active through music. Alexis is founder and owner of Bridgetown Music Therapy, which improves the lives of older adults through the use of music. She is a licensed and board-certified music therapist with 8 years of experience.

Alexis earned her Bachelor of Music Therapy degree from Marylhurst University in 2013. Over the years, she has worked with a variety of populations in multiple settings, but ultimately decided to specialize in serving older adults in 2016. Drawn to their rich wisdom, unique life stories and sense of humor, Alexis absolutely loves this age group and is passionate about making a difference in their lives using music and expressive arts therapy.

Connect with Alexis and Bridgetown Music Therapy:

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/bridgetownmusictherapy

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/bridgetownmusictherapy/

LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexis-baker-mt-bc-42b7b93b/

Website:

https://www.bridgetownmt.com/care

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Today, we are going to be discussing everyday activities that boost memory in older adults. First, we’ll talk about cognitive health, what it is, and things that affect it. Then, we will differentiate between normal age-related memory and cognitive issues that most individuals experience and the cognitive decline that happens with cognitive issues, such as Alzheimer’s or dementia.

After which we will see why cognitive function decreases with age. Then, we’ll talk about how older adults without cognitive issues can boost their memory and what everyday activities they can start trying now. We’ll then move on to some daily things seniors with cognitive issues can do to help improve or delay the cognitive decline they are experiencing. Finally, we’ll talk about the importance of exercising your brain now and how it can help you later. Now let’s move on to the rest of the show.

The National Institute on Aging states that Cognitive health, which is the ability to clearly think, learn, and remember, is an important component of performing everyday activities and is just one aspect of overall brain health. Our brain health is determined by how well we are able to function across several areas which include: cognitive health, motor function, emotional function, and tactile function.

Several studies have shown that taking care of your physical health, managing high blood pressure, eating healthy foods, engaging in physical activity, keeping your mind active, staying connected with social activities, managing stress are all linked to cognitive health and can help improve brain function and a combination of all of these as lifestyle changes can actually help reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Now, I know that was a big list of things I just gave you, but most of them are things you are probably already doing and things we are constantly recommending on this podcast.

Taking care of your physical health means that you make sure you are going to your scheduled doctors’ appointments and keeping up with treatments and any care plans you may have. You should also reduce your risk of falling at home to prevent possible brain-related injuries that may come from a fall. If you are interested in ways to make sure your home is safe as you continue to age, check out our Quick Tips episode on Safely Aging in Place.

Many observational studies have come to the consensus that having high blood pressure between the ages of forty and sixty is a risk factor for cognitive decline as an older adult. The National Institute on Aging suggests that preventing or controlling your high blood pressure can help protect your brain and heart. Since high blood pressure can happen without any symptoms, it is important to go to your doctor for regular health screenings. If you have high blood pressure, you’re not alone. One-third of Americans have high blood pressure, and nearly two-thirds of older adults have high blood pressure. Your doctor may suggest exercise, changes in your diet, or medication to help control your high blood pressure.

A healthy diet has yet to be scientifically proven to reduce the risks of cognitive decline, but researchers are currently working on it. For instance, some people on the Mediterranean diet have been shown to have a lower risk of developing dementia. Even if scientists are unable to find a connection between eating healthy and lowering your risk of cognitive decline as an older adult, eating healthy is helpful for your overall brain health. If you’re interested in nutrition tips for seniors, we’ve done a few episodes covering the subject in the past.

Make sure you drink plenty of water and are getting the nutrients your body needs. Talk to your doctor for help developing a nutrition plan specifically for you. As we age, our body changes and we need different things to fuel our bodies than we used to. Your doctor or a registered dietician can help determine the right plan for you.

Being physically active has many benefits. The National Institute on aging says that being physically active can keep and improve your strength, allow you to have more energy, improve your balance, which can help reduce your fall risk, prevent or delay heart disease, diabetes, and other concerns, and can help improve your mood and reduce depression. Studies have found that ongoing physical activity benefits your brain health and cognitive function. Aerobic exercise, which we commonly think of as cardio, seems to be more effective than nonaerobic exercise when it comes to cognitive function.

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln suggests that activities such as walking, dancing, swimming, water aerobics, jogging, aerobic exercise classes, bike riding (either stationary or on a path), gardening activities, such as raking and pushing a lawnmower, tennis, and golf (without a golf cart) are all beneficial for your health. Older adults should aim to participate in some form of aerobic activity for a total of two and a half hours a week. If you are just starting out or have chronic pain or other health conditions, don’t overdo it. Make sure you talk to your doctor before starting any new exercise programs.

While keeping your body active is important, so is keeping your mind active. Being intellectually stimulated has been connected to cognitive health, but it hasn’t been proven. An ample amount of studies are being conducted on what types of mental activities help with cognitive function, but they are all ongoing. At the very least, no studies have shown any harmful effects of keeping your mind active. Learning a new skill, volunteering, and hobbies are all things you can participate in that may benefit your brain health by keeping your mind active. Most of these activities will also help ensure you have much-needed social interaction as you get older, as well.

Stress is a normal part of life, but over time, chronic stress can change the brain, affect memory, and increase the risk for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Learning to manage stress now can help your body bounce back from stressful situations and reduce your risk of affecting your cognitive function. For some helpful tips and a list of ways to help manage stress, listen to our episodes on caring for the caregiver and self-care.

Now that you know about cognitive health and some things you can start doing now to protect and improve it, let’s move on to the difference between normal age-related memory and cognitive issues that most older adults will experience and the cognitive decline that happens with cognitive issues, such as Alzheimer’s or dementia.

The Alzheimer’s Society states that many of us get a little more forgetful as we get older. Most people will need a bit longer to remember things, get distracted more easily, or struggle to multi-task as well as they once did. This may become noticeable particularly from middle-age - usually taken as during our 40s, 50s, and early 60s - onwards. These changes are normal, but they can be a nuisance and at times frustrating. However, you may worry that these things are an early sign of dementia. It's important not to worry too much about this. For most people, these changes will be the result of normal aging and won't be down to dementia.

The Alzheimer’s Society also has a helpful chart you can look at to compare the signs of normal aging versus dementia. However, it should not be used to self-diagnose anything. If you or your loved one are experiencing any sort of cognitive decline, see your doctor. They can determine whether it is because of the normal aging process or not. You can find a link to the Alzheimer’s Society’s website and their chart in our show notes.

An article written for Harvard Health Publishing states that scientists used to think that brain connections developed at a rapid pace in the first few years of life until you reached your mental peak in your early 20s. Your cognitive abilities would level off at around middle age, and then start to gradually decline. We now know this is not true. Instead, scientists now see the brain as continuously changing and developing across the entire life span. There is no period in life when the brain and its functions just hold steady. Some cognitive functions become weaker with age, while others actually improve.

Some brain areas, including the hippocampus, shrink in size. The myelin sheath that surrounds and protects nerve fibers wears down, which can slow the speed of communication between neurons. Some of the receptors on the surface of neurons that enable them to communicate with one another may not function as well as they once did. These changes can affect your ability to encode new information into your memory and retrieve information that's already in storage, affecting both your long- and short-term memory.

The brain is continuously changing and growing as we age and it’s important to make sure we are keeping it active and healthy. Symphony Senior Living explains that when your brain is healthy, you can help delay cognitive issues such as Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia. They also have a few suggestions for older adults with normal aging to do daily that can boost their memory.

Card and board games that encourage thinking and calculation such as gin rummy, mahjong or Scrabble, or chess are excellent activities to add to your regular schedule to exercise memory muscles. If you are social distancing, many of these games can be played online with your loved ones, as well.

It’s important to stimulate your brain with new information and events. If you don’t, your ability to process new information will decrease over time. Brain games like Sudoku, word searches, and crosswords are great ways to stimulate your brain with new information. Reading also helps your brain retain its ability to process new information and has even been linked to longevity.

As we stated earlier, learning a new skill is also beneficial for your brain health and a great way to keep your mind active. You are never too old to learn. Whatever is it you want to learn, a musical instrument, creative writing, or maybe knitting, you should just start. Look for local classes in your area or you can take a virtual class. No matter what you choose, learning something new is a great way to stimulate cognitive function for a healthy, engaged brain.

Keeping active, both physically and mentally, is important for everyone, but it is especially important for people with dementia or other memory conditions. Saran Craig, the Clinical Program Innovation Manager at Senior Link says that providing structure and routine for a person living with dementia helps to maintain their cognitive function, sense of security, and can calm anxious or aggressive behaviors. Games, exercise and outdoor activities, music, art, and maintaining a day-to-day routine have proven to be particularly helpful and beneficial for both physical and cognitive health.

Games are a great way to help someone with dementia practice their mental skills, which can help prevent or slow their memory decline and give them the self-confidence they may be lacking. Simple math can become a problem for many with dementia, but card and board games, like chutes and ladders and go fish, can help them gain confidence in themselves and allow them to practice some math.

Playing trivia can also be a fun way to help stimulate their brain and help prevent their memory from declining further. Playing matching games routinely can help improve memory, concentration, stimulate problem-solving skills and hand-eye coordination.

In an article for the New York Times, Gretchen Reynolds tells us that findings suggest that walking a few times per week might alter the trajectory of the disease and improve the physical well-being of people who develop a common form of age-related memory loss, dementia, that otherwise has few treatments. If you or your loved one are able to go for a walk, you may find this to be true. However, going for a walk most likely will not improve memory, but it may help in preventing any further decline.

Journaling may also be something that someone with dementia may find helpful. Journaling can help manage stress, which we know from earlier can help boost memory, and writing about how we feel or what we did that day stimulates the brain.

If you or your loved one has been diagnosed with dementia or if you would just like to learn more, you can find our Dementia and Alzheimer’s playlist on our YouTube channel to watch some or all of the episodes we currently have released on dementia.

Make sure you are exercising your brain now instead of beginning when you notice any cognitive decline. There are tons of ways you can engage your brain. I’m sure you will be able to find a few ways to stimulate your brain and help improve your cognitive function. Starting earlier in life can help you prevent or slow any cognitive decline or issues you may face as you age and having the tools to help now can help ease your mind, and stress levels, if you experience memory issues later in life.

We want to thank you for joining us here at All Home Care Matters, All Home Care Matters is here for you and to help families as they navigate long-term care issues. Please visit us at allhomecarematters.com there is a private secure fillable form there where you can give us feedback, show ideas, or if you have questions. Every form is read and responded to. If you know someone is who could benefit from this episode, please share it with them.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. Join us next time on All Home Care Matters where we will be welcoming a very special guest, Alexis Baker. Alexis is a Board Certified and Licensed Music Therapist and will be sharing the many benefits and tools of music therapy. This is an interview that you won’t want to miss!

Sources:

https://www.symphonyseniorliving.com/blog/activities-that-help-memory-in-seniors/

https://www.theatlantic.com/education/archive/2016/01/the-preschool-inside-a-nursing-home/424827/

https://www.senioradvisor.com/blog/2017/02/5-benefits-of-putting-a-preschool-in-a-nursing-home/

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/cognitive-health-and-older-adults

https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/high-blood-pressure-linked-cognitive-decline

https://food.unl.edu/physical-activity-older-adults

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/symptoms-and-diagnosis/how-dementia-progresses/normal-ageing-vs-dementia

https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/how-memory-and-thinking-ability-change-with-age

https://www.nytimes.com/2017/05/24/well/move/a-1-hour-walk-3-times-a-week-has-benefits-for-dementia.html

https://www.seniorlink.com/blog/helpful-daily-activities-for-dementia-patients-50-expert-tips-and-suggestions-to-keep-your-loved-one-engaged

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All Home Care Matters is honored to welcome Lauren Dykovitz to the show to discuss her new book and her journey caring, loving, and supporting her mother who was diagnosed with Early Onset Alzheimer's. Through caring for her mother she wanted to help others facing similar situations with their loved ones.

As a result she has written two books and started a blog that attracts thousands of readers to help them with caregiving 101, avoiding caregiving burnout, and help provide them with the caregiver support that so many families need and benefit from while caring for their loved ones.

Lauren Dykovitz is a writer and author, who lives in New Jersey with her husband and two black labs. Lauren’s mom was diagnosed with Early Onset Alzheimer’s in July 2010 at the age of 62. Lauren was only 25 years old at the time. She quit her full-time job and became a caregiver for her mom at age 28.

Lauren started the Life, Love, and Alzheimer’s blog and social media pages to document her journey and share her experience as a caregiver. Lauren self-published her first book "Learning to Weather the Storm: A Story of Life, Love, and Alzheimer’s" in 2017 and her second book "When Only Love Remains: Surviving My Mom’s Battle with Early Onset Alzheimer’s" in 2021. Although her mom passed in April 2020, it is Lauren’s mission to help others on their Alzheimer’s journey by sharing stories and lessons from her personal experience. In many ways, she feels like she is just getting started!

Connect with Lauren:

https://lifeloveandalzheimers.com/ https://www.facebook.com/lifeloveanda... https://www.instagram.com/lifeloveand...

Order the Lauren's First Book: https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Weath...

Order Lauren's New Book: When Only Love Remains: Surviving My Mom's Battle with Early Onset Alzheimer's: Dykovitz, Lauren: 9798520743910: Amazon.com: Books https://www.amazon.com/When-Only-Love...

Sign-Up for Lauren's Updates and More: https://mailchi.mp/1afb83f4267e/first... (Link to sign up for her mailing list to receive the introduction to her new book, as well as any updates!)

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Today on All Home Care Matters we will be discussing a Quick Tips episode about safely aging in place. We’ve gathered some tips, tools, and resources that we think can help you and your loved one stay safe at home.

If you have loved ones who have decided that they want to remain living in their home then we hope that these tips and resources will help you and them. Let’s get started.

Each year, the number of seniors that choose to live at home and age in place rises. Seniors today are more active than previous generations and are living longer than before, which is excellent, and we love to hear that our loved ones are living longer, but it also means that more families are taking on the burden of caregiving. However, caregiving, at least for most families, is a burden that is expected and carried with love. Providing care for a loved one allows us to spend precious time with them, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Aging in place is something more seniors are wanting to do, as they want to live out the remainder of their time in an area they are familiar with and often want to die in their own bed in their own home. If you or your loved one are considering aging in place, there are a few things you can do to prepare and plan to make staying at home during the end of life safe for everyone involved.

The first thing you need to do when you are planning on aging in place is to assess your home. You will need to plan for any major changes you need to make, like moving the master bedroom to the first floor to avoid stairs. Just like when you have a new baby and baby-proof your house before they arrive, you will need to ensure your house will continue to be safe as you age and have limited mobility.

You will need to ensure you have a safe way to enter and exit the house, preferably without stairs. If you must use stairs to come and go, make sure you have sturdy handrails. There may come a point where you will need a wheelchair and having a ramp installed already will make that adjustment in your life much more manageable at the time. Wheelchair ramps can be quite pricey, but there may be local groups in your area that build ramps for seniors for free or for a reduced price. You can find more information on home safety improvement programs at your local senior center or United Way.

Another thing you may need to change if you have the means to is your flooring. Having one floor type throughout the main living space will make going from one room to the next much safer than if you have to go from hardwood to carpet and step over any transition pieces. Having steps in between main living areas, like the kitchen and living room, can also be hazardous while aging in place. If you have steps, try to make them as safe as possible by installing handrails, even if it’s just for a few steps. You should also install sturdy handrails for any flights of stairs between stories, especially if you are still planning on utilizing the second story as you age.

Any rugs you have on the floors should also be removed. They can cause someone with limited mobility to fall and as you age, you will come to a point where you find yourself with limited mobility, so it is important to minimize your fall risk.

You may also want to install brighter lights, or more light fixtures, to help you see better as you age. Many seniors find themselves having difficulties seeing in normal lighting as they get older and have an easier time seeing in brighter light. If you are interested in difficulties with vision as we age, check out our episode on Cataracts that we recently released. We also talk about how seniors can benefit from brighter lights in that episode.

Another room that will be important to modify to ensure you can safely age in place is the bathroom. According to Belvedere Home Care, 80 percent of falls in the home occur in the bathroom. Getting up and down is difficult with limited mobility and even showering becomes more dangerous with age. To make sure you stay safe at home, install grab bars in the bathroom, for the toilet and in the shower, to make sure you have something to steady yourself on and pull yourself up with. You should also consider getting a shower chair or bench and a removable showerhead to avoid a fall while showering.

As you age, many changes will happen to your body and it is hard to tell how your body will react to the aging process ahead of time, so it is important to be prepared for as much as possible, so you won’t have to worry about it later. Accidents and falls can happen anywhere. Senior Home Companions recommends installing a landline phone in every room, if possible. If you can’t have a landline phone in every room, you could make sure you always carry a cell phone with you or have a life alert button on hand in case you have an emergency.

If you ever do have an accident or an emergency, having an emergency information sheet on hand can be lifesaving. When planning on aging in place, you should make an emergency information sheet that includes a list of all medications you need and when you need them, a list of all your doctors and their information, and a list of family members that need to be contacted during an emergency. You should make sure all your emergency contacts have a copy of this sheet and have a copy next to every phone and on the fridge so that it can be easily located in case of an emergency.

Aging at home will require you to accept that you will need help. Things will become more difficult with age and if you are prepared for that and accept it ahead of time, it will make the aging process a lot easier on you. If you own your home, make sure you have a plan for house and lawn maintenance. You can have someone come mow your lawn for you, there may even be volunteer groups that would be willing to provide lawn care and other home maintenance activities for you.

Having someone come do your yard work for you may be easy help to accept, but there will come a time when you will need help doing things you didn’t think you would need help with, like cooking, cleaning, personal care, and that’s okay. Your loved ones may come and help you prepare meals or bring meals to you. Having help with cooking will make sure you are still getting all the nutrients your body needs and will help reduce your risk of a fall or accident in the kitchen.

When deciding to age in place, you will also need to consider the need for a caregiver as you age. You may not think you will need one now, but that may change, and it’s important to plan for it. You should discuss with your loved ones if a family member will provide care or if you will hire a home care company. Having a plan in place, and money saved up specifically for that use, will make it easier on yourself if the time comes that you do need a caregiver.

Lastly, it is important to reassess your needs when necessary. For example, if you are in a two-story house and sleeping upstairs in the master bedroom, but you are having trouble climbing the stairs, it is time to change your sleeping arrangements. If something changes with your health, which it is likely to do as you age, it is important to reassess your needs to ensure you are as safe as possible while you age in place.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. Next, on All Home Care Matters we will be welcoming a very special guest, Lauren Dykovitz. Lauren cared for her mother after a diagnosis of early onset Alzheimer’s and has shared her and her mother’s story in two books that she has written. The second book was just released in July and is already a #1 new release on Amazon. This is an interview that you won’t want to miss.

Sources:

https://seniorhomecompanions.com/blog/20-healthful-tips-for-aging-in-place-in-2020/

https://belvederehealthservices.com/belvedere-home-care/blog/safety-seniors-preventing-falls-bathroom

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Today on All Home Care Matters, we have the privilege of welcoming International Dementia Expert, Speaker, and Champion, Mr. Tim England.

Tim England demystifies and destigmatized dementia in the community and advocates for people living with dementia and their families to live well. Being a Dementia Care Specialist, an experienced Educator, an effective Consultant and an Advance Care Planner he encourages others to make a positive difference to people living with dementia in their community. Tim achieves this by sharing information about dementias pathology, the personal impact of dementia, and what can be done to help.

Before he changed careers 11+ years ago and entered the Aged Care Industry Tim had been very successful in a number of positions within other industries including:- Scuba Diving, Retail Sales, Professional Sales training, Hospitality, and Learning & Development, and produced and delivered pragmatic leadership and coaching workshops to front line staff and line management.

Tim was the creator of the world’s first publicly accessible shark diving program at the internationally acclaimed tourist venue Oceanworld in Sydney, Australia. This benchmark program allowed individuals, who had no prior scuba diving experience, to swim underwater in a public aquarium with over 70 sharks. He’s program became the framework for international aquariums to duplicate. In 2010, Tim choose to become a professional Care Worker within the Community Aged Care sector.

Since entering the industry he has worked extensively in the community where every day and every client presents copious challenges and opportunities to excel in client centered care. In 2013 and while working full time Tim enrolled into full time study at the University of Tasmania as a mature aged student to complete the first ever Bachelor of Dementia Care program via the world renown Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre. Graduating in 2016 he is currently 1 of only 400 individuals with this degree and is listed on the University of Tasmania Dean’s Roll of Excellence.

Tim is currently completing post graduate studies to gain the world’s first Masters of Dementia by end 2021. Since 2017 Tim has hosted hundreds of free public dementia education events to raise the awareness of dementia. The current COVID issues has put a temporary hold on these events. However, his community work has been recognized by state parliament, twice in the Australian Journal of Dementia Care, and by Rotary Australia when awarded the ‘Paul Harris Award’ for Community Service, and Tim is a member of the GOLDEN KEY International Honor Society. Issues surrounding Covid-19 has not stop Tim.

Recently he has begun a YouTube channel called ‘Ask a Dementia Champion’ that has the goal of raising the level of dementia awareness and knowledge in the community and to destigmatize dementia more broadly by sharing his dementia knowledge and experiences. Finally Tim has also been a consultant for a number of university research projects and is currently an Associated Investigator for a local university dementia research project. Tim’s style is relaxed and uses simple non-complicated terms and language to effectively inform and advise others so that correct choices are made, and he is committed to finding, sharing, and creating bold and innovative new ideas in health and dementia care.

We want to say thank you for joining us here at All Home Care Matters, All Home Care Matters is here for you and to help families as they navigate long-term care issues. We also want to again say thank you to Tim England for taking the time to speak with us today about how to raise awareness about dementia for families and communities. Please visit us at allhomecarematters.com there is a private secure fillable form there where you can give us feedback, show ideas, or if you have questions. Every form is read and responded to. If you know someone is who could benefit from this episode and please make sure to share it with them.

Connect with Tim England:

Website:- https://www.dementiachampion.com/

LinkedIn:- linkedin.com/in/tim-england-62585b146

Facebook:- https://www.facebook.com/Timdementiachampion-2029847003961480/

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCB8s20W723M8fvRbslm6OfQ

Ask a Dementia Champion YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8v8oBGY2KMMW4V0W4tZzNw

Suggested Reading: https://dementiadiscussed.files.wordpress.com/2018/05/a-tale-from-a-dementia-champion.pdf

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All Home Care Matters is honored and privileged to welcome Author and Hospice Nurse, Beth Cavenaugh R.N. to the show for a discussion on hospice and her book Some Light at the End now in its 4th edition. A terminal diagnosis can be scary and the options can feel so limited. Knowing what to expect and what to ask will help you ease into the end of your life with a plan.  Find peace and beauty in the next steps so you can make informed choices about everything: your caregivers, your relationships, your treatment, and even your breakfast—ice cream sundae, please! In this tender yet transparent guide to your final days, experienced hospice nurse Beth Cavenaugh reveals what options you may have as a patient with a terminal diagnosis. With personal stories and a touch of humor, Some Light at the End will help you find support to understand this process, be better informed, and anticipate the unknown.  Ease into the end of your life with a plan, knowing you will be taken care of and your wishes respected and what you need to know about hospice and end of life care by reading Some Light at the End for the empowerment you deserve in this final stage of your beautiful life.  Connect with Beth:  www.bethcavenaugh.com  To Purchase Beth's Book:  https://www.amazon.com/Some-Light-End...

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Today on All Home Care Matters, we are going to be discussing Medicare. First, we will be talking about what Medicare is and how it differs from Medicaid and other insurances. Then, we’ll look into how you can apply and receive Medicare before moving on to talk about how Medicare can help you and your family.

If you’re ready to learn more about Medicare then let’s get started.

According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, Medicare is a federal health insurance program created in 1965 for people ages 65 and over, regardless of income, medical history, or health status. It was expanded in 1972 to cover certain people under age 65 who have a long-term disability. There are currently over 60 million people in the United States on Medicare.

In 1945, President Truman called for the creation of a national health insurance plan but was unsuccessful. President Kennedy also tried to create a similar plan, but he was also unsuccessful in his attempt. Finally, nearly twenty years later, President Johnson signed Medicare into existence. Former President Truman got to see his idea come to life and he got to play a major role in it when he and his wife Bess, were the first two Medicare beneficiaries.

During the first year, nineteen million Americans signed up to receive Medicare. Over the years, there have been many changes and additions to Medicare legislation. Just last year, regulations were added due to the Covid-19 pandemic. If you are interested in seeing what regulations were added or changed due to the pandemic, you can find a good overview on the Commonwealth Fund’s blog. You can find a link to the blog in our show notes for this episode. You can also visit medicare.gov for more information on the current and up-to-date regulations and stipulations on Medicare.

There are three parts of Medicare, Part A, Part B, and Part D. Medicare Part A covers inpatient hospital stays, care in a skilled nursing facility, hospice care, and some home health care. Medicare Part B covers certain doctor's services, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventive services. Medicare Part C helps cover the cost of prescription drugs, including many recommended shots and vaccines. For more details on each of the individual parts of Medicare, visit medicare.gov.

Almost everyone over 65 is eligible for Medicare Part A and most do not have to pay a premium either. If you or your spouse are eligible for Social Security payments, you are likely eligible for Medicare Part A, as well. In order to not pay a premium, you must have paid payroll taxes for more than ten years. For those with disabilities that are under 65, generally, if you receive Social Security Disability Insurance, then you are eligible for Medicare. In 2016, 15 percent of Medicare beneficiaries were under 65 years old. There is, however, a two-year waiting period to get Medicare this way. But if you are diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, also known as ALS, or end-stage renal disease, which is permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a transplant, there is no waiting period for Medicare eligibility.

Earlier, we told you about the three parts of Medicare, and you may have wondered why we didn’t include the fourth part for Part C. Part C does exist, but it is actually separate from Medicare… in a way. Medicare Part C is what is known as Medicare Advantage. Medicare Advantage is one of the options you have when deciding how to get your Medicare coverage. With Medicare Advantage, you enroll in a private health plan, such as a health maintenance organization, or you may be more familiar with it by the abbreviation HMO, or preferred provider organization, or also known as a PPO, and receive all Medicare-covered Part A and Part B benefits and typically also Part D benefits. Basically, it is an all-in-one coverage plan that bundles the original Medicare options.

President Clinton signed Medicare plus Choice into law in 1997 and it was updated and changed to Medicare Advantage in 2003. Since then, enrollment in Medicare Advantage has grown. Last year, more than 24 million beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Advantage, and enrollment is expected to grow to 26 million this year.

If you are interested in pricing and Medicare plan options, please visit medicare.gov for more information.

Medicare and Medicaid often go hand in hand, but people tend to get them confused. Medicare is an insurance program, whereas Medicaid is an assistance program. Medicare is also a federal program, while Medicaid is run by state and local governments. With Medicare beneficiaries you usually have to be over the age of 65 to qualify, but there are no age restrictions with Medicaid. Medicaid provides Americans with free or low-cost health coverage to low-income people, families and children, pregnant women, the elderly, and people with disabilities. To see if you qualify for Medicaid, visit healthcare.gov.

If you are having trouble remembering which one is which, remember that Medicare provides care, or insurance plans, while Medicaid aids needy families. Now, we know that Medicaid is no longer just for people with low-income, but the majority of people using Medicaid do have low-incomes and remembering that is easier than trying to say Medicaid comes to the aid of low-income people, families and children, pregnant women, the elderly, and people with disabilities.

Medicare is a federally funded insurance that is open to almost everyone over the age of 65 and it is often more cost-efficient than private insurances. Private insurances, however, have more options and pay scales to choose from. Private insurances offer things that Medicare doesn’t, like dental, vision, and hearing. Oftentimes, you may be able to find a plan that will work with Medicare and use it to cover what Medicare will not.

When choosing a Medicare plan, medicare.gov suggests considering costs, coverage, your other coverage, prescription drugs, doctor and hospital choice, quality of care, and travel when deciding between what sort of coverage you need. You can find more information on what you should consider when choosing coverage at medicare.gov.

Cost is a big determining factor when choosing an insurance plan. If you are paying for insurance completely out-of-pocket Medicare is most likely the option for you. If your employer provides insurance for you, they may pay part or all of your monthly premium, even after retirement, but that all depends on your employer. They all differ, as they all have different private insurance companies and plans.

According to Medical News Today, the average monthly premiums for private insurance in 2019 cost families $20,576 per year, the cost for individuals $7,188 per year, and cost for families $6,015 per year after their employer covered part of the cost. Medicare Part A typically has no monthly premiums and Medicare Part B has a standard monthly premium of $148.50, resulting in $1,782 a year.

Private insurance is open to everyone, so if you do not meet the age requirement or one of the other stipulations for Medicare, private insurance is always an option.

If you are interested in signing up for Medicare, visit medicare.gov to start the process. If you are 65 and receiving Social Security, you may have already been automatically enrolled, so make sure you double-check before you try to sign up. There are also only certain times of the year that you can sign up for Medicare, just like with private insurance. Depending on when you are trying to sign up, you may have to wait for the next enrollment period.

Once you are enrolled in Medicare, there are a few things you should do right away. You can find a Welcome to Medicare checklist on medicare.gov or the links in our show notes if you would like to look at the full list. First, you need to decide what Medicare coverage you would like. You can choose from the Original Medicare or Medicare Advantage. If you choose the original Medicare, you can also choose additional coverage to go along with it. Next, you need to give Medicare permission to talk to someone you trust.

If you are getting Medicare for your loved one, you need to fill out the Authorization to Disclose Personal Health Information form so that Medicare can interact with you directly. Then, go online and create a Medicare account at medicare.gov. From here, you can manage your Medicare information anytime, create a list of your prescriptions, view your Original Medicare claims status, pay your Medicare premiums, and more. You can also print an official copy of your Medicare card if you need it. Make sure you tell your doctor about your new Medicare plan and if you have other insurance, make sure to let Medicare know, as well.

During the first year you have Medicare, you can schedule a free “Welcome to Medicare” preventive visit with your doctor. It includes a review of your medical and social history related to your health and counseling about preventive services that may be right for you. During your first year, you should also find out what your Medicare plan covers. You can find out by visiting medicare.gov/coverage or you can use their free app, What’s Covered.

If you are on Medicare and you have a limited income, you may qualify for financial help. Visit medicare.gov to see if you are eligible to get help paying your Medicare health and drug costs. You should also get into the habit of filing and checking on your claims to make sure you are not being charged for services you never received.

If you choose a Medicare Advantage plan and would like to change or add on to your plan, you can do that, but make sure you do it within the first three months. If you would like to add or remove drug coverage or switch to an original Medicare plan, as long as you do it within the first three months of having Medicare, you can do so with no penalties or waiting period. If you decide you want to change your plan after the first three months, you can still do that, but only during certain times. Medicare Advantage’s open enrollment is from January 1st through March 31st. During this period, you can switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another, switch from Medicare Advantage to Original Medicare, or enroll in Medicare Advantage for the first time.

The annual open enrollment period for Medicare is in the fall from October 15th through December 7th. During this period, you can change or add to your Medicare plan or enroll in a new Medicare plan. Any changes you make to your coverage will begin on January 1st. There are a few other times you can add or change your Medicare coverage plan like if you reach the age of 65, you lose your insurance, or you move. For more information on Medicare enrollment, visit medicare.gov.

If you or your loved one have questions about Medicare and cannot or do not have access to the internet or a computer, you can call 1-800-MEDICARE, or 1-800-633-4227 at any time. If you have difficulties with hearing or speech, you can also call their TTY number, 1-877-486-2048.

If you or your loved one are struggling to understand Medicare and everything that comes with it, know that you are not alone. Many people don’t understand Medicare, which is one of the reasons we have decided on discussing Medicare today. With your State Health Insurance Assistance Program, otherwise known as SHIP, you can get free and personalized health insurance counseling. A trusted insurance agent or broker can also help you understand Medicare and help you go over the options provided to determine the best plan and coverage for you.

Before Medicare and Medicaid were created in 1965, roughly half of seniors were uninsured. Today, both programs cover nearly one-third of all Americans. Without Medicare and Medicaid, a significant number of Americans would be unable to afford the medical care they needed to stay healthy and productive. These programs have saved countless lives since being established. Without them, many seniors would not have been able to afford a stay in the hospital and most likely would have avoided going, even if meant refusing life-saving treatment.

Many seniors worry that their medical expenses will ultimately fall on their loved ones and end up refusing to seek medical help when they need it, but with Medicare, they can seek the help they need and not worry about the financial burden. According to Medicare.gov, Medicare covers 23 types of preventive services, including flu shots and diabetes screenings. Some of these services are free, and for others, you only have a small copayment or deductible to pay, depending on which plan you have.

Medicare can help you and your loved one by providing them with insurance that allows them to seek medical help, but also allows them, and you, peace of mind. If you haven’t already, join the millions of families that use Medicare to help ease some of the financial burdens that come with aging. Combined with private insurance, you can make sure your loved one is covered and never has to worry about their medical expenses. When neither you nor your loved one has to worry about the costs, you can enjoy spending time together and making memories with them.

If you have any questions about Medicare, please visit medicare.gov for more information. You can also talk to your insurance agent or broker. They should be able to help you go over your options and find the best coverage for yourself or your loved one. You can also visit Medicare on Facebook and Twitter. They post content regularly that you may find helpful.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. Next, on All Home Care Matters we are very excited to share with you that we have some very special guests who will be joining us over the next few episodes. Stay tuned you won’t want to miss these interviews!

Sources:

https://www.medicare.gov/what-medicare-covers/your-medicare-coverage-choices/whats-medicare

https://www.kff.org/medicare/issue-brief/an-overview-of-medicare/

https://assets.aarp.org/rgcenter/health/fs149_medicare.pdf

https://www.medicareresources.org/medicare-benefits/medicare-advantage/

https://www.hhs.gov/answers/medicare-and-medicaid/what-is-the-difference-between-medicare-medicaid/index.html

https://www.healthcare.gov/medicaid-chip/

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/is-medicare-better-than-private-insurance#what-private-insurers-offer

https://www.medicare.gov/media/9211

https://www.medicare.gov/blog/medicare-and-medicaid-keeping-americans-healthy-for-50-years

https://www.medicareresources.org/basic-medicare-information/brief-history-of-medicare/

https://www.medicare.gov/what-medicare-covers/your-medicare-coverage-choices/consider-these-7-things-when-choosing-coverage

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Today on All Home Care Matters, we are going to be talking about how hospice helps families. If you want to learn more about hospice, you can watch or listen to our previous episodes, What is Hospice, or What is Palliative Care. You can find them on our website, wherever you get your podcasts, or on our YouTube channel. Today we’re going to go over what hospice is, how it began, and how it is helping families today. Now let’s move on to the rest of the show.

The American Cancer Society describes hospice care as a special kind of care that focuses on the quality of life for people and their caregivers who are experiencing an advanced, life-limiting illness. Hospice care provides compassionate care for people in the last phases of incurable disease so that they may live as fully and comfortably as possible. Hospice’s goal isn’t to treat the disease but to treat the symptoms and make the end-of-life as comfortable and fulfilling for the patient as possible.

The founder of the first modern hospice, Dame Cicely Saunders, said that “You matter because of who you are. You matter to the last moment of your life, and we will do all we can, not only to help you die peacefully but also to live until you die.”

Dame Cicely Saunders established the first modern hospice in West London in 1967. She did not invent hospice, as it had been around for some time, but she did make it what it is today. Before her, those that were dying and in pain had to wait until their painkillers wore off before they could be given their next dose. People feared addiction for those that were suffering, which seems odd today, but before 1967 was commonplace. Dame Cicely Saunders saw that her dying patients were being forced to suffer through their pain until their inevitable deaths and worked to change how end-of-life care was managed. She created an approach that emphasized pain management, emotional and spiritual support and family counseling. She insisted that dying people needed dignity, compassion, and respect, as well as rigorous scientific methodology in the testing of treatments, and abolished the philosophy that the patient must be cured, and if they were unable to, they must be lied to about their prognosis.

One of Dame Saunders patients transferred from another hospital to her hospice care facility said that “[the previous hospital] used to see how long I could go without an injection. I used to be pouring with sweat because of the pain. I couldn’t speak to anyone and I was having crying fits. I think I’ve only cried once since I’ve been here . . . The biggest difference is feeling so calm. I don’t get worked up or upset."

Dame Saunders’ Hospice made such a difference in the end-of-life care of patients, and it has only improved since then. Today, hospice’s philosophy revolves around palliative and not curative care. It focuses on the care and comfort of the patient by managing the symptoms and not the disease. Its goal is to improve and uphold the patient’s quality of life instead of the amount of time the patient has left and neither postpones nor hastens death. Hospice also aims to educate and support the patient, the family, and other caregivers throughout end-of-life care.

When thinking about hospice care for your loved one, first you must determine their eligibility. A social worker will likely come and assess your loved one to see if they are ready for end-of-life care, but there are a few things you can check on your own. If their doctor has anticipated six months or less for the remainder of your loved one’s life, assuming the illness takes its projected course and if your loved one chooses to forego life-prolonging, aggressive treatments for the terminal illness and related diagnoses, they most likely qualify for hospice.

Once your loved one has been accepted into hospice care, they will receive care wherever they are, in their own home, in the hospital, in a facility, or any other place they may be. They will be given a primary caregiver, along with hospice staff, and will have the option to have 24/7 care. They will also be monitored by an interdisciplinary team and have an end-of-life plan tailored to fit their needs.

Hospice supports not only the patient but everyone involved. They will help you through the end-of-life process, so you don’t have to go through it alone. They can give you resources and suggestions that can help you make the most of the time you have left with your loved one.

As the older population in the United States grows, more and more families are going to be considering end-of-life care. In 2015, 1.43 million Americans received hospice care and that number is steadily climbing each year. Hospice care requires 24/7 caregivers and a caregiving team involving a somewhat large amount of people. It can be quite expensive, and that financial burden may be weighing heavy on you right now but try not to worry about the money too much. There are a few ways your loved one can get free care or help covering the costs of hospice care. If your loved one is on Medicare, they can be provided hospice care at no cost to them. Medicare will cover 100% of the costs. Medicaid and private insurances will cover the costs, but you will have to talk to your insurance agent and doctor to see what they will cover. Some hospice care groups offer discounted rates or even free care, so be sure to check with the hospices in your area to see what their rates are and how they can work with you. Some organizations and non-profits will help you cover the costs. You can check with your local senior center or united way for more information on programs or resources they offer.

There are non-profit and for-profit hospices. They both run on the same philosophies and carry out treatments the same way, but they differ on the financial side. The Medicare Hospice Benefit established in 1983 provides Medicare beneficiaries with access to high-quality, end-of-life care services. This benefit is what allows Medicare to completely cover the costs of hospice care, but it also recognized hospice care as a viable concept and form of healthcare service for terminally ill patients in the United States.

Hospice took a while to gain traction in the United States, possibly because of its philosophy to only treat the symptoms and not treat the disease, but by 1983, it was widely accepted in the country. With this benefit passed, millions of Americans were finally given access to quality end-of-life care, something many would have been unable to afford otherwise.

According to Crossroads Hospice, the biggest difference between for-profit and non-profit hospices is that non-profit hospices are not required to pay taxes to state or federal governments on the funds they receive from Medicare. Tax exemption is a standard of all non-profits and is not exclusive to hospice care. For-profit hospices are also prohibited from using donations to directly pay for patient care. Non-profit hospices mainly run on donations, holding fundraisers and soliciting donations from the community to pay for patients' care.

Since for-profit hospices are not allowed to use donations to pay for patient care, many for-profit hospices create a non-profit foundation that is separate from the hospice to collect donations. The for-profit hospice foundations must each have a specialized mission, like securing supplies to help patients with special needs or providing hospice education to area healthcare providers.

Regardless of whether the hospice is for-profit or not, you want to make sure you are selecting the right program for your loved one. Each hospice is different and has its own structure for care teams, programs, and even philosophies. When searching for a hospice provider, you should contact and interview several in your area before you decide on one. Your loved one’s doctor may also help you make this important decision by helping you figure out what the most important parts of care are for your loved one. For some, it could be having a nurse on hand at all hours, but others may only need a nurse at certain times of the day, if ever.

It is also important to note that hospice care may lapse if your loved one’s illness improves or your loved one outlives their prognosis with no changes. Especially now, hospice care providers are hard to come by. The Covid-19 pandemic has many hospice providers, as well as most other healthcare providers, severely understaffed and they are struggling to provide care to all the patients they already have, let alone prospective patients.

So please be patient during this process. Hospice care providers and other caregivers are trying their best to make sure your loved one has the best quality of life, but they are also doing the same for numerous other families.

Hospice cares for patients with serious illnesses and diseases at the end of life, but what does that really mean? A 2017 study by the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization found that 27% of patients had been diagnosed with cancer, while 18.7% had cardiac and circulatory, another 18% had dementia, 11% had respiratory issues or diseases, 9.5% were stroke patients, and 15.6% had other unlisted illnesses or diseases. If your loved one suffers from any of these illnesses or diseases and has been told they are nearing the end of their time, hospice may be the right care provider for them.

Choosing the right hospice for your loved one and yourself gives your many things: care support, the backing of an expert team, respite care, grief support, help with planning, less stress, better health, and peace of mind. Since hospice care is provided wherever the patient is, oftentimes it is in their own home, and the family, you, are the caregiver. According to Daily Health Wire, hospice care teams visit the patient in the home on a routine basis to assess, monitor and treat symptoms, and they train the family and loved ones how to care for the patient when medical personnel isn’t around. When care is provided in a nursing home, the hospice team provides care in addition to the care the patient receives from nursing home personnel.

Hospices don’t just have nurses, but they also have other trained professionals, including physicians, social workers, chaplains, and personal care specialists. Many even have volunteer support. The entire team works with the patient to meet their physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs, along with the family, to improve the quality of life for both you and your loved one.

As a caregiver, you know how important is to take care of yourself while taking care of your loved ones. If you need help figuring out ways to help manage your stress or balance caregiving with your life, we have several episodes on the subject that can be found on our website, YouTube channel, or wherever you get your podcasts. If you need a break, whether you just need an hour to run errands or you need a few days away for whatever reason, respite care is something you might find useful.

A hospice caregiver can come into the home and watch over your loved one for a few hours while you are away. Many hospices also have a facility where your loved one can stay if you need to leave for a few days. Check with the hospice providers in your area to see what is available and to ask if they are able to provide these services.

We also need to make mention that when a family has hospice service that the hospice provider does not replace the home care support that a family may already have in place. This can become confusing for families and this is something that we have found families that we provide care for have thought that by having hospice come on-board to provide services for their loved one that they would no longer need or require home care because of this. This is not accurate.

When a family has hospice care this does not replace the home care support that they had prior to hospice. Whether it is hospice, home health care, or home care all three of these professions and services work independent of each other. If you have more questions or are interested in more information make sure to visit our website and there you’ll find a secure fillable form that you can fill out and someone will reply to you and answer any questions that you may have or provide any resources or information that you request.

Linda Hickey, the daughter and full-time caregiver of Ruth, appreciated having a respite-care option. "My sisters and I had split up the responsibilities, but at times, it still felt overwhelming. Caring for her full time was exhausting," she explained. A local hospice cared for Ruth as a respite care patient, giving the family time to recharge. Time away, even just a little bit, can help you come back refreshed and ready to continue caregiving.

Another thing that hospice provides is grief support. The end-of-life stage is difficult for both you and your loved one and the right hospice can help you both through it - through emotional and spiritual support. Social workers, chaplains, and volunteers are all available to help your loved one come to terms with their situation and help you through the bereavement process. Even once your loved one has gone, they usually offer support to you and your family, because they treat each patient as an individual, and not a statistic.

They can also help with the planning that may be overwhelming for you. They can help with the power of attorney and a living will, as well as helping with the creation and follow-through of an individualized care plan.

Having a hospice provider on your side alleviates some of the caregiving burden and stresses that come with it, allowing you to enjoy more of the time you have with your loved one, rather than worrying about caregiving and other responsibilities.

Perhaps one of the greatest things that hospice provides is peace of mind for both you and your loved one. With hospice, you know that someone that cares is always on hand, or just a phone call away, allowing family members the chance to spend precious quality time with their loved one. And even during this sad and difficult time, many families have made great memories with their loved ones, thanks to hospice care.

Finding the right hospice provider for your family and your loved one can make all the difference in their lives, so don’t wait too long. Get started today so you can enjoy tomorrow with your loved one.

Sources:

https://www.trihealth.com/dailyhealthwire/health-topics/well-being/7-ways-hospice-care-helps-families

https://www.cancer.org/treatment/end-of-life-care/hospice-care/what-is-hospice-care.html

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5072234/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5072234/?report=printable

http://www.nnecos.org/resources/Documents/2018%20SLIDES/NNECOS%20Hospice%20101.pdf

https://casahospice.com/the-history-of-hospice-care/

https://www.bmj.com/content/suppl/2005/07/18/331.7509.DC1

https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/hospice-care.htm

https://www.crossroadshospice.com/hospice-resources/education-for-families/non-profit-vs-for-profit-hospices-what-is-the-difference/

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On this episode of All Home Care Matters, we are going to be discussing how to talk with your loved one with Dementia. If you are new to the show we have multiple episodes and resources on Dementia and Alzheimer’s. If there is a specific topic or situation that you are looking for you can find them on our website, wherever you get your podcasts, or on our YouTube channel, where we have an entire playlist dedicated to Dementia.

If this is your first time joining us, first we want to thank you for listening, but we will also be briefly going over what dementia is to begin the episode. Then we will dive right into some communication strategies that may help you talk to your loved one. Now let’s move on to the rest of the show.

First, what is Dementia? According to the Alzheimer’s Association, Dementia is an umbrella term for loss of memory, language, problem-solving, and other thinking abilities that are severe enough to interfere with daily life. The most common cause of dementia is Alzheimer’s. Traumatic brain injuries, diseases like Parkinson’s or Huntington’s, and protein build-up in the brain are a few other causes of dementia.

These types of dementia are not reversible, but there are a few types that are. Brain tumors, thyroid issues, infections, and immune disorders, and even some medications, can cause dementia or dementia-like symptoms. Treating the initial cause of these health issues can reverse dementia and dementia-like symptoms.

Dementia usually starts slow and progressively worsens. Some signs to look for in your loved one are problems with short-term memory, issues keeping track of their purse or wallet, having trouble paying bills on time, struggling with planning and preparing meals, not being able to remember appointments, issues with traveling, or wandering through their neighborhood.

The Mayo Clinic states that there is no sure way to prevent dementia, but there are steps you can take that might help. More research is needed, but it might be beneficial to do the following: keep your mind active, be physically and socially active, quit smoking, get enough vitamins, particularly vitamin D, manage cardiovascular risk factors, treat health conditions, maintain a healthy diet, and get quality sleep.

Brenda Gurung, an Alzheimer’s Association certified dementia practitioner says that “Alzheimer’s and other dementias are difficult disease journeys, but there is so much opportunity for connection and success together. When you understand even a bit of what’s happening in the brain — and when you embrace some simple techniques — you’ll have more delightful visits with your loved one, deeper connections, and a smoother journey.”

Once we know how dementia can affect communication, we can then figure out the best ways to create a communication strategy that is tailored to our loved ones. Dementia affects a person’s communication and cognition, memory and focus, language skills, visual perception, and problem-solving skills, which are all needed in social situations.

In a blog post for A Place for Mom, the largest senior living referral service in the U.S. and Canada, Merritt Whitley offers some tools that you may find helpful when having a conversation with your loved one with dementia. You should limit potential distractions and be as present with them as you can. Turn off the TV and any other distracting electronics. The quieter and calmer you can make the space, the better.

If you are not home and not able to find a quiet space, try to find a more secluded area and a space to sit down. For example, if you are at a café, find a seat away from the counter and the door to limit the number of people that walk by. If simple distractions, like the television or someone walking by you, take your attention away from a conversation, imagine what your loved one must feel like. Simple distractions can make any social situation too overwhelming for your loved one with dementia, so try to limit them as much as possible.

When talking to your loved one, try your best to speak naturally and use gestures. Don’t raise your voice when talking to them. Raising your voice raises the pitch of your voice, as well, and makes it harder for your loved one to hear and understand. Talk in clear, calm, and simple sentences. You can try using gestures or small body movements while you talk, but don’t use overly exaggerated movements. You don’t want to embarrass your loved one or make them feel like they are incompetent in your eyes and using exaggerated gestures will likely make them think that.

Your loved one may need more time to respond than you might think. If they don’t respond right away, don’t try to answer for them, or repeat the question, unless they ask you to. Your loved one just needs more time to process what you said and then to process what they want to say. Wait for them to respond. If they are having trouble thinking of the correct word, don’t jump in and tell them. Let them come to it on their own. It may take time, but if you answer for them or tell them what to say, they may become defensive and no longer want to participate in the conversation.

You will also want to stick to one topic while talking to your loved one. They may be unable to follow a conversation if you are jumping from topic to topic quickly. Your loved one will take longer to processes information, and if you change topics, they will likely become confused. Ask them open-ended and observational questions. Don’t ask them if they remember a certain item or day, as it can be confusing for them and make them upset.

While conversing with your loved one, don’t refer to yourself or others by their relationship. For example, don’t mention your brother, use his name, instead. Using names in place of relationships can be especially helpful if your loved one believes they are in an earlier time in their life. Trying to bring them back to reality with titles and relationships may end up confusing them more and make them lash out.

Figures of speech and slang words can be difficult for your loved one to understand, so try not to use them. Esther Heerema, a social worker for Very Well Health, says that using phrases like, “it’s no use crying over spilled milk” are confusing for your loved one and they may try to find where the milk has been spilled. Using the proverb interpretation test, where the test taker is asked to interpret abstract ideas such as “it’s no use crying over spilled milk” is one way that doctors screen for symptoms of dementia.

Some open-ended questions can confuse your loved one and make conversation more difficult for them. Asking your loved one what they want to wear for the day or where they want to go can be overwhelming for them, but if you give them a few choices, it can make the decision easier, and still give them a sense of independence. You can try putting out two outfits and asking your loved one which one they would like to choose, and you can do the same with where they would like to go for the day.

When holding a conversation is difficult, there are other things you can do to let your loved one know you are there for them. You can maintain eye contact, smile, hold their hand, or even just sit quietly and be present with them. During the later stages of dementia, it may be difficult for your loved one to communicate verbally, but there are still things you can do together and experience. Utilizing all of their senses is a useful tool when communicating with a loved one with dementia. You can look at old albums, play music you know they enjoy, and cook their favorite foods for them to smell.

Remember that there will be good days and bad and try not to become disheartened with the bad days. While taking care of a loved one, it is important to take care of yourself, as well. If you are interested in learning more about caring for yourself while providing care, check out our quick tips episode on managing caregiver stress, or check out one of the full-length episodes on how to help the caregiver.

If your loved one is being aggressive or volatile, do not interact with that behavior. If they shout at you that they do not want to take a bath, don’t give them a bath. It’s important to respect the communication that they are able to give you at that time. And you don’t just completely abandon the task. Try to come back to it in a few hours if your loved one is in a better headspace.

The Alzheimer’s Society recommends preparing for your conversation with your loved one ahead of time. Imagine yourself in their shoes and think about how you would feel if you were struggling to communicate. While caring for your loved one daily, it is easy to forget how they are feeling is singular to that moment, especially when dealing with cognitive issues.

Before starting a conversation, make sure you have enough time to spend with your loved one. You don’t want to make them feel rushed, as it can give them more stress and make them not want to participate with you. Look back on previous conversations and think about what strategies you have used and how they worked for you. If you know gestures make it easier for your loved one to understand you, try to incorporate them more in your conversations.

It’s important to treat your loved one with respect. Don’t talk to them like a child, even though you may be tempted to. You will want to make sure you are at eye level during your conversation. Try not to be too tall that you are looking down on them. If they are sitting down, sit down with them. If you are in an area where you are unable to sit with them, kneel down next to them, even if it is uncomfortable for you.

You can also plan what you are going to talk about ahead of time. You can use their own environment to come up with a topic. Talking about things they can visually see may make the conversation easier for them to follow. If your loved one experiences Sundowner’s Syndrome, try to plan a time to communicate with them when you know they are more likely to be present. For more information about Sundowner’s Syndrome, you can check out the episode we did on it on our podcast or visit our website for resources.

Sometimes, individuals with dementia that speak more than one language will revert to using their first language. If you notice this happening, see if you can have a family member or friend help translate your conversation. You can also try using a translator app but using technology may end up confusing your loved one more. There may also be organizations in your area that can help you translate a conversation with your loved one.

You should also make sure they are not hungry, in pain, or need to go to the bathroom before you try to have a conversation. All of these things can be distracting to your loved one and they may not be able to communicate that they need something when they are trying to focus on a conversation, too.

When there are other people around, make an effort to include your loved one in conversation. You can ask them simple yes or no questions in group settings so that they can still feel included. If possible, make others aware ahead of time of the proper ways to communicate with your loved one. Mainly, let them know to give your loved one time to respond and keep sentences clear and concise. Your loved one will appreciate being included, even if they are unable to keep up with the conversation for the entire duration.

It is also important to note that talking to too many people at once can be overwhelming and cause too much stress for your loved one, so make sure you are keeping an eye on the situation so you can tell when they have had enough socialization. You want your loved one to enjoy social settings and look forward to them, not become overwhelmed by them.

When talking to your loved one, don’t ask them why. Questioning them will only make them doubt themselves and cause them anxiety. If your loved one seems to be stuck in a loop, asking the same question over and over again, don’t ignore them, but you also don’t want to keep answering the same questions over and over. Instead, try to divert their attention. If they are asking you who you are, you can say your name and then ask them to tell you about a topic you know interests them. This can be a hobby, a favorite author, a favorite food, really anything you know that they are usually able to talk about.

If your loved one is telling you or someone else about a past event and they don’t have the details correct, do not interject and tell them they are wrong or try to correct them. If you interject, you will end up making them anxious or angry and make them believe you think they are stupid. Instead, talk about the memory. Talking about it, even if the details are wrong, can help their cognitive function and make them happier.

The only time you should correct them is when they are talking to their doctor, and they have given them information that you know is incorrect and could be harmful. In this situation, try to tell their doctor in a way that does not seem condescending to them. If this happens frequently, try to inform your doctor of any medical information and changes before the appointment starts and you can always call them before or after the appointment if necessary.

Caring for a loved one with dementia is difficult. Make sure you have a good support system and take the necessary time you need for yourself. As a caregiver, you are not able to provide adequate care if you are not able to have a break and care for yourself too. Reach out to local organizations and remember you can visit our website for resources on caring for yourself while caring for a loved one with dementia.

Sources:

https://www.aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/dementia-communication

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-dementia

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dementia/symptoms-causes/syc-20352013

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/symptoms-and-diagnosis/symptoms/tips-for-communicating-dementia

https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-to-talk-to-someone-with-dementia-97963

https://dailycaring.com/3-traps-to-avoid-when-talking-to-someone-with-dementia/

https://thegreenfields.org/things-to-say-alzheimers/

https://training.mmlearn.org/blog/how-to-talk-to-someone-with-dementia-alzheimers-or-memory-loss

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On today’s episode, we are going to be talking about how to help seniors with allergies. We will start off with what allergies are and what causes them. Since seniors with allergies are also prone to hay fever, we will also cover what hay fever is, how to prevent it, and what to do if your loved one is experiencing it. We will also be talking about how to help your loved ones suffering from allergies, and we’ll be discussing ways to spot when your loved one may be experiencing allergy symptoms, how to prevent their symptoms, and other ways to help them through allergy season.

Now let’s get started.

Allergies affect more than 50 million Americans each year and are especially a nuisance for seniors. Seasonal allergies usually develop early, but they can develop later in life. According to Dr. Christopher Randolph of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, allergies have a larger impact on the lives and health of the elderly. If you notice allergy symptoms in your loved one, let their doctor know. It can be hard for their doctor to diagnose allergies during a short visit, especially when they are monitoring other serious health issues or attempting to diagnose any new complications that you or your loved one presents them with.

You should also talk to their doctor before giving them over-the-counter allergy medicine. First-generation antihistamines, like Benadryl or the now discontinued Chlor-Trimeton, can have some pretty serious and even dangerous side effects. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology lists anxiety, confusion, sedation, drowsiness, urine retention, dry mouth and eyes, and dizziness as some of the potential side-effects.

Many of these side-effects can end up causing your loved one to fall and injure themselves or develop a painful urinary tract infection. Not only do these side effects have the potential to cause an injury to your loved one, but they make everyday life harder and more uncomfortable than it should be for older adults.

If your loved one chooses to take over-the-counter allergy medicine, you should speak to their doctor or pharmacist about second or third-generation antihistamines, like Zyrtec, Claritin, or Allegra. These options are still antihistamines and can still cause your loved one to experience many of the side effects that first-generation antihistamines cause, but they are less likely to do so.

It is also important to inform your loved one’s doctor of any medications you give them, as they can potentially cause changes in mood or behavior in the elderly and may lead to dangerous interactions with other commonly prescribed medications. Keeping their doctor up to date on any medications your loved one is taking, including both prescription and over the counter, is an important task to remember.

Your loved one may be suffering from a stuffy nose, and you might just assume that it is just allergies or a slight cold, but there are a number of medications that offer this side-effect in the right conditions and their doctor won’t be able to tell if their prescribed medications are being interfered with if they are not up to date on what your loved one is currently taking.

For seniors that have been dealing with seasonal allergies their whole lives, you most likely won’t have to come up with a new treatment plan. They, like many Americans, probably have found a routine that works best for them, which might include a favorite antihistamine or nasal steroid. You may have to adjust their allergy treatment plan, though. What once worked for them may no longer be enough to combat their symptoms.

If they take antihistamines daily, but their usual choice of medicine isn’t working, try switching brands and see if that helps. There are several second and third-generation antihistamines that can be found at your local pharmacy or grocery store. You can ask a pharmacist for help if you are unsure of which medicine you should try.

If your loved one has Alzheimer’s or Dementia, they may not be able to let you know they are experiencing allergy symptoms or tell you what works best for them. You will have to be on the lookout for symptoms during peak allergy season. Do you already know they get seasonal allergies? You may be able to start giving them their allergy medicine if you notice the pollen count rising in your area. You can always talk to their doctor if you are unsure what to do in this situation.

If you are interested in learning more about Alzheimer’s or Dementia, check out some of the episodes we’ve done covering these topics or visit our website for more information. You can also view our playlist on Alzheimer’s and Dementia on our YouTube channel.

For those that have developed seasonal allergies later in life, those that are finding themselves needing a new way to manage their allergies, or those that want to manage their allergy symptoms without taking a daily antihistamine or other medication, there are a few ways to manage allergy symptoms without the use of medications.

Now, none of these will completely make your allergies disappear, but they may help alleviate some of the symptoms. And, paired with a daily antihistamine or other medication, can help your loved one feel more like themselves during peak allergy season.

First, you will want to make sure that your loved one has a high-efficiency particulate air, or HEPA, filter for their air conditioner and make sure it is routinely serviced. A HEPA filter removes allergens from the air and helps prevent them from circulating around the house. You should also refrain from leaving the windows or doors open when the pollen count is high. Check your local weather report to see what the pollen count is and try to limit outdoor exposure when it is too high. If you need to be outdoors, wear sunglasses to help prevent eye irritation and sun damage and wash your hands when you come back inside.

If possible, change clothes and take a shower, as well so you can limit the number of allergens in the home. Keeping a normal cleaning schedule that includes dusting and vacuuming the home can also help remove allergens inside. Having a clean space can also help improve your loved one’s overall mood and if their allergies are making it difficult to enjoy time outside, having a clean house is one less thing they will have to worry about.

Eating foods that help lower inflammation, like apples, flaxseed, ginger, leafy greens, walnuts, and anything high in Vitamin C, may help decrease some of the symptoms your loved one might be experiencing, as well. Allergens cause irritation and inflammation in the body and foods that reduce inflammation, like those we just listed, may help your loved one manage their allergy symptoms. You should also dry their clothes, and your own, in a dryer and not hung up outside to prevent allergens attaching to the clothes before they are brought back inside.

For most Americans, allergies are a nuisance, but for seniors, they can present a real danger. Seniors with other health issues, like COPD or high blood pressure, can be severely affected during allergy season. The most common allergy symptoms, runny nose, itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, chest congestion, and difficulty breathing, can cause other reactions in seniors with respiratory illnesses or diseases.

If your loved one uses an inhaler to help manage their allergies, make sure to always have it on hand. Even if you are only leaving the house to run to the post office, make sure you bring their inhaler with you. You never know when your loved one may need it and it is better to always carry it with you. You can also talk to their doctor and ask them if they can prescribe your loved one backup inhalers, that way you can always have one at home and another to carry one with you. This is also a good practice to keep if you have asthma. And if your loved one does have asthma, allergies can definitely trigger an attack, so you will also want to make sure your loved one or you are always carrying an inhaler during allergy season in case they need it.

Seasonal allergies and their symptoms are not life-threatening, but they can be if your loved one takes any medications that their doctor is unaware of. Unless you are a doctor or a pharmacist, you probably don’t know how a certain medication will interact with another, so it really is important to tell your loved one’s doctors any and all medications they are taking.

If your loved one has allergies, they may have gotten hay fever at some point in their life or they may have it while you are providing care for them. You may be wondering, what exactly hay fever is. Hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, affects somewhere between forty and 60 million Americans a year. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, allergic rhinitis develops when the body’s immune system recognizes and overreacts to something in the environment that typically causes no problems in most people. The name hay fever is a bit of a misnomer. Hay can cause some people to develop hay fever, but not everyone that experiences it is ever around hay. And hay fever does not cause a fever. People experiencing hay fever may have a runny nose, itchy eyes, mouth or skin, sneezing, stuffy nose, and fatigue, which is usually due to getting poor quality sleep with a stuffy nose.

There are two types of hay fever that people experience, seasonal and perennial. Seasonal hay fever usually happens from springtime through early autumn and is usually caused by outdoor mold or pollen. Perennial hay fever is usually experienced year-round and is caused by inside allergens, like dust, pet dander or pet hair, cockroaches, and mold.

It is also possible for food allergies to present themselves as hay fever. If your loved one experiences perennial hay fever and almost constantly has nasal congestion, ask their doctor if there’s a chance that they have any food allergies you are unaware of. Don’t remove any food groups from your loved one’s diet without consulting with their doctor first.

Since hay fever usually presents itself as prolonged nasal congestion, your loved one might not know they are experiencing any allergy symptoms and think they have just come down with the common cold, which they might! It is possible to mistake a cold for allergies and vice versa, but if your loved one always has a stuffy nose in the spring, it is highly likely that they have seasonal allergies.

Doctors usually suggest treating hay fever the same way you treat allergy symptoms. You will want to keep the windows closed during peak pollen periods and use a HEPA filter for your air conditioner. Wear glasses outside to minimize irritants getting in your eyes. They also suggest using mite-proof bed covers to limit exposure to dust mites and a dehumidifier to control mold. You should also wash your hands after petting an animal and have someone else groom your pet if you have hay fever.

According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, intranasal corticosteroids are the single most effective drug class for treating allergic rhinitis and can significantly reduce nasal congestion as well as sneezing, itching, and a runny nose. Your doctor or an allergy specialist can determine if these are the best medication for your loved one to take to control their hay fever symptoms. Since these are nasal sprays and not an oral medication, they avoid many of the side effects that come with taking antihistamines. The usual side effects of nasal sprays include irritation in the area sprayed and nose bleeds.

Antihistamines can also help your loved one manage hay fever, but they come with all the side effects we talked about earlier in the episode. Another option that can help with hay fever is a decongestant. If your loved one has high blood pressure or heart disease, check with their doctor first before using any decongestant. Decongestant nasal sprays work well. Most people that use them feel relief in minutes and it lasts for a few hours. If your loved one uses this option, make sure they only use it for a few days at a time, unless otherwise instructed by their doctor. Using a decongestant nasal spray for too long can end up causing more swelling in the nasal cavity.

If your loved one is constantly suffering from allergies or hay fever and medications just are not working well or the side effects are too much, immunotherapy may be an option for them. Immunotherapy is usually long-lasting and has far fewer side effects than a daily antihistamine. Your loved one may be able to receive allergy shots or sublingual tablets, which dissolve under the tongue. Allergy shots inject a small amount of allergens directly into the arm, increasing the dose each week until a certain level has been achieved.

At this point, the patient then gets a shot once a month until another level is achieved and then once every six months. The period of time between shots can vary from person to person, though. This process lasts anywhere from three to five years and the effects of the shots, either lessening the allergy symptoms or making them disappear completely, lasts several more years. Typically, you would need to start the cycle again in six years.

Allergy shots can be time-consuming and take a while to actually see any improvement. If you do not want to deal with the shots, a sublingual tablet may be for you. Your loved one can take these year-round or they can start a few months before allergy season begins for them. However, there are more restrictions for this treatment. Currently, sublingual tablets are only available to treat certain grass and ragweed pollens and indoor dust mites.

It is still a fairly new treatment, as it was approved by the FDA in 2014, and as the years go on, they will be able to treat more allergens. Sublingual tablets are taken daily and dissolve under the tongue. These can be taken up to three years. After that, you will need to devise a new treatment plan with your loved one’s doctor. For both of these treatment types, your doctor may refer you to an allergist if you don’t see one already.

Allergies can be miserable and make you feel terrible constantly. We hope this episode has been helpful to you and given you new ways to help you manage your loved one’s allergies.

We want to say thank you for joining us here at All Home Care Matters and for being a part of our 100th episode. All Home Care Matters is here for you and to help families as they navigate long-term care issues. Please visit us at allhomecarematters.com there is a private secure fillable form there where you can give us feedback, show ideas, or if you have questions. Every form is read and responded to. If you know someone is who could benefit from this episode and please make sure to share it with them.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. Join us next time on All Home Care Matters where we will be discussing How to Communicate with a Loved One who has dementia.

Sources:

https://www.agingcare.com/articles/help-elders-survive-allergy-season-150138.htm

https://www.homecareassistancenaples.com/how-to-manage-allergies-in-seniors/#:~:text=Allergies%20pose%20a%20greater%20threat,COPD%20to%20high%20blood%20pressure.

https://www.dispatchhealth.com/blog/how-to-care-for-a-senior-with-allergies/

https://www.lifecareservices-seniorliving.com/blog/survival-guide-allergies-aging/

https://www.medicalalertadvice.com/articles/seasonal-allergies-and-seniors/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5362176/

https://www.aafa.org/allergy-facts/#:~:text=How%20Common%20Are%20Allergies%3F,types%20of%20allergies%20each%20year.

https://acaai.org/allergies/types/hay-fever-rhinitis

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We all try our hardest to provide the best quality of care for our aging loved ones, but there may come a time when we alone are no longer enough, especially when we have full-time jobs and commitments outside of the home, which the majority of people today do. When seniors need continuous care, there a few different types of care to consider. Putting our loved ones in a nursing home is an option, but finding the right fit is difficult, and a lot of the time, nursing homes are not an option we want to take, for one reason or another.

According to a 2017 fact sheet by AARP, 52 percent of adults turning 65 will need some kind of long-term care during the remainder of their lives and that number goes up each year. Choosing a type of long-term care is something more and more families are being faced with. Something most families and seniors are comfortable with and prefer is continuous in-home care. This allows the senior to remain in their home, in an environment they are familiar with.

There are two types of continuous in-home care services that can be provided. The first is live-in care, where a caregiver lives in the home for days at a time. The second is 24-hour care. With 24-hour care, a few caregivers operate on a rotational shift schedule instead of one caregiver providing all the care.

Today on All Home Care Matters, we will be discussing the pros and cons of live-in care versus 24-hour care. It is important that you know all the details before choosing a type of care for your loved one and we hope that today’s episode will be able to help families currently researching the types of continuous care find the right fit for them.

Before we get into the two types of care, we are going to explore some of the things that may determine if your loved one needs continuous care. In an article written for Home Care Assistance, author Amber Lambert offers some reasons you may be in need of 24-hour or live-in care. If your loved one has dementia or difficulty doing day-to-day tasks due to memory issues, a full-time caregiver can watch over them for their own safety and help when needed. Seniors with dementia may need help managing sundowner’s syndrome.

If you’re interested in learning more about sundowner’s syndrome and what it means for your loved one, we recently covered this topic on a recent episode. Listen to the What is Sundowner’s Syndrome? episode and visit our website for more information.

Your loved one may get to a point where they cannot safely bathe themselves or perform other daily tasks on their own, such as cooking or taking care of their pets or even get to their appointments or pick-up their prescriptions. A caregiver can assist the senior while they complete these tasks or do them for the senior if necessary. A caregiver also provides companionship, which is just as important as any of the other assistance they provide. A friendly face to talk to can improve a senior’s mood and overall quality of life.

Now, on to the pros and cons of live-in care. Live-in caregivers live in the house during their shifts.

They have to have their own space with their own bed, which can be difficult for seniors and their families to provide if they don’t have a lot of extra room. Caregivers also get a four-hour break during the day and an eight-hour sleeping break. During their four-hour break, another caregiver or a family member may be needed to provide care while they’re away. If the caregiver is needed during their sleeping break, they are usually paid more money on top of their base pay. Live-in care is not available in every state. If it is not an option in your area, 24-hour care is available in every state.

With live-in care, there is more consistency for the senior. Typically, one caregiver is in the home Monday through Thursday and a second caregiver is in the home Thursday through Sunday. With 24-hour care, the caregivers switch off shifts every twelve hours and have to brief each other on any necessary information for the upcoming shift. This potentially allows room between shifts for something to be forgotten or left out. With live-in care, one caregiver provides care for three or four days at a time, leaving less room for error between shift changes.

Having fewer caregivers in and out of the home also helps the senior better build a relationship with the caregiver. A caregiver providing live-in care sees the senior more than 24-hour caregivers do, as they can be in the home up to 5 days in a row. This schedule allows them to not only provide companionship to the senior they are caring for but also friendship. Having the same person looking after the senior is something a lot of families like about live-in care. They build trust over time and worry about their loved one less when they are unable to provide care for them themselves.

We know what live-in caregivers provide and how often they work, but how much will a live-in caregiver cost for the family or senior? Live-in caregivers are paid at a flat-rate, and not hourly. There may be additional costs, like if they have to provide care during their eight-hour break or if the family needs additional coverage during their four-hour break, but overall, there is one cost per day that is usually an average of 250 dollars a day depending on your state and local area. Unfortunately, Medicare will not cover any of the costs of live-in care, but long-term care insurance, Medicaid, and veteran’s aid may help cover some of the costs.

Now let’s move on to the pros and cons of 24-hour care. Two or three separate caregivers provide care through separate eight- or twelve-hour shifts, depending on the agency you go through and your personal preference. With 24-hour care, the caregiver is always awake and alert, ready to provide care and assistance whenever needed. They don’t require a sleeping space, and knowing that a professional caregiver is alert at all times gives peace of mind to many families.

Unlike with live-in care, 24-hour caregivers are paid at an hourly rate, which when broken down can cost more than live-in care – (but remember with 24 hour care the staff is awake and alert at all times without a 4 hour break during the day and a 8 hour sleep or rest period where they are not on duty), especially since Medicare doesn’t cover any of the costs. Just like with live-in care, long-term care insurance, Medicaid, and veteran’s aid may help cover the costs of 24-hour care.

If cost is a big determining factor of which type of care you will be choosing, it might help to know the average time your loved one might need care. Women needing long-term care, on average, need two and a half years of care. Men, on the other hand, tend to need one and a half years. These numbers are only averages and don’t necessarily reflect on your own situation, as everyone is different. An AARP study also found that only 14 percent of individuals needing long-term care needed care for five or more years.

When deciding between live-in care and 24-hour care, make sure to discuss the options with your doctor. They will help you decide the amount of care necessary for your loved one and advise you on the best course of action to take for caring for your loved one. Another tip when researching care is to ask if there are any contracts that would make you and your loved one responsible or committed to the care option you choose for a specific amount of time.

We always advise families that if they are unsure on the amount of care or the type of care that will best serve their needs that they can start with one option and then always change it if they find it is too much or not enough. We do not use contracts at our company, rather, we tell families we want this to be a good fit for not only them, but also their loved one and not obligate them with a contract.

However, we understand that a lof of companies require families to sign a contract for a certain amount of time that they will then be committed to. Just remember, whether it is for 24-hour care, live-in care, or respite care to ask these questions and to do your research before choosing the company that will be caring for your loved one.

Sources:

https://www.nursenextdoor.com/blog/what-is-the-difference-between-live-in-care-and-24-hour-care/

https://www.payingforseniorcare.com/live-in-caregiver

https://www.24hrcares.com/resource-center/home-care-vs-live-in-care/

https://www.assistinghands.com/70/illinois/lombard/blog/live-in-care-vs-24-hour-home-care/

https://www.fsl.org/what-is-the-difference-between-live-in-care-and-24-hour-care/

https://homecareassistance.com/blog/live-in-care-vs-24-hour-home-care

https://www.morningstar.com/articles/957487/must-know-statistics-about-long-term-care-2019-edition

https://www.aarp.org/content/dam/aarp/ppi/2017-01/Fact%20Sheet%20Long-Term%20Support%20and%20Services.pdf

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We've recently discussed stress in the caregiver and how you should care for yourself while caring for others in order to prevent caregiver burnout. On today’s Quick Tip episode, we'll be taking a look at the warning signs of stress in seniors. After going through the signs and symptoms, risks, and common causes of stress in seniors, we can then begin identifying how family, caregivers, and friends can help to minimize stress in their aging loved ones.

Stress affects all age groups, but it specifically impacts seniors more than any other age group. In older adults, the immune system isn't able to work as well as it once was. It takes longer to fight off common ailments, such as the cold. Stress affects older adults in a similar way.

When we're young, we recover from illnesses quickly because our immune system is working at top speed all the time. We're able to manage stress better when our immune systems are not compromised. But as we age, our immune system gets run down and is easily overwhelmed. When our bodies are busy fighting illnesses and diseases, stress can be extremely hard to manage.

Stress can appear in numerous ways. As a caregiver, you might be the first person to notice the signs of stress in your loved one. According to the Institute of Aging, the most common signs of stress to look for are:

Changes in eating habits, changes in mood, including greater irritability, anxiety, sadness, indifference, or even unusual elation or overactivity
Difficulties with short-term memory
Difficulties with concentration
Unusual patterns of judgment
Withdrawal and isolation
Less attention to personal hygiene, grooming, and self-care
Tension headaches
More aches and pains in general
Frequent sickness
Weight gain or weight loss
Difficulties sleeping
Low energy and fatigue

This is by no means an exhaustive list of signs. Stress affects everyone in different ways. If you think your loved one may be showing signs of stress, make sure to talk to their doctor. Signs of stress can just as easily be symptoms of other undiagnosed illnesses or diseases.

Stress happens. Everyone gets stressed and shows some of the symptoms we listed earlier. Chronic stress, however, is long-lasting and can be very dangerous for older adults. According to Yale Medicine, chronic stress is a consistent sense of feeling pressured and overwhelmed over a long period of time. The American Psychological Association says chronic stress can be the cause of issues like anxiety, insomnia, muscle pain, high blood pressure, and a weakened immune system. If not properly taken care of, chronic stress can also lead to heart disease, depression, obesity, and other major illnesses.

There are many things that cause stress in older adults. Existing health issues are a major contributor to chronic stress. It may seem like an endless cycle at times, as stress may make the illness worse, and the illness also causes them to stress more. Losing friends and loved ones and worrying about losing friends and loved ones in the future causes most everyone, not just older adults, stress.

Financial responsibilities, everyday tasks and chores, adjusting to needing a caregiver, the loss of something constant, like a career, that has recently ended are some of the main sources of stress that many older adults are facing today.

For older adults with caregivers, the caregivers, family, and friends are going to be the first to notice the signs of stress in a senior.

They could be having problems with their short-term memory. You may ask them what show they watched the day before and they can't recall, even if it's something they watch regularly. You might notice they aren't eating as much as normal, or they're eating more than they usually do. Whatever signs they may be showing of stress, it's the people they're around the most that will likely notice first.

Now that you've recognized the signs of chronic stress in your loved one, the next step is to talk to the senior about their stress levels. Oftentimes, they know that they are stressed, but they don't know how to manage it on their own. Sometimes, talking about whatever is causing them stress is enough. They may be grieving the loss of a partner and being able to talk about it with either yourself, a friend, or even a counselor, will help their stress subside.

Exercise and diet is a great way to manage stress. If the senior is able to walk around safely, going on a nature walk, or even a walk around the house, can greatly help the situation. Yoga and other forms of meditation are also great for combating stress.

It's also important to find ways to manage your own stress as a caregiver. Chronic stress can have lasting negative effects on your health. Learning to reduce and manage stress when we are young can result in fewer health problems when we're older.

Helping an older adult identify their stressors is another important step to helping them reduce and manage their stress. Just being able to identify what is triggering their stress may help solve most of their issues. Once they understand what their stressors are, you can work on a plan together to reduce their overall stress.

If you are unsure how to help your loved one with their chronic stress, that's okay. Consult a physician or mental health professional. They can help determine what is causing your loved one's stress and the best course of action to take. They will also be able to help you make a long-term stress management plan specifically tailored to the older adult.

Minimizing stress in older adults can potentially minimize other health problems. If you notice your loved one exhibiting any of the signs or symptoms we have mentioned, discuss it with the older adult, and if necessary, their doctor. Stress has many harmful symptoms that can make life difficult and uncomfortable for your loved one. Managing their stress quickly will result in a better quality of life, for them and for you.

We want to wish everyone a safe and Happy 4th of July and say thank you for joining us here at All Home Care Matters, All Home Care Matters is here for you and to help families as they navigate long-term care issues. Please visit us at allhomecarematters.com there is a private secure fillable form there where you can give us feedback, show ideas, or if you have questions. Every form is read and responded to. If you know someone is who could benefit from this episode and please make sure to share it with them.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. Join us next time on All Home Care Matters where we will be asking the question What is the Difference Between Live-In Care and 24-Hour Care. This is an issue that comes up quite often when families are exploring options of care for their loved ones – and surprisingly they are not the same thing.

Sources:

https://blog.ioaging.org/medical-concerns/signs-stress-seniors-recognize-stress-early-generate-resiliency/

https://www.stress.org/how-stress-affects-seniors-and-how-to-manage-it

https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/stress-disorder#:~:text=%E2%80%A2A%20consistent%20sense%20of,changes%2C%20medications%2C%20setting%20realistic%20goals

https://www.apa.org/topics/stress/chronic

https://www.health.harvard.edu/stress/stress-relief-tips-for-older-adults

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We are honored to have had the privilege to welcome Barbara Tien the Co-Founder of PONGA to All Home Care Matters.

Ponga is a fast, easy, and fun way to organize your pictures and explore the stories. Your stories come to life with words, voice, video, and other media. Your stories are personal, engaging, and accessible. With Ponga, you circulate them privately—free of the prying eyes of social media!

Barbara also helped to establish a Family Council (one of the first of its kind in her community) for families who have loved ones in facilities to help create accountability and to create a voice for the residents/patients and their families.

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Today, we have the distinct honor and privilege to welcome Dr. Lisa Taylor and Dr. Kristen Dillon. If you are familiar with their other name, The Golden GeroPsych Girls then you are in for a very informative and in-depth interview and discussion on the field of Geropsychology and how it is helping seniors and their families.

We are including both the bios of the doctors and how to connect with them on Instagram for more information.

Kristen Dillon, PsyD, ABPP, is a staff geropsychologist in Hospice & Palliative Care and on one of the Community Living Centers. Her research and clinical interests include anticipatory grief, ambiguous loss, caregiving, bereavement, existential concerns, and older adults with serious mental illness. She is also interested in the impact of death and dying on Veterans and families, including family dynamics and PTSD. She was trained in Meaning Centered Psychotherapy through Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and utilizes this intervention regularly with Veterans and families. She is board certified in Geropsychology through the American Board of Professional Psychology. In her spare time, Dr. Dillon enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters, singing, playing the guitar and being around people who make her laugh. She also enjoys hiking and is currently attempting to hike NH’s 48 mountains over 4000 feet.

Lisa Taylor, PsyD is a clinical psychologist in Home-Based Primary Care (HBPC), and the Community Living Centers (CLC) which includes three Dementia Care Units (DCU) and a Geriatric Psychiatric Unit (GPU). Her clinical interests include Geropsychology, behavioral health, working on interdisciplinary teams, and utilizing evidence-based treatments including STAR-VA. In her free time, Dr. Taylor enjoys spending time with her husband, her adorable rescue dog, Emma, and visiting the beach, and local eateries.

We want to thank you for joining us here at All Home Care Matters and again say thank you to our guests the Golden GeroPsych Girls for taking time from their busy schedules to speak with us today about the benefits of Geropsychology. All Home Care Matters is here for you and to help families as they navigate long-term care issues. Please visit us at allhomecarematters.com there is a private secure fillable form there where you can give us feedback, show ideas, or if you have questions. Every form is read and responded to. If you know someone is who could benefit from this episode and please make sure to share it with them.

To Connect with Dr. Taylor and Dr. Dillon on Instagram:

@goldengeropsychgirls

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As dementia progresses, the care required becomes more complex and demanding. As a dementia caregiver, you might find yourself in more and more difficult situations, which you don’t necessarily feel ready or equipped to handle. These can be anything from hallucinations to mood swings to struggling to help your loved one to eat or move around.

Caring for a dementia patient certainly comes with its own unique set of challenges. Because dementia is a progressive disease, the type of care needed progresses with it, making for many unpredictable days and consistent learning and re-learning. Strategies of care that might have been affective in the early stages can stop working altogether. You’ll find yourself getting more creative, and possibly more desperate, as time goes on.

We understand that the middle and late stages of dementia require a lot from a caregiver – and that you might feel stuck in a never-ending learning curve. This care is intensive and around-the-clock. It demands a lot from us, and you might not always be sure that you’re handling everything right or might be at a loss of how to handle some situations altogether.

First of all, I want you to appreciate yourself for all that you’re already doing. No one goes into dementia caregiving with a step-by-step pamphlet to help them through every situation. You learn as you go, and this requires a ton of trial and error, infinite patience, and perseverance.

As long as you are acting in love and doing your best, you are not doing anything wrong (even when it feels like you might be). Still, I know that a little guidance and wisdom can help you to feel more supported, confident, and prepared. It never hurts to get some help, right?

On today’s episode of All Home Care Matters, we’re going to discuss ways to handle the most difficult situations with a dementia patient. These strategies can help to make tough situations a little bit easier, and to calm things down faster and more efficiently when necessary. These are proven strategies that have helped caregivers to better understand what their loved one is going through – so they can know how to handle it.

If your loved one is in the middle stages of dementia, you’ll notice drastic shifts in their behavior and function. Your loved one might be struggling more than ever to communicate or gather their thoughts. They might struggle to eat, dress, or do other activities of daily living.

Remember that while this is a huge transition for you, it’s an even bigger transition for your loved one. Life as they knew it no longer makes sense. They can no longer perform tasks that they used to do with ease. Even thinking has become a struggle.

Because of this, you’ll notice that your loved one’s mood and behaviors have changed. They might become more irritable, frustrated, or downright angry. They could refuse to eat, bathe, or get dressed. They could refuse any help whatsoever. They are trying to make sense of a warped reality and accept losing their independence – this is far from easy and is bound to lead to mood changes.

Of course, these mood changes do not make life easier for the caregiver. Your responsibility is increasing and at the same time, your loved one is making it harder for you to do your job. You may find yourself losing patience pretty easily, and possibly even snapping or crying in the middle of the day.

As the disease progresses, it’s more important than ever to find time for yourself, also. Listen to our episode on Caring for the Caregiver to learn more about destressing and self-care advice.

Now, when your loved one is struggling to communicate, you might struggle to know how to handle it. Maybe they aren’t responding to you anymore, so you don’t know how they feel about a certain situation, or maybe they try to speak to you, and you have trouble following their train of thought. What should you do?

You can assist with communication by speaking in a direct, gentle tone, and making eye contact. Use body language to further emphasize what you are saying. This can help your loved one to understand what you are saying, at least on some level.

At the same time, make sure to give your loved one time to respond – even if it’s a long time. It might take your loved one quite a while to put her thoughts together, but that doesn’t mean she isn’t trying. Don’t interrupt her when she does begin to speak and listen patiently while she gets the words out.

Make sure that when you communicate, it’s in a place with minimal background noise or distraction. Offer reassurance when your loved one is struggling – this can encourage them to keep going.

Don’t overdo the questions. Only ask one question at a time, and make sure the questions are yes or no. For example, instead of saying “do you want to wear the green shirt or the blue shirt?” ask, “do you want to wear the blue shirt?”

One of the biggest communications struggles a person might have at this time comes with your loved one’s lack of a filter. You might notice that as time goes on and the dementia progresses, your loved one is becoming increasingly brash with their words. They might say hurtful or embarrassing things, in public or in private.

The general rule is to let it be. If your loved one says something that you disagree with, don’t argue with them. Just move on to something else. I know this is easier said than done, but when you argue, you risk exacerbating the situation. This might lead to a full-on meltdown that is far more difficult to manage.

If your loved one says something inappropriate or offensive in public, deter from the situation. Bring your loved one’s attention to something else as quickly – and as calmly – as possible. For instance, if you’re at a coffee shop, you can have your loved one pick from the pastry situation.

If you’re at the grocery store, you can ask them if they would like a certain type of produce. It doesn’t matter what you say, just quickly and calmly change the subject. The best thing you can do in these situations is turn your loved one’s attention onto another subject matter.

If your loved one is experiencing a hallucination, you want to approach this in much the same way. You may feel tempted to shut down the hallucination, but this can actually lead to increased confusion and a worsened mood – and the hallucination can become more severe.

Instead of shutting it down, validate it, make it positive, then change the subject. For example, if your loved one says that there’s a stranger in the home, tell them “yes, that’s a nice stranger. He’s a friend. Do you want spaghetti for dinner?”

Again, bringing their attention somewhere else is usually enough to end the hallucination altogether. The last thing you want to do during a hallucination is deny it or make a huge deal out of it, because this can lead to a severe mood swing that can be almost impossible to manage or calm.

In general in any mood-heavy situation with a dementia patient, you don’t want to be rational or logical. While it might be tempting to calmly explain a reality to a person who is hallucinating or speaking out of term, this will not be affective with a dementia patient.

You see, dementia patients cannot think rationally at all. They don’t understand that what they’re saying is inappropriate, and they don’t understand that what they’re hallucinating is not real. If you try to change the way they perceive the world and themselves, they will only get sad and frustrated. That’s why validation, followed by distraction, is really the best method for these types of situations.

Along similar lines, if your loved one forgets that their parent is deceased, or that they’re divorced, or any other major life event – there is no need to remind them. Reminding them of their loss or heartbreak will recreate unnecessary pain and heartache. If your loved one is happily carrying on about visiting with their deceased mother later, instead of shutting this down, ask questions. Have your loved one describe the person they lost. This can calm them down.

Now, some families struggle with knowing what to do when their loved one asks to go home, if they are living in a nursing home or other facility. Rather than telling them that they won’t be returning home, redirect the conversation. Ask your loved one to tell you what they remember about home, or to describe home. This distracts from the situation while helping your loved one to engage in happy memories.

If your loved one wanders away or gets themselves in a dangerous situation, refrain from telling them never to do it again. This simply will not be affective. People in the mid and late stages of the disease will not remember to do it again, so it’s not worth telling them not to.

Instead, take action to prevent it happening in the future. Make sure the doors are locked. Get an automatic tea kettle that won’t light on fire if it’s left on. Listen to our episode on home safety tips to learn more about how you can prevent dangerous situations from happening.

One of the most difficult situation caregivers face with dementia patients is aggression. This aggression can sometimes become violent. Even though it is incredibly hard to do, it is important that caregivers handle these situations in a calm and patient matter. Responding to anger with anger will only make it worse.

Instead of responding with anger, try to understand the cause of the anger. Has your loved one recently switched medication? Have they eaten today? Could it be sundown syndrome? If you know the cause, you might able to step in and make a change.

Secondly, respond to your loved one with empathy, patience, and support. Try to distract them from their anger by introducing another activity or conversation. It might help to take your loved one into another room. Sometimes a change in surroundings is enough to change a train of thought, and combat anger.

If nothing else works, you can simply give your loved one space until they calm down. Make sure that they are safe and keep watch over them, but don’t involve yourself any further. They will calm down eventually – even if it’s in the form of falling asleep from exhaustion.

Many dementia patients lose the ability to distinguish between reality and fantasy. Because of this, they may become increasingly paranoid, and make huge statements that are completely false (like my daughter doesn’t love me, or my son is out to get me).

These delusions are difficult to witness. When they happen, it’s important to remember that it’s the disease speaking, not your loved one. You must separate the behavior from the person, or you will suffer.

Don’t tell your parent that they’re wrong, argue with them, or try to disprove what they are saying. This will only cause greater distress and agony for everyone involved. Again, you can deflect from the situation and turn your loved one’s attention somewhere else. Otherwise, you can step out and give your loved one space until they forget about it.

Difficult dementia behaviors can be overwhelming for caregivers to handle – but if you approach everything with a sense of calm and patience (even if you have to fake it), you’ll find that these situations are a little bit more manageable.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. Join us next time on All Home Care Matters where we will be welcome two very special guest, Dr. Lisa Taylor and Dr. Kristen Dillon. They are Geropsychologists who specialize in serving the senior population as well as the families of seniors. This is an interview you won’t want to miss if you are caring for a senior loved one.

Sources:

https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/middle-stage

https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/daily-care/communications

https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/late-stage

https://www.caregiver.org/resource/caregivers-guide-understanding-dementia-behaviors/

https://www.caregiver.org/resource/ten-real-life-strategies-dementia-caregiving/

https://www.aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/dementia-behaviors

https://www.alzheimers.net/1-6-15-new-approaches-difficult-behaviors

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If you have an elderly loved one, chances are you’ve spent a lot of energy worrying about falls and their safety. And you should be. According to the National Council on Aging, one out of four Americans over the age of 65 experiences a fall every single year. Not only that, but falls are a leading cause of death among the elderly in America.

As our loved one’s age, there is so much for us to keep track of: medications, diets, health care. Falls should be high on this list as well. Falls can result in devastating consequences for many seniors and their families. Common fall-related injuries include broken bones, fractures, and head injuries. We need to do what we can to help prevent our loved ones from falling.

In today’s quick tip episode of All Home Care Matters, we’ll go over all you need to know about falls. We’ll talk about the most common causes of falls, how to prevent falls, and how to know if your loved one has fallen and is hiding it from you. We hope that by the end of this episode, you will feel confident in protecting the senior in your life from experiencing a fall.

There are many reasons that seniors experience falls at a higher rate than other parts of the population. A senior might fall due to problems with vision, or a decline in physical strength, or even a chronic disease, among other causes.

Seniors are more likely to have impaired vision, which can make it difficult to notice hazards, even if they’re in great health otherwise. If a senior cannot see well, they might not notice a wet floor, a stair, or a crack in the sidewalk. This can lead to an increased chance of falling down.

As seniors age, many face declines in their physical strength. It becomes more straining to exercise or engage in physical activity, so many older adults choose not to (or to exercise far less frequently). This results in weakening muscle strength, loss of balance, and reduced coordination. Simply put, it’s easier to fall down when your body is much weaker than it used to be.

Chronic diseases like arthritis, Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease can also increase the likelihood of falling. Seniors will have a harder time keeping their balance, gripping onto railings or canes, and they will be all-around weaker. Further, it will be more difficult for a person with a chronic disease to respond to a fall or recover from one.

Believe it or not, medications are another common cause for falling in seniors. Common medication side-effects are dizziness, low blood pressure, and drowsiness – all of which can increase the likelihood of falling.

Other common causes are surgical procedures that leave a person’s body weaker or less mobile than they were before, environmental hazards like loose carpet or wet shower floors, and behavioral hazards like lifting heavy items or hiking on rough terrain.

These are just some of the causes of falling – but in reality, any of these and more can cause a person to suffer a fall. That’s why it’s so important to take the necessary steps to prevent a fall before it happens.

The best thing you can do to help prevent falls is to make your loved one’s home a safe place for them to be. Remove any tripping hazards like loose rugs, exposed wires, or loose floorboards.

Remove furniture that might be blocking a walkway, to ensure that there’s plenty of space to move around. You can also clean up clutter that is blocking pathways or making it harder to be mobile. This might include stacked newspapers, laundry piles, or even loose shoes. Be sure that walkways and staircases are free of clutter.

Make sure to install grab bars and handrails around the house – especially by the stairs and in the bathroom. A grab bar by the toilet can help a person sit up and down without falling down. A handrail in the shower and tub can do the same. Have a handyman install the bars to ensure that they are assembled safely.

Similarly, you can add nonslip mats to the kitchen and bathroom floors, as well as to the porches outside. This will protect your loved one from slipping and falling on wet ground.

Believe it or not, the way your loved one dresses can also help to prevent falls. Have your loved one wear shoes, even in the house, for extra traction. Make sure that they never walk on wood or tile floors in only socks. Have them avoid wearing any loose or too-long clothing that they might trip over.

In addition to environmental prevention, you can also prevent falls through physical prevention. If your loved one’s vision is impaired, make sure that they wear glasses so they can see better. Even if their vision is fine, make sure that they get it tested at least twice a year to make sure. If they are struggling with a chronic illness like Parkinson’s disease, a wheelchair might be safer than relying on their two feet to carry them around.

You can also make sure that your loved one is getting plenty of sleep and exercise. The stronger and more alert they are, the less likely they are to take a fall.

In addition, you can have them limit alcohol and drink more water to prevent feelings of dizziness or light-headedness. Alcohol can actually affect a person’s balance and reflexes, so it should be avoided altogether.

It’s important to note that many seniors do not tell anyone after they’ve experienced a fall. This means that a senior could live with an injury for a while without anyone even knowing – and that injury can get much worse.

There are many reasons a senior won’t share this information. They might be embarrassed, or afraid that they will lose some of their independence. Many seniors worry that they will be forced to move to a facility or won’t get to live on their own anymore. If a senior has dementia or a cognitive issue, they might have forgotten the fall altogether.

Regardless of the reason, it’s important to understand that you won’t always be told if a fall occurs. That’s why you need to be able to identify the signs of a fall – so you can step in and make sure your loved one gets the care they need.

When you see your loved one, always check for a sign of a fall. It might not be extremely obvious, so it’s important to be vigilant in your examination (without letting your loved one know that you are on the lookout).

Look for bruises and swelling – particularly on the hands or arms. Your loved one may have tried to brace themselves for the fall and bruised or injured their hands and arms. Similarly, if your loved one has a black eye or a bump on their head, this is a sign of a fall.

If your loved one is experiencing sudden cognitive difficulties – like a lack of awareness, taking longer to do things, or a struggle with comprehension – this could be a sign of a brain injury from a fall. Take your loved one to the hospital immediately.

There are also less obvious signs. If you notice that something is missing from the house, like a lamp or another object, this might mean your loved one has fallen. It’s possible that they tried to grab onto a lamp on the way down and broken it in the process.

If you notice any changes in your loved one and think they may have taken a fall, don’t wait to take them to the doctor. Injuries like sprains, concussions, or even brain bleeds can be subtle at first and lead to devastating consequences.

When we put in the steps to prevent falls, we can have a little more peace of mind that our loved one is safe and secure. Of course, there’s no 100% guaranteed way to prevent a fall, which is why it’s critical to understand the signs and symptoms of a fall-related injury. The more prepared you are, the better equipped you’ll be to help your loved one when necessary.

Sources:

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/prevent-falls-and-fractures

https://www.agingcare.com/articles/falls-in-elderly-people-133953.htm

https://www.everydayhealth.com/longevity/future-planning/prevent-falls-at-home.aspx

https://www.visitingangels.com/knowledge-center/care-options/elderly-fall-prevention-spotting-the-warning-signs-risk-factors/453

https://blog.ioaging.org/home-care/secret-senior-falls-what-you-and-your-parent-caregiver-need-to-know/

https://advocateformomanddad.com/senior-falls-and-tbi/

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The month of June is cataract awareness month, so this week on All Home Care Matters, we will be discussing all things cataracts. First, we're going to talk a little about what cataracts are and how you get them, and then we'll move on to what you can do to prevent them. Then, we'll see how to help your loved one manage their cataracts and protect their vision. Now you know what we'll be discussing this episode, let's jump right in.

A cataract is a clouding of the lens in the eye that affects vision and is mostly related to age. According to an article published by the Cleveland Clinic, for your eye to see, light passes through a clear lens behind the colored part of your eye, or the iris. The lens focuses the light so that your brain and eye can work together to process information into a picture. When a cataract clouds over the lens, your eye is unable to focus light in the same way.

By the age of 80, more than 50 percent of all Americans have a cataract or have had cataract surgery. According to Icon Eyecare, to make sure cataracts don't affect your vision, it's important to get regular eye exams - especially if you're over the age of 55.

Cataracts are the leading cause of vision loss worldwide. In a report by the National Opinion Research Center at the University of Chicago, researchers predicted that from 2014 to 2032, the number of cataract cases will increase by 50 percent. Within the next decade, the United States will be faced with one of the biggest healthcare crisis’s it has ever had to deal with, and no one seems to be talking about it yet.

The aging population in the United States will reach an all-time high in 2030, when the Baby Boomer Generation will all be 65 or older. With old age, cataracts and other vision problems worsen. Age is the biggest factor in cataracts, but it isn't the only thing that can cause them. There are four other types of cataracts, secondary cataracts, traumatic cataracts, congenital cataracts, and radiation cataracts. Secondary cataracts can form after an eye surgery or develop due to other health problems, like diabetes.

Traumatic cataracts happen after an eye injury. They can happen immediately or even years after the initial injury. Congenital cataracts appear at birth or in childhood and tend to be so small that they do not affect vision. Radiation cataracts can develop after some forms of radiation. All of these types of cataracts can hinder vision and make day-to-day activities difficult. Older adults, as well as everyone else, should see their eye doctor regularly to keep their vision working properly.

The National Eye Institute lists some of the noticeable symptoms of cataracts as: having cloudy or blurry vision, colors looking faded, you are unable to see well at night, lamps, sunlight, or headlights all appear to be too bright, you see a halo around lights, you have to change your glasses prescription often, or you are seeing double of things. Seeing double sometimes goes away as the cataract gets bigger.

Now, this list is somewhat lengthy, but it is in no way exhaustive, and these are not exclusive symptoms of cataracts. All of these symptoms can also indicate a number of other eye problems or diseases. Schedule an appointment with your loved one’s eye doctor if they are experiencing any of the above symptoms. Early treatment of any eye disease may just end up saving your loved one’s vision.

Cataracts are a common occurrence, and it is very likely that either you or someone you know has a cataract right now. If you think you might be experiencing cataract symptoms or are just wondering what it’s actually like living with cataracts, Jim Mathie a former fire chief in Deerfield Beach Florida, speaks about life with cataracts and the difference he noticed as soon as he got them removed at Rand Eye Institute.

“Wow, what a big difference,” Mathie says about his cataract surgery. He goes on to say that the difference is like night and day and he just hadn’t realized how bad his vision had been before. He had his surgery on a Thursday and it was so easy he doesn’t even remember it. The next day, he went back for an exam and he could see everything. He had so much clarity and was suddenly noticing how vivid all the colors were. He had been getting his yearly eye exams and knew that he had a cataract in one eye. At first, it was manageable, but after five years, he knew it was time to do something about it. He was avoiding driving at night because he assumed it would be an issue. But, what really made him decide to get the surgery was that he was no longer able to enjoy his favorite hobby, diving.

Mathie dove three to four times a week and had started to notice that he was unable distinguish things like fish and lobsters in murkier waters when they were right in front of him. Before his cataract, he had no issues seeing in murky water. He knew it was time to fix his vision, and today he is enjoying his passion, scuba diving, and loving his cataract free life. If you, like Jim Mathie, have noticed your vision deteriorating, or noticed your loved one’s vision deteriorating, talk to your eye doctor and see if cataract surgery will work for you.

There are some things we can do while we are younger to prevent cataracts, but cataracts due to aging are not preventable. Cataracts due to age can be fixed or at the very least, the symptoms can be managed, with the help of your doctor. Cataracts caused by other health issues may be prevented by using protection from the sun, such as hats and sunglasses, and eating leafy greens and other fruits and vegetables. Eating a healthy diet will help with many health problems, and not just with cataracts, but I'm sure you already knew that.

If you smoke, quitting smoking will also significantly reduce your chances of getting cataracts. If you are ready to quit smoking, you can call the American Lung Association's Help Line at 1-800-LUNG-USA, that's 1-800 586-4872 today for free help with quitting. You should also talk to your doctor about quitting. They can help you create a plan and track your progress. They can also prescribe medication to help if you need it.

Getting your eyes dilated can also help prevent cataracts. Adults 60 and older should get their eyes dilated at least once every two years. Eye doctors can check for cataracts and monitor existing cataracts while dilating your eyes.

According to aging care dot com, age-related cataracts affect older adults' vision in a few different ways. Clumps of protein build-up reduce the sharpness of the image reaching the retina. The clumps of protein can also cloud the lens and reduce the light that reaches the retina. Over time, the protein can tint the clear lens, turning it a yellow or brownish color, adding a brownish tint to their vision.

Approximately one in five older adults have cataracts. Cataracts are not contagious. If you have a cataract in one eye, you may not develop a cataract in your other eye and you cannot spread them to other people, either.

Depending on the severity of the cataracts, seniors may only need new glasses or a magnifying lens to see better or use brighter lighter at home. Anti-glare sunglasses can help seniors see better while outside or in the car. If none of these options help, surgery is a safe and effective treatment for cataracts.

According to Comfort Keepers, cataract surgery is widely regarded as one of the safest medical procedures. It has a success rate between 95 and 98 percent. For this procedure, the patient usually only needs minimal sedation, which is safer for older adults. Seniors with other health issues are often unable to receive surgeries due to their health conditions but are still able to receive cataract surgeries because of how safe and fast they are. While the risk of complications is low for cataract surgery, it is still important to talk to your doctor about the risks involved.

Cataracts are removed one eye at a time. The senior will have to have the surgery performed on one eye and then wait three to four weeks for the other eye. During this waiting period between surgeries and during the four weeks following the second surgery, senior should try not to rub their eyes or lift heavy objects. They should also continue wearing sunglasses and hats to protect their eyes from the sun.

Once a cataract has been removed, it will not come back. A secondary cataract can form in the same eye, but it is not the original cataract coming back. The secondary cataract can be corrected with a Y A G laser capsulotomy, which is quick and painless.

It is very likely that your loved one has cataracts. They may not even notice any symptoms. If they are experiencing any vision discomfort or other problems, schedule an eye appointment to see if they have any undiagnosed eye conditions. Their doctor can help you make the best course of action for their vision.

Cataracts can make daily activities difficult at first, especially when you are first adjusting to blurry vision. You may notice your loved one being slightly unsteady on their feet or unsure of their movements while they are adjusting to their new stage of vision. They are at a higher risk of a fall during this time, so make sure to remove any obstacles that could hinder their movements and result in a fall.

Your loved one may also need help doing household tasks, like cooking and cleaning, while dealing with cataracts. They may be unable to read a recipe to make their meals and their blurred vision also makes cleaning up messes difficult. Helping your loved one cook meals and clean up around the house, at least until they have either adjusted to their blurred vision or are able to get the cataracts removed, will be extremely helpful to them.

If your loved one has a cataract and you are interested in ways to maintain it without surgery, have them try some eye exercises. Family Vision Development Center says that certain eye exercises can help to strengthen your eyes and ease eye strain. And, while strengthening your eye muscles cannot actually cure cataracts, it can help to slow the progression.

They recommend gently rolling your eyes in a clockwise circle a few times, then reverse to a counterclockwise motion. You can also try moving your eyes from side to side, or in the shape of a figure 8. You can also try changing focus, by focusing on a finger held a few inches from your face, then shifting to an object farther away, then back again.

Learning to live with cataracts can take some time and adjustment. If your loved one is still driving, remind them to be extra cautious and try not to drive at night, as the glare from streetlights can provide hazardous driving conditions for someone with cataracts.

Are you worried about your parent or aging loved one driving, with or without cataracts? You are not alone. In another episode of this podcast, Is Your Loved One Safe Driving, we talked about aging loved ones and what to do when you think they are no longer safe behind the wheel. Please listen to the episode and check out the show notes for resources on safe transportation options and other related driving topics.

Prevent Blindness, the number one volunteer eye health and safety organization, offers free information on cataracts. Their organization has created the Cataract Awareness Month campaign and is very knowledgeable when it comes to cataracts and other causes of vision loss. You can call them at 1-800-331-2020 or visit them on the web at preventblindness.org. Their goal is to eliminate preventable blindness in the United States.

If you or your loved one, or someone you know, is experiencing cataracts and do not have the financial means to fix them, Prevent Blindness may be able to help. Check them out today or send their information to someone in need.

If you are interested in learning about other eye conditions that could be affecting your loved one, listen to our episode on Understanding Glaucoma and visit our website for more information.

Of the five types of cataracts, age-related cataracts are the most common cataracts to be seen, and they disproportionately affect the older population. Losing your vision is frightening and causes your loved one to worry. It is important to let them know that you are there for them during this time and help them perform their daily tasks safely. Make sure your loved one visits their eye doctor regularly so that any vision problems can be caught and fixed before they become a real problem.

Luckily, cataracts can be fixed in a fast and safe procedure, restoring your loved one's sight in a matter of weeks. If they are unable to have the cataracts removed, there are still a few options that can help them see better, like using brighter lights and magnifying glasses. For more information on understanding cataracts in seniors, check out the resources on the show notes for this episode.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. Join us next time on All Home Care Matters where we will be sharing Fall Prevention Tips to help keep your loved ones safe.

Sources:

https://www.agingcare.com/articles/what-is-a-cataract-age-related-eye-diseases-108282.htm

https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/cataracts#:~:text=Cataracts%20are%20very%20common%20as,%2C%20hazy%2C%20or%20less%20colorful.

https://iconeyecare.com/eye-care-blog/10-cataract-facts-cataract-awareness-month/#:~:text=June%20is%20National%20Cataract%20Awareness,virtually%20pain%2Dfree%20surgical%20procedure.

https://www.comfortkeepers.com/info-center/category/senior-health-and-wellbeing/article/the-myths-and-facts-of-cataracts-what-seniors-shou

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8589-cataracts

https://preventblindness.org/cataract-awareness-month-2020/

https://preventblindness.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Future_of_Vision_final_0.pdf

https://www.businessinsider.com/aging-population-healthcare

https://www.lung.org/quit-smoking/i-want-to-quit

https://preventblindness.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/CataractRelease2020.pdf

https://www.fvdcpc.com/2021/02/26/simple-strategies-living-with-cataracts/

https://www.bettervision.net/cataracts/5-tips-for-living-with-cataracts/

https://www.randeye.com/after-cataract-surgery-jims-interview-hd/

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With the summer months coming and the temperatures starting to rise, seniors and the elderly need to protect themselves from the heat. The warm weather can help improve many seniors' daily outlook on life as the effects of Seasonal Affective Disorder go dormant. If you think your loved one may have Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, check out our episode on SAD, Are You Sad? for more information on what SAD is, how it affects seniors, and ways you can help your loved one overcome it.

The long summer months are something most of us look forward to throughout the winter. It is important for seniors to take the necessary precautions when spending time outside in the heat and in the sun. Seniors without air-conditioning are at the highest risk of extreme heat. Without being able to cool off inside, they can easily overheat and suffer from a number of heat-related illnesses and even death. If you know a senior that doesn’t have air-conditioning, and can’t afford one, the federal Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps adults 65 and older who have limited incomes cover the cost of air conditioners and utility bills. You can call the National Energy Assistance Referral hotline at 1-866-674-6327 for more information on this program.

One of the ways our bodies regulate temperature is through sweating. However, adults 65 and older don’t sweat nearly as much as younger adults do and are unable to regulate their body temperature through this way, which is why the heat is more dangerous for older adults. From 1999-2009, 40 percent of heat-related deaths occurred in seniors. We hope today’s episode can help lower that number in the future. Heat-related illnesses are preventable if you know the facts ahead of time.

What can seniors do to protect themselves from the heat? Stay cool and stay hydrated. Seniors need to drink plenty of water to combat extreme heat. Older adults shouldn’t wait until they’re thirsty to drink water. If you have medication that requires you to drink less water, talk to your doctor to find out how much water they recommend you drink daily. If you need to cool down quickly, take a cool shower or bath. If you are having trouble overheating and are still feeling the effects of the heat an hour after finding a cool place to rest, please call your doctor.

Older adults should wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing that isn’t restrictive when outside. Wearing long sleeves and hats can also prevent painful sunburns. Try to limit outdoor and strenuous activities to early morning and or evening when the sun doesn’t pose as much risk and it is cooler out. Make sure seniors are getting plenty of rest during warm weather, too. The heat makes us tired and it’s important to listen to what our bodies need. As the caregiver, you may be the one to notice when your loved one needs to rest or needs to hydrate if they are unable to recognize it for themselves. You also want to make sure to never leave an older adult in a shut-off vehicle without the windows down, even if you’re just running into the post office to drop off an envelope. The effects of the heat can happen fast and if your loved one has any chronic medical conditions, it can quickly become deadly.

Dr. Michael Fitch, M.D., professor of emergency medicine at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center says “If you have an older relative or neighbor, it’s important to keep in frequent touch with them during times of hot weather. Keeping in mind that someone may not even be aware of feeling hot or thirsty, it is very important for others to check on the health and well-being of loved ones and friends.”

Now that you know the dangers of extreme heat, we’re going to move on to the three major heat-related syndromes and what you can do to protect your loved one and prevent heat-related sickness. The first, heat cramps, is a condition that involves muscle spasms and pain. It typically occurs during or after strenuous activities, but it commonly occurs in older adults due to dehydration. Making sure the senior is drinking plenty of water is the most important thing you can do to prevent dehydration. If they have trouble drinking water, try giving them foods with high water content, like watermelon, cantaloupe, citrus fruits, tomatoes, cucumbers, and celery. If they become dehydrated and are unable to properly hydrate themselves, they may need IV fluids.

Heat exhaustion is the second heat syndrome. The National Institute on Aging states that heat exhaustion is a warning that your body can no longer keep itself cool. You might feel thirsty, dizzy, weak, uncoordinated, and nauseated. You may sweat a lot. Your body temperature may stay normal, but your skin may feel cold and clammy. Some people with heat exhaustion have a rapid pulse.

If you notice your loved one experiencing heat exhaustion, get them to a cool place immediately and try to hydrate them. If they have high blood pressure or heart problems, call 911 as soon as possible. Also, call 911 if they don’t recover quickly after getting them in a cool area and water. If not taken care of, heat exhaustion can quickly become heatstroke.

Heatstroke can occur anywhere from 15 minutes to several days after being exposed to extreme heat. Heatstroke happens when the body heats up faster than it can cool off. The National Institute on Aging lists the signs of heatstroke as fainting or becoming unconscious, a change in behavior, such as confusion, agitation, staggering, being grouchy, or acting strangely, a temperature over 104°F (40°C), dry, flushed skin and a strong, rapid pulse or a slow, weak pulse, and not sweating even if it is hot. Seek medical help immediately if you think your loved one is experiencing heatstroke.

Extreme heat can be dangerous, but as long as you take the right precautions and recognize when your body has had enough, it is easy to prevent any ill effects of heat. We hope that having the tips and information to help avoid potential heat strokes, dehydration, and other health risks can be helpful to you and your loved one and can help seniors and the elderly to enjoy summer and the warmer weather safely.

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/older-adults-heat.html

https://www.wakehealth.edu/Stories/Tips-to-Keep-the-Elderly-Safe-in-Extreme-Heat

https://www.wakehealth.edu/Stories/How-to-Stay-Cool-When-Its-Hot

https://www.wakehealth.edu/Stories/Heat-Safety-Tips

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/hot-weather-safety-older-adults#:~:text=Heat%20Stroke%E2%80%94A%20Medical%20Emergency,-If%20you%20have&text=People%20who%20become%20dehydrated%20or,being%20grouchy%2C%20or%20acting%20strangely

https://www.healthinaging.org/tools-and-tips/tip-sheet-hot-weather-safety-tips-older-adults

https://www.lifespan.org/lifespan-living/elderly-and-heat-dangerous-combination

https://www.dripdrop.com/blog/heat/seniors-and-heat-illness-why-the-elderly-are-more-affected-by-the-heat

https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ocs/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heat-exhaustion/symptoms-causes/syc-20373250#:~:text=Heat%20exhaustion%20is%20a%20condition,heatstroke%20being%20the%20most%20severe.

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All Home Care Matters is honored to have the privilege to welcome Craig Fowler to the show. If you are caring for a loved one with dementia or Alzheimer's then this interview will be full of in-depth information on an exciting platform that Craig has developed to help families and their loved ones with dementia stay stimulated and engaged.

Craig Fowler is the founder and CEO of Joygage, an engagement on-demand subscription service designed and developed to improve the quality of life of persons living with Alzheimer’s and dementia and provide respite for their care partners.

He was guided and inspired by his caregiving journey supporting his father who was the primary caregiver for his mother who lived with early onset dementia for more than ten years. He created Joygage to serve the Alzheimer's and dementia community by creating a service that focuses on improving quality of life, daily happiness, and dignity of persons living with Alzheimer's and dementia instead of trying to "cure" or “fix” them.

Aside from Joygage, he's also currently serving as a board member of the Dementia Action Alliance.

Connect with Joygage:

wecare@joygage.com

https://www.joygage.com/

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Today we’re talking about caregiver burnout and the tools to prevent it. We will be focusing on the family, and more specifically, the family members who have stepped up, or in some cases, been thrust into the role of caring for a family member, expectedly or not.

Either way, they are now caring for a family member, and this can add a whole new layer of responsibility, stress, financial sacrifice, personal sacrifice, and emotion into their lives that nothing can really prepare them for. The Tools to Prevent Caregiver Burnout is designed to help equip them with just that - the tools to avoid becoming burned out.

We’ve covered topics before to help family caregivers out and if you are facing specific issues or are wanting to learn more about caregiver resources, tips, and information make sure to visit our show page or our website to find more information and remember if you have specific topic that you would like to see covered here at All Home Care Matters you can reach the show using our secure form and someone will respond.

Let’s get started.

First, what is caregiver burnout? According to the Cleveland Clinic, caregiver burnout is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion that can occur when caregivers don't get the help they need, or if they try to do more than they are able, physically or financially.

Caregiving is a worthwhile and rewarding experience, but if you are not taking care of yourself while you take care of others, it is not sustainable. In order to do what is best for your loved ones, you have to do what is best for yourself first. A large number of family caregivers, nearly 85 percent, do not receive any sort of respite care. Many caregivers don’t seek respite care due to cost and not knowing who to turn to.

Friends and family members make great resources for respite care. They may be able to step in and sit with your loved one while you run a few errands or do something fun for yourself. Adult Day Care programs are great for caregivers with full-time jobs, and they often include medical and therapeutic help, as well.

Caregiver burnout can lead to unwanted health problems, such as depression, fatigue, sleep disorders, and even elder abuse or neglect. It’s important to prevent caregiver burnout not only for yourself, but for those you are caring for, as well. Severe caregiver burnout can be hard to overcome, which is why we want to give you the tools to prevent caregiver burnout before it even happens.

It’s important to note that there are two sides of the caregiver relationship. The care receiver is going through many lifestyle changes, as well during this time. They may become upset with you and might be angry that they can no longer do things for themselves anymore but try to not let this bring you down. Now, I know how hard this is, but if you can put aside the hurtful things your loved one may say or do and try to remember that they love you, it will make caregiving so much easier.

And, if you’re having any difficulties or feelings of sadness, seek out professional help. A therapist can be immensely helpful during this time, and, when your time as a caregiver ultimately comes to an end, they can help with the grieving process, too.

Communicating with family and friends about your situation can also be a problem that leads to caregiver burnout. Using a platform, like CaringBridge, to post updates on your loved one’s situation can relieve some of the pressure of having to keep up with communications. You might also delegate communications about your situation to another family member or friend so that you don’t have to shoulder the burden alone.

The most important thing you can do to prevent caregiver burnout is to give yourself a break, no matter how small. Getting away, for a weekend or an hour, can help you come back refreshed and ready to continue caring for your loved one.

If you know someone that has recently become a caregiver, share today’s episode with them so that they can start preventing burnout before it even happens. Having the tools and support you need can make caregiving a little more easier.

We want to thank you for joining us here at All Home Care Matters, All Home Care Matters is here for you and to help families as they navigate long-term care issues. Please visit us at allhomecarematters.com there is a private secure fillable form there where you can give us feedback, show ideas, or if you have questions. Every form is read and responded to. If you know someone who could benefit from this episode, please share it with them.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. We look forward to seeing you next time on All Home Care Matters where we will welcome a very special guest, Craig Fowler. Craig is the found and CEO of Joygage a wonderful resource and tool for families who have loved ones with Dementia.

Sources:

https://www.healthinaging.org/tools-and-tips/tip-sheet-avoiding-caregiver-burnout

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9225-caregiver-burnout#:~:text=Caregiver%20burnout%20is%20a%20state,and%20using%20respite%20care%20services.

https://aginginplace.org/caregiver-burnout/

https://www.helpguide.org/articles/senior-housing/adult-day-care-services.htm

https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/life-balance/info-2019/caregiver-stress-burnout.html

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/about/community_health/johns-hopkins-bayview/services/called_to_care/causes_symptoms_caregiver_burnout.html

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When it comes to choosing the best care for your loved ones as they age, there’s a lot to consider. We want to make sure that your loved one is safe, cared for, and happy. But how do we know what type of care to choose?

From assisted living to nursing homes to home care and everything in between, there are a lot of options – and they each have their own pros and cons.

For many families, the answer is simple: they want their loved one to stay at home. That simple answer becomes more complicated when they consider how they might accomplish this. If mom or dad is at home, who will care for them? Will a family member have to step in, or can they hire someone to help? Is the house safe for an aging senior? Will they be able to socialize, or will it be too lonely at home?

If your loved one wants to stay at home, but has no family available to care for them, then this may seem like it’s not an option. That’s where home care comes in.

Home care is customized to an individual’s specific needs, likes, and routines which make it an ideal choice for many families and for their loved ones. This is the ideal option for seniors who need or want to stay home but don’t have family to care for them.

However, if a loved one requires medical care that will require an RN or LPN then the family will need to speak with their loved ones physician about Home Health Care.

Even if seniors do have a family member who can step in, home care can be an excellent form of respite care and delegating some of the other tasks that the family member is responsible for.

One family member should not have to be responsible for 100% of the work that goes into caring for a loved one. That’s why home care is a wonderful option for all seniors staying at home. The home care provider can provide full personal care, memory care, companionship, respite, and anything in-between. The needs of everyone is unique to them and with home care it will be customized to them.

On today’s episode of All Home Care Matters, we’ll let you in on 10 things you might not know about home care. We hope that by the end of this episode, you have a better idea of what to expect from home care and can decide whether this is the best option for you and your loved one.

To learn more about the other types of care, check out our episode on choosing the right type of care for your loved one. There, you’ll find information regarding nursing homes, assisted living, family caregiving, and more.

Now, let’s get started.

Number One: Home Care is becoming one of the most popular forms of long-term care. According to the National Association for Home Care and Hospice, the demand for home care services have been growing each year and it’s expected to continue to rise.

More and more people are realizing the importance of aging in place. Research has shown that there are enormous benefits for seniors on a physical and emotional level, which we’ll dive into deeper below.

Number Two: Seniors get to stay in their comfort zone. For many seniors, aging at home is just more comfortable. They don’t have to go through the stress of a move – or give up any of their favorite possessions and pieces of furniture. They get to stay in the home they love, without a roommate, and without adhering to the limiting rules and regulations of most nursing and assisted living homes.

When it comes to hiring home care services, they can rest assured that their beloved home will be properly cared for and tended to, so they won’t ever need to worry about plants dying or grime building up. They can be comfortable in the place they love. It really is that simple.

Number three: Seniors can choose their own caregiver. When a senior decides to age in place with home care, they are able to choose a caregiver that fits their personality and that they can bond with. When meeting with the Home Care company the Case Manager will typically develop a plan of care and help identify a caregiver who will best match with the person that they will be caring for to ensure the best fit.

However, if requested the senior and their family can interview multiple caregivers until they find that perfect match. In facilities, seniors do not usually have a say in who cares for them, and they might have to deal with a rotating staff of faces and names – which can make forming a bond nearly impossible.

Families and seniors alike want to know that they can trust their caregivers. This is an incredibly important relationship – not only is a caregiver responsible for the safety and health of your loved one, but we want them to form a friendship, too. When families get to choose their own caregiver, they can make sure they can choose someone who is dedicated to keeping their loved one happy and fulfilled and they will have the support of the Case Manager as well who will help make sure that their needs are being met and that the caregiver is the right fit.

And, because they’re at home, they can take your loved one on walks through the neighborhood or play their favorite board games from the living room shelf. The options for activities are far less limited.

Number Four: You can hire skilled nurses to care for your loved one at home. Not everyone realizes that they can request home health care. Skilled nurses are available to work with your loved ones at home as their health needs increase. Whether you need 24 hour care or someone to come in once a day, you can find that in home care. Just remember that most Home Care companies do not employ nurses or provide skilled nursing care and you may need to look outside of the home care provider if your loved one is unable to utilize Home Health Care and requires a nurse.

Just make sure that the nurses are certified, skilled, and knowledgeable of the skilled need that your loved one has.

In a facility, your loved one’s health can get lost in the shuffle. One aide might be responsible for 14 patients. At home, your loved one’s caregiver or aide is only responsible for one person and that’s your loved one. That means it’s far less likely for anything to slip through the cracks.

Number Five: Your loved one can be released from the hospital faster. Yep, you heard that right. Anyone with an aging loved one knows that a hospital stay can go on and on and on for seniors. Before they can be released back to their assisted living home or nursing home, they might have to meet with therapists, caregivers, social workers, and nurses.

If your loved one is staying at home, though, then all these meetings can happen at home. That means that they won’t have to spend all those extra hours or even days in the hospital – which is a huge plus for both the senior and their family members.

Number Six: Your loved one can be much more independent. With home care, your loved one is cared for by one caregiver, instead of an entire staff. They are not obligated to follow rules and restrictions. They are free to move around their home as they please. They can be as independent as they want to be, for as long as they can be.

If your loved one wants to go out for the day – to a social event or another activity – they have the freedom to do so, and the help and support to make it happen safely. Instead of needing permission from a staff to leave their room, they can ask their caregiver to take them anywhere they’d like to go.

This means they won’t miss dinner parties or outings with friends unless they want to. So, not only are they more independent, but they can also keep their social life alive.

Independence is a big one. One of the biggest worries we hear from seniors considering nursing homes or assisted living facilities is that they will lose their independence. With home care, this just doesn’t need to be a worry. Your loved one can relax knowing that they can continue living their normal life, for as long as possible, with home care.

Number Seven: They have unlimited access to friends and family. At hospitals or in facilities, the number of guests a person has might be limited. At home, your loved one can visit with as many people as they want to, whenever they feel up to it.

They will never have to pick and choose which friend or family member to visit with, and their loved ones won’t have to go through any forms or desk services to visit. They can simply pull up the driveway and head inside.

This also means that if your loved one is used to hosting Thanksgiving or other holidays, they can continue to do so. Their caregiver can make sure the house is clean and ready to go for any guests, and the family members can arrive to make the feast. Your loved one will be so happy to not have to sacrifice special holiday traditions that they love.

Number Eight: With Home Care the caregivers can help with errands. Some families think that even if they have home care, they will still be up to their necks in grocery shopping or running other errands for their loved ones.

This is actually not true! With home care, all of your loved one’s errands will be taken care of. You won’t have to worry about making sure your loved one’s pantry is stocked with their favorite healthy meals and snacks. Plus, if your loved one is up for it, they can join on the errands and get out of the house for a few hours.

Number Nine: There are two types of home care agencies. Not every home care agency offers health care – but non-medical home care companies are still an excellent choice for many families and can provide assistance for all of their ADL’s and help them to continue living safely and independently in their home.

The two types are medical and non-medical. Medical agencies provide skilled services like nursing, occupational therapy, and social work. This is the better choice for seniors who need specialized health care but want to stay at home, but will be limited on the amount of visits, time, and tasks that they can assist with. Many medical home health care agencies accept Medicaid and other insurances.

Non-medical home care has home health aides, certified nursing assistants, homemakers, companions, nurse aids, Case Managers. These types of caregivers are able to help with daily living activities, tracking health, running errands, memory care, personal care and hygiene, laundry, meal prep, and housekeeping and Case Managers to oversee them and to insure that your loved ones needs are being met.

Non-medical care is a great choice for seniors who want companionship and care that goes beyond medical assistance (for instance, someone to participate in activities and conversation with them, and who will be personally dedicated to their emotional wellbeing). It’s also great for families who need respite care from family caregiving, or have a loved one needs care day-to-day or may just a few days a week to help with anything from memory care to full personal care and everything in between.

Non-medical care is not usually covered by insurance, and the cost can vary widely depending on the state. Still, lower income seniors might be able to qualify for financial assistance through Medicaid or non-profit organizations. Veterans can get assistance through the Veteran-Directed Care Program or if the care needed is the result of an auto accident the auto insurance can help provide payment for the care or another option is if the person has a long-term care insurance policy to help with the coverage.

Number 10: Home Care helps delay memory loss. When seniors with dementia or other cognitive problems age in place, they can actually delay the decline in their memory.

This is largely because staying in familiar surroundings helps with memory recall. In a new environment, there are little sentimental or familiar surroundings for seniors to latch onto.

When you decide that Home Care is the best option for your loved one, you can keep your loved one at home, where they might have a better chance of keeping their memory alive longer. The caregivers can help your loved one with activities meant to engage their memory, that will be individualized for your loved one’s interests and personal life. This can make an enormous difference.

It’s not easy to choose the best type of care for your loved one – especially when there are so many options available. If your loved one wants to stay at home, but you want to make sure they’re being cared for by professionals on a regular basis, then home care is the answer for you.

We want to thank you for joining us here at All Home Care Matters, All Home Care Matters is here for you and to help families as they navigate long-term care issues. Please visit us at allhomecarematters.com there is a private secure fillable form there where you can give us feedback, show ideas, or if you have questions. Every form is read and responded to. If you know someone who could benefit from this episode, please share it with them.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. We look forward to seeing you next time on All Home Care Matters where we will be discussing an important topic that has affected so many family caregivers and that is Tools to Prevent Caregiver Burnout.

Sources:

https://www.homehelpershomecare.com/knoxville/resources/tips-resources/10-reasons-why-home-care-is-better/

https://accreditednursing.com/why-choose-accredited/things-to-know-when-selecting-a-home-care-company/

https://www.carepathways.com/articles/4-things-you-should-know-about-home-care.cfm

https://stjulianahomecare.com/10-things-you-should-know-about-home-health-care/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=10-things-you-should-know-about-home-health-care

https://blog.bayada.com/be-healthy/10-benefits-of-home-health-care

https://www.medstarhealth.org/homecare/home-health-care/what-to-expect-from-home-health-care/

https://aging.com/what-can-a-home-care-worker-do-for-me/

https://angelsinhome.com/senior-and-elder-care/five-reasons-to-choose-home-health-care-for-seniors/

https://www.seniorly.com/in-home-care

https://www.ankota.com/home-care-industry-overview-and-statistics

https://www.retirementliving.com/5-benefits-of-aging-in-place

https://www.payingforseniorcare.com/non-medical-care/financial-assistance#:~:text=Non%2Dmedical%20care%20is%20best,individuals%20without%20formal%20medical%20training.&text=Providing%20non%2Dmedical%20care%20generally,of%20daily%20living%20(IADLs)

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There are many concerns that may arise and make our day-to-day lives more difficult as we age. Now, we know there are universal problems that affect all age groups, but today we will be discussing the top ten concerns that seniors are facing today.

The first concern many older adults face is the cost of healthcare. Even with insurance, many seniors have to pay for their medical needs out-of-pocket. Knowing your family’s medical history early in life may help you plan for these costs in advance, but it is often the unexpected medical issues that come with the highest costs.

If your aging loved one isn’t already on Medicare, signing up for Medicare or similar programs can help ease the healthcare burden you may be shouldering. However, you should also be aware that Medicare doesn’t cover dental, basic vision, over-the-counter medicines, or long-term care.

A similar concern seniors are facing is disease and other health issues that affect day-to-day living. More than 80 percent of seniors have at least one chronic disease, such as Alzheimer’s or macular degeneration, and over 75 percent have at least two. Chronic diseases are the leading cause of death in older adults. While caring for an aging loved one, it is important to ensure they regularly see a doctor to manage and detect any chronic diseases they may have.

The actual physical act of aging is another significant concern that seniors face. Aging effects everything from our bones to our eyesight. Adults aged 60 and over need at least three times more light to see while reading than 20-year-olds do.

As we age, we begin to notice that we have new limitations. We are no longer able to do the things we once did. For many older adults, this includes things like getting groceries on their own, cleaning the house, and driving. 20 percent of adults 65 or older have reported they have difficulty or are unable to perform at least one of the six domains of functioning, which are seeing, hearing, mobility, communication, cognition, and self-care. There are many options for physical assistance. Your loved one may need in-home care all the time, or they may need help only occasionally. Your doctor or a social worker may be able to help establish a physical assistance plan.

According to the National Council on Aging, roughly 1 in 3 older adults are facing financial insecurity today with income levels 200 percent below the Federal Poverty Line. Over 15 million seniors have concerns with their financial security due to income alone, that’s not including all the other financial concerns that all seniors face. Social Security and other programs are specifically designed to help seniors establish financial security. Your local senior center may also have programs that can help your loved ones reach financial security.

Financial predators are something that concern anyone with a phone, but they largely target seniors. There are many types of scams that are targeted at seniors, such as home repair, government impersonation, and tech support scams. There are even family members or caregivers that commit elder fraud. A large number of elder fraud goes unreported because the older adult may feel embarrassed, they might not know how to report a scam, or they are concerned that their loved ones will think they are unable to handle their own finances.

If you suspect you or a loved one is being scammed, contact your local police office and you can also submit a report to your local FBI field office immediately. We recommend to learn more about protecting seniors from becoming a victim of scams that you listen or watch the episode we did on Protecting Seniors from Scams. We did an in-depth analysis with tips, resources, and information on the most common scams to watch out for to protect your loved ones.

Loneliness is a concern many people have been facing during the Covid-19 pandemic, but it especially affects seniors. A report from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine has found than nearly 1 in 4 older adults are living in social isolation, and this report was released just at the beginning of the pandemic. Technology can be a great way to combat loneliness, but it can be a major learning curve for some older adults. Episode 82, Technology Tips for Seniors and Caregivers, is a great resource for technology specifically for seniors.

Elder abuse or neglect is a real concern for families and for seniors. Unlike with child abuse, the laws around elder abuse are not clear. Many seniors don’t report their own abuse out of fear for making the abuse worse. If you suspect your loved one may be abused or neglected, you can visit the National Center on Elder Abuse’s website at ncea.acl.gov to learn where and how to report abuse in your area. If you believe your loved one is in immediate danger, please call 911.

There eventually comes a time in the aging process where we are unable to drive. Older adults are twice as likely as other adults to have medical problems that make driving difficult and are at an increased risk of being involved in an auto accident. If your loved one has reached this point and you aren’t sure what to do next, there are many resources and options available to you. Many cities have senior transportation services at little or no cost. We recommend contacting your local senior center to see what transportation services may be available.

Lastly, a changing social climate is something all seniors face. Our social climate is constantly changing and in a technology driven world, this can be extremely hard for some older adults. Finding a class that interests them is a good way to make sure your loved one is still getting the important social interaction that they need. Check with your local senior center to find classes and activities for your loved ones.

We want to thank you for joining us here at All Home Care Matters, All Home Care Matters is here for you and to help families as they navigate long-term care issues. Please visit us at allhomecarematters.com there is a private secure fillable form there where you can give us feedback, show ideas, or if you have questions. Every form is read and responded to. If you know someone who could benefit from this episode, please share it with them.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. We look forward to seeing you next time on All Home Care Matters where we will be discussing the Top 10 Things You May Not Know About Home Care.

Sources:

https://www.aseniorconnection.com/top-10-concerns-that-seniors-face/

https://www.cnbc.com/2019/04/02/health-care-costs-for-retirees-climb-to-285000.html

https://vitalrecord.tamhsc.edu/10-common-elderly-health-issues/#:~:text=According%20to%20the%20National%20Council,thirds%20of%20deaths%20each%20year.

https://www.ncoa.org/article/get-the-facts-on-healthy-aging#intraPageNav0

https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/older-people%E2%80%99s-health-issues/the-aging-body/changes-in-the-body-with-aging?query=Physical%20Changes%20With%20Aging

https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/disability.htm

https://www.ncoa.org/article/get-the-facts-on-economic-security-for-seniors

https://www.cdc.gov/aging/publications/features/lonely-older-adults.html

https://www.nap.edu/catalog/25663/social-isolation-and-loneliness-in-older-adults-opportunities-for-the

https://www.fbi.gov/scams-and-safety/common-scams-and-crimes/elder-fraud#:~:text=Each%20year%2C%20millions%20of%20elderly,scams%2C%20to%20name%20a%20few.&text=With%20the%20elderly%20population%20growing,to%20be%20a%20growing%20problem.

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/elder-abuse#help

https://www.cdc.gov/features/older-driver-safety/index.html

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We’ve spoken in length before about how exhausting, stressful, and even heartbreaking it can be to be a family caregiver. If you’ve got the time, give our episode “Caring for the Caregiver” a listen or if you prefer watching it on our YouTube channel for an in-depth guide to avoiding caregiver burn out and learning how to put yourself first, even as you devote so much of your time, energy, and love to the person in your care.

We know, though, that caregivers don’t have a lot of time to spare – it can be difficult just to take a break for a glass of water (although we hope these tips can change that). Because of that, we thought it would be a good idea to do a quick tip episode about dealing with caregiver stress.

This is a basic rundown, a fast-paced version of our Caring for the Caregiver episode – but we hope it’ll leave you with some great tools for dealing with those especially long and tiresome days.

While it can be immensely rewarding to care for a loved one, it’s no secret that being a caregiver can be one of the most stressful jobs out there.

In fact, according to a study by the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research, caregivers report significantly higher levels of stress compared to non-caregivers. The American Psychological Association placed caregivers in the top three most stressed out groups in the country.

With that in mind, we want you to know that we see you. We see the hours upon hours you’re putting into each day – changing your loved one’s clothes, handling their mood swings, making sure they get their medication, cooking meals.

We see the time you’re losing with friends, family, other responsibilities, and even just time for you. We see the great sacrifices you’ve made – whether with your career, your family, your home, or your relationships. We see that you’re doing it all from a place of love.

It’s incredibly important, though, that you do not lose yourself in the shuffle. It’s hard for caregivers to ever put themselves first – their job description literally doesn’t make room for that.

But the fact of the matter is, when we put ourselves first, we are actually in a better place to care for those around us. That’s because when we’re nurtured, rested, and energized we can do our job a whole lot better than when we’re barely eating, barely sleeping, and exhausted.

It might seem impossible to put ourselves first as caregivers. It might seem impossible just to take a break. But I promise you that when you do – when you actively put in the steps to care for yourself and relieve some of that stress – you will feel so much better. You will care for your loved one better. You will save yourself from ultimate burn out. And you will get to reap more of the reward that comes from caregiving, and less of the stress and frustration.

The first step to managing caregiver stress is to learn how to recognize it when it happens. There are many signs that your stress is beginning to build up – and that you are either feeling or close to feeling burn out.

First, take a look at your emotions. Have you become more irritable, easily frustrated, and even started lashing out at your loved one? Do you snap when they repeat the same thing again and again? Do you rush them when they’re trying to get dressed? These are all normal reactions to caring for a deteriorating loved one. It can be endlessly frustrating to watch a loved one take minutes to button a shirt when you’re running late for an appointment. But if you find yourself outwardly losing your patience, and snapping at your loved one, this is a sign that your stress levels are too high.

It’s essential that caregivers are patient and loving toward the person in their care. Snapping or acting in anger can lead to enormous stress for the loved one and only exacerbate already difficult situations. In some cases, it can lead to feelings of distrust and even isolation. If you find that you’re jumping to anger, it’s time to take a step back and focus on caring for yourself.

Another sign of too much stress is feelings of depression. Are you experiencing crying bursts on a regular basis? Do you find yourself feeling in despair at even the smallest of difficulties? Are you having trouble getting out of bed, eating, or taking care of yourself at all? Have you lost interest in caring for your loved one?

Depression is all too common in caregivers – but it is something that must be addressed, so that your health is not impacted and the person in your care’s health is not impacted either.

Lack of sleep or other sleep problems are another sign that stress is becoming too much. If you find that your mind just won’t stop churning at night, that you’re having nightmares, or that you’re waking up more tired than when you went to sleep – it’s time to get some help and take care of yourself.

Other signs of stress are extreme changes in weight, physical health problems, and feelings of loneliness and isolation.

If any of these resonate with you, it’s time to address the stress. Even if they don’t, you’ll want to practice these stress relieving tips early on, because they’re incredibly preventative and can keep you from getting to those low points.

Our first tip is to accept that you cannot do everything yourself. Caregivers have a tendency to put all the responsibility on their own shoulders – and feel guilty asking for help from anyone else. This is a tough job and it’s too big for any one person. So take help when you need it.

Whether you need someone to clean the house, run the errands, or give respite care from time to time, get the help you need. When you’re no longer doing everything all by yourself, you’ll feel a huge sense of relief – and you’ll get to focus on what really matters (spending time with your loved one) instead of spending quality time washing dishes or doing other chores.

Secondly, don’t be afraid to seek out professional guidance. Therapists and support groups are a valuable resource for caregivers. You might find that when you get to talk out loud about your own worries, wants, and needs, that you’re actually releasing a lot of those built-up emotions, and will be less likely to lash out.

At the same time, a therapist can give you tools that will help with your individual situation. Advice for what to do when your loved one pushes your buttons, when things feel like they’re just too much, or when you need a break.

Support groups can give you a community of people who are going through what you are. Sometimes, it’s difficult for caregivers to speak with friends or family who do not understand what they’re dealing with on a day-to-day basis. A support group understands – and talking through your experiences with a like-minded community can be incredibly healing and strengthening.

Our third tip is to take breaks. Yep, take all the breaks you need. Find someone who can care for your loved one when you are not available and take some time every week – whether a couple of hours or an entire day – to do something just for you. I’m not talking about a day off to do laundry or clean your own apartment. I’m talking about a real break – spent doing something you love. Breaks are re-invigorating. You’ll find that you come back from breaks feeling reenergized and in a much better state of mind.

But breaks don’t just come in the form of days off. Take little breaks throughout the workday as well. Drink a glass of water. Read a chapter of a book. Eat lunch. Breaks are an essential part of self-care and they are a need that every human must fulfill for themselves.

Caregiving is far from easy – but if you ask for help, find professional care, and learn how to take breaks, you might find that it’s a lot easier than it used to be. There are plenty of other ways to relieve stress as well (and you can find out what they are on our Caring for the Caregiver episode), but these are a great three to start with.

At the end of the day some very simple and practical advice that we always remind families of at our Caregiver Support Groups is – when you care for yourself, you are also caring for those around you.

We want to thank you for joining us here at All Home Care Matters, All Home Care Matters is here for you and to help families as they navigate long-term care issues. Please visit us at allhomecarematters.com there is a private secure fillable form there where you can give us feedback, show ideas, or if you have questions. Every form is read and responded to. If you know someone who could benefit from this episode, please share it with them.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. We look forward to seeing you next time on All Home Care Matters where we will be discussing some of the most common fears and concerns that seniors face as they age.

Sources:

https://www.caring.com/caregivers/burnout/#family-caregivers-today-are-highly-stressed

https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/life-balance/info-2019/caregiver-stress-burnout.html

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/caregiver-stress/art-20044784

https://www.agingcare.com/articles/strategies-for-coping-with-caregiver-stress-135916.htm

https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/caregiver-health/caregiver-stress

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On today’s episode of All Home Care Matters, we’re doing something a little different. We know that the realities of caregiving are difficult, rewarding, and…complicated. We’ve had episodes where we detail some of the reasons for caregiver stress and burn out, and where we provide advice for caring for the caregiver.

This time, though, we want you to hear from actual caregivers about their experiences. The reality of caregiving is different for everyone, but it helps to understand what real people are facing on this journey. We’ve found that knowing other people’s experiences can help us to feel less alone – and can provide us with some insight about our own situations.

There are so many different types of caregivers out there. There are adult children caring for their parents, spouses caring for their partner, mothers caring for their children, grandchildren caring for their grandparents, and more. Today, we’ll share stories from multiple viewpoints, so you can have a better understanding of the true reality of a caregiver, across the spectrum.

Let’s get started.

When Priya Linson learned her mother had a brain tumor, she was the pregnant mother of a two-and-a-half-year-old child. She dropped everything to move from Boston to Chicago with her family, so she could be closer to her mother – and care for her, along with her toddler and new baby.

Linson is interviewed about this experience in a Medium article titled, “The Exhausting Balancing Act of Motherhood and Caregiving.” In the article, she shares her own experience with caring for her ailing mother, while mothering young children herself.

As the baby boomer generation gets older, and requires more care from their children, thousands of parents of young children are becoming caregivers. The reality is anything but easy – they are pouring all of their energy into giving and have to learn how to be there for multiple people at once, at all times of day.

This means figuring out how to take your kids to the park when your mother is too sick to leave the house that day. It means preparing different types of meals for different people and then washing each dish, after trying to get a picky toddler to eat his vegetables, and a picky senior eat hers.

It’s exhausting – and it’s also isolating. Because sandwich generation caregivers must devote all of themselves to their dependents, they have little to no time to devote to themselves. This can lead to feelings of depression, intense anxiety, and loneliness.

For Linson, relief came in the form of a support group. She realized that she was not alone after all, and that many others had been in her same shoes. She was able to learn from their experiences and feel supported on an intimate level. “There was something kind of reassuring,” she says in the article, “about what all humans go through when they’re faced with this. It’s just human to human.”

Carol Bradley Bursack wrote of her experience balancing the care of her aging mother with the care of her children in AgingCare.com. She explained that, “the challenges of being a member of the sandwich generation are many, but there is one universal issue that I ran into and continue to hear about as I converse with my readers and speak to groups: carefully weighing all of your loved ones’ needs.”

Bursack remembered one incident, when her son had an asthma attack at the same time that her mother’s medical alert system sounded. Luckily, her son recovered quickly, and she was able to run to her mother’s house – where she found that she had suffered a fall. Bursack was thankful that she was able to get there in time, but left wondering what might have happened if her son’s asthma attack was worse.

No one can choose one family member over another, so they have to figure out how to care for both simultaneously, even during extreme situations. That makes way to a type of stress rooted in the fear of “what if” situations. It’s enough to add enormous pressure to anyone’s life.

While members of the sandwich generation struggle to balance caring for kids and parents at the same time, other caregivers are struggling to get their loved one the right care in the first place. Simply put, their loved ones just won’t accept the help.

Medium writer Dresden wrote about the experience of caring for her grandmother in “Being Needed: the learning curves of caregiving.” She explained that one of the hardest parts of caring for her grandmother was that her grandmother did not want to accept that she needed help.

“There was a time that she would completely refuse to ask for help,” she writes. “Asking for assistance for anything was admitting something she did not want to admit-“ namely, that she was losing her independence.

Dresden’s grandmother’s reluctance to ask for help was frustrating for Dresden. It made daily tasks harder than they needed to be, and more frustrating. Her grandmother would simultaneously refuse help and get angry when she couldn’t accomplish a task herself.

Finally, Dresden found a solution. She gave her grandmother a baby monitor and told her that it was her “command base.” “You are the boss of this hub,” she told her, “when you have a need or desire, simply speak it and one of your ladies in waiting will come assist you.”

With a simple reframing of words, Dresden had convinced her grandmother that she was still in control. She got to be the boss who called the shots. “Grandmother loved that,” Dresden wrote.

While Dresden tries to get her grandmother to accept her care, other caregivers have to get creative to help their loved ones be active in the world again.

Loretta Wodward Veney is a caregiver for her mother, who has dementia. She was interviewed about her experience by AARP. For Veney, it’s all about finding something to occupy and engage her mother. She is adamant that she doesn’t want her mother to “waste away,” but staying on top of new activities is a challenge of creativity and patience. Still, it’s worth it to Veney to try.

“The main thing is,” Veney writes, “I can’t stand that blank stare – it unnerves me – so I try to keep her as active and involved as possible. Seeing her laugh and smile and enjoying herself – that’s all that really matters. It makes me feel close to her again. I would do anything for that smile.”

Veney has found that puzzles, legos, and music are especially effective. She also bought her mom a stuffed dog, which her mom thinks is real. The dog has brought a sense of comfort and companionship to her mother.

Assisting loved ones with daily needs and activities is certainly challenging for any caregiver, but there’s another universal struggle that most family caregivers will face on their journey. It’s likely one of the hardest parts of the job. That is the heartache that comes with watching their loved ones decline.

Lynda Dietz wrote a Medium article, “Alzheimer’s Disease From the Caregiver’s Perspective,” in which she shares her experience caring for her father-in-law with Alzheimer’s.

For Dietz, the everyday stresses of caregiving – like learning how to communicate after her father-in-law became increasingly repetitive, helping him manage his food, and dealing with changes in mood and emotion – have paled in comparison to the grief she feels watching him decline.

He was once a fun loving, active grandfather – and now he struggles to talk, move, or do much of anything. “I’ve come to realize Pop rarely laughs anymore,” she notes, “he smiles occasionally, but I miss his giggle.”

Balancing the everyday stresses of caring for her father-in-law with the heartache she feels seeing him decline is far from easy. In Dietz’s words, “the grieving process has begun already,” even though he hasn’t passed yet.

Carol Bradley Bursack, from AgingCare.com, had a similar experience with anticipatory grief. She writes that the emotions are deeply complicated. “We don’t usually identify the complex emotions we’re experiencing as such,” Bursack explains, “when you have a parent or spouse who used to be strong and capable but begins to ask for a little assistance, it’s no big deal, right? But deep down, there’s a knot in our hearts. We’re grieving various kinds of loss, including the loss of function that comes with advancing age or a chronic medical condition.”

Bursack wishes that she had done more to care for herself during that time. She was lost in grief, while balancing caring for her parents and children, and didn’t have time to deal with it. “When we are in the throes of caregiving,” she writes, “we often stuff our feelings deep down and focus on getting through the day.”

In the end, she wished she had been gentler to herself, and sought the support of others. If she had, the whole process may have been a little bit less painful.

Finally, there’s one aspect of caregiving that is often overlooked. Because caregiving is so exhausting, stressful, and even expensive, it’s easy for the conversation to focus on the negative (and the negative aspects SHOULD be spoken about). Still, that doesn’t mean we can’t bring attention to the positive realities of caregiving, too.

Tracy Grant cared for her husband when he was dying of cancer. She describes the experience as the “best seven months of my life” in her Medium Article, “I was my husband’s caregiver while he was dying of cancer.”

Now, she’s not trying to undercut how difficult it was. It was horrible to watch her husband lose his independence and to know that she would have to one day say goodbye. Still, the whole experience taught her just how precious life is – and she began to cherish it, and live in the present, more than she ever had before.

Grant writes, “being Bill’s caregiver meant being fully present for as many moments of every day as possible. Even ones where my formerly strong, independent spouse needed the type of help that would seem unthinkable months earlier.”

Grant learned to appreciate the little things and the difficulties that used to frustrate her (like “the petty, day-in-day-out grievances of an irksome coworker” or “a flat tire”) no longer got to her. She had learned that these things just didn’t matter in the grand scheme.

Caregiving is one of the most challenging duties on the planet – but it can also be one of the most rewarding. Caregivers share stresses, anxieties, and endless heartbreak. They also share a greater wisdom of the world and of life itself. They understand what matters and what doesn’t. They learn to see the beauty in the smallest of things. They learn to appreciate more, love more, and care more.

At the end of the day, the reality of caregiving is grief, stress, heartbreak, and a whole lotta love.

We want to thank you for joining us here at All Home Care Matters, All Home Care Matters is here for you and to help families as they navigate long-term care issues. Please visit us at allhomecarematters.com there is a private secure fillable form there where you can give us feedback, show ideas, or if you have questions. Every form is read and responded to. If you know someone who could benefit from this episode, please share it with them.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. We look forward to seeing you next time on All Home Care Matters where we will be exploring tips and resources for family caregivers to help manage caregiver stress. This is an important episode that you won’t want to miss.

Sources:

https://medium.com/@washingtonpost/i-was-my-husbands-caregiver-as-he-was-dying-of-cancer-it-was-the-best-seven-months-of-my-life-73be343a98c3

https://medium.com/writing-heals/alzheimers-disease-from-a-caregiver-s-perspective-9e2f86c5bd1e

https://medium.com/@dresdenplaid/being-needed-the-learning-curves-of-caregiving-b33855ed0757

https://zora.medium.com/the-exhausting-balancing-act-of-motherhood-and-caregiving-b6cded1a152a

https://medium.com/are-you-okay/the-sisters-are-sick-b4ff3049e4b3

https://www.pennmedicine.org/updates/blogs/health-and-wellness/2019/december/signs-of-caregiver-stress

https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/stories/info-2017/activites-brain-health.html

https://www.kathikollfoundation.org/caregiver-stories/

https://dailycaring.com/real-life-caregiver-stories-1/

https://www.kelownacapnews.com/life/horne-confessing-to-the-stress-that-comes-with-being-a-caregiver/

https://www.caregiver.org/story/caring-my-husband-has-become-more-team-effort/?via=connecting-caregivers,caregiver-stories

https://www.nextavenue.org/family-caregiving-experiences/

https://www.agingcare.com/articles/the-sandwich-generation-caring-for-children-and-elderly-parents-123286.htm

https://www.agingcare.com/articles/grieving-before-death-terminally-ill-116037.htm

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When it’s time to choose a new type of care for our ageing loved ones, there are a plethora of options to explore. From nursing homes, to memory care, to having a family caregiver step in – the options can seem a bit bewildering.

While families are searching for the best option, they are also trying to balance caring for their loved one, handling their own responsibilities, and juggling their careers on top of it. Because of this, the type of care that’s ultimately chosen, can be overlooked. Families might place their loved one in a certain type of facility without knowing much about it.

One popular, but often misunderstood, option is assisted living. On the surface, assisted living facilities look fantastic. And for many families they are! They are basically like college campuses for seniors, right? Your loved one will be able to live independently while joining a community of people like them. Depending on the facility, they might have access to activities and clubs, dining, and social events. Sounds pretty great.

Many families seek assisted living facilities for their loved ones, without knowing much more about them. In reality, while they can be a wonderful fit for some seniors, there are many things that should be considered before your loved one makes the move. There are lots of misconceptions about assisted living facilities, and too many families don’t realize this until it’s too late.

That’s why, on today’s episode of All Home Care Matters, we’re zeroing in on assisted living. We’ll let you in on some of the most common misconceptions about these facilities and some of the mistakes families make when they’re searching for the best place for their loved one.

We hope that by the end of this episode, you have a much better idea about what assisted living really entails – and what it doesn’t. You can use this information to decide whether this type of care is the best choice for your loved one.

If you decide that you’d like to explore other options – we’ve got another episode on how to choose the right type of care for your loved one. That episode explores the other options (from nursing homes to family caregivers and everything in between) in detail.

For now, let’s shift our focus exclusively to assisted living.

One of the most common misconceptions people make about assisted living facilities, is that their loved one will have access to constant, individualized care as their needs progress. The truth is, for the most part, assisted living is heavily focused on independent living.

Assisted living differs from retirement living in that it does provide slightly more hands-on care for its residents, but it is not the best option for anyone with chronic health problems.

While all assisted living facilities will offer support with daily living activities (such as bathing and meal prep), the cost of the living does increase depending on how much support a senior needs. Plus, most facilities don’t offer around the clock care or specialized care.

Now, it’s important to note that this is not true across all facilities. Some offer more access to care than others – but for the most part, assisted living is not the best option for a person who needs focused and specialized care.

Aside from basic assistance with daily needs, seniors will be expected to function on their own. This means that if your loved one requires more hands-on care, assisted living probably isn’t the best choice for your family.

Rarely, assisted living facilities will allow families to hire their own nursing or caregiving team – but you will be expected to pay for the facility and the care separately, which can get incredibly expensive. Many assisted living facilities do not allow this option at all.

With that in mind, it’s important to plan ahead for the long term. Start by asking yourselves these questions:

How long does your loved one plan to live in an assisted living facility?

Will they be willing to move if they require more hands-on care? Keep in mind – while your loved one might be relatively independent now, unexpected accidents like falls can change your loved one’s abilities drastically and quickly.

If that happens, will you be able to break a contract and move your loved one somewhere else? Do you want to? Does your loved one want to?

Assisted living facilities can be excellent places to live for seniors who are still relatively independent but need some help with daily living tasks and are looking for a senior-safe living space within a friendly community. Many widowed or single seniors who are feeling lonely or isolated in their home choose to live in these facilities. Older couples who need some extra help and are yearning for a more active social life are a great fit too.

If your loved one has been diagnosed with dementia, Parkinson’s, or any other debilitating or chronic disease, though, then assisted living isn’t the best fit. Most facilities simply don’t have the capacity or tools to provide your loved one with the help they’ll need down the road, even if they’re living independently now.

Again, this isn’t true across the board for assisted living facilities, but the facilities that do offer that extra care are much harder to find (and usually more expensive).

Assisted living facilities do offer around-the-clock surveillance and health monitoring. These are not hands-on approaches to caregiving. Around-the-clock surveillance means that staff will be available and on campus 24 hours a day in case of emergency. If your loved one needs medication in the middle of the night, they will receive it. Still, surveillance does not mean that your loved one will be individually checked on and cared for 24 hours a day.

Health monitoring is not health care. It means that the residence will keep track of a senior’s physical health, so they are aware of any drastic changes. They will also help with medications.

Just as assisted living doesn’t offer specialized care or skilled nursing, they also don’t offer physical or occupational therapy services. Many families are seeking this type of treatment for their loved ones – and an assisted living facility is not where they’ll find it.

Assisted living facilities do offer exercise programs – such as aerobics – but they won’t offer that specialized exercise care on an individual basis.

Seniors in assisted living facilities will have to hire outside services – and usually travel to other spaces – to get physical or occupational therapy. Again, this means that they will have to pay for assisted living as well as these additional services, which can become costly (and fast).

Families also often assume that their loved one will have their own apartment or living space in an assisted living facility. While this can be true at many facilities, others rely on a roommate system. That means that your loved one might have to share a space with another senior – which can be quite difficult to adjust to. Again, this is not always the case, but for some facilities it’s the more affordable option.

On that note, a lack of privacy is something that your loved one will need to come to terms to. Even if they do not have a roommate, staff will be coming in and out of their space throughout the day.

This is a rotating staff – so your loved one will need to be okay with seeing different faces depending on the day of the week and time of day.

If your loved one values their privacy, assisted living may not be the best option. That said, nursing homes or memory care might not be the easiest adjustments either.

It might be best for your loved one to age in place, with either a family caregiver or a hired caregiver who can really bond with your loved one (as opposed to a rotating staff of caregivers).

Speaking of privacy, not everyone realizes that assisted living facilities are extremely group oriented. They offer clubs, classes, and activities designed to socialize your loved one. For many seniors, this is a huge blessing. Socialization can have extremely positive impacts on a senior’s mental and physical health. Every senior should engage in socializing activities when they are able.

Still, if your loved one would prefer to socialize only once or twice a week, then this group setting might not be the best idea for them.

One of the biggest misconceptions families have is that the quality of care will be constant. After all, with the costs so high, you have every right to expect high quality care at all times. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case.

Assisted living facilities rely on a rotating staff to provide care to your loved one. That means that the quality of care will ultimately differ depending on who your loved one is working with that day. They will also not have an opportunity to bond with any one caregiver to the extent that they might with in-home care.

Another misconception that many families have is that assisted living will be covered by insurance. In reality, long term care insurance is one of the only plans that will cover assisted living (and not all long-term care insurance plans do).

Medicare and most private insurance companies do not cover the costs of assisted living. You might be able to get some help from Medicaid – but only if you’ve tried everything else, first.

Most people pay the costs of assisted living out of pocket. The average cost of assisted living is right around $4000 a month. Of course, any type of care that you consider will have costs. Nursing homes cost an average of $5000 a month, for example. Still, many nursing homes are covered by insurance.

If your loved one is a veteran, they will receive VA benefit options for certain assisted living facilities. This can be a great help to many families who do believe that assisted living is the ideal option for their loved one. Just make sure you understand the qualifications and the requirements for the benefits.

Finally, it’s important to note that assisted living is not guaranteed. What do I mean? Well, just that. Assisted living residents can be asked to leave the facility at any time, for any reason. Usually, residents are asked to leave once their health begins to deteriorate beyond what the facility can handle. Sometimes a common misconception is that they are a substitute for nursing homes or rehab facilities. We recommend when a loved one needs care and 1 on 1 assistance the families really ask and understand exactly what will and will not be provided.

We often see families that have loved ones in Assisted Living facilities hiring outside companies to help provide the 1 on 1 care that their loved ones need and in other situations the facility may have an in-house Home Care company that you can hire to provide the 1 on 1 care that is needed for the resident.

An example that comes to mind was from a family who had shared with us that their mother made the decision to downsize and move into an assisted living facility – against the families better judgement and within the first 30 days of living there was notified that she required more 1 on 1 care than was provided or capable of being provided by the facility. Needless to say, the family was left stunned, shocked, and even angry. At that point the facility required them to hire an outside company to provide their mother with 24 hour care if she was going to continue living there.

Further, the facilities don’t always give long-term notice when it’s time to find new housing. Some residents might receive no notice at all. This is not terribly common, but it does happen. And when it does, families are left scrambling to find other options for their loved one. If you do not live in the same state as your loved one, or live many hours away, this can lead to a huge headache.

When touring, visiting or researching Assisted Living facilities make sure you are asking the right questions and understand how the facilities are prepared and equipped to handle a resident whose needs may progress and require more assistance so that you won’t have to start looking for the right fit all over again.

We hope this episode cleared up some of the misconceptions about assisted living – so that you have a better idea of whether this type of care is the best for your family. Again, if you feel like you want to explore other options, check out our episode on choosing the best type of care for your loved one. There are so many options to consider – and having a deep understanding of the pros and cons of each is incredibly important.

We want to thank you for joining us here at All Home Care Matters, All Home Care Matters is here for you and to help families as they navigate long-term care issues. Please visit us at allhomecarematters.com there is a private secure fillable form there where you can give us feedback, show ideas, or if you have questions. Every form is read and responded to. If you know someone who could benefit from this episode, please share it with them.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. We look forward to seeing you next time on All Home Care Matters when we will be taking a closer look into the Realities of Caregiving.

Sources:

https://seniorpath.com/assisted-living-pros-cons/

https://www.getsafe.com/pros-and-cons-of-assisted-living/

https://aging.com/assisted-living-homes-vs-home-care-how-to-decide/

https://www.storypoint.com/8-mistakes-to-avoid-when-choosing-assisted-living/

https://www.fivestarseniorliving.com/blog-post/5-mistakes-adult-children-make-in-the-search-for-assisted-living

https://www.seniorlivingnearme.org/senior-living/assisted-living-search-mistakes-to-avoid/

https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/basics/info-2017/assisted-living-options.html

https://umcommunities.org/blog/5-surprising-facts-assisted-living/

https://arborsassistedliving.com/9-things-you-didnt-know-about-assisted-living/

https://www.forbes.com/sites/howardgleckman/2018/02/05/what-we-dont-know-but-should-about-assisted-living-facilities/?sh=ab024dce0438

https://dailycaring.com/5-things-you-need-to-know-about-assisted-living/

https://www.caring.com/senior-living/assisted-living/how-to-pay/

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If you have an aging senior in your life, you’ve likely noticed a few changes in their lifestyle or behavior. Whether your loved one is struggling with sight or hearing or has been diagnosed with a disease like Parkinson’s, watching a loved one age can feel scary and even bewildering.

In our line of work, we’ve seen families face a wide variety of unpredictable changes with their aging loved ones. There are certain experiences that have been especially difficult for families to not only handle, but actually make sense of.

One of these experiences is known as sundown syndrome. Sundown syndrome is a phenomenon that can occur in people with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. It occurs when seniors experiencing these diseases undergo big behavioral changes at night or in the evening, as the sun goes down.

For many families, sundown syndrome can be confusing and even heartbreaking to witness. Often, families don’t understand why this is happening. Their loved one might act completely normally during the day, just to become greatly disturbed or disoriented at night.

If the senior hasn’t already been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, the family might be at a loss to understand why this is happening. After all, sundown syndrome isn’t one of the better known or obvious symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.

Still, it’s important that families and caregivers are aware of the symptoms and signs of sundown syndrome, so that they can recognize it if (or when) it happens.

At the same time, if sundown syndrome is something you’re already facing with the senior in your life, it can be enormously helpful to learn more about the condition and its treatment, so you can be as informed and prepared as possible for any difficult nights in the future.

That’s why today’s episode of All Home Care Matters is all about Sundown Syndrome. We’ll dive into what sundown syndrome is, why it occurs, and the signs and symptoms to look out for. Then, we’ll go into how you can help your loved one manage their symptoms.

Sundown Syndrome is not easy for any family or senior to face – so we’ll also talk about coping mechanisms that can help to calm tough situations before they get any worse.

Let’s get started.

If a senior is experiencing sundown syndrome, this means that their behavior is changing drastically once the sun sets. While they might be acting completely normally during the day, nightfall can bring unpredictable changes in mood, personality, and more.

For some seniors, sundowning means agitation or restlessness. Others feel delusional, confused, or disoriented. Some even experience hallucinations. We’ll go over the symptoms in detail later on. But first, let’s find out what sundowning really is and why it happens in the first place.

Sundowning typically begins right around dinner time and can continue until the sun comes up the next day. This means a long night for sundowning seniors – and their caregivers and families.

Researchers believe that this timing is no coincidence. While no one is entirely sure why sundowning occurs, experts believe that it has something to do with Alzheimer’s affecting a person’s circadian rhythms. All people have something called circadian rhythms – which are basically our internal clocks. These rhythms tell us when to wake up and when to go to sleep.

Disruptions in our circadian rhythms can be extremely jarring and lead to changes in behavior. Have you ever had jet lag that put you in a particularly irritable mood? Sundowning is sort of like that – but much more extreme.

Because in Alzheimer’s patients, it’s not just a time zone that’s affecting that internal clock. For people with Alzheimer’s the part of your brain that signals when you’re awake and when you’re asleep completely breaks down.

About one in five people with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia experience sundowning. Rarely, sundowning can occur in seniors who do not have dementia. Researchers are not sure why this phenomenon occurs in only a small percentage of patients, but there are certain commonalities in patients with sundowning, that can point to some potential causes.

A senior might be more likely to face sundown syndrome if they are tired, depressed, struggling with sleep issues, hungry or thirsty, in pain, or even bored. Other seniors can be triggered by a lack of light in the house (which can lead to fear or anxiety), long shadows, or the inability to separate dreams from reality. Some seniors who have an infection or are recovering from a surgery or illness may also experience sundown syndrome.

According to Web MD, some seniors are even triggered by their caregiver’s behavior. If they notice that their caregiver is frustrated or irritable at the end of the day, they can become upset and experience sundown syndrome.

Of course, caregivers are bound to get frustrated from time to time – especially at the end of a long and tiring day. That’s why it’s so important for caregivers to practice self-care and emotion management. Listen to our episode, Caring for the Caregiver, to learn more about how you can cope with the difficult days and make sure you’re getting the support and care you need, too.

There are certain signs and symptoms to look out for when it comes to sundown syndrome. Again, it’s important for caregivers and families alike to learn to recognize these symptoms, so they know right away when an episode is occurring.

Now, it’s important to note that signs and symptoms can vary widely. Still, there are certain signs that are particularly common. These include rapid mood changes – and by rapid, I mean your loved one can go from 0 to ten in the span of one dinner. These mood changes are likely to be jarring for caregivers and family members – because they’ll basically come out of the blue.

Other common signs include anxiety or fear – again, this can come out of seemingly nowhere – agitation and restlessness, anger, stubbornness, sadness, and repetition.

You might notice that when night comes, your loved one becomes irritated over the seemingly smallest things. Something that made your loved one laugh only an hour earlier might make them shout in anger now.

These mood swings can be extremely difficult to manage, and you might find that attempts to calm your loved one only exacerbates their behavior.

Less common, but still noteworthy symptoms, include hallucinating, paranoia, violence, wandering, and hiding – whether seniors are hiding themselves or random objects throughout the house. The behavior can be unpredictable, surprising, and hard to control.

Again, these behavioral changes will vary depending on the person and many of them – like anger, sadness, and anxiety – will manifest differently in different people.

AARP describes what these mood changes might actually look like, explaining that challenging behaviors might include, “pacing, rocking, screaming, crying, disorientation, resistance, anger, aggression – or even violence. Many people experiencing sundown syndrome feel the urgent need to go somewhere or do something, but they can’t always explain why.”

In our experience working with families, we have known many who have faced sundown syndrome. In one case, a senior had a terrible time with severe hallucinations. She acted entirely normal during the day, but at night she believed that people were breaking into her home. She called 9-1-1 on more than one occasion, prompting the police to demand that she be seen by a doctor.

Because these hallucinations only occurred at night, the family had no idea why they were happening or what caused them. It was incredibly heartbreaking, confusing, and even scary. At the time, they had no idea that their loved one had Alzheimer’s.

While sundown syndrome can occur in any stage of Alzheimer’s, it’s not entirely uncommon for it to be the first major sign of Alzheimer’s disease. Unfortunately, most families have never heard of this syndrome and therefore don’t identify it as a sign of Alzheimer’s.

This is another reason it’s so important to know and understand these symptoms. The sooner a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s can be given, the better. If you notice that your loved one is experiencing any of the symptoms of sundown syndrome, be sure to take them to the doctor as soon as possible.

Many patients do not experience sundown syndrome until further into their Alzheimer’s diagnosis, however. AARP writer Amy Goyer, for instance, writes that her father did not have sundown syndrome until the moderate stage of Alzheimer’s. At that point, “questions or observations that were occasional for most of the day – ‘what’s the plan?’ ‘what should I be doing?’ ‘we better get going!’ – got more frequent, and more urgent, around 5 or 6 in the evening.”

Still, Goyer’s family was able to help her father manage his symptoms. She writes that as his disease progressed, his sundowning actually became less frequent – much thanks to the management techniques that were regularly practiced in the household.

That brings us to the next point – how do we help the seniors in our life manage their sundowning symptoms? If the symptoms can be controlled, it would save both ourselves and our loved one a whole lot of heartache, frustration, and exhaustion.

Goyer recommends you start by watching for and tracking sundowning triggers. Whether it’s fatigue, hunger, or shadows try to make a note of the factors that might be at play before an attack. Pay attention to the time of day that sundown syndrome usually occurs, as well.

If the syndrome begins around 7:00 each night, take note of what’s happening in the house at that time. Does the sun leak through the window at the perfect angle to make long shadows throughout the house? Is dinner being served? Are family members returning home from work, disrupting the quiet of the day?

Once you know the triggers, you can do what you can to prevent them. If you know shadows play a major role, you can make sure to shut the blinds in the early evening. If you know hunger plays a role, you can make sure your loved one always have a snack. Preventing the triggers before they happen can keep a sundown attack from happening altogether.

Many seniors struggle with sleeping – and an irregular sleeping schedule can be a big trigger for sundown syndrome. Because of this, making sure that your loved one follows a clear and consistent bedtime routine can help tremendously.

This means no screens for at least an hour before bed and concluding the night with a relaxing and calming activity – like a bubble bath, reading a book, or even drinking a glass of water.

When it comes to the act of sleeping itself, make sure that the sleeping environment is as calm and comfortable as possible. A comfy bed, cozy pajamas, and a dark and peaceful room can go far when it comes to getting some great sleep in.

Use light blocking curtains to keep the room nice and dark and make sure that the temperature isn’t too hot or cold (it should be right around 68 to 70 degrees).

During the day and at night, use calming music and sounds to create an anxiety-free atmosphere in the home. Goyer suggests using upbeat music during the day to keep your loved one in a happy and stimulated mood, followed by calming music in the evenings around when sundowning sets in.

Goyer recalled, “if Dad got anxious, my sister and I started singing his favorite songs and he would join in – a great diversion. Playing nature sounds like rain or ocean waves all night, or just white noise, helped him fall asleep and slumber longer.”

You can also try physical calming techniques to help reduce anxiety, stress, and tension. Massages, baths, and head and back scratches can make a world of difference when it comes to relaxation and stress reduction. Not only that, but simple loving touch like hugs and hand holding can help your loved one to feel safe, secure, and loved.

Along similar lines, acupuncture can actually help to combat anxiety and depression. Many seniors find that acupuncture is enormously calming – and that they leave feeling much better and lighter than when they came in. OF course, you’ll want to talk to your loved one’s doctor before you sign up for acupuncture.

Engaging your loved one’s senses in a calming manner can also help to reduce stress and anxiety that might lead to sundowning. Essential oils and aromatherapy can help seniors to feel nice and relaxed – especially chamomile, lavender, and rose. Try using these at bedtime or bath time for ultimate sense relaxation.

You can also use light to help your loved one’s inner clock get back on track. At nighttime, keep the home dark (and shadow free) and in the morning, place a light near your loved one before they wake up. This can help your loved one to reorient themselves to the time of day and train their inner clock to remain strong.

Of course, you can also speak to your loved one’s doctor about any medications that might help. A doctor might prescribe anti-anxiety, antidepressants, or sleeping pills, which can help your loved one feel like themselves again. Just be sure that the medications don’t interfere with any of your loved one’s other medications and that they don’t have any triggering side effects (like restlessness).

Managing sundown syndrome will look different for every family – but if you take the necessary steps to identify any triggers and provide a safe, structured, and relaxing environment for your loved one, you’ll find that this syndrome can be controlled – and it doesn’t always have to be the one controlling you.

Still, managing these symptoms will take time – you might have to do a lot of learning through trial and error before you find something that really seems to work for your loved one. Usually, a combination of most or all of the management techniques from above will make a real difference.

Until you get the syndrome managed, though, you will need to help your loved one cope with it. It might seem like coping is impossible – after all, how do you get a person to cope with nightly panic attacks? You can’t just stop the panic in its tracks, can you?

Well, you might not be able to stop a panic attack right away, but you can do other things that will help your loved one get better.

Helping them to stay active and get exercise can actually help them cope with sundowning – that’s because fatigue is a common sundowning trigger, and well-exercised people tend to sleep better at night. Not only that, but physical exercise can help a senior to feel stronger, happier, and even freer, in turn reducing anxiety and personal hardship.

In addition to exercise, you can help your loved one through their nutrition. Try feeding your loved one many small meals throughout the day – so they are never hungry and are constantly feeling energized from the good food. Steer clear of junk food, sugars, and anything that you think might impact your loved one’s mood.

One of the most important things you can do during an attack is to remain patient, calm, and gentle, even as your loved one screams or carries on. If your loved one is having a hallucination, validate it instead of shutting it down. Saying “no one is here,” might make your loved one feel lost, hurt, and even worried – which can lead to a bigger mood swing.

Instead, say something like, “yes, but they seem so nice, don’t they?” before changing the subject. The best way to stop or soften hallucinations is to distract away from them. So, instead of talking on and on about the hallucinations, distract your loved one by saying or doing something else to take their attention away from the hallucinations altogether.

Sundown syndrome can feel like a nightmare to many families and seniors alike – but the more prepared and informed you are, the easier it can be to manage. Remember to look out for those triggers, establish a sleep routine, and keep the house relaxing and calm throughout the evening and night. Then, you should be able to return to normal nightly routines with your loved one, more and more often.

We want to thank you for joining us here at All Home Care Matters, All Home Care Matters is here for you and to help families as they navigate long-term care issues. Please visit us at allhomecarematters.com there is a private secure fillable form there where you can give us feedback, show ideas, or if you have questions. Every form is read and responded to. If you know someone who could benefit from this episode, please share it with them.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. We look forward to seeing you next time on All Home Care Matters when we discuss the misconceptions with Assisted Living.

Sources:

https://www.aegisliving.com/resource-center/what-is-sundowning-and-why-does-it-occur/

https://www.aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/sundown-syndrome

https://www.webmd.com/alzheimers/guide/manage-sundowning

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/expert-answers/sundowning/faq-20058511 https://foresthillretirement.org/how-to-cope-with-sundown-syndrome/

https://www.nursenextdoor.com/blog/how-to-ease-sundowners-syndrome-symptoms-4-ways/

https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/health/info-2017/ways-to-manage-sundown-syndrome.html

https://www.healthline.com/health/dementia-sundowning#take-care-ofyourself

https://www.agingcare.com/articles/sundowners-syndrome-133187.htm

https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/sleep-issues-sundowning

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/314685

https://thebrielle.com/how-to-identify-and-manage-sundown-syndrome/

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We are honored to welcome to All Home Care Matters the Executive Director of the Home Care Association of America, Vicki Hoak. We will speaking with Vicki about the effect that Covid-19 has had on the Home Care industry and the caregivers, home health aides, and those on the front lines helping families to keep their loved ones safe and cared for during the pandemic.

During the pandemic the spotlight and focus on the importance of the Home Care industry and its employees had never been more important. We will explored where the Home Care industry is headed and how Home Care has started to be seen more so than possibly ever as a crucial component of the health care system.

We want to thank you for joining us here at All Home Care Matters, All Home Care Matters is here for you and to help families as they navigate long-term care issues. We also would like to express our appreciation to Vicki Hoak for taking timeout to speak with us today about the Home Care industry and the important work that the Home Care Association of America is doing for the Home Care industry.

Please visit us at allhomecarematters.com there is a private secure fillable form there where you can give us feedback, show ideas, or if you have questions. Every form is read and responded to. If you know someone who could benefit from this episode, please share it with them.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. We look forward to seeing you next time on All Home Care Matters when we discuss an issue that many families face with their loved ones and that is What is Sundowners Syndrome?

Sources:

https://www.hcaoa.org/

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Caring for our loved ones as they age can be demanding and even frustrating at times – there might be moments when you feel unsure of how to handle certain situations or wonder if there’s an easier way to keep your loved ones safe, engaged, and fulfilled.

In this day and age, some of that weight can be lifted by the incredible technology available in senior care. Every day, new apps and services are released that are designed just to help seniors with different aspects of everyday living.

That’s why, in today’s quick tip episode of All Home Care Matters, we’re diving into some of the best technology available for seniors and caregivers. These can be excellent tools and resources when it comes to helping the seniors in your life, and they’re bound to make your life a little easier, too.

Every caregiver knows how essential it is to be properly organized. But there’s a little too much to keep track of in your head alone – between arranging doctor appointments, errands, family visits, activities, and more. All while keeping track of medications, meals, and regular daily care.

iCAN is an assistive technology designed specifically for family caretakers – to help them stay on top of all those endless tasks and duties. Not only that, but iCAN actually offers assistive technology for seniors struggling with memory, communication, hearing loss, and vision. With text-to-speech software, voice recognition, and even textbooks iCAN is a resource that any family caregiver and senior can enormously benefit from.

If you head to iCAN’s website, you’ll see much more than organizational and even basic memory tools. There are communication aids, such as How Are You Feeling Today, that help seniors to socialize and interact when in isolation. The tool helps caregivers understand how to communicate with seniors facing loneliness and depression and provides resources where they can learn more about helping seniors combat these feelings.

Along similar lines, iCAN also features ElliQ. ElliQ is a socialization robot that can connect seniors to their family members from a distance. The robot can create video chats and send messages for the senior – so they won’t have to worry about learning the new and confusing technology. Many seniors face isolation simply because they don’t know how to make a Facetime call or reach out to family. With ElliQ, they don’t have to worry about any of that. They can simply tell the robot who they want to talk to and it sets up the rest.

It’s not just communication and organization that iCAN’s assistive technologies can help with. There are technologies that can assist seniors who struggle with falls or a fear of being mobile. GreatCall Lively Mobile by iCAN has a built-in GPS connected to a live agent that can track a senior’s location, notice any falls or other emergencies, and alert emergency services when necessary. There is a feature that can actually track falls as they happen, so a senior does not have to worry about pressing any buttons or contacting services themselves. The technology does it all for them.

If your loved one does end up in the hospital, you can rush to take care of them without a single other worry with Remote Wireless Door Locks. This feature allows you to lock your doors and control the rest of your home from your cell phone, so when you rush to the hospital, you can rest assured that your home is safe and taken care of. That way, you can focus entirely on your loved one without being anxious or paranoid about anything at the house.

One of our favorite pieces of technology is the Daily Activities Monitor. This actually tracks your loved one’s daily living activities and sends you a signal if the routine is off or if anything went wrong. It can track everything from whether your loved one has gotten out of bed, how many times she has used the bathroom, to whether doors in the home were left open.

This is a wonderful technology for those days where you aren’t able to be watching your loved one. You will be alerted right away if anything at all is amiss – so you can rest assured that your loved one is safe and secure when you’re not home. And that you’ll be there right away if something happens.

There are also multiple technologies available for medication reminders and organization, that will keep you on top of which medications need to be taken, when, and if they were missed or forgotten. These will help you stay on top of one of the most difficult to remember, and most important, aspects of caregiving. Never again will you have to double check if something was taken or worry that you may have given too much.

Being a family caregiver is far from easy – but with iCAN technologies, it can be a little more efficient, and take some of that weight off of your shoulders. Check out iCAN’s website today (we put the link in the description) and scroll through the endless technologies available there.

Remember – these exist to help you and your loved one, so they’re absolutely worth taking advantage of.

We want to thank you for joining us here at All Home Care Matters, All Home Care Matters is here for you and to help families as they navigate long-term care issues. Please visit us at allhomecarematters.com there is a private secure fillable form there where you can give us feedback, show ideas, or if you have questions. Every form is read and responded to. If you know someone who could benefit from this episode, please share it with them.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. We look forward to seeing you next time on All Home Care Matters when we welcome a very special guest, Vicki Hoak the Executive Director of the Home Care Association of America. This is an interview you won’t want to miss.

Sources:

https://caregiveraction.org/tech

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As our loved ones age, we face unexpected changes – especially when it comes to our relationships. As adult children care for their elderly parents, they might notice that things just aren’t the way they used to be. It can be tough to get used to personality changes, mobility and cognitive difficulties, and a changing dynamic in the relationship, as the child becomes the caregiver instead of the other way around.

While dealing with new health issues, delays, and even coming up with a care plan might seem like the most difficult problems you might face as your loved one gets older, there’s another issue that many families struggle to grapple with. That’s communication. You might find that communicating with your parent isn’t as easy as it used to be.

Communication struggles happen for a myriad of reasons. Many seniors face personality and mood changes as they get older – and you might find that their filter isn’t on as tight as it used to be. They might lash out more often, say hurtful things, or become more emotional than usual.

At the same time, if your loved one is facing mobility or cognitive issues – you might feel that your patience is being tested again and again. It can be tempting to tell your parent to “hurry up” when they’re getting ready for the day, or to do something for them (like button their shirt) if you just don’t feel like waiting for them to do it. A lack of patience, though, can cause serious trust issues with your parent as time goes on – so patience is a skill that must be learned and practiced, no matter how hard it might seem.

Finally, if your parent has been diagnosed with dementia, communication problems tend to be even greater. Not only will your parent have a hard time with language in the first place, but they will also be more susceptible to mood swings and other erratic behavior. You might find that you just don’t know how to talk with them like you used to.

That’s why on today’s episode, the focus is on communication. We’ll talk about how you can handle daily conversation with your aging loved one – from tips on being patient, to finding the effective words to gently get your point across when you need to. We’ll go into how to speak with a parent with mobility issues and cognitive issues, and we’ll discuss some tips for those harder conversations.

We know you already have so much on your plate – and communication struggles are the last thing you need to be facing right now. We hope that by the end of this episode, you’ll feel more confident and prepared in your conversations moving forward with your loved one. So, let’s get started.

As the roles are reversed and the adult child becomes the caregiver, communication difficulties can arise. It’s not surprising – it can be hard for a senior parent to accept help from their child, especially if they feel their independence is being threatened. At the same time, the adult child must learn how to communicate with their parent in a clear and gentle manner, without coming across too bossy or too lenient. It’s a tough middle ground to stand on.

On AgingCare.Com, writer Marlo Sollitto explains that, “caregiving can cause major changes in family dynamics. Physical, emotional, social, and financial issues can arise, affecting the roles, responsibilities, and feelings of each family member. Such widespread change to the family dynamic can lead to increased tension and frequent disagreements.”

While families are dealing with growing tensions and relationship changes in the household, they are also learning what it means to be a caregiver – and, often, they are mourning for the way life used to be. It’s hard enough to watch a beloved parent age – and when you add in the frustrations of day-to-day life with a senior, it can feel extremely overwhelming.

That’s why, to begin, we’re going to talk about how to effectively use communication to ease household tension and peacefully transition into the role of a trusted caregiver. The cardinal rule of senior care is listening. Many adult children are tempted to push their parents’ wants and needs aside, because they don’t believe that their parent knows what’s best. When we fail to listen to our parents, though, we are effectively destroying the trust in our relationship, and making our parent feel inadequate and isolated.

Remember, as our parents age, they are likely feeling scared and even sad. It’s hard to lose your sense of self and be uncertain about the future – and we owe it to our parents to let them hold onto their independence as long as possible, even if we don’t always agree with them.

There are many reasons adult children struggle to really listen to their parents. First and foremost, many adult children don’t feel that their parent can make their own decisions. Maybe they are suffering from medical problems and they really don’t have a choice about what care they must receive – or maybe they want to insist on driving even though it’s time for the driver’s license to go.

Whatever the reason, just because you don’t agree with your parent doesn’t mean you shouldn’t listen to them. Your parent needs to know that you are there for them – to support them and love them through these hard times. Even if they ultimately have to succumb to a new way of life, they will feel much better about it if their voice was heard then if you show up one day and take their car out of the driveway. At the end of the day, this is your parents’ life – so they should be part of those big decisions and have a voice.

Adult children can also struggle with listening due to impatience. Believe me, I get it. It’s tempting to fill in those long silences or to try to hurry a conversation if it doesn’t seem to be leading anywhere. If our parents are struggling with language or talking, we can become so desperate to hear their voice that we bombard them with questions before we really wait to hear the answers.

Instead of interrupting, try really listening. Let those long pauses sit in the room – because your parent might be thinking about what to say and need time to come up with the right words. Don’t fill silence with more questions, because this can cause your loved one to feel confused and overwhelmed.

If your loved one is struggling to keep up with conversation – keep the conversation simple. Ask “yes” or “no” questions that are easy to understand but can keep your parent engaged. Keep the conversation interesting and meaningful, if you can. For instance, ask your parent easy “yes” or “no” memory questions. For example, “Mom, do you remember dancing at my wedding?” Memory questions can help seniors feel like they are included and really socializing, while reminding them of happier times that might put them in a sentimental mood.

If long term memory questions are too difficult, try asking simple questions about their day. “Did you have eggs for breakfast?” or “did you go on a walk today?” can ignite conversation and keep your parent thinking – just remember to really listen to their answer, even if you already know what it is. Your parent can tell when you’re disengaged, and they’ll be less likely to participate in the conversation if they think you don’t really care.

Along those lines, try your hardest not to be condescending or to speak down to your parent. Remember – they are an adult who has lived a full life, had a career, raised children – they are not infants who need to be coddled. If you find yourself shouting because you worry, they can’t hear you, or speaking in super slowed down sentences, your parent might feel like she’s being mocked or belittled. Treat them like adults, with respect and without a patronizing tone. Your parent does not want to feel like a child, so do your best not to make them feel like one.

Because conversation can be so difficult, try not to overstimulate your parent. If the TV or radio is on, it can be a lot harder for your parent to focus on the conversation or even hear what you are trying to say. Make sure that when you’re ready to talk about something, you’re talking in a quiet and peaceful environment, where your parent can feel relaxed and really listen to you. If you’re in a group setting, make sure your loved one is included in the conversation and isn’t being pushed to the side. At a restaurant, for instance, seat your parent in the middle of the table where she can feel included, instead of on the end where she might be ignored. Even if your parent isn’t able to participate in the group conversation, being seated in the middle will allow her to feel like she’s part of it.

Regular day-to-day conversation can be hard to manage with any aging parent, but mobility and cognitive issues can add a new level to the challenge. If your parent has mobility issues, you might find that you become easy aggravated or impatient with them. It can be hard to remember that mobility issues can also make it hard to speak or communicate – for some seniors, talking can be physically painful.

It’s crucial to keep in mind that your parent is trying their best – and when you make them feel rushed or interrupt them, that can seriously hurt their feelings and your relationship.

Imagine that you are your parent. It’s hard enough to be in pain throughout the day, to be uncertain about the future, and to struggle with basic tasks that used to come easily. If your child is making you feel rushed and inadequate on top of it, that can feel like a huge blow.

Your loved one needs to know that they are supported – especially by their children and caregivers. Instead of telling your parent to “hurry up,” tell them to “take their time.”

If you are getting ready to leave for an appointment, it’s up to you to make sure your parent has enough time to get ready. If you know that your parent is going to need an hour, then you don’t want to give them thirty minutes and expect everything to go well.

If you start early enough, you are actually allowing your parent to hold onto a sense of independence. When your parent buttons a shirt by himself or brushes her hair all on her own, that feels like an accomplishment – and the value of that should not be taken away from your parent. By allowing extra time, you are also giving yourself a chance to breath and not feel so hurried. It should make a more peaceful morning for everyone.

If you really are running late and need to dress your parent yourself or help them with something that there simply isn’t time for, don’t allow your parent to feel useless or hopeless. Give them something to do while you tie their shoe or zip up their jacket – even if it’s not really necessary.

For example, you could ask your parent to fold a shirt or wash their hands while you get them ready. That way, they feel like they are still holding onto their sense of independence and you’re just working together to get out the door – not like you’ve taken the reigns completely.

At the same time, provide your parent with reassurance every chance you get. If they do the dishes, tell them what a great job they did (even if you need to secretly re-do them later). Encourage them even when they are taking longer than usual. Be their cheerleader. Seniors can suffer from depression at a higher rate than other parts of the population, and any positive reinforcement they can get from their loved ones will help them to stay motivated and happier.

Now, if your loved one is suffering from dementia or another cognitive issue, communication can be especially difficult. It can be extremely painful to watch your parent become delayed and lose their abilities – and with dementia, they might not seem recognizable at all anymore.

You might feel like communication is simply impossible. Maybe your parent is having terrible mood swings, has lost their filter, or just simply won’t speak at all anymore. This can be heart wrenching to face, but I can assure you that there is hope. With the right tools, you can continue to have a meaningful and rewarding relationship with your parent after a dementia diagnosis.

The first thing to keep in mind is that your parents’ communication struggles are not their fault. Dementia patients struggle with cognition, conversation, memory, focus, language, perception, and problem solving. That makes even exchanging simple dialogue a steep mountain to climb. So, if you feel yourself getting impatient or frustrated, try to keep in mind that your parents’ behavior isn’t on purpose. I know that’s easier said than done, but patience and support is what your parent needs more than anything else.

In fact, a loving and supportive environment can actually positively impact your parents’ journey with dementia. The rate of decline can occur faster in patients who feel isolated and depressed. Dementia patients who feel encouraged, supported, and cared for generally decline at a slower rate.

There are few key communication elements to keep in mind when interacting with a parent with dementia. First of all, it’s important to speak in a clear and simple manner with a soft and gentle tone. If you sound panicked or angry, your loved one can become panicked and angry. Similarly, if you speak in a calm manner, your loved one is more likely to match your tone.

Body language can be an excellent communication tool to use with dementia patients. Because it can be harder for people with dementia to understand what you’re saying, it’s important to give cues that can help them. Make an eating gesture to ask if your parent is hungry or tell them it’s time for dinner, for example. You can make a hug gesture across your chest to indicate “I love you.”

On that note, nonverbal cues in general are a great way to make communication work. Try maintaining eye contact throughout the conversation, so your loved one knows to listen. You can use touch to keep your loved one closer in conversation – hold their hands or shoulders and sit quietly with them if the conversation itself becomes too much. At the end of the day, the most important thing is that you’re there – even if you aren’t conversing.

Music is another excellent communication tool for dementia patients. Singing favorite tunes can actually bring back memories for patients – and studies have found that singing and dancing can actually make a dementia patient “come alive” again. If you want to communicate joy and togetherness, music can be a great way to do just that. Just make sure it’s music that you know your loved one likes and is easy to listen to – loud and unfamiliar music can cause stress and confusion.

Whether or not your loved one has dementia, you might have noticed that they’re facing personality changes and mood swings. While this is a more common tendency in dementia patients, there are many other reasons an older adult might lose their steam or become impatient more quickly. For one thing, many older adults are facing physical struggles that can translate into their emotions.

Think about it – if your body is in pain or not functioning properly, you probably won’t be in the best mood, right? Now, imagine if that pain meant that life as you know it is going to change, and that your independence is being threatened. I think that’s enough to put anyone in a sour mood, at least for a little while.

But what do you do when the mood swings just become too much? When you’re struggling to know whether your parent is saying hurtful words because of their disease, or if they really mean them? When you’re in a public place and your mother or father is having a meltdown over something seemingly small?

Emotional and personality changes can be extremely difficult to deal with – on an emotional level, and a physical one. If you’re a caregiver, you need to learn how to balance your own feelings with making sure your parent is staying safe and under control. This isn’t easy to accomplish, by any means.

Still, there are ways to make even the most troublesome moments a little bit easier. It’s all about toning the situation down.

In most situations, the best thing you can do is remain calm and support your parent – instead of arguing back. If your loved one has dementia and is facing a hallucination, for instance, it can be a lot more effective to go along with it. If your loved one claims that there is a man in the room who isn’t, instead of telling your loved one that no one is there, try to distract from the situation. When you shut it down completely, you leave your loved one feeling invalidated and even more confused – which can lead to a total meltdown.

Instead of saying, “mom, there’s no one in the room, you’re seeing things,” try to distract from the situation while offering your validation. Say something like, “Oh, he looks like a nice visitor. Now, would you rather have chicken or turkey for dinner?” Distracting from the situation can pull your parent away from the hallucination and get them focused on something else – without escalating the situation further.

The same tactic can be used if your parent is saying hurtful things that are out of their character. Instead of fighting back or defending yourself, simply try to move the conversation to another place. When you get defensive or angry, your parent is more likely to react in an extreme way. I know it’s hard to take the bad days and the bad moods but use your time away from your parent to reflect and vent and take care of yourself, instead of escalating the situation while you’re in it.

Communicating with our aging parents can be surprisingly difficult – but if we approach each conversation with patience, empathy, understanding, and love, it can be much easier. Avoid condescending tones, make eye contact, and use physical touch and hand gestures to get a point across clearly. Above all, listen to your loved one when they have something to say – and don’t rush them as they try to say it.

We’ve found that the more love and patience we can bring into the conversation, the more rewarding conversations we’ll have. At the end of the day, it’s all about letting our loved ones feel safe and supported, so that we can feel that way, too.

We want to thank you for joining us here at All Home Care Matters, All Home Care Matters is here for you and to help families as they navigate long-term care issues. Please visit us at allhomecarematters.com there is a private secure fillable form there where you can give us feedback, show ideas, or if you have questions. Every form is read and responded to. If you know someone who could benefit from this episode please share it with them.

Sources:

https://www.agingcare.com/articles/communication-techniques-to-deal-with-elderly-parents-138454.htm

https://12oaks.net/senior-living-help/why-the-talk-with-your-aging-parents-should-be-more-than-one-conversation/

https://www.caring.com/caregivers/starting-the-conversation/

https://bluemoonseniorcounseling.com/7-tips-for-communicating-with-seniors/

https://www.arborcompany.com/blog/caregiver-tips-for-the-aging-parents-moving-conversation

https://bluebirdhomecare.com/blog/family-dynamics-change/

https://www.agingcare.com/articles/how-to-handle-an-elderly-parents-bad-behavior-138673.htm

https://www.aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/handle-verbal-abuse-via-dementia-outbursts

https://training.mmlearn.org/blog/how-to-talk-to-someone-with-dementia-alzheimers-or-memory-loss

https://www.aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/dementia-communication

https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-to-talk-to-someone-with-dementia-97963

https://www.mentalhelp.net/blogs/eight-tips-for-talking-to-your-aging-parents-about-important-issues/

https://www.rgcmgmt.com/blog/post/10-tips-for-successful-communication-with-loved-ones-with-dementia

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Elmer learns about All Home Care Matters from his fishing buddy whose wife had been dealing with health issues. They are relieved to discover that there is good support and information for families and those facing long-term care issues.

Now you can discover All Home Care Matters by visiting www.allhomecarematters.com

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As your loved one ages, there are many changes you can expect to face. One major change that effects an enormous part of the over-65 population is hearing loss. Hearing loss affects one in three people between the ages of 65 and 75, and about half of those over the age of 75, according to the NIA. Even though many people face this ailment, it can still feel isolating and difficult to grapple with.

Seniors with hearing loss might struggle to keep up with conversation, hear the doorbell ringing, or even know when the microwave’s beeping. This can make living everyday life particularly difficult, especially if the hearing loss gets worse as time goes on.

Hearing loss isn’t just an inconvenience – it can be dangerous, too. A person with hearing loss might struggle to understand their doctor or to hear emergency sirens or other alarms.

At the same time, hearing loss can lead to feelings of loneliness and even depression – because conversing with friends and family, and participating in social events, is simply harder than it used to be.

It is not uncommon for seniors to not want to admit when they are facing hearing loss – some feel embarrassed or don’t want to admit that there’s something wrong. If you notice that your loved one is experiencing hearing loss, but they aren’t admitting it, try not to get too frustrated. This can be a difficult reality for your loved one to come to terms with.

The good news is that doctors can work with hearing loss patients to come up with a treatment plan so that your loved one can continue to live as safely and happily as possible. Treatments might include hearing aids, medication, or even surgery depending on the situation. The sooner you can get your loved one to a doctor, the better a treatment plan will work.

We know that hearing loss can be hard to navigate – which is why today’s episode of All Home Care Matters is all about understanding why hearing loss happens, how to cope with it, and what current treatments are available. We hope this episode brings you and your loved one some clarity when it comes to this difficult situation.

Age-related hearing loss, also called presbycusis, is an incredibly common condition among older adults. It usually occurs equally in both ears and happens gradually. At first, a person might only struggle to hear high-pitched noises, like the microwave beep, for instance. Because the start of age-related hearing loss can be so subtle, many don’t even notice when it first begins.

One of the most common causes of hearing loss is loud noises. Veterans who have been around gun fire are more likely to experience hearing loss, as are people who spent a lot of time around loud music or in loud factories. If your aging loved one works or lives in a noisy atmosphere, it’s a good idea to protect their ears by using ear plugs, noise canceling headphones, and keeping loud noises to a minimum whenever possible.

There are many reasons that a person might face age-related hearing loss. Most commonly, this happens simply because our inner-ear changes as we get older, affecting the way we process sound. Inside the inner ear, there are tiny hair cells that translate sound waves into electrical signals for the brain to interpret. Over time, it is possible for these hair cells to become damaged or lost completely. Because they do not regrow, this leads to permanent hearing loss.

Changes to the hair cells in the inner ear is the most common reason for age-related hearing loss. Still, it is not the only reason. Some seniors experience hearing loss due to changes in the middle ear. This occurs when the tympanic membrane thins or becomes too stiff, which tends to happen to people around the age of 70.

There are many types of hearing loss – if your loved one is experiencing difficulty hearing, this does not necessarily mean they are becoming deaf in both ears. Some seniors experience only mild hearing loss, in which they cannot hear high pitched noises but can hear everything else, while others experience total loss of hearing.

Sensorineural hearing loss is the hearing loss that occurs when there is damage to the inner ear. This type of loss does tend to be permanent. Conductive hearing loss, on the other hand, happens when soundwaves are simply not reaching the inner ear in the first place. This can happen for a myriad of reasons – from too much earwax to a punctured eardrum. A punctured eardrum can occur as the result of an infection, pressure, or an accident – but it can also be caused by something as simple as cleaning your ears with a que tip. Conductive hearing loss can usually be restored when the signal blockage is fixed, either through medication or surgery.

Some people experience what is known as sudden hearing loss – which happens when a person loses their sense of hearing completely in a matter of seconds or days. Patients with sudden hearing loss must seek medical attention immediately, as this can be a sign of a greater neurological problem.

Hearing loss might also occur in the form of tinnitus. Tinnitus happens when a person hears ringing, hissing, clicking, or buzzing in their ear. The phenomenon can be heard in both ears or just one and tends to come and go. For many seniors, tinnitus is the first sign of hearing loss to come, but it can also be an indicator of other medical issues. Some seniors with tinnitus suffer from high blood pressure, for instance.

Regardless of the type of hearing loss, the signs and symptoms are generally the same for every patient. Seniors experiencing hearing loss might notice that they have a hard time following conversation (particularly in group settings), need to turn the TV volume up much higher than usual, need information repeated, have a hard time hearing over the phone, or believe that other people are mumbling or not speaking clearly.

If you notice that you or your loved one is experiencing any or all of those symptoms, make sure to see a doctor as soon as possible. Hearing loss treatment is most effective for seniors who begin a treatment plan right away.

When you book an appointment with a hearing specialist, you will meet with either an otolaryngologist, an audiologist, or a hearing aid specialist. Some people might meet with all three, depending on the severity of the situation. An otolaryngologist, or ENT, specializes in diagnosing ear, nose, throat, and neck diseases, and will be able to provide resources, support, and an official diagnosis.

An audiologist is trained specifically to recognize and measure hearing loss. They will be able to tell you exactly how much loss you have suffered and what to expect down the road. It’s important to know what exactly you’re facing so you can prepare for the steps ahead – and an audiologist will be able to help with just that.

A hearing aid specialist is a professional who can conduct hearing tests to evaluate your needs, fit you for hearing aids, and even provide counseling services as you face the road ahead. Counseling services can be fundamental to many facing hearing loss, so that they feel less alone and more supported on their journey.

Treatment plans will vary depending on you or your loved one’s individual case. Still, there are some common treatment plans that are worth researching and looking into.

According to HealthyHearing.com, about one-third of people with hearing loss use hearing aids. Hearing aids are a device worn in or behind the ear. It works by making sounds louder, allowing a person to be more present in conversation and aware of any emergency alarms or warnings that might occur. Hearing aids are made up of a microphone, a speaker, and an amplifier.

The microphone receives the sound, which is converted into an electrical signal by the amplifier, and then sent through to the brain through the speaker. Hearing aids can make an enormous difference for anyone suffering age-related hearing loss – and help them get back to living their best life again.

If your loved one’s hearing loss is especially severe, their doctor might recommend cochlear implants. These are small devices that are implanted into the inner ear during surgery. They are used in people who are profoundly deaf.

Less commonly, a doctor might also recommend bone anchored hearing systems – which are systems that are designed to transfer sound through bone conduction. Other treatments might include assisted listening devices such as iPhone apps or cell phone amplifying devices. The treatment the doctor recommends will depend on the severity of the situation.

For many seniors, dealing with hearing loss means facing a new world of uncertainty and frustration. Many people do not want to admit when they are suffering – because they worry that they will be excluded, ostracized, or even lose their sense of independence. When a person is hard-of-hearing, they might need sentences to be repeated again and again. This could lead to the person they are speaking with becoming frustrated and saying, “never mind,” which can be disheartening to hear.

The last thing we want is for our loved ones to feel like they cannot be part of the conversation – or that their hearing loss has become a burden to us. That’s why it’s so important to approach communication with patience and empathy, and to make the listening environment as peaceful as possible.

When speaking with your loved one, make sure that there aren’t a ton of background noises that will make it harder for them to hear. Turn off the TV and any music, close the windows, and do what you can to eliminate any other background noise. At the same time, speak clearly and directly using eye contact and hand gestures – so that your loved one can read your body language as well as listen to your voice. Refrain from yelling or shouting, which can distort language, but still speak in a louder voice than usual.

During conversation, be patient when your loved one asks you to repeat something – even if you have to say it again and again. Remember that they are doing their best to listen, and it’s not their fault they aren’t quite understanding. Be empathetic with their situation and offer guidance and friendship when they need to vent or get frustrated. This is a difficult reality to come to terms with, so any support they get will be a huge and welcome help.

We know that living with hearing loss can be a frustrating and isolating experience – but when you begin treatment and have a wonderful support system in place, you can get back to living the life you love.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. Join us next time on All Home Care Matters where we will be discussing an entire episode on Communication with Seniors.

Sources:

https://www.healthyhearing.com/report/52510-Presbycusis-understanding-age-related-hearing-loss#:~:text=As%20we%20get%20older%2C%20degeneration,ear%20that%20help%20us%20hear.

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/hearing-loss-common-problem-older-adults

https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/age-related-hearing-loss#1

https://www.nursingtimes.net/roles/older-people-nurses-roles/exploring-the-anatomy-and-physiology-of-ageing-part-6-the-eye-and-ear-09-09-2008/#:~:text=Anatomical%20changes%20to%20the%20middle,after%20the%20age%20of%2070.

https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/hearing-loss-in-aging/

https://www.tabitha.org/news-events/blog/how-can-older-adults-cope-with-hearing-loss.html

https://www.comfortkeepers.ca/coping-senior-loved-one-hearing-loss/

https://www.healthline.com/health/age-related-hearing-loss#prevention

https://www.healthyhearing.com/report/52510-Presbycusis-understanding-age-related-hearing-loss

https://www.healthyhearing.com/report/52508-How-hearing-loss-affects-seniors

https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/hearing-aids#hearingaid_01

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If you’re a family caregiver, you probably feel overwhelmed when it comes to finding information. You need help and advice from time to time, but how do you know who to trust? How can you tell if a source is really worth following?

Family caregivers have enough on their plate without having to worry about where to find support and information. Unfortunately, the reality is that there are many online resources that simply don’t provide the correct information or the best advice. This can make it hard for a caregiver to know who to trust – and can even keep a caregiver from looking for support online in the first place.

Every caregiver knows how essential it is to stay well-informed and on top of everything when it comes to their loved one’s care. If you have questions about living facilities, need help understanding a possible symptom, or are worried about drug interactions, you want to make sure the information you get is reliable and trustworthy. The wrong advice can have disastrous consequences.

Today, we’re going to let you know the best online resources available to family caregivers. That way, you can know who to trust from the get-go, and won’t waste precious time hopping from site to site and hoping you landed on a good one. These sites are informative, helpful, and supportive – and they should be able to guide you through almost any caregiving situation.

The first and foremost reliable site for caregivers is AARP. AARP actually has a site dedicated specifically to family caregiving – and it provides endless tools, resources, and information to anyone who needs it. They cover every topic imaginable – from long term care insurance to the best living facilities – so that you don’t have to.

Not only that, but AARP also has an online community that can connect with you via social media – answering your questions on an individual basis. AARP also offers webinars, conferences, and other programs meant to provide you with all the information you might need. Plus, the site is completely free to use!

Aging Care is another wonderful website for anyone who needs some extra tips and resources. The blog posts feature a wide range of topics (from how to speak to your loved one with dementia to bathroom safety tips) and the articles are written by specialists with years of experience in the field. Not only that, but on Aging Care, you can actually connect directly to a specialist who can help you find resources in your local community – like counseling services, assisted living facilities, and social groups.

The Caregiver Action Network is a third reliable site for any caregiver looking for more information. CAN is all about providing the immediate help – when you don’t have time to scroll through long blog posts and need an answer right then and there. They have endless checklists to help you with safety tips, medications, and household organization – and provide access to how-to and informational videos. CAN can also connect you to a caregiver support group when you need it. The site is super user friendly and a fantastic resource for any caregiver.

Another favorite site of ours is Eldercare Locator. This site is a massive directory administered through the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging in Washington DC. You can use the site to find any and all local resources in your community. From adult day cares to support groups to events catered toward dementia patients, this site can help you set foot into the world of family caregiving with a community at your side.

Finally, another important resource is Caring Bridge. Caring Bridge is a site meant specifically to help family caregivers through mental health issues and give them the support they need. The site offers free support groups and connects caregivers to others who have faced similar situations. This is an excellent resource for any family caregiver who just needs a little support.

Finding the best online resources can be a challenge – but when you know which sites to trust, family caregiving becomes a whole lot easier. This job is often messy and unpredictable – so you want to be able to access information and get your questions answered as easily and safely as possible.

Sources:

https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/

https://www.agingcare.com/

https://caregiveraction.org/

https://eldercare.acl.gov/Public/Index.aspx

https://www.caringbridge.org/

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Caring for a loved one with dementia is far from an easy task. Not only is it immensely difficult on an emotional level to watch a loved one experience this disease – but the act of caregiving itself can be exhausting, strenuous, and isolating.

While caregiving can be one of the most immensely rewarding experiences in a person’s life, it does not come without its own set of challenges. For caregivers of dementia patients, the challenges are particularly unique and complex.

While caregiving for people with dementia can feel utterly isolating, there are actually over 11 million Americans providing unpaid care for people with dementia. According to alz.org, “in 2020, these caregivers provided an estimated 15.3 billion hours of care valued at nearly $257 billion.”

These numbers are staggering, and they prove something about dementia caregivers that isn’t necessarily true for other caregivers – at least across a broad scale. That caring for a person with dementia means putting in more hours for more years than most other family caregivers have to.

One reason might be that dementia patients are rarely placed in nursing facilities. There are a variety of reasons for this. For one thing, finances and insurance policies can prevent a person from living in a facility. Medicaid usually only pays for temporary care, for example, and dementia patients require long-term care.

At the same time, dementia patients tend to benefit from staying at home. Unfamiliar surroundings can cause dementia patients to become stressed, anxious, and depressed. It can also increase levels of confusion and disorientation. This can actually accelerate the progression of the disease. Familiar surroundings are much more comfortable for dementia patients, so some families opt to keep their loved ones at home for this reason.

Finally, if a person has a family member who has the capacity to provide the care they need, this can be a far less expensive option for families.

In all, about 85% of Americans living with dementia remain at home or in assisted living facility. The other 15% live in nursing homes, according to the Population Reference Bureau. Those who live in assisted living facilities have the option of having a family caregiver available to them. Usually, people at assisted living facilities do not use hired caregivers, because assisted living is designed for seniors who are relatively independent.

The sheer number of dementia patients living at home means that family caregivers work with dementia patients on a larger level than other diseases. A study by Health Affairs actually found that “while people with dementia account for only about 10 percent of older adults living at home or in residential care, 41% of family caregiving hours are spent assisting loved ones with Alzheimer’s and similar diseases,” according to Forbes.

Additionally, researchers found that dementia patients required care at a more intense level than for seniors with other ailments. According to Forbes, “caregivers who lived with family members with dementia provided nearly 50% more hours of help than those who lived with aging parent without dementia – an average of 143 hours per month (almost 36 hours per week, or nearly the equivalent of a full-time job).”

Too often, dementia caregivers are forced to give up their jobs and careers in order to be there for their loved one. If they are unable to, they are forced to find a balance that leaves little time for sleep or a life outside of work and care.

All this to say, caring for a dementia patient is far from easy – but if you’re a caregiver, know that you aren’t alone. This is an experience that affects millions around the country – and because of that, there are support groups and resources available for those in your position.

Today, we’re going to talk about the challenges and strategies for caring for a loved one with dementia. We hope that this episode will help you to feel supported as a caregiver and provide you with tactics that can make your life and experience a little less stressful and a little more rewarding.

HomeCareAssistance.com says, “caring for someone with dementia is a practice in defying logic,” and we couldn’t agree more with that sentiment. Our instincts not only as caregivers, but as the sons, daughters, or spouses of a person with dementia, is to confront challenges with logic.

For example, if your loved one is having a hallucination of their late mother, you might think that saying, “you’re hallucinating, she’s not really there,” would be enough to snap your parent back into reality. Unfortunately, though, using logic can actually do more harm than good. By telling your loved one that what they are seeing is not real, you are expressing to them that you don’t take them seriously, don’t believe them, and can’t be trusted.

Not to mention, a person with dementia could feel terribly frightened, frustrated, and alone if they think their version of reality isn’t real. Keep in mind that to your loved one, these hallucinations are as real as you are. Denying that reality can cause dementia patients to have frustrated or desperate outbursts.

So, how can you possibly care for someone if using logic doesn’t always work? We’ve found that patience, gentleness, and empathy work a lot better than logic in many situations. Let’s look back at our hallucination example. While it might seem strange, it can be a lot more effective to go along with the hallucination and try to defuse the situation slowly, than to outright deny that it’s happening.

For example, you might say, “Oh yes, Grandma is here, and she loves you, but right now we need to focus on eating your breakfast.” This validates what your loved one is seeing and feeling, while distracting from the situation, so you can shift your loved one’s focus to something else.

In a lot of ways, that’s what caring for a dementia patient is all about. When you’re unable to explain something using logic, gently go along with it until you can distract from the situation. Dementia patients tend to experience a variety of emotions in a single day – and can go from happy and cheerful to angry or explosive out of the blue.

By staying calm, patient, and empathetic, you can help your loved one to feel safe, secure, and loved regardless of how they’re feeling. And responding to anger with patience and empathy is far more effective than fighting fire with fire, even though the latter can be tempting sometimes.

The same goes for repetition. While you might feel frustrated having to repeat the same information again and again, keep in mind that your parent has no idea she’s heard it before. She’s not trying to be irritating or malicious by asking to hear something again – she simply doesn’t know better.

If you react with frustration or impatience, it can cause unnecessary hurt feelings and even damage trust between the patient and the caregiver. While it might be annoying having to repeat something again and again, it’s well worth keeping your loved one in good spirits and feeling confident about themselves.

On that note, let’s talk communication in general. When communicating with a loved one with dementia, make sure to make eye contact, speak slowly, and address your loved one by name. Instead of interrupting or getting frustrated when your loved one takes a long time to say something, wait for them to finish and do your best to understand what they’re saying, even when it’s difficult. It can help to look at their body language and facial expressions.

If you still can’t tell exactly what they’re saying, you might be able to decipher their emotions, and act accordingly to calm anger or encourage good humor.

Chances are, if you’re caring for a person with dementia, you will feel frustrated pretty often. It’s not just hallucinations, mood swings, and repetition that you have to worry about – confusion and disorientation can be frustrating, too. If your loved one is confused about something, the best thing you can do is simplify the situation – and, again, react with patience and kindness.

Now, I know that being patient is far easier said than done. Still, patience is absolutely essential for caregivers. Not only will a consistent lack of patience hinder your relationship with your loved one, but symptoms can actually worsen in dementia patients if they feel unsafe and upset by the situation, they’re in. For example, they might feel they are being attacked or respond with a meltdown if they think they’re being yelled at. So, being patient actually makes your job easier, too.

Still, it’s necessary to have an outlet for your frustrations and heartache. Find a friend or family member that you can vent to safely or join a support group for others in similar situations. The more you can talk about and confront your emotions outside of your loved one’s earshot, the stronger and more prepared you’ll feel to face each day ahead. Your patience will be easier to maintain if you have a regular outlet to express your frustrations, too.

Now, holding onto patience doesn’t just mean being patient with your loved one. It also means being patient with yourself. Many caregivers put a ton of pressure on themselves to get everything exactly right – but the truth is, nobody is perfect, and caring for a person with dementia just isn’t predictable. There is so much out of your control.

The fact that you show up each day, that you are putting your all into being there for your loved one, that alone makes you a wonderful caregiver. At the end of the day, your loved one needs to feel safe and loved, right?

So, if your daily routine gets messed up, or you just can’t get your loved one to eat their breakfast one morning, be kind to yourself. That doesn’t mean you’re not doing a great job. Bad days are bound to happen, and they are not your fault.

Now, some caregivers might find that they are only having bad days – that they’re completely over their heads and this new role just isn’t working for them or their loved one. If this is the case, try taking some time off and finding a bit of respite care. It might just be that you need a little break.

Remember – this role is a huge adjustment. Caregiving is not something that can be mastered overnight, and many don’t realize just how difficult it is until they’re in the thick of it. Most people will find that after a few months of adjusting, they get the hang of things. It helps to find people who can delegate some of the chores and errands – like grocery shopping, transportation, or cleaning the house. When you’re no longer doing absolutely everything yourself, you’ll find that you can better focus on the care itself.

We’ve talked a lot so far about reactions. Being kind, patient, and empathetic with your loved one and yourself, regardless of the situation. Now, let’s get into actions.

Dementia patients need to stay stimulated mentally and physically, as long as they are able. Nourishing the mind and body are key to strengthening memory, slowing the progression of the disease, and keeping your parent engaged and in good spirits.

With that in mind, it’s important to have activities for your loved one to participate in. Activities like baking, dancing, singing, or doing puzzles can help your parent feel entertained and engaged – and increase their socialization, which is key to fighting depression. You can also take your parent on walks, to museums, or to a quiet and peaceful spa day.

That said, your loved one might respond better to some activities than others. Don’t force your loved one to do anything they don’t want to, and if they’re too tired or not in the mood, don’t push. Try something new the next day. You might find that your parent responds to one out of five activities you choose – but even that one activity is a huge victory.

Your loved one might also enjoy participating in household tasks. Chores like sweeping, folding towels, or wiping surfaces can help your loved one feel a sense of accomplishment – and like they have some of their independence back. Not only that, but these activities engage the body and mind. Anytime you can keep your loved one moving and thinking, go for it. If your loved one is interested in helping with the chores, encourage them to try.

Of course, daily activities are about more than stimulating entertainment. For dementia caregivers, daily activities also include bathing, eating, and dressing. Each of these activities come with their own set of challenges, but with the right preparation, you can do your best to keep everything as seamless as possible.

When it comes to bathing, it’s recommended that you choose a time when you know your loved one is the calmest. For instance, if your loved one tends to wake in a cheerful and peaceful mood, mornings are the best time to have a bath. Try to establish a bath time routine and be easy on yourself if that routine is ever pushed back or broken on a hard day.

Remember that for your loved one, bathing can be an uncomfortable experience, especially if they’re being bathed by one of their children. You can distract from the situation by conversing about other topics or playing soft music during bath time. Try to be in good spirits during bath time, so you can help your parent feel happier and more comfortable. You can also try sponge baths every other day or every few days, so you don’t have to deal with bath time on a daily basis.

Eating can be frustrating – many dementia patients don’t like to eat at all, and if they do, they’re drawn to junk food. It can help to make dishes colorful and exciting. Make smiley faces out of colorful fruit, for instance, and refrain from serving the same three meals every week. Food that varies in texture, color, and taste will be more appealing.

Use mealtime as an opportunity to socialize with your loved one. Make conversation instead of turning on the TV and, if you can, eat your meals at the same time. This can help maintain a sense of normalcy and security. Remember that your loved one might take a long time to eat – this is another instance where patience is key.

When it comes to dressing, it can help to lay out outfits ahead of time, either the night before or before your loved one wakes up. Consider choosing two or three options so your loved one can choose what she wants to wear in the morning. Keep the number of choices small and simple – but have at least two options so your loved one can hold onto a sense of independence.

Allow your loved one to dress themselves if they are able – even if it takes a long time. Just as wiping surfaces or sweeping the floor can help your parent to feel a sense of accomplishment, so can getting dressed.

Caring for a loved one with dementia can be an immensely difficult duty to take on – and we commend you for making the choice to care for your loved one. At the end of the day, our best advice is to be patient, gentle, and empathetic. Kindness can be a superpower – and it can help make these remaining years rewarding, when they could easily be miserable.

Be kind to yourself, too. You’re doing a great job.

Sources:

https://www.prb.org/the-demography-of-dementia-and-dementia-caregiving/

https://homecareassistance.com/blog/top-five-strategies-dementia-caregiving

https://homecareassistance.com/blog/challenges-dementia-caregiving

https://www.forbes.com/sites/howardgleckman/2015/10/26/the-challenges-of-caring-for-a-loved-one-with-dementia/?sh=176494723065

https://www.caregiver.org/resource/caregivers-guide-understanding-dementia-behaviors/

https://www.caringseniorservice.com/blog/challenges-alzheimers-dementia-caregivers

https://www.ucsfhealth.org/education/coping-strategies-for-alzheimers-disease-caregivers

https://www.agingcare.com/articles/alzheimers-disease-care-at-home-139990.htm

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/facts-figures

https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-03-06-stimulating-activities-for-alzheimers-patients

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Friends, it’s time for another quick tip episode! Quick tip episodes are all about getting some good information and advice to you in a shorter episode – so you can listen between meetings, while you walk your dog, or whenever you have a free second to spare.

On today’s episode, we’ll be discussing advice for personal care. As our loved ones age, personal care can become increasingly difficult. This is due to a myriad of reasons – age can hinder our ability to move freely, and as we struggle to move our arms and legs the way we used to, simple tasks like bathing or brushing our teeth can be harder to accomplish.

At the same time, diseases like dementia, Alzheimer’s, or Parkinson’s can keep a person from being able to care for themselves properly. That’s why patients, especially in the later stages of these diseases, need someone to help them keep up with their hygiene, nutrition, and personal care.

At the same time, depression is common among seniors. While depression isn’t a normal part of aging, a variety of factors – from increased dependence and isolation to coming to terms with an aging body and mind – can lead to depression.

Mental Health America reports that more than two million Americans over the age of 65 struggle with depression. These numbers have only risen during the pandemic, as more seniors are facing isolation during quarantine. One major side effect of depression is feeling lethargic and unmotivated – so many people with depression will neglect their personal care.

Regardless of the reason, it can be difficult to watch our loved one’s struggle with their personal care – and many people aren’t sure how they can provide their loved ones with the help they need. Today, we’ll go over some concrete advice for seniors who need help caring for themselves – from keeping up with good hygiene to getting dressed and ready for the day (and ready for sleep at night).

Before we start, I’d like to note that maintaining good hygiene actually helps a person’s mental and physical health. On the mental health side, people who feel good on the outside, generally feel better on the inside, too. It really is that simple.

Let’s think of our bodies like a house. If our dirty clothes are scattered around the floor, our garbage is overflowing, and dirty dishes are piled up in the sink – we’re not going to feel comfortable. As the dirt and grime build up, the house might even attract bugs and pests. If we’re thinking about our body, the bugs and pests might be health issues that occur when we’re not caring for ourselves.

On the other hand, when our home is clean and nice – we feel so much better. We aren’t overwhelmed with the stress of living in a dirty home – and when we don’t have to focus our attention on the mess, we can focus on taking care of other aspects of our life – like cooking healthy meals, exercising, or even relaxing.

As humans, we have to live in our bodies – so it’s essential that we care for them. If the seniors in our lives are struggling to care for theirs, then they need help to ensure that they stay safe, comfortable, and healthy.

The first step to helping our loved ones care for themselves, is to figure out why they are struggling. When we know the root of the problem, we can make the right steps to fix it. If they are struggling with personal care because of something like Parkinson’s or dementia, for example, then we know that they need assistance from a caregiver because they are physically unable to keep up with their hygiene. This said, we don’t want our loved ones to feel like they’ve lost all independence – so if there is anything they are capable of doing themselves, allow them to do it, so they can hold onto that sense of pride and freedom.

If our loved one is struggling because of depression, then we need to help them to feel better. Depression is a serious mental illness that can lead to other health problems down the line. Have your loved one meet with their doctor to see if any medications are necessary – and also set up appointments with a counselor or therapist, who might be able to get to the root of the depression. In terms of assisting with personal care, the best thing you can do is to let your loved one know you are there for them, you care about them, and you know that things are tough right now. Remind them that if they feel better on the outside, they might feel a sense of relief on the inside, too.

With seniors struggling with depression, you might not be able to care for them in a hands-on way like you would with a person with dementia or Parkinson’s. Instead of bathing them yourself – which could make them feel even smaller and less dignified – help them to establish a routine for personal care and support and encourage them as they try to follow it.

You can make a chart for morning and nighttime routines, so nothing is forgotten. You can even make the hygiene chores more fun – by playing music, setting up a reward system, or choosing fun and colorful outfits your loved one can get excited to put on.

You can also make your loved one’s bathroom a more pleasant place to be in – by setting up essential oils or air fresheners to make it smell good and even light spa music. Avoid candles or any fresheners with too many chemicals as they can be unsafe. You can also heat towels in the dryer while your loved one bathes, so they feel warm and welcoming.

In addition to making the bathroom clean and nice, make sure it’s safe. Install handrails in the shower and by the toilet, purchase raised toilet seats and shower benches, and set up slip-free mats for the bathroom floor and shower floor. This might help your loved one feel more confident as they get ready for the day.

You also want to make sure everything hygiene related is easily accessible and organized. It can be helpful to lay out outfits for the day (although you should let your loved one choose what they want to wear if possible), lay out and organize towels, shampoos, and shower brushes, and keep hair and toothbrushes easily accessible by the mirror and bathroom sink. Sometimes a little more organization is all a person needs to feel back on track. Saige Via, a caregiver specialist at A Place for Mom, says that organization can also help seniors feel a little more independent. Sometimes, a person doesn’t brush their hair because the brush is too far out of reach, not because they’re incapable of it.

According to Via, “I ask if they need me to get the items ready or physically assist them. Sometimes they just need items laid out. I try to let them do as much as possible to help them feel independent.”

On that note, independence really is a key word here. If you try to do everything for your loved one, it might make them feel frustrated, suffocated, and even sad. No one likes losing their independence – so be gentle with how you approach the subject of personal care. Talk to them about what exactly they believe they need help with, and don’t press to help further unless absolutely necessary. If your loved one takes a long time to brush their teeth, for example, don’t do it for them because you’re impatient. Let them take the time they need to get it done. Now, if they physically are unable to brush their teeth, then you need to step in to provide more hands-on assistance.

Personal care can be a struggle for anyone as they get older – but with the right tools and tips, it doesn’t need to be too terribly difficult. Just remember – maintaining personal care is essential for a number of reasons, so if your loved one is having a hard time, don’t ignore it. The more you can provide them with the support and help they need, the better.

We want to thank you for joining us here at All Home Care Matters, All Home Care Matters is here for you and to help families as they navigate long-term care issues. Please visit us at allhomecarematters.com there is a private secure fillable form there where you can give us feedback, show ideas, or if you have questions. Every form is read and responded to and if there is a Quick Tip Topic you would like for us to do an episode on – let us know and it may be featured in a future Quick Tip episode and please if you know someone who could benefit from this episode, please share it with them.

Sources:

https://www.firstlighthomecare.com/blog/2020/07/16/5-tips-for-helping-the-elderly-with-personal-hygiene/

https://www.aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/grooming-and-hygiene

https://www.countrywidehealthcare.co.uk/blog/post/personal-hygiene-care-for-the-elderly

https://www.homehelpershomecare.com/bullhead-city/community-blog/2017/december/10-tips-for-helping-seniors-with-personal-hygien/

https://www.mhanational.org/depression-older-adults-more-facts

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If your loved one has survived a stroke, you might be worried about a vascular dementia diagnosis. While vascular dementia can be caused by a number of things, a stroke is one of the most common. If your loved one has already been diagnosed with vascular dementia, you might feel overwhelmed and uncertain about the future.

Vascular dementia can be a difficult diagnosis for anyone to come to terms with – especially because this type of dementia usually occurs after a stroke or other traumatic brain injury. Families and patients alike are already grappling with so much stress, worry, and heartache from the first incident – and the added stress of a dementia diagnosis can feel utterly devastating.

While there is no cure for vascular dementia, there are treatment options available that can delay the progression of the disease. Usually, if the dementia is caused by a stroke, then the treatments used to control stroke symptoms will also help to control the dementia.

That said, successful treatment depends on an early diagnosis of the disease. So, if your loved one has suffered a stroke, it’s that much more important to be on the lookout for signs and symptoms of dementia – that way, you can make sure your loved one is taken to the doctor at the first possible warning signs.

On today’s episode of All Home Care Matters, it’s all about understanding vascular dementia. From the causes and symptoms, to how the disease functions in the brain, to treatment and care tips – we hope that this episode helps you to feel less daunted and more supported as you move forward on this journey.

Vascular dementia is considered the second most common form of dementia worldwide. According to The World Health Organization, there are 10 million new cases of vascular dementia diagnosed around the world each year. It is estimated that vascular dementia accounts for about 10% of dementia cases worldwide. Even so, the disease is commonly misdiagnosed – confused for Alzheimer’s, other cognitive issues, or even depression.

While a misdiagnosis of Alzheimer’s may not make a huge difference in the care your loved one receives, the correct diagnosis will help you to better understand why your loved one is behaving in a certain way, what they might need, and what to expect in the future. While Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia are similar, they are not the same disease, and understanding the differences is essential to ensuring your loved one is receiving the best possible care.

One of the biggest differences between Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia is the cause. Vascular dementia occurs when the blood flow to the brain is interrupted. This can be due to a stroke, a series of mini-strokes, or damaged blood vessels.

If it occurs after a stroke, it’s because the stroke has blocked a brain artery that impairs the blood flow to the brain. Not all strokes cause vascular dementia. Still, even if your loved one has survived a stroke without noticeable symptoms, it is possible for vascular dementia to occur. Caregivers should always keep an eye out for the possible warning signs.

When it comes to damaged blood vessels, they could be damaged due to becoming worn with age, high blood pressure, diabetes, brain hemorrhages, or abnormal aging of the blood vessels.

The cause of Alzheimer’s disease is not fully understood by researchers – although they know that certain factors, such as age or lifestyle, can increase the risk of getting the disease. People at risk for vascular dementia, on the other hand, are those who have diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or coronary heart disease.

On a cognitive level, there are some key differences between the two diseases. In vascular dementia, cognitive issues might decline quite dramatically in the beginning – usually right after a stroke or a mini-stroke, but then stabilize for longer periods of time. When there is a decline, it tends to happen rather quickly and unexpectedly.

According to Very Well Health, “these changes are often described as step-like since in between them, brain functioning may hold steady” for elongated periods, before taking a sudden decline.

In Alzheimer’s disease, a person’s cognitive function will decline steadily over time, without long stabilized periods in between. Very Well Health explains, “in contrast to the step-like decline in vascular dementia, Alzheimer’s is typically more like a slight, downward slope of a road over time.

There are also physical differences between the two diseases. Because vascular dementia tends to occur after a stroke, a person might suffer from severe physical ailments, depending on their reaction to the stroke.

Some stroke survivors are unable to move one side of their body, for example. Because of this, those experiencing vascular dementia might face an entire other set of struggles, earlier on in the disease.

Alzheimer’s patients, on the other hand, tend to suffer physical ailments only in the late stages of the disease. These ailments can include problems with swallowing, walking, and balance.

Finally, the diseases differ greatly in terms of progression. It’s not possible to pinpoint a specific progression timeline for vascular dementia, because of a number of varying factors. For one, the level of damage to the brain will impact how quickly or slowly the dementia progresses. The health and lifestyle of a patient can also determine progression – people without other underlying health conditions, for example, tend to progress more slowly.

For Alzheimer’s patients, the progression of the disease averages around 8 and a half years – and is a lot more predictable. While every individual case is different, most people follow a similar enough trajectory to make a future with Alzheimer’s relatively predictable for patients and their caregivers.

Now that we understand the differences between Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia, let’s get into the symptoms and warning signs of the latter. One reason that vascular dementia is difficult to diagnose, is because symptoms vary depending on where in the brain the blood flow is impaired.

Still, there is a general list of symptoms that many vascular dementia patients experience. Early symptoms include changes in mood and behavior (usually in the form of apathy, depression, and lack of motivation), trouble concentrating, disorganized thoughts, comprehension struggles, and memory problems. It’s important to note that memory problems are slightly rarer in patients with vascular dementia, especially early on.

These symptoms could occur immediately after a stroke or in the weeks or months following – so make sure that you continue to watch out for any warning signs throughout the first year following a stroke.

The early signs of vascular dementia can be relatively subtle – and if they don’t occur immediately after a stroke, they can be easier to miss. Make sure to take your loved one to see a doctor as soon as they show any or all of the early symptoms – even if they don’t seem meaningful or like they’re interrupting daily life. The earlier a person can receive a diagnosis, the better chance they have of controlling the progression.

Many people are not diagnosed with vascular dementia until the later stages of the disease. Because of this, it’s essential that you have an understanding of the later symptoms, also. Some of these symptoms might happen rather quickly – while others progress slowly over years. As with early symptoms, late symptoms vary depending on what part of the brain is affected.

Late symptoms include disorientation and significant confusion, major personality changes (such as aggression, which can become violent), language problems, depression, frequent falls and difficulty maintaining balance, incontinence, and slow thinking.

If you notice any or all of the early or late stages of vascular dementia in your loved one, arrange an appointment with their doctor as soon as possible. A doctor can evaluate your loved one for vascular dementia, and if they do diagnose the disease, they can work with you and your loved one to create a treatment plan that is best for them. Again, the earlier a diagnosis can be given, the more successful treatment tends to be.

Treatment for vascular dementia varies depending on the severity of the disease and the part of the brain that is affected. Most patients will already be seeing doctors regularly, taking medications, and following treatment for their stroke, mini-stroke, or damaged blood vessels. Still, because the treatment does vary depending on the person, it’s important for patients to consult their care team when coming up with a treatment plan.

In most cases, doctors will recommend a plan for delaying the dementia’s progression. Controlling the disease means stabilizing the symptoms, so the progression of the disease is delayed. Treatment is also aimed at reducing the risk factor for further damage to the brain. Reducing risk factors can also help to postpone decline.

Everyone with vascular dementia should practice a healthy lifestyle. The National Institute on Aging recommends establishing a safe exercise routine to keep patients active, strong, and motivated. Maintaining a healthy weight is also highly recommended. Not only is exercise an excellent way to stay fit, help with balance issues, and reduce the risk of a second stroke, it’s also a wonderful way to keep your loved one engaged, stimulated, and entertained.

Work with your loved one’s doctor to find exercises that best fit your loved one’s abilities. You can add elements like upbeat music or friendly competitions to keep the exercises entertaining for your loved ones.

Exercise is also an excellent way to fight depression – which is one of the most common symptoms in vascular dementia patients. According to the Mayo Clinic, exercise can be just as effective as anti-depressants for many patients. That’s because when exercise is strengthening the nerve cells in the brain, it improves the connections between cells, and relieves depression.

In addition to exercise, people with vascular dementia should practice healthy eating. It is recommended that patients eat diets rich with fruits, vegetables, and oily fish. Patients should avoid too much salt and fat.

Patients should also refrain from drinking too much alcohol. This is incredibly important for vascular dementia patients for a number of reasons. Not only does alcohol negatively affect the brain and memory, but it can also have a severe impact on mood – and for vascular dementia patients who already struggle to control their behavior, too much alcohol is never a good idea. In addition to limiting alcohol, patients should cut out smoking cigarettes completely, if they are smokers. Smoking can increase the risk of another stroke or further damage to the brain.

In addition to following a doctor’s treatment plan and practicing a healthy lifestyle, patients can also benefit from other forms of support. Because depression and anxiety are such common symptoms in people with vascular dementia, many patients benefit from support groups, counseling services, or therapy. This disease can feel extremely isolating – so having someone to talk to or relate to can make an enormous difference.

Speaking of health, if you are caring for someone with vascular dementia – it’s essential that you take care of your own mental and physical health, as well. Caretaking, while immensely rewarding, can also be incredibly difficult.

Many communities offer support groups for family caregivers, as well as for people whose loved ones are suffering from dementia. You can also seek the help of a therapist or a counselor. Remember, the better you care for yourself, the better you can care for the person you love. Listen to our episode on Caring for the Caregiver to find out more about how you can find the support you need on this journey.

Vascular dementia can be a difficult diagnosis to come to terms with – but the more you understand about the disease, the better prepared you can be for what’s ahead. We hope that this episode helped you to understand vascular dementia a little bit better – so you can focus on spending time with your loved one and making sure they’re getting the best possible care.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. Next time on All Home Care Matters you’ll want to join us if you are a caring for a loved one or maybe you are working in the healthcare industry and you don’t ever seem to be able to find the time to take care of yourself. We want to help provide you with some tips so that you can better care for yourself. Thank you!

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/vascular-dementia/symptoms-causes/syc-20378793

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vascular-dementia/symptoms/

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/vascular-dementia/symptoms-causes/syc-20378793#:~:text=Vascular%20dementia%20is%20a%20general,t%20always%20cause%20vascular%20dementia.

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-dementia/types-of-dementia/vascular-dementia

https://memory.ucsf.edu/dementia/vascular-dementia

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/exercise-physical-activity

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/types-dementia/vascular-dementia

https://www.ucsfhealth.org/education/coping-strategies-for-vascular-dementia-caregivers

https://balance.hcr-manorcare.com/blog-posts/5-ways-to-care-for-someone-with-vascular-dementia/

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/types-dementia/treatment-and-support-vascular-dementia

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/vascular-dementia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20378798

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2685259/

https://www.webmd.com/stroke/guide/vascular-dementia#1

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-dementia/types-of-dementia/vascular-dementia#:~:text=Vascular%20dementia%20is%20widely%20considered,though%20it's%20recognized%20as%20common.

https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-differences-between-alzheimers-vascular-dementia-98750

https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/exercise-is-an-all-natural-treatment-to-fight-depression

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Hello, and welcome back to All Home Care Matters. If this is your first time visiting us here at the show. Thank you for taking time out to be with us today. We appreciate how valuable everyone’s time is and that is why we try and make each episode here at All Home Care Matters something that will hopefully matter to you.

We are honored to welcome Paul VerHoeve to All Home Care Matters.

On this episode we will be speaking with Paul and answering the question, “Why Americans are still confused by home health, or hesitant to move forward with it?”

We often hear from families who are left feeling confused and overwhelmed when it comes to understanding all of the nuances associated with long-term care and with the home health care sector.

Today, we are going to discuss the various aspects of the home health care and home care sector and how it can be more accessible for families.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. On the next episode of All Home Care Matters we will be discussing an important topic for families and that is Understanding Vascular Dementia.

If you are interested in learning more about Paul, we have included some links below for you to visit.

An Interview with Paul about the Loneliness epidemic:

https://thriveglobal.com/stories/paul-verhoeve-of-mission-healthcare-make-an-effort-to-care-for-people/

Mission Healthcare:

https://homewithmission.com/

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Neil Grunberg serves as Co-Founder and Vice President of Strategy & Corporate Development at AlayaCare. Grunberg has spent more than 17 years focused on workforce management, mobility, and operational software. His breadth of expertise ranges from consulting and project management to pre-sales and then eventually onto managing sales and marketing for a successful startup before joining the Vortex Connect team and then onto AlayaCare.

During this interview we explore AlayaCare with Neil. We asked questions such as:

What is AlayaCare?
Background on how it started
What was the underlying need for home care software?
Neil’s personal connection to home care
What type of clients does AlayaCare serve?
What benefits does AlayaCare bring to home care organizations and the clients that they serve?
What sets AlayaCare apart from competitors?
Examples of innovative features:
Virtual Care Suite
Importance during the pandemic
Family Portal
Machine learning/AI capabilities

AlayaCare delivers home health care software, services, and data insights that empower care providers worldwide to deliver better outcomes. Home health care organizations use our end-to-end platform to optimize operations, scale their business, retain employees, and most importantly, deliver better care. For more information, visit: www.alayacare.com

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. On the next episode of All Home Care Matters we will be welcoming Paul Verhoeve of Mission Care where he will discuss “Why Americans are still confused about Home Health Care.” This will be an informative and interesting interview that you won’t want to miss.

Here are the sources used for this episode:

https://www.alayacare.com

https://www.allhomecarematters.com

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If your loved one has suffered from a stroke, you might feel like the train of your life has completely derailed – and is stuck and sinking in thick, sloshy mud. For the most part, strokes occur unexpectedly. This means that for both the person experiencing the stroke, and their loved ones, life seems to change all at once.

Many family members will have to step into the role of caregiver, while still trying to grapple with the loss themselves. If this is the case, you are probably feeling a whirlwind of emotions – from fear and anxiety, to deep sadness, and even grief – as you watch your loved one recover.

We’ve talked before on this podcast about how difficult it is to watch a parent change before our eyes. The role reversal from child to caregiver is not an easy one by any means, and it’s that much harder when we know that our parents are having a difficult time, or that they’ve been through any kind of trauma.

Stroke survivors can suffer from mild or severe changes – but any change, even the seemingly smaller ones – are hard to come to terms with. It’s important to remember – especially if you are stepping into the role of caregiver – that your reactions to these changes are completely normal. You might feel a great sense of empathy and heartache for your parent, while you are simultaneously frustrated and irritated with them. You might ache for things to return to how they used to be, while also cherishing the extra time you’re spending together now. Mixed feelings are completely normal – and we’ll talk in this episode about how you can find a way to let your feelings out, and validate them, while remaining composed, patient, and warm around your parent.

Strokes can be especially difficult grounds for families to navigate, mostly because they are just so unexpected. Many aging adults with other diseases – like dementia or Parkinson’s – show a slow build up to their disease that gives families a little more time to prepare for the future and get a care plan in order.

When a parent suffers a stroke, though, many adult children find themselves scrambling to learn everything they can about what strokes are, how to assemble a care team, where their parent should live, and how to balance caring for their parent with their current occupation and family, all at once. All that while they try to process what has happened on an emotional level and be a source of support for their parent. If it sounds daunting, it’s because it most certainly is.

On today’s episode, our aim is to give you the tools you need so you can make sure your parent is receiving the best possible care, while also making sure that you are too. We’ll talk about the causes and treatments for strokes, caregiving tips and tricks, and how to plan for an uncertain future with your loved one.

Let’s begin with the basics. It’s important to know that strokes can happen to anyone. While the risk of suffering a stroke rises depending on age, health conditions (people with diabetes, high cholesterol, or high blood pressure have an increased risk of suffering a stroke), and family history, the hard truth is that technically, anyone can suffer from a stroke at any time. According to the CDC, about 34% of strokes occur in people under the age of 65.

Nearly 795,000 Americans suffer from strokes each year – and it’s currently listed as the third leading cause of death in the country. Strokes can happen to anyone at any age.

I say this because it’s so important to recognize the warning signs of a stroke before it’s too late. The earlier you can get your loved one to the hospital, the better the outcome will be. Too often, healthy and active people will show warning signs of a stroke and ignore them – thinking that strokes only occur in the obese or the elderly. In fact, one CDC study found that a staggering 55% of respondents did not call 911, even after noticing numbness on one side of their body. Never assume that because your mother or father have been doing well otherwise, that they cannot suffer a stroke. If they complain of a symptom – you must call 911 right away.

That brings me to the warning signs. What are they, anyway? Well, the American Stroke Association describes the warning signs of a stroke as F-A-S-T, or fast.

The F stands for facial drooping. If one side of you or your loved one’s face seems to be drooping or numb, this is a major sign of a stroke. Have your loved one attempt to smile – and if their smile looks a little off, whether it’s lopsided or not happening at all, call 911 immediately.

The A stands for arm weakness. If a person complains of numbness in their arm, or is unable to move their arm, this could be a sign of a stroke. Your parent might complain that their arm doesn’t feel attached, or like it’s a part of them. One woman featured in an American Stroke Association article explained that she woke up thinking there was a “toy in her bed.” That toy turned out to be her numb arm. If one arm is drifting downward when your parent attempts to lift their arms, this is another sign.

The S stands for speech. If your parents’ speech is suddenly slurred or difficult to understand – this is also a sign of a stroke. Have your parent try to repeat a sentence – if they are struggling to do so, do not take this lightly. Call 911.

Finally, the T stands for Time to Call 911. Whether your loved one is experiencing any or all of these symptoms – you need to get them to the hospital right away. The sooner a person can get to the hospital, the better chance they have of a smooth recovery. I cannot emphasize that enough.

Again, the acronym for stroke warning signs is FAST. Facial drooping, arm weakness, speech, time to dial 911.

While a stroke can happen to anyone of any age, there are certain factors that increase the risk. African Americans, for instance, are almost twice as likely to suffer from a stroke than white Americans – and they have the highest chance of death due to a stroke among demographics.

At the same time, underlying health issues such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure can increase the chance of experiencing a stroke.

Other risk factors include age, weight, and even lifestyle. A person who smokes cigarettes and drinks a significant amount of alcohol, for instance, has a higher risk of suffering from a stroke than someone who doesn’t.

While anyone CAN have a stroke at any age and regardless of their lifestyle, a healthy and active lifestyle will reduce the risk severely. Cutting down on alcohol, eating a balanced diet, and exercising regularly are all ways to prevent a stroke. The CDC recommends exercising for at least 2.5 hours a week – whether by hitting the gym or even taking a brisk walk around the neighborhood.

Cutting out cigarettes and limiting alcohol are another way to prevent strokes. Cigarettes greatly increase the risk of suffering from a stroke. Smokers actually have an increased stroke risk of 54% in women and 53% in men, according to the AHA. As for alcohol, binge drinking can raise a person’s blood pressure, making them more susceptible to suffering a stroke.

It is important to note that everyone who suffers a stroke reacts differently. While some may have difficulty swallowing or have a hard time moving, others might suffer fatigue or struggle to communicate. Because the reactions to a stroke can vary so greatly, there is no single type of care that works for every stroke survivor. Make sure to communicate with your loved one’s doctor about how to find the best type of care for your loved one, depending on their needs and requirements.

On that note, when establishing your care team, make sure to consult your parents’ doctors as well as social services to come up with the best plan for the future. Ask whether your parent could benefit from a speech therapist, occupational therapist, or physical therapist. In many cases, a survivor will need at least one of the above to help them through their recovery. These therapists can be monumental in helping your parent regain his or her independence, as he or she learns to speak, walk, or even practice daily living activities again.

Even if your parent seems to have only mild symptoms, you still want to find out whether a therapist would be beneficial. Think about it this way: a person who has been in a car accident might have mild whiplash that makes it painful to turn their neck. That might be their only symptom. They should still see a physical therapist so they can learn to move their neck pain-free again and prevent any future strains that might occur from overuse before the tissue heals.

Once you know what therapies your parent might need, you also need to find out how intensive their care will be. Can they remain mostly independent, or do they need around the clock care? If they do require constant care, are you able to balance your own work and life with being there for them? Look into their insurance plan and find out whether they qualify for at-home nursing care. If they do, this may be worth considering -just so you can maintain a balance between caring for your loved one and caring for yourself. If not, think about how becoming a family caregiver might affect your own finances. Are you able to leave your job? Does your parent have anything in their savings that can help them afford care?

You might find that a nursing home or an assisted living facility is the best option for your loved one. Medicaid will cover a temporary stay in a nursing home – and for many stroke patients, a temporary stay is all that is needed. Again, evaluate with your doctor what they think the healing stages and recovery period will be for your parent.

To learn more about finding the perfect type of care for your loved one, listen to our episode on choosing the right care. There, we lay out all you need to know about the various options out there – including what they cost, how they might affect quality of life, and how to talk to your loved one about their own desires for the future.

If you opt to go the family caregiver route, know that as exhausting and stressful as it can be, it can also be immensely rewarding. Still, many caregivers can feel daunted, frustrated, and even isolated in their new role. So, make sure that you are taking at least a few minutes every day for yourself – to breathe, process, and do something only for you. The more you care for yourself, the better you’ll be able to care for your loved one.

If you have stepped into the role of family caregiver, there are some things that are essential to know and take care of, right from the start. First of all, take note of your parents’ new medications. Know the side effects, the correct dosage, and the exact time that the pills need to be taken. Do they need to be taken with food? Is it normal for your parent to feel dizzy afterward? Also, find out what other medications your parent is taking and consult their doctor to make sure everything is safe to take together. This includes over the counter drugs, vitamin and supplements, and even creams.

Be on the lookout for warning signs of another stroke. Stroke survivors have an increased likelihood of suffering another stroke, so make sure to be as attentive as possible to the warning signs we spoke about earlier. If your parent experiences any numbness, facial drooping, or arm weakness – get them to the hospital right away.

Be aware, also, that falls are common with stroke survivors – especially in the first few months of recovery. Reduce the risks of falls by making sure there are no loose rugs in the house, spills are cleaned up right away, and installing safety rods in the shower, along with gripping mats. If your loved one shows any signs of bruising, bleeding, or pain after a fall, take them to the hospital. If your loved one falls more than twice in a six-month period, get them to a doctor to make sure nothing else is wrong.

Depression is extremely common among stroke survivors. In fact, about 30-50% of stroke survivors suffer from depression during their recovery. Depression can make recovery extremely difficult, as people who are depressed tend to feel lethargic, unmotivated, and easily overwhelmed. Try to prevent depression in your loved one right away by keeping their minds and bodies as stimulated as possible. The stimulation will depend on your parents’ capabilities, but they can include taking them outside for walks, playing games, and engaging in social activities.

If your parent is suffering from depression, there are support groups and counseling services that specialize in helping stroke survivors. It can be enormously helpful for a survivor to know that they are not alone – and to join a community of people who have been through something similar. You can also speak to their doctor about anti-depressants, although medication might not always be an option depending on what other prescriptions your loved one is taking. If medication is not an option, making sure your parent feels supported and loved, and keeping them busy and engaged, should help.

You also need to remember to be patient with your loved one. This is easier said than done, I know. Transitioning into the role of a caregiver can feel completely overwhelming, and you might find yourself getting more irritated and frustrated than usual – especially if you’re feeling impatient with how long the recovery process is taking. It’s completely normal to feel angry or even resentful of the situation you’re in – but keep in mind that this is a major loss for your parent, as well.

The physical and mental limitations that they are suffering can be shocking and heart breaking, and they might be more susceptible to sadness and anger as they learn to cope with their new way of life. Lashing out or acting irritated with your parent will not help the situation – it will more likely make your parent feel more disheartened and disconnected and can even slow their recovery. Patience, positive reinforcement, and encouragement will help your parent to feel stronger, happier, and more motivated in their recovery. Most of all, it will help them feel supported during this incredibly difficult time.

Now, I’m not saying not to let yourself feel. Your feelings are normal, valid, and true to your own experience – and you owe it to yourself to let yourself feel what you need to. The key is to find a place to express yourself away from your parent. Finding a community and support system isn’t just important for your parent – it’s important for you, also. Speak to a counselor, find a support group, or look for a friend who you can lean on when you need it. Venting sessions, advice, and support will be crucial to keeping up your own mental health during this time. Again, the better you care for yourself, the better you’ll be able to care for your parent.

Because a stroke comes on so suddenly, it can feel like the world has turned upside down after your parent experiences one. In many ways, it has. Remember that you are not alone – and with the right preparation and care, you can make the uncertain future as smooth as possible, and get to the other side stronger than ever.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. On the next episode of All Home Care Matters we will be welcoming the co-founder of AlayaCare to the show – Neil Grunberg. This is an interview you won’t want to miss!

Here are the sources used for this episode:

https://www.stroke.org/en/about-stroke/stroke-symptoms

https://whentheygetolder.co.uk/health/health-issues/mobility/how-to-cope-when-your-parent-has-a-stroke/

https://lunchticket.org/five-myths-a-daughters-guide-to-surviving-your-mothers-stroke/

https://www.stroke.org.uk/what-is-stroke/are-you-at-risk-of-stroke#:~:text=A%20stroke%20can%20happen%20to,can%20to%20reduce%20your%20risk.

https://www.jaga-me.com/thecareissue/stroke-home-care-saved-our-family/

https://www.stroke.org.uk/finding-support/caring-for-a-stroke-survivor

https://careinc.com/care-blog/9-ways-to-cope-after-a-family-member-has-a-stroke

https://www.stroke.org/en/help-and-support/for-family-caregivers/15-things-caregivers-should-know-after-a-loved-one-has-had-a-stroke

https://www.goredforwomen.org/en/about-heart-disease-in-women/living-with-cardiovascular-disease/tips-to-combat-depression-after-a-stroke

https://www.webmd.com/stroke/features/stroke-recovery-tips-for-the-caregiver

https://www.visitingangels.com/knowledge-center/why-in-home-care/how-home-care-changes-for-loved-ones-following-a-stroke/372

https://www.healthgrades.com/right-care/stroke/caring-for-a-loved-one-after-a-stroke

https://www.flintrehab.com/how-to-care-for-stroke-patient-at-home/

https://www.cdc.gov/stroke/facts.htm

https://www.cdc.gov/stroke/healthy_living.htm

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As many seniors get older, they will find themselves spending more and more time in their beds and less time out and about. This is especially true for those suffering from mobility problems or other illnesses that hinder their ability to move around like they used to.

Unfortunately, the more time a person spends in one spot, the higher the risk that they will develop pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores. Bedsores occur when a specific area of the body has a certain degree of pressure on it for an elongated period of time. When that happens, the skin opens up and becomes infected.

On today’s quick tip episode of All Home Care Matters, we’ll go over everything you need to know about bedsores. From the risk factors to how to prevent them from happening, this should be a helpful guide to helping your loved one stay safe, comfortable, and infection-free.

People are at a higher risk of developing bedsores if they are immobile and have to stay in one spot for a lengthy period of time. While this is one common cause of bedsores, it’s actually not the only risk factor out there. Incontinence issues can also cause damage to the skin that can lead to open skin and increased risk of infection. A person might also get bedsores if they have lost their sense of touch – due to a neurological disorder or spinal cord injury – because they will not be able to detect pain or warning signs of a sore and are more likely to get an infection.

Bedsores might seem like a relatively harmless, although uncomfortable, wound on a person’s body – but in reality, bedsores pose a great risk to anyone who has them. There are a number of complications that can occur with bedsores – so extra precautions must be in place to help prevent seniors from getting them. If they do get them, then it’s important that they see a doctor immediately, and do not wait for the infection to spread.

It is possible for a bed sore to cause cellulitis – an infection of the skin and soft tissues that occurs when bacteria enters a break in the skin. Cellulitis can cause severe swelling of the skin, along with pain, blisters, and even fever. If left untreated, cellulitis can spread to the lymphatic drainage system in the body and cause chronic swelling. It can also cause deep-layer emergency infections to the fascial lining, on rare occasions.

In addition to cellulitis, a person with bedsores is at risk of experiencing arthritis from joint infections, which could lead to tissue damage. They are also at risk of bone infections which can cause their joints and limbs to not function properly.

If bedsores are left untreated for a very long period of time, a person is at risk of developing skin cancer as a result of the accelerated growth of squamous cells. Squamous cells grow when a person’s skin is experiencing trauma or abnormal changes – such as an untreated wound.

On rare occasions, bedsores can even lead to sepsis – which can lead to widespread inflammation and even organ damage.

Clearly, bedsores are nothing to mess around with. While they might not always be completely preventable – particularly for those who have no choice but to spend their time in bed – it is essential that the wounds are treated as soon as they are found. Do not rely on your loved one to notice and report the sore themselves – in many cases, a person does not even realize they have a sore until it’s too late. Have your loved one’s caregiver check for sores on a regular basis.

There are ways to lower the risk of a person getting bedsores – even when they are stuck in bed. The most important way to keep off bedsores is to get moving. Even if your loved one is stuck in bed, make sure to change their position regularly so that no one spot on their body is under too much pressure. At the same time, replace old or worn-out chairs with armchairs and recliners that have comfortable cushioning. If your loved one is able, have them switch between the bed and the chair, instead of remaining in one or the other most of the time.

If possible, have your loved one engage in range of motion exercises that will get the circulation flowing. Exercise can make the biggest difference – and it can be as simple as arm and leg exercises in bed. Physical and occupational therapists can be an enormous help when it comes to choosing the best exercise plan for your loved one.

There is also specialty bedding available that helps to prevent bedsores. Air mattress toppers or customized cushioned padding can be used to reduce pressure on areas of the body. There are special materials that can reduce pressure on mattresses, chairs, and even footwear, to help reduce pressure wherever and whenever possible.

If your loved one suffers from incontinence, they may be especially suspectable to bedsores. Make sure that your loved one’s skin is cleaned regularly and remains dry. If urine or other bodily fluids are not cleaned from the skin, the skin will deteriorate at a quicker rate and bacteria will enter the broken skin. This can be prevented by regular bathing and making sure that the skin always remains clean and dry.

Finally, a healthy diet can actually be key to preventing bedsores. A good diet will strengthen blood circulation and help to fight off any possible sores. Make sure your loved one is consuming a balanced diet filled with fruits, vegetables, and plenty of fiber and protein.

If you notice that your loved one has a bed sore, make sure to change their position immediately to alleviate unnecessary added pressure. Usually, the sore will go away on its own after one to two days pressure-free. If it does not, make sure to contact your loved one’s doctor right away. The doctor will make sure that there is not an infection and prescribe any necessary treatments. If there is an infection, extra medical care or medication might be necessary to fight it. The earlier you find it, the better.

Bedsores might seem harmless, but they’re nothing to mess with. Still, if you notice them early enough, they can usually go away before an infection occurs. Make sure to do what you can to prevent your loved one from getting them – and if they do get them, make sure you don’t ignore it.

Here are the sources used for this episode:

https://www.relias.com/blog/7-steps-to-prevent-pressure-sores

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bed-sores/symptoms-causes/syc-20355893#:~:text=Risk%20factors,cord%20injury%20and%20other%20causes.

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/bedsores

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cellulitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20370762#:~:text=Cellulitis%20(sel%2Du%2DLIE,face%2C%20arms%20and%20other%20areas

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A diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia, or FTD, can rock a person’s world. Whether or not this was a diagnosis you anticipated, it can be difficult to grapple with the reality of it, for both the diagnosed patient and their family members.

There are a few reasons a diagnosis of FTD can be particularly devastating. For one thing, the majority of people diagnosed are younger than 70, so the last thing they expect is for their life to be uprooted by dementia. For another thing, there is no cure and no treatments available at the moment – even though researchers are working hard to change that. Still, there are ways for a person to maintain a meaningful quality of life for as long as possible, especially if the disease is diagnosed in its earliest stages.

If you or someone you love has received a diagnosis of FTD, we are here to support you and guide you through. We know that this is a difficult time – and it can feel daunting and overwhelming to plan ahead for an uncertain future. While you might feel helpless right now, know that there is hope. Treatments ARE getting better and there is support out there for anyone who needs it.

We’ve spoken on this podcast before about early onset Alzheimer’s, and FTD is similar in many ways – but I am sure if you are experiencing FTD you might be tired of people relating it to early onset. It’s important to remember that these are two separate diseases, although similar, and should be considered as such. For effective treatment and planning ahead to take place, it’s essential that patients understand their own individual diagnosis of FTD, separately from other similar diseases. That’s why today, we’ll be diving into exactly what happens to a person’s brain with FTD, the stages of the disease, and the best way to maintain a high quality of life after diagnosis.

We hope that by the end of this episode, you’ll feel less daunted and more supported – and that you have a clear understanding of what this disease really is and what it might mean for the days and years ahead. This is not a diagnosis that you chose, caused, or have much control over – but you do get to choose how you can live each day as meaningfully as possible. Even when the disease is in its later stages, your caregivers can do what they can to make every single day count.

Whether you’ve received a diagnosis or someone you love is experiencing FTD, furthering your knowledge of the disease and understanding exactly how it impacts the brain will give you a much better idea of why you are feeling or behaving in a certain way. If your loved one has FTD, then knowing more about how the disease functions will help you to understand those parts of FTD that might feel especially frustrating or disheartening – particularly changes in personality and behavior.

We want to start with a reminder that you are not alone. While FTD can feel extremely isolating, particularly if you are young and do not know anyone in your personal life who is experiencing the disease, about 50,000 to 60,000 Americans are living with the disease today, according to The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration. That might seem like a small number compared to other diseases – but it’s large enough that support networks, including specialized therapists and counseling groups, are out there.

Now, we mentioned earlier that many people with FTD might be compared with those who have early onset Alzheimer’s disease. We also mentioned the importance of distinguishing between the two diseases – because while they are similar, they are marked by key differences. For the sake of understanding what makes FTD different than Alzheimer’s, let’s compare.

FTD patients are most commonly diagnosed between the ages of 45 and 65, while the vast majority of Alzheimer’s diagnoses occur in the later stages of a person’s life (early onset is a rare exception). Most notably, though, memory loss is not as prevalent of a symptom in FTD patients.

FTD, especially in its early stages, mainly affects language and behavior, while Alzheimer’s targets memory loss. Now, FTD patients can suffer from memory loss, especially as the disease progresses, but it is not the primary symptom. The first symptom in most FTD patients is behavioral changes, which is one of the later symptoms in Alzheimer’s patients.

FTD patients tend to have more difficulties with speech and communication than Alzheimer’s patients. It can be difficult for an FTD patient to make sense while they are speaking, or for them to make sense of what others are saying to them. In Alzheimer’s patients, communication issues tend to center around remembering names or important information, rather than understanding the concept of what someone is saying. In the later stages of Alzheimer’s, they are more likely to struggle with making sense of language, but this isn’t always the case.

Finally, patients with FTD rarely suffer from hallucinations and delusions, which are common in people with Alzheimer’s disease. This, along with memory loss, are two of the most significant differences between FTD and Alzheimer’s.

In fact, the lack of memory loss in FTD patients, combined with the young age that most FTD patients get the disease, makes achieving a diagnosis particularly challenging. Doctors tend to look for memory loss as one of the leading causes of dementia, and they tend to focus on age. Too often, a person with FTD will be misdiagnosed with depression or other mental illness because of their behavioral changes.

Understanding the differences between Alzheimer’s and FTD is just the first step to having a clear idea of what FTD is and what it means for the lives of those diagnosed (and the lives of their friends and family members). To further our understanding of the disease even more, let’s get into how it actually affects the human brain.

Navigating a life with FTD starts with understanding the disease itself. When we have a comprehensive idea of what our brain is experiencing during FTD, we can better understand our own symptoms and plan ahead accordingly.

As the name implies, Frontotemporal Dementia affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. These areas of the brain are critical to learning, communicating, and empathizing. In FTD patients, the frontal and temporal lobes are suffering from nerve cell damage and death. As the nerve cells in the frontal and temporal lobes are damaged, connections between the cells are broken. These connections are what allows the brain to send signals to itself and the rest of the body. As the nerve cells die or malfunction, the brain tissue in the frontal and temporal lobes actually starts to shrink.

FTD comes in two forms – Behavioral Variant FTD, which is the most common, and Primary Progressive Aphasia or PPA. PPA and Behavioral Variant FTD affect the brain in different ways.

In Behavioral Variant FTD, the frontal lobe is most severely damaged. The frontal lobe affects how a person behaves, plans, problem solves, focus, and process emotions. Suffice it to say, when this lobe experiences damage, it leads to major changes in personality and behavior.

In Primary Progressive Aphasia, the temporal lobes suffer the most damage. The temporal lobes control much of our understanding of language – they store the meanings of words, the names of objects, and how we recognize important people, places, and things.

In addition to Primary Progressive Aphasia and Behavioral Variant FTD, FTD can also be linked to two very rare neurological diseases that affect mobility. These are corticobasal syndrome (CBS) and progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP).

CBS occurs when nerve cells die in parts of the brain that control movement – most commonly, arms and hands are impacted. CBS patients can suffer from orientation and language problems, but this is not always the case.

PSP affects a person’s ability to walk and maintain balance. Body stiffness, ability to make facial expressions, and falls are common in this disorder. Most people with PSP will struggle to move their eyes – the most differentiating feature between PSP and Parkinson’s. People with PSP can also suffer from memory issues, behavioral changes, and difficulty problem solving.

The symptoms of FTD vary depending on the type of FTD a person has. In Behavioral Variant FTD, early symptoms include lack of focus and motivation, difficulty making decisions, struggling to make plans, loss of inhibitions, lack of empathy, repetitive behaviors, and changes in diet – particularly cravings for junk food. Other signs of Behavioral Variant FTD are ultra-sensitivity to temperature and sound.

You might find that you never want to get up from the couch or turn off the TV, that where you were once social and loved being out with friends, now you’d rather stay inside. You might lash out on friends and family or say whatever it is you’re thinking – even if it’s not appropriate or polite. For this reason, depression is a common diagnosis for people in the early stages of FTD. Personality changes, particularly a loss of inhibition, might be a sign that something even worse than depression is to blame. If you or your loved one has seemed to lose their filter or is acting erratically, you should take them to a neurologist for an FTD evaluation as soon as possible.

One tough reality of FTD is that most patients will not be totally aware that something is wrong. While friends or family might notice behavioral changes, a person with FTD might deny that anything is wrong. While it might be frustrating to see your loved one deny that there’s a problem or refuse to seek medical help, try to remember that this is not on purpose. Many people with FTD genuinely do not realize that there is a problem and might even be offended that others believe something is wrong.

Because many people with FTD do not recognize that there is a problem and refuse to see a doctor, a diagnosis can take a long time. It can seem nearly impossible to convince a family member with FTD to make an appointment, and the last thing anyone wants to do is drag their loved one kicking and screaming into their GP’s office. If you are struggling to convince your loved one to see a doctor, you might want to consider talking to them about making an appointment for depression or another issue that might be affecting them. At that appointment, you can speak to their doctor about evaluating them for FTD.

Symptoms of Primary Progressive Aphasia FTD are mainly centered around language. If you or your loved one is having difficulty remembering the meaning of words or finding the right word for something, they might be suffering from PPA. A person with PPA might use the wrong word to describe something – like calling a chair a couch or a door a window. For some objects, they might not be able to say any word at all.

At the same time, PPA patients might ask what a specific word means, particularly one that they might not use as often. For instance, a person might ask what a jacuzzi is if they see one on TV, or ask what pasta is if they’re having it for dinner.

PPA patients might also not remember how to use objects that were once familiar to them. They might not know how to put the leash on the dog, or even what it’s used for, or forget how to hold a spatula. This symptom tends to arise in the later stages of PPA, but it can occur earlier on. Because diagnoses tend to occur after the disease has already progressed, this is still a symptom you should be on the lookout for pre-diagnosis.

Commonly, a person with PPA will also have trouble reading and writing. They might spell familiar words wrong, forget how to write their name, or write phonetically. For instance, if they are trying to write “k-n-o-w” they might instead write “n-o.”

Treatment for PPA patients is centered around helping a patient maintain their grasp of language while also finding new ways to communicate. Many PPA patients use notebooks to communicate, or else charts where different sayings and objects are drawn out for them to point to. Asking “yes” or “no” questions is also an effective way to communicate with someone with PPA. While these methods can be successful in the early stages of the disease, communication of any kind will become more difficult as it progresses. A person with PPA should meet with speech-language pathologists and therapists to come up with a plan that best fits their needs and abilities.

Unfortunately, there are no more concrete treatments at the moment for patients with PPA or Behavioral Variant FTD. Researchers are working to better understand the disease so they can identify new drugs and treatments to help. At the moment, there are many clinical trials that are testing new therapies and methods for treatments. Some patients might consider speaking to their doctor about participating in a trial.

Still, there are ways for a person to have a high quality of life after a diagnosis. Most beneficial, according to The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration, is finding a daily routine that keeps the patient active, healthy, and stimulated.

The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration explains that, “the formula is to maintain social relationships as much as possible and adapt interests, accomplishments, and memories into activities that match the person’s current functioning. For example, if competitive poker or bridge was a favorite social activity, playing a more casual or simpler version with fewer rules if needed can engage the person, connect with that part of his past, and provide a meaningful way to interact with others.”

The more you can stimulate the mind while adhering to the needs and comfort of the person diagnosed, the better. Jessica Crawford, the writer of the blog FTD and Me, in which Crawford shares her experience caring for her mother before and after an FTD diagnosis, said that she tried many activities until she found one that successfully engaged her mother’s mind and made her genuinely happy: a spa day. She found that the spa day was especially effective because her mother used to love getting her hair and nails done and “feeling pretty,” and being at the spa was a relaxing and calm environment that did not overstimulate her. She even managed to call ahead and arrange an appointment for after-hours so the spa was not crowded with strangers, who may have intimidated her mother.

The activities you engage with or have your loved one engage with will change over time as the disease progresses, but it is important that new activities are found whenever possible. In the more advanced stages of the disease, it might be helpful to seek out support groups or community resources that specialize in FTD patients. Many groups will hold activity nights catered toward FTD patients that can be extremely rewarding to take part in.

Life with FTD is not easy – but with the right resources and support network, a person can continue to stay engaged, active, and most of all – not feel so alone.

Here are the sources used for this episode:

https://www.ftdandme.co.uk/

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/dementia/frontotemporal-dementia#:~:text=Frontotemporal%20dementia%20(FTD)%2C%20a,personality%2C%20language%2C%20and%20movement.

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-dementia/types-of-dementia/frontotemporal-dementia

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/types-dementia/frontotemporal-dementia

https://memory.ucsf.edu/dementia/ftd

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/treatment-and-management-frontotemporal-disorders

http://ftd.med.upenn.edu/living-with-ftd-related-disorders

https://www.helpinghandshomecare.co.uk/blog/living-with-frontotemporal-dementia/

https://www.alzheimers.net/11-7-14-caregivers-frontotemporal-degeneration

https://www.crisisprevention.com/Blog/Caring-for-Persons-With-Frontotemporal-Dementia-FT

https://www.theaftd.org/living-with-ftd/coordinating-care/

https://www.alzheimers.gov/life-with-dementia/planning-for-future

https://www.theaftd.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/AFTD-40-pg-booklet-NewDiag_Website.pdf

https://www.asccare.com/stages-of-frontotemporal-dementia/

https://www.brightfocus.org/alzheimers-disease/article/what-are-stages-frontotemporal-dementia

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/types-frontotemporal-disorders

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If you spend a lot of time with an aging loved one, you might notice that their relationship with food has begun to change. It’s not uncommon for seniors to eat less, to forget to eat entirely, or even to eat too much. It varies depending on the person, but many seniors will experience diet changes as they get older.

Maybe they are hesitant to eat – they tell you that they’re just not hungry, that seniors don’t require as many calories, that they’ll rifle through the pantry if they need anything. Maybe they’re only eating junk food or drinking more alcohol than usual – and they tell you that they’ve “got it under control” and they just like to treat themselves sometimes. You might notice that your parent is experiencing weight changes as the food in their refrigerator spoils.

It might feel confusing, disheartening, and worrying to watch your parents’ changing relationship with food. It could feel like a fight to get them to eat dinner and it can be alarming to see the expired food piling up in their kitchen.

Bad eating habits (including neglecting to eat at all or choosing to eat very little) can have serious impacts on a person’s health – especially as their bodies are aging and sicknesses are harder to fight. A healthy, balanced diet can prevent a myriad of diseases as it strengthens the immune system, keeps a person feeling energized and upbeat, and generally improves the quality of life.

On today’s episode, it’s all about how to help your loved ones follow a healthy diet. We’ll talk about why changes in diet are common among seniors, the proven benefits of healthy eating for seniors, meal preparation tips, and specialized diets for seniors who are facing other health difficulties. It’s time to get your loved one eating right again.

While you might feel sad or even frustrated when your mom or dad refuses dinner, it’s important to understand why their relationship with food is changing. Here’s the hard truth. According to the CDC, a staggering 20% of adults aged 55 and older have a mental health disorder, such as anxiety, cognitive impairment, or depression. Even more specifically, the CDC has found that 7 million adults over the age of 65 are affected by depression.

Depression and feelings of loneliness, isolation, or anxiety are particularly common among seniors who are living alone. Side effects of depression and loneliness include lethargy, laziness, and lack of motivation. For many seniors who are experiencing these feelings, the thought of meal preparation feels exhausting. It’s simply easier to snack from a bag of chips or head to bed without a bite.

In addition to mental health struggles, as people age, they are more susceptible to physical health problems that might make eating and cooking much harder than before. If they are living through diabetes, congestive heart failure, or even cancer – they will need to follow a specialized diet that can be difficult to maintain. They might also suffer from an extreme lack of appetite when they are not feeling well. Others still, particularly Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s patients, might have trouble chewing and swallowing – making eating feel daunting and not worth the effort. They could also have mobility issues that keep them from cooking their own meals or working their way around the kitchen.

Believe it or not, dignity might even get in the way. For some seniors, after they are no longer able to drive, they are eager to hold onto any independence that they have left. That means being hesitant to ever ask for help – even if they need it. Sometimes, seniors simply don’t eat because they don’t have a ride to the store for food – and they feel that asking for help will mean failure. Keep in mind that a loss of independence can feel crushing to many aging adults. Some fear that asking for help with simple errands will lead to their children putting them in a nursing home or hiring extra care.

Financial issues also come into play. Seniors who are struggling financially might be less likely to go to the grocery store or even order food for delivery. They might not want to admit that they are struggling and refuse to ask for help, once again afraid of losing their dignity and independence.

For seniors struggling to maintain a healthy diet, there can be terrible consequences. We all know that healthy eating is important regardless of our age – but this is especially true for older adults. Studies by the National Institute on Aging have found that a healthy diet can reduce the risk for diseases like Alzheimer’s, heart disease, and diabetes. At the same time, it can help seniors stay independent for longer – as their bodies are simply better prepared to fight off illness.

We may worry that our parents poor eating habits are keeping them from living their best lives and putting them at risk. The good news is that for most seniors, regardless of why they are no longer eating the way they used to, it doesn’t have to be too terribly difficult to get them eating right again. The biggest factor for many seniors is convenience. If they do not have to worry about meal prep or the chore of cleaning the kitchen after cooking, that will make an enormous difference.

There are weekly food subscription boxes like Snap Kitchen and Thrive Market that send pre-packaged and pre-made healthy meals that simply need to be popped into the microwave. This might be the ideal option for family caregivers who do not want to spend most of their week cooking and cleaning after each meal. These meals are better than those found in the frozen aisle at the store, because they are specially prepared by chefs with fresh, healthy ingredients and offer a wide variety of meal options (so your loved one won’t have to eat the same thing every day). These services might seem expensive on first glance, but when you consider that they’ll pretty much replace grocery shopping, the price tends to even out. Snap Kitchen costs $11.67 per meal and sends 6-12 meals a week. Thrive Market sends 10 meals a week for $89.99.

If you have the time, you can also prepare meals for your loved one yourself. Some families choose to cook meals in bulk one day a week and drop them off at their loved one’s home in Tupperware containers. That makes meal prep so easy for seniors – who just have to pop the food in the microwave – and you can be sure that you’re making food you know your loved one likes.

Pre-packaged meal prep, whether you order a subscription or make it yourself, is often the best option for seniors who live alone. After all, cooking for one can feel depressing and exhausting for many people – especially those who have recently lost a spouse and are not used to living by themselves. When they have a meal ready to go, they don’t have to face the pain that can coincide with cooking for one.

If your loved one has a hired caregiver, then the caregiver might take on the cooking, feeding, and cleaning themselves – which, of course, can be an enormous help. Just make sure that they are following healthy recipes that your parent loves and not cooking the same three meals every single week. Just like you wouldn’t want to eat the same thing every day, neither does your parent.

When it comes to handling meal prep either by yourself or with the help of a hired caregiver, there are steps you can take to make sure the meal is healthy, easy to prepare, and enjoyable for your loved one. Begin by choosing one day each week to sit down with your loved one and plan out the meals for the week ahead. Once you’ve come up with a list, write down all the ingredients you’ll need – and see if you can repeat any meals, or repeat any ingredients to save time and money. Left over chicken, for instance, can be chopped up and put in chicken noodle soup later on. Try to come up with recipes that will last in the refrigerator for a few days, so your parent doesn’t have to eat it all at once and can have easy access to leftovers.

Once you have the meals and ingredients, you can talk to your loved one about meal prep. Do they want you to drop off meals at the beginning of each week that they can heat up in the microwave or do they want to cook anything together? For some seniors, time spent in the kitchen can be fulfilling and exciting, especially if it means spending time with their adult children or grandchildren. You can pick one or two days a week where you cook together (just make sure that your loved one isn’t taking on more than they can handle).

When it comes to choosing meals, look for meals with lean protein, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy. To make sure that your loved one is getting all the nutrients they need, you can head to MyPlate online, where you can see exactly how the food groups should be divided onto every plate.

Examples of healthy breakfasts include foods like hard boiled eggs and fruit, oatmeal with berries, yogurt, peanut butter toast, or whole grain pancakes. Lunch might include meals like chicken noodle soup, quinoa salad, omelets, salmon wraps, or tuna sandwiches. Dinner could include Alaskan salmon, meat and potatoes, protein fueled pasta, or chicken salad.

If your loved one does want to try cooking, make sure that the kitchen is safe and ready to go. For tips on how to keep the room safe for meal prep and eating, listen to our episode on kitchen safety. Once the kitchen is good to go, make sure that the utensils your loved one will use are easy to maneuver and safe. That means finding ergonomic cooking utensils, like rocker knives, that could help your loved one chop vegetables even if they are suffering from arthritis. Making the kitchen a fun and safe place to be will help make cooking fun again for your loved one.

Of course, everyone is different, and some seniors might be experiencing health issues that require a specialized diet. If your loved one is using blood thinners, has diabetes or congestive heart failure, or has recently suffered from a stroke, they will need to follow certain diets in order to stay healthy and avoid greater health risk. The same is true for those with cancer or other potentially life-threatening diseases.

If your loved one is at risk of blood clots or has had them in the past, they will likely be taking blood thinners. Blood thinners can mean the difference between life or death for many seniors – but they also mean avoiding certain foods that can interfere with the blood thinner and put them at risk.

If you or your loved one is taking blood thinners, be sure to talk extensively with your doctor about what diet to follow. Remember, everyone is different and what you can eat might vary depending on any other illnesses you are facing or other medications you might be on.

Still, for the most part, people on blood thinners will be told to avoid foods that contain vitamin K. Vitamin K can intercept the blood thinners, causing them to malfunction, and leading to blood clots. Most patients will not have to cut out vitamin K entirely – but they will need to avoid consuming large amounts of it.

Leafy, green vegetables like kale, brussels sprouts, chard, collard greens, and spinach are especially high in Vitamin K. These should be avoided entirely for anyone taking blood thinners. You can replace these vegetables with carrots, green beans, and asparagus to make up for the loss of nutrients.

Other foods that should be avoided are foods that thin blood – that’s because if you are on blood thinners and eating blood thinning foods, your blood can become too thin and lead to excessive blood loss. Blood thinning foods include cranberry juice and alcohol. Your safest bet is to stick to water and make sure you’re always hydrated.

If you have diabetes, healthy eating is essential to controlling your disease – and maybe even reversing it. The most important thing for diabetes patients to do is to lose a little weight – in fact, losing as little as 5% of your weight can lower your blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure – and your healthy diet will improve your energy, mood, and quality of life. Avoid junk food and eat more fruits and vegetables, high fiber meals like cereals and whole grain breads, fish, chicken, turkey, eggs and beans.

If you have congestive heart failure, or CHF, eating too much sodium or drinking too many fluids makes your heart work even harder to get extra blood through your blood vessels. Eating a low-sodium diet will help you to stay heart-healthy and avoid any serious risk to your heart.

It is recommended that patients with CHF eat foods like fruits and veggies that are already low in sodium, along with salt-free lean meats, fish, poultry, beans, eggs, milk, pasta, oatmeal, and sodium-free rice. When cooking, either cut the sodium entirely from recipes, or use half or less of the recommended amount. Avoid eating fast food, junk foods, or anything else high in sodium.

If you’ve recently suffered from a stroke, your doctor has likely spoken with you about the importance of maintaining a healthy diet. Healthy eating can help you heal faster, while allowing you to avoid suffering another stroke or heart problems in the future.

It is recommended that those recovering from a stroke eat plant-based foods like fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts, and seeds. Fish is an excellent protein choice and can be mixed with leafy greens and rice for a well-balanced dinner option.

You should avoid anything high in sodium or in sugar. Processed foods can lead to ischemic strokes – which stroke victims are at a higher risk for – so stick to plant-based diets and low-sodium or sodium-free meals and sugar-free meals. Trade in soda for water (carbonated water might help with the switch) and avoid drinking fruit juice or sports drinks.

It’s hard for seniors to follow a healthy diet for a myriad of reasons – but when they do, they’ll find that they feel so much more energized, happier, and even more independent. Not to mention, their risk for disease is lowered and their quality of life is heightened. Start helping your loved one prep their meals today, so they can stay healthy and happy as long as possible.

Here are the resources used for this episode:

https://www.care.com/c/stories/5445/quick-easy-healthy-meals-for-seniors/

https://companionsforseniors.com/2018/09/how-to-help-your-elderly-parents-with-meal-prep/

https://www.rightathome.net/blog/meal-prepping-for-aging-parents

https://medium.com/ayuda-care/single-serving-make-ahead-meals-for-seniors-8ab96a7ba6fc

https://www.caringseniorservice.com/services/meal-preparation

https://cphs.wayne.edu/occupational-therapy/resources/nutrition_-_a_simple_guide_to_meal_prep_for_older_adults.pdf

https://www.livestrong.com/article/517108-a-good-diet-when-taking-blood-thinners/

http://www.secondscount.org/healthy-living/healthy-living-detail?cid=05b6a497-6598-43d5-b549-d64e03e94f8c#.YFTbJrRKhfU

https://www.helpguide.org/articles/diets/the-diabetes-diet.htm

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/16-best-foods-for-diabetics

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324416

https://www.everydayhealth.com/stroke/diet-after-a-stroke.aspx

https://www.cdc.gov/aging/pdf/cib_mental_health.pdf

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/healthy-eating

https://www.ncoa.org/article/healthy-eating-tips-for-seniors

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In this episode and interview we explore what Oasis Everywhere is and how it is helping seniors engage in life-long learning and staying active. Even during the pandemic, you'll hear how two of our guests were able to socialize and create a lasting friendship.

We enjoyed our time with Oasis Everywhere and with Paul Weiss the President of Oasis Everywhere, along with Barbra and Carole who met each other while taking classes at Oasis Everywhere. If you are interested in learning more we have included some information and history of Oasis Everywhere to share with you.

The Oasis Institute, a nonprofit educational organization dedicated to enriching the lives of adults ages 50+,
Announced the launch of Oasis Everywhere, a virtual lifelong learning platform with an expansive menu of online classes aimed to provide seniors with social connections and enrichment.
- Oasis Everywhere offers live online courses
- led by top instructors from across the country
- Utilizing a simple online platform and Zoom video conferencing,
Anyone can easily explore their interests regardless of geographic location, mobility, or travel constraints.
Affordably-priced classes are easily searchable and open for registration through the Oasis Everywhere website, www.oasiseverywhere.org.
Available courses cover a variety of topics ranging from art and history to science, religion, cooking, technology, current events, health, and more.
The need for online classes increased exponentially in 2020 due to the isolation experienced by so many seniors during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- The National Poll on Healthy Aging conducted by AARP and Michigan Medicine in June 2020 reported 56 percent of respondents over the age of 50 sometimes or often felt isolated, more than double the number in the same study from 2018.
- The Oasis Institute launched Oasis Everywhere to address that need.
- Participants on the platform have reported that their learning experiences are valuable, varied and offer high-quality intellectual stimulation amongst the uncertainty.
- Participants have something to look forward to as they see old friends and make new ones through the interactive video sessions.
Founded in St. Louis, Missouri, for nearly 40 years, Oasis Centers and partners throughout the country have served adults ages 50 and over as a “home away from home”
- with robust educational offerings that include arts and humanities, science and technology, health education and exercise programs, as well as purposeful volunteer opportunities.
Due to the pandemic, for the first time in the organization’s history, that all came to a screeching halt. The timing could not have been better to expedite the launch of a project five-years in the making…Oasis Everywhere.
Oasis Everywhere is open for individual enrollment and offers group enrollment for senior centers and care facilities that want to provide additional enrichment to their residents.
The classes offer a turnkey solution and enrollment group discounts for facilities that want to expand the variety of opportunities for learning and social activities that they offer. Senior living communities who register residents receive a 15% discount.
To sign up for classes, visit www.oasiseverywhere.org and view the growing list of courses to choose from.

About Oasis:

The Oasis Institute is a national nonprofit organization in St. Louis, Missouri, founded in 1982, centered on a mission to serve adults ages 50 and over, during a time when many programs for older adults were oriented around childish games and passive activities. Today, almost 40 years later, The Oasis Network includes the Oasis headquarters in St. Louis, a national network of nine educational centers, spanning the country coast to coast, and program partners in nearly 250 communities across the country.

Oasis’ tutoring program serves older adults interested in teaching or mentoring through partnerships in education and school districts as well as a new direct-to-consumer virtual tutoring model that brings

Oasis tutors straight to your child at home or wherever they may be learning. Our volunteer programs help older adults fulfill the satisfaction of joy that comes with giving back to their communities. Find more information about the Oasis Institute on Facebook at @OasisInstitute, on Twitter at @OasisInstitute, on LinkedIn at The Oasis Institute, or via their website www.oasisnet.org.

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Early onset Alzheimer’s can be an enormously difficult diagnosis to come to terms with. Many people who are diagnosed are in the middle of a career, raising a family, and pursuing new ventures when this disease unexpectedly disrupts life as they know it.

New studies have found that an early diagnosis could lead to more positive experiences with treatment and there are ways to slow the rate of progression so patients can maintain a sense of normalcy for as long as possible.

Still, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, so anyone who has received a diagnosis will have to re-evaluate many things in their life in order to best prepare for what’s to come.

On today’s episode of All Home Care Matters, we’ll be discussing all you need to know about early onset Alzheimer’s. We know how difficult this disease can be to face – so we want you to know that we are here to support you through the ups and downs of this new and trying journey.

This episode will be a little different. In addition to discussing what early onset Alzheimer’s is and how it affects the brain, what symptoms to look for and what options are for treatment, we’ll also talk about the tougher stuff. How to speak to your kids about a diagnosis. How to handle friends, family, and a possible stigma that you might face outside of your home. How to plan ahead financially and legally, while you’re still in the early stages of the disease.

We know that this is a diagnosis that interrupts your world. That’s why it’s so important to take the time to prepare for the future and implement a healthy lifestyle with a treatment plan. That way, you can focus on spending time with your family and taking on new and cherished experiences, instead of spending all of your time worrying and stuck in the dark about what comes next.

Many people with early on-set Alzheimer’s feel alone after a diagnosis. Watching friends and family continuing to live their lives, getting to focus solely on their careers and family, can cause a great deal of resentment and even depression.

One key difference, on an emotional level, between Alzheimer’s and early onset Alzheimer’s is that those experiencing the former are more likely to have peers in similar situations – whether friends, friends of friends, or a community in a senior living facility. For those with early onset, the world can feel like it’s coming to a halt for you and only you.

That’s why I want to start by saying this: even though it may not feel like it now, you are not alone. According to alz.org, it’s estimated that about 200,000 people in the United States have early onset. That’s 5% of the 5 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s.

If you are at all interested, in can be enormously helpful to meet others who are facing similar circumstances. There are support groups available for patients with the diagnosis as well as counseling services, gathering events, and more. Look into your local community to see what resources might be available to you. Surrounding yourself with others who know what you are going through could help you to feel supported, encouraged, and not alone.

Now, before we get any further, let’s get into the basics. When anyone under the age of 65 is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, it’s considered early onset, or younger onset. A person can be in their thirties, forties, or fifties. More rarely, a person might get the disease as early as their twenties.

In the brain, early onset does not look different from standard Alzheimer’s. In both cases, the brain is no longer able to function normally because of nerve cell death and tissue loss caused by a build-up of protein fragment clusters between nerve cells. At the same time, a dead nerve cell contains tangles – or twisted protein strands.

The protein fragment clusters are known as plaques. When the plaques and tangles crowd the brain together, it caused mixed-up signaling that can trigger immune system cells, which consume the dead or dying cells and trigger inflammation.

In the end, the brain is unable to properly process nutrients or other important supplies. That leads to cell death. The dead cells tend to crowd in the areas of the brain that affect thinking, planning, learning, and memory. That’s why Alzheimer’s patients eventually lose their memory altogether. To learn more about how Alzheimer’s affects the brain, check out our episode on understanding Alzheimer’s and dementia.

While it is estimated that around 200,000 Americans are living with early onset, that number is likely even greater. The disease is often overlooked or misdiagnosed by doctors, who simply do not consider Alzheimer’s or dementia on their younger patients. Sometimes, a patient can get multiple misdiagnoses from multiple doctors before being diagnosed with early onset. This means that many people do not know they have the disease until they are already in the later stages.

If you believe you may have the disease, receiving a diagnosis can be a painful and disheartening process. That’s why it’s so important to advocate for yourself and push your doctors to evaluate you for early onset if you are suffering from memory problems.

If you are truly worried and your doctor is simply not considering early onset even after you specifically ask, make an appointment with an Alzheimer’s specialist. They are much more likely to give you comprehensive, conclusive evaluation. At the very least, they will help you to feel validated and comforted – which can mean the world after enough doctor appointments that felt like they were going nowhere.

It’s important to note that early onset is not something you can take a test for like strep throat or the flu. It can only be diagnosed after a careful and drawn-out medical evaluation, in which the doctor will ask you a series of questions about your symptoms, memory, and quality of life, before making a definite diagnosis. Remember to be honest with your answers and share anything memory related, even if you feel it isn’t relevant, because too much information is always better than not enough – especially when going after a diagnosis that is difficult to come by at a younger age.

There are two types of early onset Alzheimer’s. The first type is Common Alzheimer’s Disease, which is the most typical form among both early onset patients and patients 65 and older. This version of the disease progresses at much the same rate in younger patients as it does in older ones. Unfortunately, researchers have not yet determined what causes Common Alzheimer’s Disease, and there are no risk factors that might lead to the disease. Common Alzheimer’s early onset could happen to anyone.

The other type is early onset familial Alzheimer disease. This is much rarer. Patients with this type of Alzheimer’s usually have a parent or parents that have also had the disease. A patient’s siblings and children have a 50/50 chance of getting the disease themselves at an atypically young age. A person who has two parents with the disease is at a higher risk than someone who only has one parent with it.

Researchers have pinpointed two types of genes that influence a person’s likelihood to get familial Alzheimer’s disease. These are risk genes and deterministic genes.

If a person has risk genes, then they have an increased chance of developing the disease, but it is not guaranteed. Risk genes include APOE-e4, APOE-e2, and APOE-e3. Those with APOE-e4 have a 40-65% chance of eventually being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. According to alz.org, about 2% of the US population has this gene.

Deterministic genes guarantee that a person will inherit Alzheimer’s. This type of gene is exceptionally rare – only a few hundred families have been found to pass it on worldwide. Deterministic genes lead to early onset Alzheimer’s for patients in the early 40’s to mid 50’s.

Sadly, early onset cases tend to progress more quickly than standard Alzheimer’s in older patients. This is because in patients with early onset, the plaque and tangle build up tends to be much larger. Alzheimer’s expert Dr. Thomas Wisniewski explained to CBS news in 2016 that, “the pathology tends to be more extreme in early-onset. Many can deteriorate more quickly, so it is a much more aggressive disease…when you look at the pathology, it’s just like late-onset Alzheimer’s disease, but there’s just more of it.”

This is the often-brutal reality for patients facing the early-onset form of this disease. However, because recent studies have found that early diagnosis can lead to better treatment options and a longer delay of progression, it’s essential that patients look for symptoms and report them to a doctor as soon as they notice any.

This is especially true for people whose parents or siblings have had Alzheimer’s or early-onset, but it is also true for anyone else, since there is no known cause for the majority of these cases.

Symptoms of early onset are quite similar to other versions of the disease. They include forgetting newly learned information, important dates, and even names of people close to them. If a person asks for information to be repeated multiple times on a semi-regular basis, this could be a sign. If a person is failing to remember something they used to know by heart – like a favorite recipe, hobby, or craft that they should be able to do with their eyes closed – that’s another sign. If a person is forgetting to pay their bills or stay on top of other important responsibilities, and gets confused and overwhelmed when they try, this is another sign.

Other symptoms include wandering or getting lost, forgetting how you got from one place to another, losing track of dates, forgetting important events, having trouble socializing, struggling to remember certain words in conversation, vision issues or depth perception issues, poor judgement, and slight mood and personality changes.

In the later stages, symptoms include major mood swings and drastic changes to personality, increased paranoia – particularly surrounding close friends, family members, and caregivers – difficulty speaking and swallowing, mobility issues, and severe loss of memory.

If any number of these symptoms sound like you – don’t wait to book an appointment with an Alzheimer’s specialist. Again, the sooner you can get diagnosed, the better your options for treatment will be. Early diagnosis really is crucial to maintaining a normal quality of life for as long as possible.

While early onset Alzheimer’s does not have a cure, there are treatment options that can slow the progression of the disease and help patients maintain a good quality of life for longer than if no treatment was implemented.

Treatments usually consist of a mixture between medicines, physical activity, and healthy living. Common prescribed medications are Donepezil, Rivastigmine, Galantamine, and Memantine. Medicines can help a person for as long as months or even years, especially when combined with lifestyle changes.

Healthy lifestyle choices for patients with early onset are quite similar to those with standard Alzheimer’s disease. This means making a consistent effort to care for your physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing.

Alz.org recommends that patients find a physician that they truly trust and then build a relationship with them through regular check-ups. When your doctor is intimately familiar with your case, they will be more likely to notice any changes, even the subtle ones, that might require a change in treatment plan. At the same time, the more you trust your doctor, the more likely you are to call when you need guidance or have a medical related question.

You need to come up with a diet and exercise routine that will keep you moving, alert, and energized. The healthier and stronger your body is, the better equipped your mind will be to delay the progression of this disease. You can work with your doctor to establish a diet and exercise plan that best fits your individual needs.

There are also nutritionists, physical therapists, and personal trainers who specialize in Alzheimer’s patients. Be sure to work closely with an expert so you know that you are not over or under working yourself, and you are staying as healthy as possible.

All Alzheimer’s patients should drink less alcohol and more water and eat more fruits and vegetables and less junk food. When it comes to exercise, it’s usually recommended that patients engage in mild-to-moderate routines that will increase endorphins and help the body and mind without over-exerting the patient. According to alz.org, “physical activity may help delay or slow decline in thinking skills, reduce stress, possibly improve symptoms of depression, and may even reduce the risk of falls. Some evidence also suggests that exercise may directly benefit brain cells by increasing blood and oxygen flow. Even stronger evidence suggests exercise may protect brain health through its proven benefits to the cardiovascular system.”

The same site recommends trying exercises like aerobics, walking, biking, tennis, or even walking. Remember to consult your medical team before you engage in any exercise, though, because they will best know what you are capable of and what might help you the most.

In addition to diet and exercise, mental stimulation can play a big role in strengthening your brain and slowing cognitive decline. Try taking a class, picking up a new hobby, playing board games, or reading. Anything to stimulate your brain and get you thinking and problem solving is beneficial.

You also need to care for yourself emotionally. This is a diagnosis that can be devastating to live with, especially when you’re in the prime of your life, raising kids and engaging in a career. Early onset patients are liable to depression, anxiety, mood swings, and extreme feelings of loneliness. While you should certainly give yourself permission to feel whatever you need to during this difficult time, it is important to note that depression can actually lead to bigger health issues and even quicken the progression of your disease.

To help with these feelings, you have many options. You can join a support group for other patients with early onset so you can be part of a community that understands what you are going through. You can meet with a counselor or therapist regularly – especially one that specializes in Alzheimer’s and dementia. You can take time every day to do something you love, just for you. You can spend more time outside on walks, exercising, or just enjoying the fresh air. You can meet with trusted friends and family members and confide your fears and worries to them.

Early onset Alzheimer’s can hit so much harder when you are a parent in the middle of raising a family. Many early onset patients are young mothers and fathers who have to grapple with what their diagnosis will mean for their family. For some, this is the scariest part. No parent wants their child to go through grief, loss, or heartache of any kind – and to know that this disease will affect them can feel devastating. At the same time, many parents are left wondering if they will miss important milestones in their children’s lives or be able to be there for them as they grow up. Harboring these fears is a terrible thing for any parent to go through.

By caring for your physical and emotional needs, you will more likely be in a better place to care for your children longer and stay strong for them when you want to be. As hard as it might feel, do not neglect your own needs. The more you care for yourself, the better equipped you’ll be to care for your children.

Whether or not to talk to your child about your diagnosis will depend on a variety of factors – but ultimately, the decision is a deeply personal one that can only be made by you. How much you share might depend on your child’s age and what they are capable of digesting and understanding.

Children and teenagers alike might respond with a myriad of emotions. These can range from confusion, sadness, anger, curiosity, worry, guilt, embarrassment, or even jealousy as they are having to share their attention with their struggling parent. Teenagers in particular might withdraw from family and friends, have a hard time in school, stay away from home because it is too hard to see their parent suffer, avoid inviting friends over, and easily jump to anger or even aggression.

Remember that your child or teenager is grieving. This diagnosis means a loss of the way life used to be – and it is extremely heart wrenching for most children to watch their parents change and decline. Be patient with your child and give them space to feel how they need to.

There are many ways you can help your child to cope with this diagnosis and their changing lives. Offering patience, love, and support can mean everything. When your child knows they can go to you or their other parent or caretaker with their questions and their big feelings, then they are less likely to seek an outlet elsewhere.

It might help to arrange therapy or counseling for your child, or even group therapy for other kids who are going through the same thing. Just as building your own community is so beneficial, it will make children feel far less alone to know others can relate to them.

Provide your children with a space for their feelings – whether through art, music, or journaling. Educate them about the disease and what they can expect as time goes on, so they are not taken by surprise as the condition worsens. Be open and honest with them.

Family activities can also be enormously helpful, as they allow a child or teenager to hold onto a sense of family and stability – so they feel less lost and scared that they are losing their foundation. Activities can include walking, hiking, going to movies, playing or listening to music, playing board games. You can look through family photo albums together, read together, even do housework together. The more routine family time can be, the better.

In the description of this episode, you’ll find further resources that can help you navigate parenthood with your new diagnosis. These include a list of common questions and answers, activity ideas, and advice for getting through those tough conversations.

In addition to parenthood, you might be struggling with stigma from family and friends. Because early onset is so uncommon, you might find that those around you are getting impatient with you or acting frustrated when you are unable to do things as fast or as easily as you used to. To help with this stigma, make sure to educate your loved ones about your disease. Provide them with resources that will help them to understand what you are going through and what they can expect in the months and years ahead. You can even arrange a meeting with your care team and your loved ones, to answer any of their questions and explain your individual situation on a deeper level.

In the early stages of the disease, it’s essential to plan ahead for the future. This means legal and financial planning, so your family is not left confused and lost when they need this information later on.

You will likely feel daunted and overwhelmed when it comes to legal planning – so don’t be afraid to enlist the help of friends, family, and a lawyer to make sure that everything is taken care of and you are not having to carry this weight on your own.

Begin by organizing all important legal documents to your name, making necessary updates, and putting a plan in place for future finances for your healthcare, long-term care, and will. Give someone you trust power of attorney for when you are no longer to make legal decisions. A person with power of attorney will be able to make decisions for you and sign for you on important documents. Make sure that this person is fully aware of everything you want and need for the future, so they can make sure to make decisions based on your own plans and hopes.

Financial planning will include organizing documents and checking over your assets and debts, so you know exactly what you are responsible for down the road. Choose a family member, or family members, to help you with your financial plans when you are no longer able to. This person should have intimate knowledge about your finances and have your best interests in mind and in heart.

Find out the care options available to you and what they might cost. Whether you choose a family caregiver, hired home care, a nursing home, memory home, or assisted living facility will depend on what you can afford and what you desire. Check your insurance and benefits. Patients with early onset Alzheimer’s disease will be eligible for Medicaid. You might also have long-term care insurance, life insurance, or other health insurance that can help you pay for care costs. If you are still working, see if your employer has any disability or early retirement benefits that might help you.

It is recommended that people with memory issues stay in familiar surroundings, as strange places can quicken the progression of the disease. To learn more about choosing the right care, listen to our episodes on Alzheimer’s, dementia, and long-term care options.

Early onset dementia is an extremely difficult diagnosis for anyone to face. The more you can prepare for the road ahead, though, the more you can focus on spending precious time with your friends and family and doing what you love, instead of worrying about an uncertain future. Start planning today for the road ahead.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. On our next episode we will be welcoming several guests who will be sharing how they have remained engaged, active, and building friendships and socializing while quarantining during covid. This is an interview you won’t want to miss!

Here are the resources used for this episode:

https://www.alz.org/help-support/i-have-alz/younger-onset

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-alzheimers/younger-early-onset

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-alzheimers/causes-and-risk-factors/genetics

https://www.alz.org/help-support/i-have-alz/live-well/taking-care-of-yourself

https://www.alz.org/help-support/resources/kids-teens/for_parents_teachers

https://www.alz.org/help-support/i-have-alz/plan-for-your-future/financial_planning

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/in-depth/alzheimers/art-20048356

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/alzheimers-disease/earlyonset-alzheimer-disease

https://memory.ucsf.edu/genetics/familial-alzheimer-disease

https://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases/632/familial-alzheimer-disease

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/pat-summitts-death-what-to-know-about-early-onset-alzheimers/

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In our line of work, we encounter many families who are not properly prepared for when their loved ones get discharged from the hospital. It makes sense – while in the hospital, it’s difficult to think about the future. You’re in a highly tense, emotional situation – and you’re trying to balance being there for your loved one with the rest of your life, outside of the hospital. Maybe your children need to be picked up from school between surgeries, or you’re trying to get work done from a laptop on the weak waiting room WIFI.

For this very reason, we hope that the team of doctors, nurses, or even social workers will be there to talk us through the “after.” Many families expect that a doctor will prepare the family for all they need to know – from when they can expect a discharge to where medications will be sent for pick up to the type of care your loved one needs in the coming weeks – but the reality is, most hospital officials and even social workers will not provide this information unless you ask.

Remember, hospitals are busy places, and staff are balancing a number of different patients with different needs. So, they might not always be on top of speaking with families about what they should expect.

That’s why it’s so essential that you take the time to ask – and even arrange a meeting with your loved one’s medical and social work team. Too many times, we’ve witnessed families who are completely thrown off by a discharge and left to figure it out themselves unfortunately. We’ve had families who’s loved ones were discharged with no notice – and couldn’t find rides home from the hospital. We’ve known seniors who are discharged but still need overnight care and have no one to provide it because of lack of information and communication.

We’ve had seniors who are discharged and don’t know when or where to pick up their prescriptions. We’ve even had seniors who don’t take their prescriptions because they simply do not know about them, and the family was not properly informed. And we’ve had seniors who are discharged to nursing homes – with little to no idea what that will entail.

Discharge affects seniors and family members. If a senior needs to be released into the care of someone else – the family needs to be prepared for what to expect – from whether they’ll need to take a day off work to pick their loved one up from the hospital to any changes or adaptations they need to make to their home to make it safer for their loved one.

When your loved one is discharged, you want to be able to focus entirely on them – making sure they are comfortable, content, and have everything they need. If you’re scrambling to find a ride to pick them up and a place for them to go, you don’t get a chance to focus on what really matters.

On today’s episode of All Home Care Matters, we’ll talk about exactly how you can prepare for your loved one’s discharge from the hospital – so you won’t be left confused and rushing about when it’s time for your loved one to come home.

Too often, families are caught by surprise when a family member is officially discharged. A family caregiver might be at work and unable to pick their loved one up from the hospital or could even be out of town and unable to get to the hospital at all that day. You need time to prepare for your loved one’s discharge – so you can make sure you’re ready to pick them up (or have a ride arranged) well in advance.

The golden rule to hospital discharge is to ask a lot of questions – as many as you can think of. You can never have too much information when it comes to preparing for this tough transition, so start making a list of questions as soon as your loved one arrives in the hospital. We’ll go into more detail about specific questions to keep in mind during this episode.

According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, adults over the age of 65 are “the largest consumer group of hospital care.” The study focused on whether or not seniors were prepared for their transfer from the hospital back to their home. Perhaps shockingly, 39% of those studied said they were given less than 24 hours’ notice before discharge. That lack of notice leaves many seniors lost when it comes to finding a ride home – or even knowing what to expect when they get there.

With that in mind, make sure to speak with your loved one’s doctor, social worker, and nurse about when they believe a discharge could take place. They may not be able to provide an exact estimate – but they should be able to give you a ballpark that will help you plan accordingly. For instance, if they say, “he should be ready to go next week,” then you know it’s time to make arrangements.

Again, we can’t expect doctors or nurses to offer this information on their own – we must ask. When we do, they’ll be glad to provide an estimate. Not to mention, asking about when a discharge might take place is a great way to start a longer conversation with your loved one’s team about what to expect post-hospital.

Remember – one of your biggest jobs as a family caregiver is to be your loved one’s advocate. Being an advocate means having these conversations in advance, so you AND your loved one aren’t left behind. After you receive an estimate about when your loved one might be released, it’s time to open a conversation about other important logistical details. Arrange a meeting with your loved one’s team, where you can have the opportunity to ask questions and get answers. The family should be invited and involved in a discharge meeting that includes the family, doctors, and healthcare team that has been part of your loved ones care while in the hospital, but sadly those do not always take place.

In preparation for the meeting, compile a list of important questions to discuss. These can include anything from which pharmacy the prescriptions will be sent to, to where your loved one should be getting care during recovery (are they able to stay at home and live independently, do they need a nursing home, or do they need full time home care?)

**When it comes to prescriptions, make a list of your loved one’s medications and review them with the doctor or nurse – how should the drugs be administered and when? Make sure any newly prescribed medications will work with the medications your loved one is already taking – don’t assume that your doctor knows every medication they’re taking. Double check just in case they don’t. Ask about vitamins and supplements, too. Are there any that can help? Are there any that should be avoided?

Try to make sure the doctor sends the prescriptions to the same pharmacy for pick up – and, if possible, see if there’s a pharmacy at the hospital. That will be the easiest place to stop for any family – and picking up the prescriptions will feel less like a dreaded errand.**

In addition to medications, find out if your loved one should be using any Durable Medical Equipment, or DMEs, once they’re home. DMEs include bedside commodes, urinals, wheelchairs, hospital beds, walkers, etc. If so, find out where you can find such items (and if the hospital can provide them), and how they should be used. Are these things your loved one will need assistance with? Can the family provide such assistance, or will it be necessary to hire a registered nurse or a home care company to help? If your loved one needs a nurse, it might be necessary to consider alternative living options, like a nursing home.

In addition to DMEs, find out if your loved one should use bandages, gauze, creams or any other specialized medical supplies. Have a nurse walk you through exactly how to change bandages – and practice a few times under her supervision – so you know exactly what to expect.

Find out, also, whether or not your loved one needs to follow a specialized diet or if there are foods or beverages he should avoid. Often times, seniors will have dietary or fluid restrictions following surgeries or because of certain medications. If your loved one will require an extensive change to their diet, find out if there are a collection of recommended recipes that you can try.

After you find out what your loved one will need, you can follow up with the heavier questions. Find out what you should look for in the first days and weeks after discharge. Are there any abnormalities that may be red flags? This could be anything from bad headaches to a lack of bowel movements. If you do notice any of these abnormalities, how should you respond? Do you need to take your loved one to the ER, or will a call to the doctor suffice?

These abnormalities will vary depending on what your loved one was hospitalized for. Post-op patients will have a separate set of warning flags than those suffering from an infection – so make sure that you ask your doctor specific questions, and don’t rely on internet research or generalizations.

Next, make sure you know what to expect in regard to follow up appointments. Should you be scheduling a follow-up with the family doctor – if so, when? Will it be up to the family to schedule that appointment, or will the doctor give them a call to schedule it?

In some cases, a person will need to see a new doctor – usually a specialist in whatever they are experiencing or else a geriatric doctor. If this is the case, get a list of recommended doctors and find out who will be making the appointment.

Finally, you need to find out exactly what their care will look like from here on out. Depending on the situation, your loved one may need to start physical or occupational therapy. If so, ask your loved one’s doctor for a list of recommended therapists and try to get a feel for how long the therapy will last – so you can be prepared for how much of your week will be spent driving your loved one to their appointments.

Families should also ask about Home Health Care – which Medicare does pay for as long as there is a need for it. If the doctor feels that Home Health Care will improve the life of their patient, they will write a note making your loved one eligible for it. Home Health Care can be enormously helpful when it comes to seniors who need a little extra assistance but are still relatively independent. They do not assist with activities of daily living – like personal hygiene, feeding, dressing, or managing continence. However, you can hire home care helpers to assist with those needs at the same time.

Home Health Care comes about 1 to 3 times a week, and it only lasts as much as nine weeks. It can be shorter if your loved one’s needs don’t require as much care – but if your loved one requires more long-term care, you may need to consider other options.

Finally, if it is recommended that your loved one is transferred straight from the hospital to a nursing home, make sure that you have all the information you need in preparation. Speak to your loved one about what their own wishes are, too.

While a nursing home might be recommended, if your loved one would rather stay at home – especially during COVID when nursing homes might restrict visitation – see if there’s a way to make that work. This is especially important for dementia patients, who benefit enormously from being in familiar surroundings. If your loved one adamantly does not want to live in a nursing home – think about family caregiving or hiring professional home care services as an alternative. To learn more about those options, listen to our episodes on choosing the right care and our episode on what is home care?

In many cases, we have seen patients who are only allowed to be discharged to nursing homes – simply because the patient cannot be home alone and they did not have a family caregiver or knew that having a home care company was an option. This is another reason it’s so important to find out when discharge will be happening ahead of time – so your care plan can be in place.

Now, there can be circumstances in which a patient must be admitted into a nursing home. They might need more extensive medical care that simply cannot happen at home. Still, if this isn’t the case, we recommend looking into home care. If your loved one has dementia, especially, familiar surroundings are incredibly important, so all alternatives should be considered. We have met many families who simply did not know they had other options.

While we might assume that hospital discharge is the least of our worries (especially after a stressful hospital visit, where you just want your loved one to come home) many are shocked to see just how difficult the discharge process can be. The better prepared you are, the better. Remember – the golden rule to hospital discharge is to ask as many questions as you can think of – you can never be too prepared for what comes next.

Sources:

https://www.caringseniorservice.com/blog/preparing-for-a-hospital-discharge-plan-for-success

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3389244/

https://seniorsathome.jfcs.org/hospital-discharge-checklist/

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If you’ve been diagnosed with glaucoma, you might be feeling daunted and a little bit scared. It’s not an easy diagnosis to come to terms with – after all, if not treated it is possible to lose your vision entirely. However, with the proper treatment and preparation, you can live a perfectly normal life even after diagnosis – and preserve your vision.

Believe it or not, an early glaucoma diagnosis actually puts you at an advantage compared to those experiencing glaucoma without a diagnosis. A diagnosis means that a treatment plan can begin right away – and while there is not yet a cure for the disease, treatment can keep you from becoming blind.

If glaucoma is something you’re coming to terms with, it’s important to remember you’re not alone. According to glaucoma.com, over 3 million Americans are estimated to have the disease, and, because early symptoms are often non-existent, only about half of those know it. It is estimated that there are about 60 million people living with glaucoma worldwide.

Glaucoma is the second leading cause of the blindness in the world – and while anyone of any age can get glaucoma, it is most common in people over the age of 60. More than 120,000 US citizens are blind from glaucoma – usually because they did not receive a diagnosis until much of their vision was already lost.

While anyone can get glaucoma, African Americans are especially susceptible, from a younger age. African Americans are 6-8 times more likely to go fully blind, and 15 times more likely to become visually impaired. To put this into perspective, open-angle glaucoma accounts for 19% of blindness among African Americans, whereas it only accounts for 6% of blindness among Caucasians. Asian and Hispanic people are also at a higher risk of glaucoma than Caucasians.

Other people at high risk are those who have a relative with glaucoma, those who are extremely near or far sighted, people who have high eye pressure, an eye injury, or use steroids.

Clearly, Glaucoma affects a significant number of people every year – so whether or not you’ve been diagnosed, it’s important to understand what the disease and how to detect it – even without symptoms.

On today’s episode of All Home Care Matters, we’ll go into exactly what glaucoma is and how it affects vision. We’ll talk about the different types of glaucoma and how they are diagnosed. Then, we’ll go over symptoms, treatment, and what life might look like after diagnosis. By the end of this episode, listeners should have a good understanding of the disease – including what to expect and what treatment plans to follow.

So, what is glaucoma? It’s an eye disease that can lead to blindness without treatment, or if diagnosed too late. To understand exactly how glaucoma works, let’s talk about the eye itself.

Millions of nerve fibers exist in each of our eyes that run from the retina to the optic disc and onward through the optic nerve. The retina is in the back of our eyes, and its job is to take light and turn it into electrical signals. The signals then travel through the optic nerve into the brain – where the brain processes visual information. This is how we see.

When a person has glaucoma, the fibers do not travel up the optic nerve, but become clogged at the optic disc. Without traveling up the optic nerve, the signals become blogged and do not reach the brain. At the same time, the eye’s drainage system cannot function due to the clog – so the fluids in our eyes that are normally drained out through our pupil build up and do not drain. The build-up of fluid leads to pressure inside the eye, which can damage the nerve fibers, leading to loss of vision.

Glaucoma occurs in both eyes for most people, but it tends to begin in one eye before gradually affecting the other. Usually, people experience blindness of their peripheral, or side vision, first – and it can be so slight that some might not even notice. Many patients will subconsciously turn their head to see to the side, and not even realize that their peripheral vision is not functioning properly. Without treatment, central vision will eventually be lost, too. Early detection, though, can mean preventing total or even partial loss.

While a build-up of pressure is certainly a leading cause of glaucoma, it is not the only cause. We know this because some people with glaucoma have perfectly normal pressure ranges within their eyes. Researchers are still working to find out the other causes of the disease.

There are about ten different types of glaucoma, but the two most common are open-angle glaucoma and angle-closure glaucoma. Primary open-angle glaucoma is by far the most common, as it accounts for about 90% of all cases – that’s about 2.7 million Americans, usually over the age of 40.

Open-angle glaucoma occurs when the angle where your iris, or the colored part of your eye, meets the cornea, or the clear part of your eye, opens how it should, but a clog of fluids prevents drainage from occurring properly.

The lack of drainage and increase of fluids raises the pressure in the eye until it damages the optic nerve, keeping light signals from reaching the brain and causing vision loss. Think of it as a clogged pipe in a sink, that keeps the liquid from draining.

Open-angle glaucoma is a slowly developing disease that has no early warning signs. That’s why so many people do not realize they have the disease until they are already going blind. However, if open-angle glaucoma is detected early enough, it can be treated. This type of glaucoma can be detected in eye exams even before loss of vision occurs – so make sure to get your eyes checked at least every two years as a precaution.

Angle-closure glaucoma, sometimes called narrow-angle glaucoma, is the second leading type of the disease. About 16 million people worldwide suffer from angle-closure glaucoma, according to Glaucoma Today.

In angle-closure glaucoma, the angle where the iris meets the cornea fails to open. This closed angle causes the drainage of fluids to become blocked and eye pressure is increased, leading to optic nerve damage and, eventually, vision loss. Like open-angle glaucoma, this is a slow moving disease without early symptoms.

In the early stages of angle-closure glaucoma, the angle might not be fully closed, and the optic nerve can still function properly. That’s why, if found early, treatment can be affective.

There is a form of this type of glaucoma that is especially dangerous and requires immediate medical attention. That’s acute angle-closure glaucoma, in which the pressure in the eye rises quickly, causing pain in the eye, blurry vision, redness, colorful halos, and nausea or vomiting. This can cause severe vision damage. If you or a loved one is experiencing these symptoms, get to a doctor right away.

There are eight other, rarer, types of glaucoma that are mostly variations of open-angle or angle-closure glaucoma. These include normal-tension glaucoma, secondary glaucoma, pigmentary glaucoma, congenital glaucoma, exfoliative glaucoma, neovascular glaucoma, uveitic glaucoma, and traumatic glaucoma.

Normal-tension glaucoma occurs when the optic nerve is damaged even though there is not a pressure build-up in the eye. It affects Japanese people at a higher rate than any other groups, as well as people with migraines, irregular heart rhythm, and low blood pressure. Researchers are still attempting to find out why glaucoma happens without increased pressure.

Secondary glaucoma happens when a person has a concrete cause of their glaucoma – this could mean eye injury, inflammation, or a negative response to medication. Treatment for secondary glaucoma will vary depending on whether the angle where the iris meets the cornea is open or closed.

Pigmentary glaucoma occurs when pigment granules in the iris become trapped in the drainage system. This is considered a type of open-angle glaucoma. The trapped pigments can lead to a clog in the system, preventing fibers from traveling up the optic nerve and sending signals to the brain. Pigmentary glaucoma mostly effects Caucasian males who are significantly near-sighted.

Congenital glaucoma happens to babies at birth. It affects about 1 in 10,000 babies each year. It happens when the eye’s drainage system does not fully develop or develops incorrectly before birth. Babies with congenital glaucoma might have large eyes, cloudy corneas, and suffer from light sensitivity. This is often an inherited form of the disease.

Exfoliative glaucoma happens when flaky pieces of the outer layer of the eye peel off and gather in the angle where the cornea and iris meet. This will clog the drainage system and raise eye pressure. People with exfoliative glaucoma will experience higher pressures than people with other types of the disease. It is most common in people from Russia, India, and the Mediterranean.

Neovascular glaucoma happens when new blood vessels form abnormally over the eye’s drainage cells. The blood vessels block the fluid from draining and eye pressure increases, causing the optic nerve to become damaged. People with diabetes are more likely to have this type of glaucoma.

Uveitic glaucoma is a result of uveitis, which happens when the iris is inflamed. The inflammation blocks drainage and damages the optic nerve. Sometimes, people with uveitis respond poorly to the steroids used to calm the inflammation, and the optic nerve is damaged.

Traumatic glaucoma occurs when a person suffers an eye injury – usually blunt injuries that bruise the eye or injuries that penetrate the eye. This type of glaucoma might happen immediately after injury – but it can develop years later.

Even though glaucoma does not have many symptoms, doctors can diagnose the disease by measuring the pressure in the eye, examining the shape and color of the optic nerve, testing a person’s field of vision, examining the angle where the iris meets the cornea, and measuring the thickness of the cornea. These tests can discover glaucoma long before a person experiences symptom – so it’s essential to get your eyes checked at least twice a year, so you can get a diagnosis in time to start treatment.

Vision changes happen for most people around the age of 40, so at this age it’s especially important to book regular appointments with your eye doctor. There, your doctor will let you know how often you should come back. If you have diabetes, blood pressure issues, or glaucoma in your family, they will likely recommend you come in more often.

Now, in some of the rarer types of glaucoma a person might experience actual symptoms. These might include eye pain, headaches, nausea or vomiting, sudden sight loss, hazy vision, or seeing rainbow-colored circles – particularly around bright lights. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, make sure to book an appointment with an eye doctor as soon as possible.

If you’ve been diagnosed with glaucoma, there are treatments that can keep you living a normal life and prevent you from suffering extreme vision loss. This is especially true if your glaucoma is diagnosed early enough, before vision loss begins to occur.

Doctors treat glaucoma by lowering the pressure in the eye through a variety of methods. These might include medications, incisional surgery, laser surgery, or all three. Treatment will vary depending on the individual case.

While there is no cure for glaucoma, treatment is usually successful for most patients when implemented early enough. Incisional surgery, for instance, has a success rate of 70-90%, according to glaucoma.com. While the treatments might sound a bit frightening (no one likes getting surgery) they are often the only way to prevent vision loss.

Now, that said, a glaucoma diagnosis does not necessarily guarantee that you will go blind. Total blindness only occurs in about 5% of patients, but some populations, like African Americans, are more likely to suffer from total blindness than others. Significant vision loss, while not total blindness, occurs in about 10% of patients, especially if they do not receive treatment.

Speak to your doctor about the best treatment plan for you, so you can combat glaucoma before you suffer any vision impairment. Your doctor will have a plan for you to follow so you can manage the disease in the best way for you.

People with glaucoma can continue to live a high quality of life, as long as they are getting treatment. Patients will meet with doctors periodically and take eye medications daily. If vision impairment has occurred, driving might be affected – along with some activities like playing sports. You also might feel especially sensitive to light. Still, you should be able to live life pretty much as usual. If you are feeling sensitive to light, you can get tinted glasses to help.

Most glaucoma patients will visit with their doctors about once a week or a month at the beginning of treatment, but over time your visits will shift to a few times a year. Your doctor will be able to help you find the plan that works best for you.

Glaucoma can feel like a daunting diagnosis – but with early detection, regular doctor appointments, and proper treatment, it can be a manageable disease that does not result in significant loss of vision.

If you or your loved one has been diagnosed with the disease, make sure treatment begins right away – so you can keep doing what you love, for as long as you want to.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. Please join us next time as we discuss an issue that often times will get overlooked and that is preparing for your hospital discharge.

Sources:

https://www.glaucoma.org/GRF_Understanding_Glaucoma_EN.pdf

https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/understanding-glaucoma-symptoms

https://www.brightfocus.org/glaucoma/news/understanding-glaucoma

https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/glaucoma-eyes

https://www.healthcentral.com/slideshow/glaucoma-symptoms-types-treatment

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/glaucoma/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20372846#:~:text=Glaucoma%20is%20treated%20by%20lowering,combination%20of%20any%20of%20these.

https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/glaucoma-treatment

https://www.glaucoma.org/news/blog/new-treatment-options-for-managing-glaucoma.php

https://glaucomatoday.com/articles/2009-july-aug/GT0709_08-php

https://www.glaucoma.org/treatment/conventional-surgery.php

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As our loved ones age, there are many precautions we need to take to make sure they are safe at home. Home safety risks can be easy to miss, or even forget about, when you’re dealing with a stack of other responsibilities – like making sure your Mom gets to her doctor appointment, tracking her progress, figuring out if she needs extra care – often, the last thing we think about is taking out loose carpet to prevent falls or putting a handrail in the shower.

Home safety, though, must be considered, especially as our loved ones get older and may become more forgetful. Home safety risks include everything from slipping on a wet floor to starting an accidental house fire – so they’re certainly nothing to mess with.

On today’s episode, we’ll be focusing specifically on kitchen safety. Oftentimes, the kitchen is the center of activity in a household – from cooking to eating to using the kitchen table for various projects or game nights. The kitchen poses serious risk if precautions are not taken, though, so today we’ll dive into how you can make sure your loved one’s kitchen is as safe as can be.

Today’s episode is part of a new series we’re doing on All Home Care Matters – quick tips. These shorter episodes will provide you with some fast advice for those days when you don’t have a lot of time but could use some helpful information. We hope you get a lot of out them in just a little time. Let’s get right to it.

Why is kitchen safety specifically so important? Let’s let the numbers speak for themselves. According to The National Fire Protection Association, 3 in 10 home fires begin in the kitchen – which is a higher number than any other room in the house. Further, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, adults over 65 have 2.7 times the risk of dying in a kitchen fire than younger people.

Fire isn’t the only worry, however. There’s also a high risk of experiencing gas poisoning (or worse) from leaving the stove on, slipping on recent spills or newly mopped tile, falling when reaching something from a high cabinet, cutting skin on sharp knives, and burning skin on a hot stovetop. As warm and welcoming as the heart of a household can be, it also comes with its dangers.

Kitchen safety precautions are especially important for dementia patients – who might forget to turn off a stove or even that they’ve put food in the oven. We always recommend that dementia patients have assistance in the kitchen – and when they’re alone, to keep the oven and stove unplugged.

Other fire-safety tips include purchasing electric tea kettles and coffee machines with automatic-turn off features. These appliances will turn off on their own – before becoming too hot – so you won’t have to worry about the coffee pot starting a fire. Remove loose dish towels that hang on or near the stove and make sure no curtains are hanging too close to the stove, either. Keep ventilation systems cleaned on a regular basis – dirty ventilation systems are one of the most common causes for kitchen fires. At the same time, make sure the smoke detectors are tested at least monthly and there’s an easy-to-operate fire extinguisher nearby.

You should also speak with your loved one about fire safety. Make sure they do not wear loose clothing when they cook and that they know to set a kitchen timer to remind them that something is on the stovetop.

When it comes to knife safety, let’s begin with the groceries. Purchase pre-cut vegetables and meat when you can, so that you eliminate the need for knives whenever possible. When a knife is needed, make sure that it’s not sharp enough to cause serious damage, but is sharp enough to get food chopped. It’s always better to have someone else do the cutting – particularly if your loved one is suffering with Parkinson’s, severe arthritis, or other problems that may cause them to tremor and slip up while cutting. Store the knives and other sharp objects in a safe place where they will not fall or be mistakenly picked up by the blade-end out of a drawer.

When it comes to fall prevention, start by putting any essential or commonly used items in low down cabinetss, drawers, and pantries. There is no reason that an older adult should be standing on a step stool every day to reach her cooking equipment. Heavy items especially should be stored down below, to eliminate a risk of dropping the item from above. In the upper cabinets, store any items that are rarely used or only used by caregivers or other family members.

Place a non-skid mat in front of the sink to prevent slipping on a wet floor and make sure that any spills are cleaned up right away. If possible, clean the kitchen for your loved one after they are asleep, so the floor is dry by the time they wake up in the morning. If they are living alone and handling the cleaning by themselves, remind them to wear non-slip shoes when mopping the floor and to avoid the kitchen altogether for a few hours afterward.

Install motion sensor lights in the kitchen so that your loved one can see when getting a glass of water at night or on a rainy day. If possible, you can even install extra lighting over the stove and oven to help your loved one see even better while they cook.

When it comes to burn prevention, make sure oven mitts are placed in an easy-to-see spot where your loved one won’t forget to use them. You can also put a note near the stove (but far enough to prevent fire risk) reminding your loved one to use an oven mitt and potholder.

Finally, make sure that all dishes used on a regular basis are unbreakable, to help avoid and prevents cuts from broken glass. Make sure the refrigerator is nice and cool, so food doesn’t spoil. Along those lines, it is common for expired food to pile up in a senior’s home if they are experiencing memory problems or mobility issues that prevent them from cleaning out the fridge. Avoid the risk of consuming expired food by checking regularly.

We hope those kitchen safety quick tips helped you understand why the kitchen is a risky place for seniors – and how you can keep it as safe as possible, so they don’t have to stop spending time in a room they love.

Every episode of All Home Care Matters has resources and information that you can find in our show notes or by visiting our website for more information. Make sure you check out the sources we used for this episode for a kitchen-safety checklist.

We want to thank you for joining us here at All Home Care Matters, All Home Care Matters is here for you and to help families as they navigate long-term care issues. Please visit us at allhomecarematters.com there is a private secure fillable form there where you can give us feedback, show ideas, or if you have questions. Every form is read and responded to. If you know someone is who could benefit from this episode, please share it with them.

Sources:

https://www.fivestarseniorliving.com/blog-post/kitchen-safety-checklist-for-older-adults-and-their-family-caregivers (includes a checklist)

https://www.assistinghands.com/51/florida/miamibeach/blog/kitchen-safety-tips-for-your-senior-loved-ones/

https://www.24hrcares.com/kitchen-safety-for-seniors/

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Even if you’re providing family caregiving to your loved one, there might come a time when you realize that you simply cannot handle everything all the time. Whether your parents’ needs have increased significantly, but you want to make sure they remain at home, or your career and family life have become more demanding, you might find that it’s time to hire a professional caregiver.

There are many benefits to having professional home care services. Unlike assisted living facilities and nursing homes, where a full-time staff balances your loved one’s care with a sea of others, home care staff are there for your loved one and only your loved one. That means that your loved one receives undivided attention – which can be truly invaluable.

You also get to choose when the caregiver comes and how long they stay. Having professional home care services gives you flexibility and can come just while you are at work during the day or they can stay through the night – it all depends on what your parent or grandparents’ needs are, and the level of care you are able to give.

Not only that, but having professional caregivers can help your parent maintain independence. Many seniors are more comfortable living at their own homes, especially when their care is personalized to their needs – so if your parent doesn’t need assistance with every task, they can continue to perform those tasks on their own.

At the same time, some seniors simply do not wish for their adult children to care for them. They might not feel comfortable relying on their children to bathe or dress them, or they want to be looked after by a professional. Regardless of the reason, professional home care can help a parent feel better about their care if they don’t want their adult children so intimately involved.

With professional home care, their staff will also be trained to help with tasks that might be difficult for family members with little to no experience. They are trained in providing transportation, helping with housekeeping and cooking, bathing and dressing, and other needs. This can ease some of the anxiety family caregivers might feel about tasks that seem particularly difficult or uncomfortable. They can also offer respite to family caregivers who just need a break from time to time.

Finally, professional home care services can be more cost efficient than moving seniors into a facility. According to AARP, there are more than 2.3 million US workers who provide in-home care and health care for seniors – and that number is expected to grow as the population of 65-and-older increases in the next decade.

With that many caregivers, you can rest assured that the right person for your loved one is out there. Of course, this isn’t an easy transition, and you don’t want to hire just anyone. We’ll go into detail about how to hire the ideal caregiver for your loved one, but first, keep in mind that you can always replace your caregiver if they’re not a good fit.

Many people think that they’re stuck with whoever the company sends that day – but that’s truly not the case. If the caregiver isn’t a good fit for your parent, you do have the power to find a replacement. Still, we recommend giving the relationship time to develop. Caregivers need time to adjust to your parents’ routine and your parent needs time to adjust to your caregiver – so if you want a replacement simply because the transition’s been a little bumpy, we do recommend giving it some time.

When it comes to hiring a professional home care company and their staff, make sure that you share with the Case Manager that you want someone who could be a good friend to your loved one. The relationship between caregiver and senior is extremely important for more reasons than physical care. Excellent caregivers will provide your loved one with emotional care through socialization, activities, and – most importantly – friendship. That friendship can mean the difference between a high quality of life and feelings of deep isolation. Friendship gives life meaning – it gives people hope, laughter, and security. So, remember not to underplay the importance of finding someone who can mesh well with your loved one on a personal level.

When it comes to finding the right home care company, start by assessing what your loved one can afford. Do they have long-term care insurance? Medicaid? These types of insurance do not always cover in-home care, unless a doctor confirms that it is needed or their long-term care insurance covers it. Look closely at your loved one’s plan to find out. There is a chance you will have to pay out of pocket for this service, so make sure there are savings available. If not, you might need to band family members together to help or look into volunteer services that could only provide part-time care.

Next, think about what your loved one’s needs actually are. Include your loved one in this conversation. If they are still relatively independent, it might be wise to ease them into this transition with part-time care. Ask them how much care they would like to have. What’s something that they could genuinely use help with? Housework? Cooking? Mobility? Personal Care? Then assess whether full time or part-time care would be a better option.

If you are providing family care to your loved one, then you might need to hire a caregiver to come while you’re at work or to give you a break on the weekends or evenings. In that case, you might ask the company what their rates are if they were to come 9-5 Monday through Friday, or 9-5 Saturday and Sunday.

Have your parent write down their likes and dislikes – from activities to personality traits – to help you find a perfect match. Is your parent an avid reader who loves to discuss books or is she more of a movie person? Does your parent like to spend his free time drawing or going for walks?

In addition to basic interests, consider your parents’ passions and the lives they have led so far. If your parent was an architect, for example, they might enjoy the company of a caregiver with an interest in architecture. If your parent is a musician, they would enjoy the company of someone who is passionate about music.

Next, you’ll need to decide whether to use an agency or a registry. Agencies can be a bit costlier, but their workers are insured (so you won’t have to pay for any accidents that might occur on the job), the workers have undergone background checks and are highly trained, agencies will hand pick caregivers that have experience working with people similar to your loved one, and you don’t have to worry about a ton of extra paperwork. They also will match your loved ones traits, needs, and interests with the caregiver that shares those interest to help make the connection easier. The home care provider will do what they can to match your loved one with the right fit, and you can always replace the caregiver if they don’t mesh well with your loved one.

It is not recommended to hire someone privately due to the liabilities and risks associated with it. For instance, you will also be liable for any on-the-job accidents that might occur and you’ll also need to consider what your backup plan is if that person has to quit or starts to make unreasonable requests from the family to continue their employment with them. If the family decides that hiring someone privately is the route that they are going to take then make sure to speak with an attorney about protections that they will need to prevent any liability issues that can arise from a private caregiver.

There are certain traits you can look for in a potential caregiver that should mean they will do a wonderful job. These traits include patience, reliability, flexibility, and empathy. These are key components of caregiving that will mean the difference between a fantastic caregiver and a mediocre one.

When you do find the right home care company or if you’ve decided on choosing a private caregiver on your own, who feels like a good fit, allow for a transitionary period of at least a few weeks before you decide that the relationship isn’t working. Remember, this is a big adjustment for the caregiver and for your loved one.

Not only do they both need to get used to a new routine, but they’re also adjusting to a new person being around all the time. Many seniors are hesitant to accept a caregiver right away – they might feel their independence is being stripped away and resist, thinking they don’t need as much help as they really do. At the same time, a caregiver might struggle to know exactly what to help your loved one with. It’s important for a balance to be established – so that your loved one can still do some things on her own if she is able and the caregiver knows what to help with and what to let your loved one do for themselves.

This adjustment does take time – so it’s important to be patient. Still, there are ways to strengthen the relationship between caregivers and the person in their care, and to build trust between the two.

The bond between caregiver and senior can be quite meaningful indeed. Rebecca Bodenheimer saw this firsthand with her grandmother. She wrote of the experience on care.com: “In [my grandmother’s] last few years, she developed very close relationships with her professional in-home caregivers to such an extent that I believe these women became her most important confidantes. I noticed the relationships she formed with them were less complicated than those she had with her daughters – with her caregivers, there weren’t decades of emotional baggage getting in the way of providing her with care.”

Indeed, the senior-caregiver relationship is quite unique – which can make it all the more rewarding. Not only is the caregiver spending deeply personal quality time with the person in their care, but their relationship can be simple, happy, and fulfilling when it’s not complicated by family matters.

This bond can be quite beautiful. Many seniors find best friends in their caregivers, feeling comfortable enough to go to them on hard days and laugh with them on good ones. But how does this bond actually form? Like any solid relationship, it certainly doesn’t happen right away.

The transition can be a bit rocky, but there are ways to help the relationship grow before it’s time to consider a replacement. The first thing a caregiver should work on is establishing trust with the person in their care. Trust is arguably the hardest thing to get right in those early weeks – but once it’s established, the rest of the bond will be that much easier to form.

Start establishing trust by easing the transition. The first few times have the caregiver meet with your parent for short visits, where you or another loved one is present. Play games together to break the ice and think of talking points that might bond the two together (for instance, do they both love to paint? Start a conversation about painting, and then maybe pull out the paints for some craft time).

If possible, don’t have the caregiver begin with sensitive issues – like bathing or dressing – right away (in some cases it is necessary and cannot wait). That could make your loved one feel extra vulnerable or uncomfortable, which could make them resent the caregiver. Instead, ease into these tasks. Have the caregiver begin with housework, cleaning, and companionship. Eventually build up to the additional needs.

Have the caregiver and your loved one share a meal, tea, or a walk together in the beginning – this can be an opportunity for conversation, so your parent can have a chance to warm up to the caregiver.

Make sure that your caregiver knows how to handle problems that might arise. Speak with them about how they might respond to meltdowns, falls, or other incidents. If possible, have your loved one describe how they would like these situations to be handled. What triggers bad moods? What should a caregiver avoid that might set your parent off? The more prepared the caregiver is for these incidents the better things will be when they occur. Too often, a caregiver might respond to a problem in a manner that your loved one might not like, which could lead to tension. The better prepared you can all be, the better.

On that note, when choosing a caregiver, make sure you choose someone who is calm, patient, and empathetic. You do not want someone who will grow impatient or frustrated with your loved one. What your loved one needs more than anything else is someone to be a constant figure of safety, support, and encouragement in their life. When using a home care company they will ask the family and their loved one the traits and characteristics that they would like in their caregiver as part of their assessment and intake.

Positive reinforcement is important all the time, but especially in the beginning. Don’t hesitate to give praise to a caregiver who is doing the right things – this is a difficult job and positive reinforcement will keep a caregiver from feeling discouraged or overly frustrated. Talk to the caregiver about praising your loved one, also. That doesn’t just mean saying “good job,” but it can also be communicated through gestures. Allowing a loved one to wash a dish if they ask to, for instance, and then not rushing them if they take a long time. This can strengthen the caregiver and senior bond because the senior feels like the caregiver trusts them to be somewhat independent.

Respect is essential – from both ends. The family should respect that the caregiver is a person with a life and family of their own. You might expect them to be available all the time, no matter what – but time off will be necessary and emergencies do happen. Have a back-up plan in place in case of cancelation and try to be respectful if your caregiver asks for a rare day off to rest or spend time with her family. When using a home care company the family would work directly with their loved ones Case Manager on any scheduling, wages, or concerns that they may need to address and the Case Manager will handle it with the caregiver.

At the same time, the caregiver should be respectful of your family and your loved one. While she is certainly an important person on an emotional level, she is also a professional employee and needs to stay on top of her work. If the caregiver is slacking on a number of duties, talking back, or treating your loved one with disrespect, this is a bad sign.

Keep communication open. Make sure that the caregiver knows exactly what is expected of her – and that your loved one knows what to expect from her. If the caregiver is told she will only be helping with housework, and then she is asked to do a myriad of other tasks, there might be a problem. At the same time, if the senior is told the caregiver is just there to help with cooking, when in reality she’s been told to assist with everything from medications to bathing, tensions and discomfort can rise fast. When everyone knows exactly what to expect of each other and themselves, things should work out much more smoothly.

Now, if after a month or two the relationship just isn’t working, it might be time to consider a replacement. Remember, replacements are always an option for families, even if you’re going through an agency – so if there are ongoing problems between your loved one and their caregiver, don’t hesitate to take that step.

There are certain warning signs that you can look out for to see if the caregiver is the right fit. This can be easier to detect on a professional level. If your caregiver has cancelled last minute more than one time or consistently arrives late, this is a big red flag. Similarly, if you notice the house isn’t being cleaned, expired food is piling up in the fridge, or other tasks are simply being neglected, it might be time to find a new caregiver. If you’re working with a home care company the Case Manager should also be staying on top of these matters to insure that they are being completed and if they are not then they will speak with the caregiver and address the issue.

Other especially alarming warning signs might be consistent missed medications and doctor appointments, a lack of patience and empathy, and continuous disrespectful behavior.

If you notice that your parent has become more withdrawn since working with their new caregiver – this might be a bad sign. Is your mother hiding in her room instead of participating in activities? Is she resistant to accept any help? This is an instance where your mother might need more time – but if it goes on for weeks or months, then she’s just not connecting with your caregiver, and it might be time to find someone new.

Listen to your parents’ complaints. Most seniors will have complaints about their caregiver no matter what – after all, this is a big adjustment that forces seniors to take down their boundaries and lose some of their independence. That’s why it’s important to hear what exactly they are complaining about. If they are upset about a dinner they didn’t like or an activity they didn’t feel like participating in, this shouldn’t be taken as a reason to find someone new. Simply talk to their caregiver about not cooking that dinner anymore and choosing a new activity.

However, if your parent is complaining that their caregiver is condescending, impatient, or cruel to them – this is not good. The caregiver must treat your loved one with kindness and warmth. If they are beating your loved one down with cold and rude behavior, it’s time for them to go.

Signs of a larger issue include unexplainable new injuries, limited access to your parent, or financial changes (for instance, is your parent loaning her caregiver large amounts of money?) To learn more about this, listen to our episode on protecting seniors from scams. These instances are rare, but they do occur, which is why that initial screening and background check is so very important.

Finding an excellent caregiver for your loved one is certainly not an easy task, but remember, it takes time and patience for meaningful bonds to form. Do what you can to help your loved one bond with their caregiver through ice breakers, empathy, and open communication. At the end of the day, you can always find a replacement if need be – but hopefully, that won’t be necessary.

The best hired caregivers will provide your loved one with their physical needs – but also become a fixture of support and friendship in these precious years of their life.

Sources:

https://www.caringseniorservice.com/blog/hiring-a-private-senior-caregiver

https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/home-care/info-2018/hiring-caregiver.html

https://www.kindlycare.com/live-in-caregivers/

https://caregiver.com/articles/hiring-an-in-home-caregiver/

https://www.nursetogether.com/5-qualities-caregiver-excellence/

https://www.griswoldhomecare.com/blog/2015/december/the-dynamics-of-caregiver-and-senior-relationshi/#:~:text=The%20relationship%20between%20seniors%20and,develop%20a%20deeply%20affectionate%20relationship.

https://www.care.com/c/stories/16786/senior-caregivers-the-importance-of-bonding/

https://www.homecareassistancescottsdale.com/importance-of-senior-relationship-with-caregiver/

https://leanonwe.com/blog/5-simple-ways-to-help-your-senior-trust-a-new-caregiver

https://www.homewatchcaregivers.com/care-community-blog/2019/july/5-tips-for-connecting-with-your-caregiver/

https://www.aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/keep-positive-relationship-with-caregiver

https://www.cherishedagency.com/blog/build-caregiver-relationships-for-seniors

https://homecareassistance.com/blog/strong-caregiver-relationship

https://www.conciergecarefl.com/2014/02/05/helping-senior-build-relationship-caregiver/

https://dailycaring.com/signs-that-you-hired-the-wrong-caregiver/

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Family caregivers provide an invaluable service to their loved ones as they age. They allow their loved ones to stay at home, or in the home of their adult children, where they are surrounded by comfort and familiarity. They also provide love, support, encouragement, and patience. This can make the final, difficult years of an older adult’s life feel rewarding and peaceful.

At the same time, caregiving can be difficult. We’ve talked about it before on this show – when a person is forced to balance work and family with caring for their aging parent, it can feel impossible to find that perfect balance. At the same time, needing to stay strong in front of your loved one can be quite challenging, especially considering how heartbreaking it can be to watch a parent age.

On last week’s quick tip episode, we talked about 5 things that caregivers should know before they start out. The focus in that episode was on taking care of you – learning your boundaries, delegating when you need to, practicing self-care. Remember, you can’t care for another person if you aren’t taking care of yourself. You can find that episode on our main show page.

Today, we’ll talk about tips for family caregivers – these are tips that will help you stay on top of your tasks, finances, and organization – so you can stay on top of everything, before you even need to. These are logistical tips that every family caregiver should know. Let’s get started.

Tip number one? Plan ahead for the unexpected. That might sound a little daunting – and scary. The last thing we want is to think about our parent debilitating – but when we don’t plan ahead, we might end up in over our heads after a difficult diagnosis or accident. Too often, a person’s needs change quickly, before we’re ready or prepared. A stroke in the middle of the night or a fall on a slippery sidewalk could make our parents’ needs change drastically and quickly.

With that in mind, make a plan for how you will handle work, family obligations, and more if your parents’ needs increase. Will you be able to provide full time care, or do you need to hire extra help? Talk with your parent about what they want. What does the future look like to them? Where would they like to be? Who would they like to care for them?

A plan should include where your parent will be staying, who will be caring for them, and who their network of support will be. A support network will include doctors, family, friends, and anyone else who might be able to lend a hand. You might think about hiring someone to help clean the house, for instance, so you can focus on other tasks.

If you decide that you will be the primary family caregiver, next plan ahead for what that will mean for your work. If you plan to keep your job, what will you do in the event that your parent needs full time care? Find a person to provide respite care when you aren’t available.

When our parent declines faster than expected, it’s incredibly difficult to grasp emotionally. When we have a plan in place, we can focus on caring for our own needs – as well as our loved ones – without having to figure out a care plan at the same time. It will make an already overwhelming experience significantly easier.

My second tip is to get papers organized. This is actually a critically important step in the planning stages. You never know when you’ll need access to medical or legal records, and you always want to be ready.

This can be a tough one, I know. Paperwork could be disorganized or hard to locate, or you might need help understanding the files. But you will be so thankful to have everything organized in case of an emergency – when the last thing you want is to be digging through the house to find out what medications your mother might be allergic to.

Now, most doctors and medical care facilities will have your parents’ records. If your parent has more than one doctor, though, then they might not all be in one place. Contact all of your parents’ medical care providers – from their primary care physician to their specialized care providers and dentists. Have them send you copies of the records and organize them into one place. If you can, keep a digital copy and printed copies. Store them somewhere that’s easy to access in case of emergency.

The same goes for any legal documents. These may be harder to locate since there’s no one facility that keeps track of all that paperwork. Look through your parents’ own filings and records and make sure there is nothing missing. Then, contact your parents’ lawyer to double check that everything’s accounted for.

In addition to legal and medical paperwork, you’ll want to make sure you have access to the basic personal information. Where does your parent keep their ID? Their social security card? Medical insurance card? Does your parent have a passport? Make sure all of this information is accounted for. Even though you might know your parents’ social security number off the top of your head – there could be an emergency when you’re not at home, and the backup caregiver needs access to this information. In addition, under situations of extreme stress, an important number might just slip your mind.

Tip number three is planning ahead financially. According to AARP, “family caregivers spend an average of nearly $7000 a year of their own money” on their loved one’s care. Make sure you have savings in place that you are willing to spend on your loved one if you need to. Sort out your loved one’s finances with their help, too. What kind of savings do they have? Are they able to pay for proper care if they need to? What type of insurance do they have? If your parent is still in relatively good health, this might be a good time to look into purchasing long term care insurance.

If you worry that you won’t be able to afford caring for your parent, think about ways you might be able to cut costs. Are there volunteer services available in your area, that help the elderly? Are there other family members who might be able to help you? Does your parent’s insurance cover nursing home care?

Making a financial plan can be distressing – but, again, you will be so glad to know in advance what exactly to expect. Many families assume that their parents have more in the bank than they actually do – and are left to cover the costs at the last minute when this isn’t the case. The more you know ahead of time, the better off you and your loved one will be.

If you’ve taken on the role of a family caregiver, or if it’s something you’re considering, let us be the first to say “thank you” for what you’re doing. It’s not an easy role to step into – but your dedication, love, and devotion to your parent will mean so much and make a remarkable difference in their life.

Make sure you have a plan in place for what caregiving will look like for you, for the organization of important papers, and for the financial aspect of caregiving. That will you give you a huge start. To learn more about what to expect from caregiving, listen to our episode on the sacrifices of caregiving and caring for the caregiver. There’s a lot to learn on this journey – but you’ll be so glad you did.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. Please join us next time as we talk about a very important aspect of caregiving for both the caregiver and the person they will be caring for and that discussion will be about Connecting with the Caregiver.

Sources:

https://www.health.com/mind-body/13-things-you-should-know-before-becoming-a-caregiver?slide=c0555515-a483-4502-994f-3de4cef1d6b2#c0555515-a483-4502-994f-3de4cef1d6b2

https://www.synergyhomecare.com/blog/posts/2011/8/18/the-3-things-every-family-caregiver-should-know/

https://caregiveraction.org/resources/10-tips-family-caregivers

https://www.grandoaksdc.org/10-tips-for-caregivers/

https://www.caregiversolutions.ca/caregiving/8-tips-new-family-caregivers/

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If your loved one is living with Alzheimer’s Disease, there may be days where you just feel helpless. It might seem like no treatment is working, that your loved one’s struggles with communication and mood swings are only progressing, with no end in sight. Alzheimer’s can be a devastating disease – but there are ways to possibly help patients meet those milestones – to encourage communication, peace of mind, and even joy in patients and their loved ones.

One way is through music. Believe it or not, the effect of music on Alzheimer’s patients has been studied carefully for decades and has been found to be one of the most effective ways to help patients with communication, mood, and memory. While music is no cure from Alzheimer’s, it is a medicine-free treatment that can make an enormous difference for both patients and their caregivers.

For patients with Alzheimer’s, peace can be hard to come by. Alzheimer’s is a progressive neurological disorder that impacts language, memory, thinking, movement, problem solving, and personality. That’s a long list – so you can only imagine how difficult it is for patients to lose control of their basic abilities until they cannot perform daily tasks anymore. The disease is as frustrating as it is debilitating, as heartbreaking as it is exhausting, and patients will often face severe confusion, anxiety, and even depression.

People with Alzheimer’s have an increasingly difficult time communicating. Language gets lost as confusion and memory problems get more severe – and eventually, your loved one could lose their ability to speak at all. Without being able to communicate, it can be impossible to understand how your loved one is feeling, what she needs, and what she wants. That can make the act of caregiving, or even of spending time with your loved one, particularly challenging.

It can be devastating for you and your loved one when your loved one can’t communicate what they need – and you just want to make sure you are taking good care of them, that they are comfortable and content. While music cannot help a person speak in full sentences again or fully recover their communication – it has been proven to help a person express herself – among a myriad of other positive things. For a person with Alzheimer’s, this is a really big deal, and can mean the difference between discontent and frustration and peace and joy.

Today, we’ll dive into how music helps patients with Alzheimer’s – and what you can do to use music to help your loved one. From the research that proves just how effective this form of therapy is, to how and when to use it, we’ll cover all you need to know about music and Alzheimer’s disease in today’s episode of All Home Care Matters.

Jeff Anderson, MD, PHD, and associate professor of radiology at University of Utah Health, was a contributing author of a study on how music can help patients with dementia and Alzheimer’s. “People with dementia are confronted by a world that is unfamiliar to them, which causes disorientation and anxiety,” he told reporters following the study, “we believe music will tap into the salience network of the brain that is still relatively functioning.”

Sure enough, that’s exactly what the study found. Patients underwent MRI brain scans as they listened to both music and silence. The music chosen was specific to that patient’s life – a list of songs that caregivers and loved ones believed would be especially meaningful to them.

Through the brain scans, researchers found that when music was playing, the brain seemed to be awakened. According to Science Daily, the results of the study found that, “by listening to the soundtrack, the visual network, the salience network, the executive network, and the cerebellar and corticocerebellar network pairs all showed significantly higher functional connectivity.”

In short, the brain imaging showed that listening to meaningful music can activate the brain – perhaps making symptoms more manageable and improving the quality of a patient’s life. This study only researched 17 patients – but it is one of dozens that has tackled the subject matter – and found overwhelmingly positive results.

A similar study at The University of California at Davis found that music lessens the aggressive behaviors of Alzheimer’s patients and decreases the amount of medication needed. This study followed 4,107 patients in 265 nursing homes across California. It found that “the use of antipsychotic drugs declined by 13% and anti-anxiety medications declined by 17% each quarter for residents with dementia using the music program. The odds of depressive symptoms decreased 16% per quarter and the odds of reported pain decreased 17% per quarter. In addition, the number of days on medications declined by 30% and aggressive behaviors reduced by 20%.”

So, why does music work so well for dementia and Alzheimer’s patients? Well, for one thing, our musical memory is stronger than the part of our brain that stores names, faces, and words. Ever listened to a song you hadn’t heard since high school and been surprised when you remembered every lyric? The same is true for dementia and Alzheimer’s patients.

In some cases, patients with dementia have been able to complete full songs on the piano, even when they struggle to communicate anything else. That’s because music – along with the muscle memory that makes it so hard to forget how to ride a bike or throw a ball – is known as Procedural Memory. Explicit Memory is what stores other information – like faces, names, events, and reasoning. So, when a dementia patient forgets aspects of their Explicit Memory, their Procedural Memory often remains unaffected.

Research has found that for some patients – particularly those with musical backgrounds themselves – have a preserved response to music, even after their dementia is in its advanced stages. According to Practical Neurology, “familiar tunes and lyrics can be recognized across all stages of Alzheimer’s Disease. Due to bonds formed early in life between highly familiar tunes and lyrics, the ability to recognize such information is very functional in individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease.”

Now, this doesn’t mean that a person with Alzheimer’s will be belting out every lyric of an old favorite song – but it does mean that the song may illicit a reaction – like a smile, a laugh, or even dancing – from a patient. In some cases, a patient will sing along to the lyrics – even in the late-stages of Alzheimer’s.

Music helps people with Alzheimer’s recall memories and emotions – especially in the earlier stages of the disease. This is because in addition to music being stored in a different section of our memory, music also evokes emotion. According to neurologist Oliver Sacks, “music evokes emotion, and emotion can bring with it memory…it brings back the feeling of life when nothing else can.”

In addition, music aptitude and appreciation are abilities that last in Alzheimer’s patients even after many other abilities have deteriorated. That means that a person can be reached through music even after other means of communication are lacking. So, music is sort of a window to the soul in this way – a way to connect on a personal level with a loved one, when other methods have not succeeded.

Emotional connectivity is especially meaningful in the later stages of Alzheimer’s, after a person has lost the ability to engage physically and emotionally with a loved one. When a patient listens to music, they might dance – which can lead to touching, hugging, or even just a level of togetherness they have not felt in some time. Socialization, especially meaningful socialization in the form of human contact, can help a person have an increased quality of life – and make them feel at peace and contented.

This also helps with communication. Music is a way for a person to communicate without needing to speak. They can indicate how they feel by reacting to a song. When they come to life through music, it’s because they feel connected in communication in a way they simply aren’t without the use of music.

It’s not just listening to music. Many folks with Alzheimer’s or dementia take music or singing lessons or engage in interactive music therapy. Singing and playing an instrument exercises the brain in an engaging and fun way for patients. The more a brain is exercised, the stronger and healthier it will be.

Music also works wonders for stress and anxiety – both prevalent in Alzheimer’s patients. Music engages the parts of the brain involved in cognition, emotion, socialization, and even motor functioning. Music decreases stress and anxiety in people across all walks of life, and Alzheimer’s patients are no different. The calming and familiar sound of music can help a person feel safe and secure, nostalgic and even joyful.

This is so important for Alzheimer’s patients because so much of the world feels unfamiliar to them as they lose their memory and grip on reality. Music can keep them grounded, help them to feel at home, even in the late stages of the disease.

It’s not surprising, then, that music can help a great deal with changes in mood and agitation. Mood swings are ever common in Alzheimer’s patients, and they can be especially difficult to know how to solve. It’s heartbreaking and frustrating when our loved one lashes out, suffers a meltdown, or becomes paranoid – and most people will try anything to keep these mood swings at bay.

Mood swings occur, in part, because patients do not have a grip on their surroundings, and become panicked, confused, and disoriented. They are exacerbated when people react in harsh, angry, or frustrated manners, and can usually be calmed when people react in a soothing, understanding tone.

By playing meaningful, thoughtfully chosen music for a patient, their grip on reality becomes that much clearer, their stress that much more decreased, and their mood swings less frequent. When a person feels safe, calmed, and soothed, they are less likely to act out – because their mood is increased, their sense of security is increased, and their quality of life is improved.

It’s not just the patients who benefit from music. Music can help caregivers, too. Playing music helps a caregiver to connect with his or her patient in a more meaningful way. Songs that illicit memory will help a caregiver to learn more about their patient. Songs that make a patient dance give the caregiver an opportunity to connect with a patient through touch and laughter. Additionally, just like music decreases the stress and anxiety of patients, it does the same for the caregiver.

Caregivers deal with enormous amounts of stress and anxiety, which can lead to depression or even poor physical health. Music creates a sense of calm and escape for the caregiver – so they can feel relaxed and at peace while they’re helping their loved one. In this way, music is a form of self-care – which is enormously beneficial for caregivers.

How do you implement music into your loved one’s life? Unfortunately, it’s not quite as simple as blasting whatever you want when your loved one is around. Songs need to be carefully selected to fit your loved one’s personality – and the wrong music could make them feel more stressed or anxious.

So, when choosing a playlist for your loved one, think about their preferences. What song did your parent used to play again and again? What music might evoke memories for them – from happier, more peaceful times? If you aren’t sure, talk to other friends and family who might have an idea – and you can even look through your parents’ own music collection to see what they like to listen to.

You can choose music that aligns to the time of day and the mood of the situation. Soothing music is great for meals and baths, upbeat music is wonderful when you want your loved one to feel happy and uplifted.

Avoid playing other sounds when music is playing. Overstimulation can lead to headaches, stress, and confusion. So when it’s music time, make sure the TV is turned off, windows and doors are shut, and other distractions are out of the way. Don’t overdo the volume, but make sure it’s loud enough for your loved one to hear. Mayo Clinic suggests playing music that won’t be interrupted with commercials. Commercials can interrupt the mood and cause confusion and disorientation.

In addition, look for songs that encourage movement. If a song has a beat to clap to or even dance with, that’s fantastic. You can even start dancing first, to encourage your loved one to follow. In addition to dancing, feel free to sing along to the music. Your loved one just might sing along with you – which can help stimulate memories and strengthen the brain.

If your loved one is reacting negatively to a song, change it. Remember – music is meant to have a positive, calming effect – so you want to make sure it’s doing just that. Otherwise, mood swings and agitated moods, headaches and exhaustion, might be to come. On the contrary, if your loved one reacts happily and positively to a certain song – play it often! Never be afraid to repeat the same song again and again, as long as your loved one seems to be benefitting from it.

In addition to playing your own music for your loved one, consider music therapy or even instrument or singing lessons (depending on the severity of your loved one’s disease). A music therapist is trained to help their patients strengthen emotion, cognitive abilities, thoughts, and memories. They will use music to enrich and stimulate, to help with focus and stability. Music therapists will also have plans in place for the different stages of Alzheimer’s – and know what methods will be the most beneficial for each stage.

Music lessons and singing lessons can be hugely beneficial, too. Playing an instrument stimulates the brain enormously – and at the same time, lessons can provide social engagement for patients, which can help increase a patient’s quality of life.

Playing an instrument engages motor skills, listening, visual characteristics, and attention. The brain has to communicate with the hands while they play an instrument, while also being stimulated by the music itself. It’s an incredibly beneficial cognitive experience.

There are plenty of music lessons designed for people with memory problems, including Alzheimer’s. Check out your local listings to see if there are Alzheimer’s music or singing classes in your loved one’s area.

Music is not a guaranteed treatment for people with Alzheimer’s. Some respond to it more than others, and unfortunately, there’s no way to know how it will affect your loved one until you give it a try. Time and again, though, research has shown positive reactions to music, and it’s one treatment plan that is well worth the effort.

Other creative activities, such as art, can also help Alzheimer’s patients with their stimulation and quality of life. Creativity is a meaningful way to engage with parts of the brain that benefit from stimulation – so the more you can help your loved one engage with, the better. Many people choose to enroll their loved ones in music and art therapy, or else they implement both practices themselves at home.

While music is not a guaranteed solution, it can work wonders on patients with Alzheimer’s – and their caregivers. The more you can do to increase quality of life and reduce stress, the better. Music can help people with Alzheimer’s find meaning, security, and a great sense of peace.

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/expert-answers/music-and-alzheimers/faq-20058173

https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/daily-care/art-music

https://www.caringseniorservice.com/blog/music-awakens-those-with-alzheimers

https://alzres.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13195-019-0523-y

https://www.arborcompany.com/blog/study-music-therapy-benefits-alzheimers-patients

https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnins.2019.00132/full

https://practicalneurology.com/articles/2017-june/music-and-dementia-an-overview

https://health.ucdavis.edu/health-news/newsroom/music--memory-reduces-dementia-medications-and-aggressive-behavior/2020/08

https://www.elmcroft.com/blog/2018/june/benefits-of-music-for-dementia-patients/

https://www.verywellhealth.com/using-music-in-alzheimers-disease-97624

https://stagemusiccenter.com/music-school-blog-winchester-ma/2019/8/18/music-and-alzheimers

https://www.fivestarseniorliving.com/blog-post/music-is-powerful-therapy-for-adults-with-alzheimers-disease

https://www.alzheimers.net/why-music-boosts-brain-activity-in-dementia-patients

https://cloudcovermusic.com/music-psychology/dementia-alzheimers/

https://cloudcovermusic.com/music-psychology/medical-benefits/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4369551/

https://arborsatmilford.com/announcement/music-memory-the-benefits-of-music-therapy-for-alzheimers-patients/

https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-06-04-music-therapy-for-dementia

https://musicandmemory.org/

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It’s no secret that being a caregiver comes with its challenges – and sacrifices. For many people embarking on this new journey, the massive pressures can come as a bit of a shock. If you’re thinking of becoming a caregiver, but are still on the fence, it’s important to know what to expect before you make a permanent decision. That way, you can know whether becoming a family caregiver really is the best decision for you and your loved one. More and more people are choosing to become family caregivers. According to a study by the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College, about 17 percent of adult children end up caring for their parents at some point in their lives. The reasons are endless. Some people choose to become caregivers to avoid paying the hefty fees for assisted living or nursing homes. Others want to help their loved one be in a position where they can stay home. Others still want to spend the extra time with their parent – keen on caring for the person who once cared for them.

Regardless of the reason you’re thinking about becoming a caregiver, it’s important to know that you will have to make sacrifices. As much as we might wish otherwise, it’s simply impossible to care for our parents while working forty plus hours a week and handling the rest of our responsibilities at home. Now, that’s not to say that you can’t work, it’s just to say that you might need to make adjustments to your schedule, or delegate some errands and other help in order to find that balance. But we’ll dive into more concrete tips later on.

Today is all about caregiver sacrifices. To learn more about the everyday stresses of caregiving – and how to cope – check out our episode on Caring for the Caregiver. We’ve also got a quick tip episode for caregivers that can help you understand what to expect in the day to day.

On this episode, though, we decided to focus on the sacrifices, especially the ones that might come as a surprise. See, we hear all too often that new caregivers simply didn’t know all the sacrifices that come with caring for a loved one. Again, understanding the sacrifices is key to helping you make an informed decision about whether or not this is the right step for you.

Before we get started, I just want to take a minute to acknowledge how, in spite of the sacrifices, caregiving is immensely rewarding and incredibly important. You’ll be making an enormous difference in your loved one’s life, and you’ll get to be there for all the most precious moments with your Mom or Dad. Still, unexpected sacrifices can make those rewarding moments a little more tainted. So, the more you’re aware of in advance, the better you can prepare for what’s ahead, so when you’re in the moment you can actually be in the moment.

Perhaps the greatest sacrifice a caregiver can make is a life free of intense levels of stress and pressure. According to AARP, 36% of family caregivers believe their situation is highly stressful. It makes sense. A survey by the Associated Press and the NORC Center for Public Affairs Research found that 45% of caregivers have outside jobs – and have to use some or all of their vacation time for caregiving duties.

That’s a tough balance to maintain. Stress can lead to health problems, depression, and exhaustion – so it’s essential that as a caregiver, you’re making time for yourself. Nothing is worth sacrificing mental stability to a point where it’s impacting your health. Remember, if you’re not energized or in good health, your duties as a caregiver could suffer.

Every other sacrifice a caregiver makes – from finances to a social life and more – will contribute to the stress. That’s why stress is a more general sacrifice – because it envelops pretty much, well, everything else. And if stress can have detrimental effects on our well-being, then that means we need to tread carefully with every other sacrifice we face. As you listen to the sacrifices listed and worry that they will just be too much on you – trust that instinct. Forgive yourself if you’re not in a place in your life where you can sacrifice so much – if that’s the case there are plenty of other options available. There is absolutely nothing to feel guilty about. Together with your loved one, you can come up with the right solution for both of you.

Many families – especially those whose loved one is experiencing dementia – might choose to stay at home regardless of these sacrifices. We will offer ways to help with each of these sacrifices so that you can find a way to manage if you need to step into the role. You can also think of solutions like respite care, finding extra help from other family members, and more. To learn more about your options, check out our episode on choosing the right type of care.

One major sacrifice caregiver’s make is with their career. According to AARP, about 6 in 10 caregivers continue to work full time while caregiving – but it doesn’t come with zero sacrifice. Even if you are able to keep working while you care for your loved one, there’s likely to be missed deadlines, meetings, or burn out to come.

You might need to take less hours, which could mean a lower income. AARP says that, “many working caregivers report health problems, depression, and lost time and lower productivity at work.” When you’re trying to focus on work after being up for hours during a particularly tough night with Mom, or you’re in a meeting and get a call that your Dad needs your help, it’s not a shock to hear that working can get a little difficult.

There will be missed workdays ahead – even the important ones, where you’re supposed to meet with big clients or have a presentation for your boss. Life happens, and when you’re caring for an aging loved one, it happens more often than you’re probably used to.

While there are some options, they’re not always ideal. For instance, the Family Medical Leave Act allows caregivers a three-month leave from their work, but the employers are not required to pay you during that time.

Caregiver Jody Gastfriend wrote in the Harvard Business Review that, “on average, caregivers miss 6.6 workdays a year. The lost productivity adds up to a big cost to companies – to the tune of $17 to $33 billion annually. And since getting rid of children or parents is not an option, exiting the workplace is often an overwhelmed caregiver’s last resort.”

Now, there are ways that you can make this work and caregiving balance work – without leaving your job. First, check to see if your employer offers any eldercare benefits. If they do, you’ll be able to come up with a plan with your company for the future ahead.

If not, look into backup care programs like adult day care facilities, volunteer services, or even friends and family with some extra time on their hands. The hard truth is that this isn’t something you can do alone, especially if you’re working. But once you have a plan in line for how your parent will be cared for when you’re away – you will be able to handle work while caregiving much more efficiently – and at less of a sacrifice to your career.

Financial sacrifices are another huge burden for family caregivers. Many caregivers choose this route in order to save on money – but don’t quite realize just how much they’ll end up spending. According to the Associated Press and the NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, 41% of caregivers have been forced to dip into their personal savings, and 25% have cut back on their retirement fund. NORC also found that eight in ten caregivers spend their own money on caregiving costs. AARP found that “family caregivers spend an average of nearly $7000 a year of their own money,” on caregiving. Of course, this is still significantly less than the cost of assisted living, which is around $1000 to $5000 a month.

Unexpected costs of family caregiving can come in many forms. You might need to install safety bars, wheelchair ramps, shower benches and other precautions in your loved one’s home to make it safer. You could also be hit with transportation costs, the cost of medical supplies, and the cost of feeding another person. If your loved one moves into your house, your utilities could increase.

Now, if the person you’re looking after has Medicaid, you might be able to be paid for being their caregiver. Look into your state law as well as your parents’ insurance plan. Otherwise, try to balance out the new payments by seeking senior volunteer services for extra help, or seeking assistance from family friends for things like grocery runs. The financial burden can be severe, but at home caregiving is the least expensive option for many families.

Socialization is another major sacrifice for family caregivers. Especially for those sandwiched between their elderly parents and their young children, who are also working full time, finding extra time to see friends can seem impossible. Socialization can do wonders for our mental health. Laughing with friends, as they say, is the best medicine. So, without the opportunity to see friends, you might feel pretty isolated.

Isolation, unsurprisingly, can lead to depression – especially when it’s accompanied by the high emotional and physical stress of caring for an ageing loved one. While it might seem like less time with friends is no big deal, missing out on the nights with friends can be more painful than you might expect – especially if you have to scroll through happy pictures of your friends on Instagram.

You might have to miss important events – like weddings, birthday parties, or graduations – if your back up caregiver cancels at the last minute, or your mother or father is having a tough day.

Luckily, the age of Zoom has provided new opportunity for virtual socialization. Now, it’s standard to meet with friends for a morning coffee over the laptop cam – and I highly recommend it. Take advantage of the technology at your disposal to meet up with friends from time to time, if you can’t do it in person. It’s amazing how much a few minutes with a pal can help your mental health – and get you re-energized to go back to your role as a caregiver when the call is over.

Another sacrifice too often made is with personal care. According to the NORC survey, one third of respondents said they have neglected dental care, health exams, and forgone medical treatments. 39% of participants said they have a physical or mental health condition that impacts their daily life – and that their health issue, combined with their responsibilities as a caregiver, makes it much more difficult to manage their own health.

According to Next Avenue, “many caregivers don’t discuss the issues with their doctors, even as they make sure their loved ones’ medical needs are met.” Many doctors simply don’t know how their patients are struggling – but if they did, they might be able to offer solutions or help the caregiver come up with a plan to ease some of the pressure.

When we neglect our own health, it can be detrimental. The last thing we want as caregivers, is to find out too late that we have a health issue we could have treated had we not canceled our last three doctor appointments. While it might seem selfish to spend time on our own health when our parent needs us, it’s essential.

We can’t be a great caregiver if we are suffering with our health – and something as small as a tooth ache could be an indicator of a bigger problem – so never ignore your own health needs because you feel guilty or are afraid you don’t have time. This is something that you must make the time for – because sacrificing good health just isn’t worth it.

In addition to neglecting health matters, some caregivers sacrifice personal hygiene or other daily care. If you’re so overwhelmed that you just don’t have time to take a shower, or change out of yesterday’s clothes, this is a big indicator that you need some extra help. Never be afraid to delegate – it doesn’t make you any less of a caregiver. No one can do everything, after all, even if we want to. And, again, when we make more time for ourselves, we will be in a better place to be there for our loved one.

Now, as plentiful as the sacrifices are – it’s important to remember that this time in your life will not last forever. If you feel that you are so stressed and under so much pressure that you are unable to appreciate these precious years with your loved one, it might not be worth the sacrifice. If that’s the case – don’t feel ashamed. The earlier you can come to that realization, the sooner you and your loved one can work to find the best possible plan.

At the same time, if you feel that being a caregiver is giving you a chance to spend unparalleled, meaningful time with your loved one – then it all just might be worth it. To help with the stress and bring in the reward, think about how you can make the experience more joyful for both of you.

Play board games, cook fun themed dinners, invite friends over to socialize with both of you from time to time (even over Zoom). If your parent is stuck in bed, have movie nights complete with your loved one’s favorite snacks. In these ways, you’ll be giving both you and your parent a break from the stress of everyday life. You’ll be savoring the happy moments, holding onto them when they mean the most.

In addition to savoring those little moments – find time to savor by yourself. Read a book when you can, go for walks, enjoy a hobby like playing an instrument or painting. The more you can do for yourself, the less stress you’ll feel. That’s because by taking time for yourself, you’re giving your brain a chance to relax, to strengthen up, so you can be ready for anything.

By understanding the sacrifices – from career, to finances, to mental health and socialization – you can have a better idea of whether being a family caregiver is the best choice for you. At the end of the day, it’s a tough job physically, emotionally, and financially – but with the right preparation and tools, it can be an extremely meaningful experience.

Sources:

https://journals.lww.com/cancernursingonline/Abstract/1999/08000/Stress_associated_with_tasks_for_family_caregivers.2.aspx

https://www.aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/personal-sacrifices-of-caregivers

https://www.forbes.com/sites/nextavenue/2018/11/11/the-personal-sacrifices-family-caregivers-make-for-their-loved-ones/?sh=490bc337f798

https://www.longtermcarepoll.org/long-term-caregiving-the-true-costs-of-caring-for-aging-adults/#1

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https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/life-balance/info-2019/working-caregiver-tips.html

https://hbr.org/2014/07/no-one-should-have-to-choose-between-caregiving-and-work

https://www.nextavenue.org/sacrifices-personal-caregivers/

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We speak a lot on this show about how to provide the best care to our loved ones as they age – but today, we’re going to talk about how to provide the best care to the caregiver. Being a caregiver for our parents, spouses, or grandparents can be immensely rewarding – but it comes with its own unique sets of challenges.

The responsibilities of a family caregiver often grow over time – and as we work to nurture and tend to our loved one, we might lose time for ourselves. We not only need time to engage in life outside of our loved one’s daily routine, but we also need to be able to tend to our own feelings. Watching those we love decline is devastating – and it’s essential to have the space to feel what we need to, so we aren’t holding everything in.

According to AARP, almost 42 million Americans in the US are caregivers – and the majority of those are unpaid. For most older adults, receiving care from a family member is the best option – both financially and emotionally. Unpaid caregiving, though, comes with other sacrifices – largely for the caregiver.

Many are forced to balance tending to their loved one with their career, raising families of their own, and a stack of other responsibilities. Some family members are forced to leave their own home behind to move in with an aging parent or make room in their own busy household for their parent to move in with them. There’s no doubt that this can be a wonderful experience for many families, who feel that the bonds they are creating with their loved ones are stronger than ever.

Still, the emotional strain, sacrifices, and the seemingly endless responsibilities and challenges, can make the experience exceedingly difficult for a caregiver who is not receiving the support and care they need for themselves. When a caregiver is cared for, they will find more reward and less stress in the whole experience. They will also be in a better place to tend to their loved one.

First of all, in the days that caregiving seems especially difficult – maybe your parent has regressed, or you were late to a meeting because your parent’s doctor appointment ran late, maybe your parent was tired and angry today, and maybe you were too – remember that you are providing your loved one an incredible service. Still, that doesn’t mean you can’t take some time to care for yourself.

You might feel that to take time away from your parent to focus on yourself seems selfish or unnecessary. Let me be the first to say – it’s the most selfless thing you can do. When you are in the best shape possible, your loved one’s care will be that much better.

Now, you might be wondering why you should focus on yourself. According to a study by the University of Netherlands, “family members who provide 20 hours of caregiver support or more a week report increased depression and psychological distress, impaired self-care, and worse self-reported health.” At the same time, “more than half of caregivers say a decline in their health affects their ability to provide care.”

It can be devastating to watch our loved ones decline, and as they do, we might feel we are declining alongside them. Neglected feelings of sadness and stress get steadily worse as our loved one’s health does – and our ability to care gets worse just when our loved one needs it more than ever.

In a survey by SCAN Health Plan, 54% of caregivers “feel guilty about taking a break from their caregiving tasks to make time for themselves,” but when they do take that time, they end up providing better care than they would have without it. Why? Because they feel rested, energized, and in a healthy enough head space to handle any unexpected challenges or difficulties.

Not only does caring for yourself matter in terms of the care you can provide – but it also matters in terms of your own physical health. According to caregiver.org, “estimates show that between 40 to 70% of caregivers have clinically significant symptoms of depression, with approximately one quarter to one half of these caregivers meeting the diagnostic criteria for major depression…depressed caregivers are more likely to have coexisting anxiety disorders, substance abuse or dependence, and chronic disease.”

In addition, “about one in ten (11%) caregivers report that caregiving has caused their physical health to get worse. Caregivers have lower levels of subjective well-being and physical health than non-caregivers.”

Still, when we get the support we need, we can combat these issues and risks once and for all. Let’s start by asking ourselves a series of questions, in order to analyze our own health and needs.

Have you ever neglected your own self care for fear of being selfish?

Are you hesitant to put yourself first?

Do you have trouble asking for help?

Do you ever delegate certain tasks?

When is the last time you did something for yourself?

Do you feel supported?

Do you have friends or family members to talk to?

How do you cope with stressful situations?

What is causing you the most stress?

Establishing a solid support system is the first critical step to taking care of yourself. If you don’t have anyone to talk to, you might be suppressing emotions that will build up over time. Just having a friend to vent to or a spouse whose shoulder you can cry on can make an enormous difference. Emotional release is necessary and important. Without it, you just might become depressed or intensely overwhelmed.

If you don’t have a friend or family member to lean on from time to time, think about joining a caregiver support group. Now offered over Zoom due to the pandemic, these groups can provide you with an outlet for your emotions, as well as a community of other caregivers to share their insight and support. A support group is a safe place to ask questions, express frustration, and even get some helpful care tips from others who have been in your shoes.

In addition to support groups, counseling and therapy services are available to caregivers. If you just need a space to vent, but aren’t interested in group therapy, consider one on one therapy. There are counselors who specialize in caregiver support who will provide a setting in which to vent, cry, or even shout in anger. Your therapist will be able to provide you with tools you can use to get through stressful moments and handle tough feelings. Look into your hometown’s resources to see if there are free or low-income therapy services available to you.

Finally, look through your contacts to see if there are others in your life facing a similar situation. Do you have a friend with aging parents? A colleague who had to go down to part time to care for their loved one? Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask someone to coffee. Building friendships with people already in your life who have faced similar challenges can be extremely rewarding. It’s amazing how a cup of coffee and a vent session can change a whole day for the better. During the pandemic, consider Zoom meetings over coffee, which can be just as effective.

In addition to finding a support system, it’s also important to find someone to help. You might feel guilty asking for help. After all, this is your parent, and you are supposed to be able to provide them with everything they need, right? The truth is, though, this is an extremely difficult job. And when we’re balancing it with the rest of our lives – there are days and even weeks when it can all feel like too much. We cannot be everything for everyone – and delegating certain tasks can make a huge difference.

Whether delegating means asking another family member to help clean the house, having a spouse drive the kids to school, or even having our loved one’s friends stop by to socialize with our loved one so we can take a nap – do it. The smallest things can make the biggest difference.

If we are trying to balance everything, dire mistakes can happen. We might give the wrong dosage of meds to our parent because we were trying to help our child with their homework at the same time. We might forget about a doctor appointment because we are trying to balance too many other things. When we ask for help, we are creating a safer environment for ourselves and our loved ones – to assure they are receiving the best possible care.

Remember – help is never something you need to feel guilty for needing. We are all human – and when we are faced with such an exhausting and challenging task, we just need some assistance to get everything done. When we are not having to balance everything, we can focus on what really matters.

If friends or family are not available to help, considering hiring someone to keep up with some other duties. Whether hiring a housekeeper to stop by once a week for deep cleaning, paying for a meal kit service to save you a few trips to the grocery store, or having someone tend to the garden – this can be well worth the expense, especially when you are saving money by being the primary caregiver for your family member. You can find inexpensive helpers on TaskRabbit, or by looking through your community resources. There are also volunteer programs available in many communities, where someone will come to help around the house or with your loved one while you take a much-needed break.

In addition to getting help and finding support, make sure to cut in time for breaks. This doesn’t have to mean a two hour break every day to go the movies or grab lunch. It can be as simple as short, 5-minute moments to yourself, where you listen to a favorite song or make a gratitude list of what you’re thankful for. You can drink a glass of water, perform guided meditation from an app like Calm, do some stretches, or go on a quick walk. These short breaks can help you to feel revitalized, energized, and calmed.

In addition to the short breaks, find time for yourself at least once a week for a longer one. Take a few hours on a Saturday to go for a hike or read a book, socialize with friends or work on a hobby. You don’t need to ask for permission to take breaks – you just need to do it. If you feel guilty, do it anyway. The fact is, you’ll feel a lot more guilty if you have an emotional outburst due to penned up emotions or miss a medication dosage due to exhaustion. Taking breaks is absolutely essential.

Finally, it’s important to learn how to manage stress. Think about what parts of the care make you the most stressed. Is it handling the medications? Trying to balance the schedule? Running errands? When you make a list of what is causing you stress, you can determine the best ways to alleviate that stress.

If you struggle with medications, it can be a huge help to highly organize the medicine cabinet and prescriptions, to make sure that everything is laid out and never missed. To learn more about organizing medications, listen to our episode on medication safety for seniors. Organization and routine can help to make this aspect of caregiving feel a lot more manageable.

If you struggle to find time for errands, delegate, delegate, delegate. That could mean asking a friend or family member, but it also might be getting Amazon delivery for groceries or using apps like Instacart. There are so many resources available to us in 2021, and if it will help our mental health, it’s well worth it to take advantage of them.

If you are stressed about helping your parent dress or bathe, consider playing soft, relaxing music while you perform these tasks, so your mind can feel calmer and focused on something else at the same time. It can be hard to help our parents with anything that feels embarrassing, but if we can find a way to remain calm and relaxed, we will feel much better.

If we are stressed because we feel unstimulated, think about games or movies we can engage with alongside our loved one. Filling our day with stimulating activities will help them as much as it will help ourselves – because the truth is, some of these days can feel rather long and endless. If we fill them with engaging and meaningful activities – like movies, games, or crafts – we will feel a lot more fulfilled, and so will our loved one.

When you are taking breaks, accepting help, and have a solid support system in place – you’ll find that life in itself is much easier to manage. You will be in a better place to care for your loved one because you will be feeling stronger, healthier, and far more rested. I cannot emphasize enough just how much these simple methods of self-care can help a caregiver.

If you are not a caregiver but have a caregiver in your life that you want to support, there are many things you can do to help them. From yard work to dropping off pre-cooked dinners, any little kindness will go a long way for a friend or family member caring for a loved one.

Be prepared for the caregiver in your life to refuse help the first few times you ask. As we’ve mentioned, it’s hard for a caregiver to accept that they need assistance – feelings of guilt and inadequacy tend to come up and a caregiver would likely rather do something themselves if they think they are capable (or even if they don’t). Because of this, it’s important that you don’t stop asking. Be persistent. You just might find that after enough gentle reminders that you’re available, they might be ready to take you up on it after some careful thought (and when they know you really mean it, and this isn’t a burden to you).

When asking a caregiver how you can help them, be as specific as possible. Refrain from just saying “do you need help?” or “what can I do?” Instead try, “lasagna or salad for dinner? I’m buying” or “I’m headed to the dry cleaner’s, what can I take with me?” Offering to help with specific errands will be so appreciated, and you’re making it even easier on your friend by not making them come up with a list of what they need assistance with.

In addition to helping a caregiver with daily tasks, offer to be their ear whenever they need one. Bring cups of coffee and conversation when you drop off the groceries. You can even bring a board game or movie to watch. Your friend might feel like a burden and not want to ask for socialization – but if you’re already present and can prove that there’s nowhere you’d rather be, they will be happy for the time spent with a friend. If they don’t want to talk about what they’re going through, don’t push it, but be ready to listen and offer support if they do.

Whether you’re a caregiver yourself or you are hoping to support a friend or family member who is, knowing how to decrease stress, increase stimulation, and delegate tasks is enormous. Caregiving should be an incredibly rewarding experience – and the easier we make it on ourselves, the more meaningful it will be for all of us.

Sources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5513610/#:~:text=A%20caregiver%20is%20an%20individual,for%20a%20person%20in%20need.&text=As%20is%20the%20case%20for,and%20they%20are%20usually%20unpaid.

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https://dailycaring.com/3-ways-to-manage-caregiver-stress-and-prevent-burnout/

https://dailycaring.com/10-ways-caregivers-can-take-a-quick-break-right-now/

https://dailycaring.com/6-ways-to-make-it-easier-for-caregivers-to-take-a-break/

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https://www.scanhealthplan.com/about-scan/press-room/january-2018/scans-national-survey-finds-seniors-are-concerned-with-the-emotional

https://www.aarp.org/content/dam/aarp/ppi/2020/05/full-report-caregiving-in-the-united-states.doi.10.26419-2Fppi.00103.001.pdf

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If your loved one has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, you might be feeling lost, confused, scared, and overwhelmed with concern. It’s a diagnosis no one wants to hear, but one that far too many families are impacted by year after year. In fact, according to Parkinsons.Org, about 10 million people worldwide are diagnosed with the disease each year.

It’s estimated that about one million Americans have Parkinson’s disease today. That’s more than those who have muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (or ALS) combined.

Those are staggering numbers. But what exactly is Parkinson’s Disease? How can we provide the care our loved one needs after a diagnosis? How can we care for ourselves? What can we expect in the years ahead? On today’s episode, it’s all about understanding Parkinson’s Disease. By the end of this episode, you should have a much clearer understanding of what your loved one is experiencing – and how you can prepare for what’s to come.

Let’s start with the basics. With numbers as staggering as the ones previously mentioned, it might not be surprising to learn that Parkinson’s disease is the second most common age-related neurodegenerative disease in the world. The most common of these diseases is Alzheimer’s. To learn more about Alzheimer’s Disease, head to our episode page to listen to our many episodes about understanding Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Because Parkinson’s tends to be age related, most people are diagnosed over the age of 50. However, it’s estimated that about 4% of Parkinson’s patients are diagnosed at a younger age. One famous example is Michael J. Fox, who was diagnosed with early onset Parkinson’s at the young age of 29.

The cause of the disease is largely unknown, but the effects are clearer. When a person has Parkinson’s, the brain cells that produce dopamine become impaired or die. Because dopamine controls movement, when these neurons are no longer functioning, movement is drastically impaired. It is unclear what exactly causes these neurons to misfunction or die.

In addition to dopamine, the nerve endings in a Parkinson’s patient’s brain that produce norepinephrine are lost. Norepinephrine sends chemical messages through the sympathetic nervous system, which controls heart rate, blood pressure, and other automatic body functions. Scientists believe that this is why Parkinson’s patients often suffer from irregular blood pressure, slow movement of food through the digestive tract, and fatigue.

Many people with Parkinson’s also have Lewy bodies in their brain cells – which are clumps of abnormal proteins inside neurons. Lewy bodies most often form in the parts of the brain that control memory and movement. This is why many people with Parkinson’s also suffer from Lewy body dementia. To learn more about that condition, listen to our episode on understanding Lewy body dementia.

While it’s unclear what exactly causes Parkinson’s, some cases appear to be hereditary, while others have been linked to genetic mutations. In most cases, though, the diagnosis appears to be random.

Researchers do believe that the disease might be caused by environmental factors – such as exposure to toxins or head injury – but not enough consistent evidence has occurred to pinpoint a straightforward cause. We can only hope that over time scientists will gain a better understanding of why the disease occurs in the first place.

Parkinson’s disease varies widely from person to person. That means that while some symptoms are more frequent or expected, there’s no way to predict what specific symptoms one person might experience or when they might experience them.

Parkinson’s disease is diagnosed clinically – which means that the disease cannot show up on brain scans or through blood tests. Instead, a diagnosis is based on a Doctor’s examination of a person’s medical history and evaluation of symptoms.

If you’re worried that you or a loved one might have Parkinson’s Disease, but have not yet received an official diagnosis, you might want to see a movement disorder specialist. Movement disorder specialists are neurologists who specialize in Parkinson’s disease among other movement disorders. These doctors will be able to carefully assess the patient and symptoms, and make a diagnosis based off of his or her specialized expertise.

So, what exactly are the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease? Again, the symptoms do vary from person to person, in terms of both the severity and the types of symptoms. Still, there are three movement symptoms that are particularly common, especially in the early stages of the disease.

These three symptoms include stiffness, slowness of movement, and a resting tremor. It is possible for a person to just have one of these symptoms or have all three. Even if you or your loved one is experiencing only one of these symptoms, it’s well worth your time to schedule an appointment with a doctor.

The tremor will look like a slight shaking of the hand, finger, thumb, or chin. Commonly, the tremor will occur during rest in the early stages of the disease. It is sometimes called the “rolling pill” tremor, because if a person rests a pill in their open palm and it rolls, the hand may be experiencing a tremor.

Other common early signs are more subtle. Small handwriting is one of these. If a person’s writing has gotten smaller or the words are crowded together, this could indicate Parkinson’s disease.

Loss of smell is another early symptom. Have your loved one try to smell certain foods – like bananas or licorice and ask them if they are able to smell them clearly. If not, this could mean that they are suffering from Parkinson’s disease, and you should get them to the doctor for examination.

In addition to smell, voice can be affected early on in the disease. If a person is speaking much more quietly than usual, to the point where they sound hoarse or like they are whispering, this could be a sign of Parkinson’s.

Other common early symptoms include restless sleeping, depression, constipation, stooping over, or dizziness. You might also notice that your loved one has what’s called a “masked face.” If your loved one has a constant angry or serious expression on their face, they might have Parkinson’s disease.

Parkinson’s can be misdiagnosed in the early stages – especially for patients who are not suffering from tremors or muscle stiffness. Some of the other symptoms can be misconstrued as normal parts of ageing. If you feel that your loved one might have Parkinson’s, but they weren’t diagnosed, have them see a specialist for a second opinion.

There are five common stages of Parkinson’s – although, again, not everyone goes through this disease in the same way. The following five stages are the most typical patterns of progression as observed by doctors and scientists.

In the first stage, a person has mild symptoms, such as a tremor or changes in posture or facial expressions. These symptoms won’t usually interfere with daily life. Typically, a person in the first stage will only notice tremors or movement difficulties on one side of the body.

Within three to seven years of diagnosis, most patients will notice moderate changes to these early symptoms. This means that they have officially entered stage two. Stage two of the disease, or the moderate stage, tremors and movement difficulties increase in severity.

While in stage one, zipping a jacket might have been somewhat difficult, it might now take a significant amount of time to do. A person’s posture might start to slump or droop more severely in this stage, and a person might find that their tremors and muscle stiffness have moved to both sides of the body.

A person in the moderate stage of Parkinson’s can usually still care for themselves but will take significantly more time to accomplish simple tasks. Some patients at this stage might request more help with daily activities.

Stage three, the middle stage of Parkinson’s, is the big turning point for most patients. Reflexes will decrease as will balance. A risk of falling is increased, between a patient’s struggles with balance, walking, and posture. Patients at this stage will likely need a wheelchair to get around.

A patient at stage 3 is able to maintain independence – although they will take longer to eat and get dressed and might desire a little extra help to get things done around the house and run errands.

In stage four, a person can no longer be independent. While a person can stand from a chair without extra help, they won’t be able to walk from the chair to their bed or wheelchair on their own. A patient in stage four will need help to eat, dress, bathe, and move around the house.

A person in stage five of Parkinson’s will require around the clock care. Advanced leg stiffness will make it impossible to stand or walk – and a person will require a wheelchair. If a Parkinson’s patient is also suffering from Lewy body dementia, then they might be experiencing increased hallucinations or delusions by this stage. Not everyone with Parkinson’s makes it to stage five of the disease.

While Parkinson’s disease is certainly severe, and complications from the disease are the 14th cause of death in the United States, a person with Parkinson’s can live well with the disease. Michael J. Fox is proof that people can maintain a high quality of life after diagnosis. The disease is a progressive one, but the level of progression varies from person to person – and there are some steps a patient can take to slow the progression.

Have your loved one work with their doctor to establish a treatment plan. A combination of therapies and prescription medications can help a person with Parkinson’s maintain a high quality of life. Doctors will likely prescribe dopaminergic medications, to help with the impaired dopamine neurons in the brain.

While medications cannot cure the disease, they can improve symptoms to make daily living a little easier. In addition to medications, patients should get plenty of exercise. In the early stages, it’s important to get those stiff muscles moving – so activities like biking, running, tai chi, yoga, and dance are all recommended. Exercise will help a person to maintain their balance, mobility, and activities of daily living. Exercise will also improve many symptoms.

According to Parkinson’s.org, “people with PD who start exercising earlier and a minimum of 2.5 hours a week, experience a slowed decline in quality of life compared to those who start later. Establishing early exercise habits is essential to overall disease management.”

Of course, exercise will come with its own set of challenges for Parkinson’s patients. Balance issues, trembles, muscle stiffness, and endurance can all pose challenges to exercising – but there are plenty of ways to exercise safely.

All Parkinson’s patients should consult their doctors before starting a new form of exercise and should ask for a list of recommended exercises based on their symptoms. Physical therapists will help patients with safe, specialized exercises meant to improve symptoms.

Physical therapists will often recommend a routine exercise regimen that includes aerobics and resistance training. There are also community classes in most cities meant for people living with Parkinson’s disease. These classes cover everything from dance to boxing and are catered toward improving symptoms and slowing progression in patients.

There are surgical options for patients with Parkinson’s disease. Deep brain stimulation, or DBS, is one surgical therapy that many patients can benefit from. The surgery works by implanting an electrode into the affected area in the brain. The electrodes are then stimulated with a device located under the skin in the chest. This allows brain to control movement at a “normal” level.

DBS is not a cure for Parkinson’s, and it does not help with non-motor symptoms such as depression, loss of smell, or constipation. Before considering this surgery, be sure to get an evaluation from a movement disorder specialist. DBS is not the best choice for all patients, but a specialist will you’re your loved one determine if it’s the best choice for them.

Patients with Parkinson’s can also assemble a care team of specialists – from home nurses to occupational therapists and neurologists – to help with treatment. The more organized and structured a person’s care plan is, the better.

When considering the type of care a person with Parkinson’s needs, it’s important to think about where they will be living. From assisted living to at home care and everything in between, there are plenty of living options to consider with your loved one. To learn more about the best living options for your loved one, check out our episode on choosing the right type of care for seniors.

Because depression is a common symptom in patients with Parkinson’s, it’s important to make sure your loved one is mentally stimulated. It’s estimated that 50% of patients with Parkinson’s suffer from depression, while 40% face anxiety.

According to Parkinsons.org, “The Parkinson’s Foundation Parkinson’s Outcomes Project found that taken together, mood, depression, and anxiety have the greatest impact on health status, even more than the motor impairments commonly associated with the disease.”

Depression in Parkinson’s is a direct result of changes in brain chemistry, as the parts of the brain that control mood, energy, motivation, and sleep are impacted by Parkinson’s. Social isolation can make the depression even more severe, so make sure your loved one is engaged in social activities – from visits with the grandkids to clubs and organizations.

Make sure that your loved one has something to look forward to – whether trips to the movies or the park, visits, or a nice dinner. Having something to look forward to can help enhance a person’s quality of life and give them something positive to think about.

According to Parkinson’s.org, “the best approach” for treating depression, “is a combination of antidepressant medication, counseling, exercise, and social support.” A counselor can provide essential support and can recommend coping skills to help with positive thinking.

There are therapists and counselors who specialize in Parkinson’s Disease. Additionally, plenty of support groups exist within the Parkinson’s community. Introducing your loved one to people going through similar difficulties can help them to feel less alone in their struggle.

Caring for a person with Parkinson’s also means caring for their home. Make sure that there’s nothing at the home a person can easily trip over – like throw rugs, electric cords, or slippery floors. Clear pathways, place mats in bathtubs and showers, and arrange furniture so it’s not blocking any walkways.

If you want to provide additional support for your loved one, you can help them by volunteering to exercise with them, which will keep them motivated to exercise while allowing them a great opportunity for socialization, and something to look forward to.

Getting your loved one out of the house as often as possible is key to their happiness, also. It’s isolating to be alone in the house all the time – so any excuse to get out will be welcomed, as long as the person is feeling up to it.

While this is more difficult during the pandemic, consider taking your loved one on a walk to the park, or to an outdoor movie. You can also set up a projector in the backyard so your loved one can be outside, engaged in something fun, and comfortable.

Finally, it’s important to be patient with your loved one. Don’t rush your loved one through getting dressed, standing up, or eating dinner. Remember – they are going as fast as they can and rushing them will only make them feel more frustrated. I know that this disease can be endlessly frustrating and disheartening for family members – so make sure you have an outlet to express yourself, that’s not the person suffering. Go to friends, family, a therapist to vent frustrations, so you’re in a better state of mind to be patient with your loved one the next time you see them.

A Parkinson’s diagnosis is never easy – but with the right knowledge, preparation, and treatment plan, you can know what to expect and make the journey as positive as possible for you and your loved one.

Sources:

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/parkinsons-disease#:~:text=Parkinson's%20disease%20occurs%20when%20nerve,brain%20chemical%20known%20as%20dopamine.

https://parkinsonsnewstoday.com/parkinsons-disease-statistics/#:~:text=United%20States,Americans%20are%20diagnosed%20with%20Parkinson's.

https://www.parkinson.org/understanding-parkinsons/what-is-parkinsons

https://www.michaeljfox.org/parkinsons-101

https://www.parkinson.org/understanding-parkinsons/10-early-warning-signs

https://www.apdaparkinson.org/what-is-parkinsons/symptoms/

https://www.healthline.com/health/parkinsons-warning-signs#4

https://www.parkinson.org/Understanding-Parkinsons/What-is-Parkinsons/Stages-of-Parkinsons

https://www.healthline.com/health/parkinsons/stages#4

https://www.bannerhealth.com/healthcareblog/teach-me/the-5-stages-of-parkinsons-disease

https://www.parkinson.org/Understanding-Parkinsons/Treatment

https://www.apdaparkinson.org/what-is-parkinsons/treatment-medication/

https://www.apdaparkinson.org/what-is-parkinsons/treatment-medication/deep-brain-stimulation/

https://www.parkinson.org/Living-with-Parkinsons/For-Caregivers/Beginning-Your-Journey-with-Parkinsons/Special-Challenges-of-Caring-for-Someone-with-Parkinsons

https://www.webmd.com/parkinsons-disease/guide/parkinsons#1

https://www.agingcare.com/articles/daily-caregiving-for-someone-with-parkinsons-disease-119724.htm

https://www.healthline.com/health/parkinsons-disease/how-to-support#8.-Be-patient

https://www.webmd.com/parkinsons-disease/guide/parkinsons-disease-progression#2

https://www.parkinson.org/Understanding-Parkinsons/Treatment/Exercise#:~:text=Biking%2C%20running%2C%20Tai%20chi%2C,on%20your%20symptoms%20and%20challenges.

https://www.parkinson.org/Understanding-Parkinsons/Symptoms/Non-Movement-Symptoms/Depression

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When our loved one is diagnosed with dementia, we want to do our best to understand exactly what they’re going through. The more we know, the more support we can offer – both emotionally and in regard to long-term care support. We’ll also be better equipped to help ourselves. Knowing what to expect as dementia progresses, and understanding why our parent, spouse, or grandparent is behaving in certain ways can help us manage and care for our own feelings.

There are over four hundred types of dementia out there – so it’s important not to generalize dementia as one single disorder. Once you know what type of dementia your loved one has, you can look at that variant through a closer lens, so you can focus on providing your loved one with specified care to match their individual needs.

Today, we’re going to talk about one type of dementia that affects over one million people in the United States each year. That’s Lewy body dementia – or LBD. LBD usually sets in around age 50, although it can occur earlier. There are two diagnoses of the disorder – dementia with Lewy bodies, or DLB, and Parkinson’s disease dementia.

By examining LBD in both of its forms, we can have a much clearer understanding of what our loved one is struggling with – and how to help them. After all, LBD is quite different from Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, so we want to make sure we’re not grouping these disorders together. We’ll talk about the signs and symptoms of LBD, what to expect as the disease progresses, and possible care and treatment options.

First, it’s important to understand what Lewy bodies are. First discovered by Dr. Friederich Lewy in 1912, Lewy bodies are abnormal protein deposits that form clumps inside neurons, causing neurons to lose function and die. The clumps first form in the parts of the brain that control memory and movement – but as time goes on, the damage spreads to other regions. In all, Lewy bodies can form in the cerebral cortex, the limbic cortex, the hippocampus, the midbrain and basal ganglia, the brain stem, and the olfactory pathways.

The cerebral cortex controls language, thought, and information processing. The limbic cortex dictates emotions and behavior. The hippocampus is where new memories form. The midbrain and basal ganglia control movement. The brain stem regulates sleep. The olfactory pathways control the sense of smell.

To learn more about how exactly LBD affects the brain, listen to our episode that discusses and examines the different types of dementia.

Clearly, LBD is a devastating disorder. It can be extremely hard to watch a loved one fall victim to a progressive brain disease. That’s why it’s so essential to prepare yourself – so that you can minimize unwanted surprises down the road and be there for your loved one every step of the way.

Scientists are unaware of what exactly causes LBD, but they do know that the dying neurons result in a failure of messages to be sent through brain cells. Without these messages, memory, learning, behavior, cognition, mood, and movement are all affected.

LBD is common in patients with Parkinson’s Disease. According to alz.org, 50-80% of Parkinson’s patients experience dementia. The most common form of dementia for these patients is LBD. This is most likely because people with Parkinson’s disease and LBD are both progressive diseases in which brain cells are lost after protein clusters are formed.

Unfortunately, LBD is commonly misdiagnosed or not diagnosed in its earliest stages. That’s because the early symptoms of the disorder can be confused with normal aging or other memory disorders, like Alzheimer’s. Still, there are some key differences to look out for.

Remember, every person responds differently to LBD, so while some people might have every symptom, others may only have some. The severity of these symptoms also varies from person to person. Because of this, whether you notice any or all of these symptoms in your loved one – and regardless of the severity – you should take your loved one to the doctor if you think there’s a chance, she might have LBD.

Among the early symptoms of LBD are physical issues – which is one standout difference between LBD and other forms of dementia. A person with LBD might have a tremor, or struggle with their fine motor skills. Try to notice if your loved one has difficult lifting utensils at dinnertime, or if their arm trembles when they rest. In addition, they could have trouble keeping their balance or lose coordination.

Sometimes the physical symptoms are more subtle. Has your loved one’s facial expressions become less animated and more rigid? Is your loved complaining of muscle stiffness? Has their posture become stooped? You can also look for signs in their handwriting. If their handwriting is smaller, or shakier, than usual – this can be a sign of LBD.

In addition to physical changes, look out for cognitive changes in your loved one. If your loved one is suffering from delusions or hallucinations, that’s an extremely common sign of LBD. She might also seem confused or have trouble interpreting visual information. Her alertness could vary drastically from one day to the next. She could also be experiencing memory loss and have trouble with judgement and planning. Patients with LBD will also have trouble recognizing familiar people earlier on than in other stages of dementia – like Alzheimer’s.

A doctor will diagnose LBD in a patient who is suffering from both the physical and cognitive symptoms of the disorder. Even if they do not begin at the same time, as long as the physical symptoms begin within a year of the cognitive ones, or vice versa, doctors will likely give a diagnosis of LBD. LBD is a clinical diagnosis, which means that a diagnosis is not determined from a test, but from the doctor’s best judgement based on the information available.

In the early stages, LBD is commonly misdiagnosed as Alzheimer’s – especially if a person is not struggling with the physical symptoms quite yet. There are key differences between the disorders to look out for. In Alzheimer’s disease, memory loss tends to be more prominent earlier on than in LBD. For patients experiencing LBD, changes in judgement, planning, and visual perception usually occur before memory loss.

Movement is a huge difference. While Alzheimer’s does affect walking and balance as time progresses, immediate mobility issues are more prevalent in patients with LBD. If your loved one was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, but primarily struggles with tremors and balance issues, you might want to consult your doctor about a new diagnosis.

Hallucinations and delusions are also more common in LBD patients, especially early on. They might see people in the house or misinterpret objects for something else. On MichaelJFox.Org, Ava Butler kept a daily journal of her husband’s, who had LBD, hallucinations. “The plants on the south balcony turned into little children,” she writes, “Today they are musicians and they played for everyone down below. People danced to their music.”

An LBD patient might have trouble recognizing familiar faces right away. Butler writes that her husband sometimes mistook her for his brother, or even forgot his own name. These symptoms occur earlier on in patients with LBD than they do in patients with Alzheimer’s.

Once you understand the key differences between Alzheimer’s and LBD, you can determine if you believe they have been misdiagnosed. If you think they have, take them back to the doctor and re-examine the signs and symptoms together. Receiving the correct diagnosis is important for many reasons – from assuring that your loved one is taking the proper medications to knowing the best type of care for your loved one.

The proper medication is especially important. While antipsychotics might be prescribed to a person with Alzheimer’s to control their behavior, a person with LBD could suffer from severe side-affects from the same medications. Their movement might become even worse, and they could get fevers or even kidney failure. Be sure that your loved one’s doctor has evaluated your loved one for LBD before prescribing any anti-psychotics.

As LBD progresses, many of the symptoms will look similar to middle or late-stage Alzheimer’s disease. You might notice significant mood changes in your loved one – they could become easily agitated or paranoid.

In the early stages of LBD, your loved one will likely struggle with hallucinations or delusions. They could also have tremors and difficulty with basic movements. A person with LBD could get “stuck” in the middle of a movement, as their muscles completely stiffen. While their memory will be mostly intact, they will likely suffer from confusion and difficulty processing information or recognizing familiar faces.

In the middle stages of Lewy body dementia, a patient will suffer from extreme motor impairment, decreased attention, and significant confusion and paranoia. You will notice that your loved one is having more difficulty speaking and swallowing, and that the hallucinations might be becoming more severe. At this stage, it’s essential that your loved one has a caregiver present at all times. This is because the risk of falls is increased and hallucinations and confusion could lead to rash decision making, violent behavior, or wandering from the house.

In the later stages of Lewy body dementia, your loved one might experience extremely stiff muscles that are sensitive to touch. They might not be able to speak at all, or only in whispers. They will need help with all activities of daily living – from eating to bathing to getting dressed.

A person with LBD is likely to live five to seven years after a diagnosis. However, some patients have lived up to 20 years with the disorder.

There are many ways to provide care and support to your loved one with LBD. In addition to determining the best possible care (you can learn about care options in our episode on choosing the right care for your loved one), researching the disorder, and creating a care and medication plan with your loved one’s doctors, you can also act as a support system for them.

Include your loved whenever you can. Take them to the movies, religious services, and out to eat. In the pandemic, this might translate to movie nights at home and Zoom church meetings or picnics in the park. The important thing is to make your loved one feel included and surrounded by people they love. Social interaction with family will brighten your loved one’s mood and keep them from feeling isolated or depressed as they face this new diagnosis. Even as LBD progresses, include your loved one as much as possible. While they might not be able to communicate, they will still enjoy the company.

Be sympathetic to your loved one’s diagnosis. When your loved one hallucinates, don’t shut down his vision outright. Respect what he is seeing and remind him that he is safe, and he is loved. Ava Butler writes, “dismissing his reality is not helpful, and can actually make it appear that I am not trustworthy…remind him that we are safe, and that everyone is on our side…Ask him to look in my eyes. This can help ground him. Remind him that I love him…However if I’m part of the hallucination and am perceived to be involved in some conspiracy, I need to back off and give him space…ask him to describe what he sees. Sometimes this causes him to focus a bit more. What he sees can give me insight into how he is feeling.”

Butler also recommends turning negative into positive – if your loved one thinks they see a bad guy, acknowledge that the person “looked bad” but is actually good and there to help him stay safe. Finally, it’s important to stay calm, cool, and collected. Showing your own frustration or anger will only heighten the situation and make it worse.

Improving the quality of life for an LBD patient might include hiring physical therapists to assist with movement difficulties, speech therapists to help with swallowing and voice problems, occupational therapists to help with everyday activities, and mental health counselors to help with difficult emotions.

Music and art therapy can also help your loved one with their anxiety and give them something to look forward to that will keep them calm and feeling positive.

With over 400 types of dementia, it can be hard to pinpoint exactly what your loved one is suffering from. Once you have a clear diagnosis, though, you can begin individualized treatment and care. If your loved one has been diagnosed with LBD – or if you suspect they might be suffering from it – see your doctor right away and develop a treatment plan together.

It can be devastating to receive this diagnosis – but with the right research and proper care plan, you and your loved one can be as prepared as possible for the road ahead.

Sources:

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/what-lewy-body-dementia#:~:text=Lewy%20body%20dementia%20(LBD)%20is,movement%2C%20behavior%2C%20and%20mood.

https://www.healthline.com/health/dementia/lewy-body-dementia#symptoms

https://www.verywellhealth.com/lewy-body-dementia-stages-progression-98735

https://www.lbda.org/10-things-you-should-know-about-lbd/

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-dementia/types-of-dementia/lewy-body-dementia

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/symptoms-and-diagnosis/how-dementia-progresses/progression-dementia-lewy-bodies

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/how-care-person-lewy-body-dementia

https://www.thememorycenter.com/how-to-care-for-someone-with-lewy-body-dementia/

https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/health-management/coping-strategies-for-lewy-body-dementia-caregivers

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/what-lewy-body-dementia#:~:text=Lewy%20body%20dementia%20affects%20more,slightly%20more%20men%20than%20women.

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-dementia/types-of-dementia/parkinson-s-disease-dementia

https://www.michaeljfox.org/news/ask-md-what-lewy-body-dementia

https://www.michaeljfox.org/news/what-richard-sees-insight-lewy-body-dementia-hallucinations

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If our parents or grandparents have been increasingly struggling with changes in memory or personality, we may be worried that they have Alzheimer’s or dementia. Most people have heard of these diseases and may have had a grandparent or distant family member experience them before.

Still, though, until we are facing these diagnoses head-on, we may not understand exactly what to expect. How can we know the differences between dementia and Alzheimer’s? Do all dementias look the same or are there different types? Could my loved one’s memory problems be related to something else, like simple ageing, or do they have to mean a cognitive disease?

On today’s episode, we’ll examine Alzheimer’s and dementia through a closer lens. We’ll go over the varying types of dementia and what to expect from your loved one before and after a diagnosis. By the end, you should have a much clearer understanding of the world of dementia and Alzheimer’s and feel more prepared to face what’s ahead. While there is no cure for these diseases, the more you can prepare yourself and your loved one, the better you both will feel moving forward.

Dementia affects millions of people every single year. According to alz.org, “an estimated 50 million people worldwide are living with dementia, including 5 million Americans.” It’s an epidemic with no cure, which makes dementia especially devastating for families. Many families choose to care for their loved one at home, and nearly 80% of at-home patients are cared for by family members or unpaid caregivers.

Caring for a dementia patient can be exhausting for anyone – but especially for a family member who has to sacrifice so much to be there for their loved one, and who might find themselves mourning for the way things used to be. With the right knowledge and support, this process can be made easier for all involved.

Dementia and Alzheimer’s are not the same disease, although they are certainly related. Dementia refers to a person’s changes in memory or thinking – and one of the causes of dementia is Alzheimer’s. Neither dementia nor Alzheimer’s are “normal” parts of aging – they are diseases that require extra support, care, and treatment.

Dementia comes in many forms and can have its roots in a number of causes. Alzheimer’s, though, is the most common. According to alz.org, Alzheimer’s accounts for 60-80% of dementia cases. Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disease that will take over a person’s ability to reason, speak, and care for themselves. To better understand this disease, let’s take a look at the way the brain works.

When a person has Alzheimer’s, their brains are no longer able to function normally. That’s because they are experiencing nerve cell death and tissue loss over a period of time – usually 4 to 8 years, though this fluctuates depending on the person. A person can live up to 20 years with Alzheimer’s disease. While it is not clear what causes this tissue loss, scientists understand that it has something to do with a build-up of plaque and tangles in the brain.

Plaques are protein fragment clusters that crowd between nerve cells. When a nerve cell is dying, or already dead, it contains tangles, or twisted protein strands. The clumps of plaques and tangles can block cell-to-cell signals in the brain. This mixed-up signaling sometimes triggers immune system cells, which consume the dead or dying cells and trigger inflammation.

When a brain is under siege of these tangles and plaques, the brain is unable to process nutrients or other important supplies throughout the cells. With nothing moving through them, the cells die. In the early stages of the disease, the plaques and tangles cluster in the areas of the brain that affect learning and memory, thinking and planning.

This is when you might notice your parent has forgotten where she put her purse, or has trouble planning for the week ahead. The symptoms at this point are subtle enough to be discounted or missed altogether. In the early stages, almost no one is officially diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. After all, momentary lapses in memory could be considered a normal part of aging.

In mild to moderate Alzheimer’s, the plaques and tangles begin to grow and spread. Learning and memory and planning and thinking become overwhelmed with them. You will notice your parent or grandparent struggle with expressing themselves, growing irritated or frustrated more easily, and having increased trouble with their short-term memory.

At this stage, it’s common for a person to confuse dress clothes for casual clothes, and struggle with social interactions. At this stage, their speech will also start to slow, and you might notice your parent forget certain words or speak nonsensically. Your parent also might start to wander, or even have trouble with their spatial awareness.

At this stage, the plaques and tangles have now found their way to the portion of the brain that controls speaking and understanding speech, as well as where your body is compared to your surroundings.

In the severe stages of Alzheimer’s disease, the brain has begun to shrink, due to the death of so many cells. At this point, a person may be unable to communicate at all and cannot care for themselves. They might struggle to recognize important people in their lives.

Alzheimer’s is a devastating disease. If your loved one has been diagnosed, you might find yourself getting frustrated, overwhelmed, or even exhausted when it comes to their care. After all, it’s difficult and heartbreaking to struggle to communicate with your parent, and it’s all too easy to become irritated or even angered with your loved one’s mood swings or forgetfulness.

If you understand what is happening inside their brains – that it is quite literally shrinking – it might help you to better understand what your parent is dealing with. In any case, it will give you a better idea of why your parent’s disease is progressing, and what you can expect as time goes on.

To learn more about how to care for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, and what to specifically expect from the disease, check out our previous episodes on the stages of Alzheimer’s and supporting a loved one with dementia. There, you’ll find insight into how to best care for your loved one, what to expect int their behavior and cognitive ability as time goes on, and tips for how to keep their lives as full as possible.

While Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia, there are many other types of dementia that your parent or grandparent might be diagnosed with. Having an understanding not just of dementia alone, but of the specific types, will better prepare you for what to expect on an individual basis, and the types of care you should consider. It will also help you understand what type of support your loved one requires.

Before we get into the other types of dementia, let’s look at dementia in broader terms. While dementia looks different in every case, most people will face memory loss, difficulties with problem-solving, language struggles, and thinking struggles. In some cases, a person might experience mood swings or changes in personality. Like Alzheimer’s, dementia will progress over time.

A human brain looks different depending on the type of dementia a person has. Just like a brain suffering with Alzheimer’s has a very specific trajectory, the varying types of dementia impact the brain in different, but similar, ways.

The second most common type of dementia is Vascular dementia. This disease accounts for about 5 to 10% of all dementia cases. Vascular dementia occurs when the brain receives a reduced blood supply, due to diseased blood vessels. Without a ready supply of blood, brain cells are deprived of necessary oxygen and nutrients. The cells therefore die.

Vascular dementia causes problems in thinking, reasoning, and memory. It does not always affect all three, however, because it depends on where the blood supply is being blocked within the brain. Because of this, Vascular dementia is believed to be underdiagnosed. You might find that your parent struggles with mobility, like balance or walking, and may even experience numbness on one side of the face or body. They might not have a single issue with memory, though.

At the same time, your parent could be struggling deeply with memory issues, but be walking and moving around just fine. That’s why vascular dementia can be especially difficult to diagnose.

A person with vascular dementia might suffer from multiple small strokes that impact blood vessels and nerve fibers inside the brain. This could lead to changes in thinking, planning, and judgement. You might notice that your parent has been laughing or crying uncontrollably or is unable to function in social situations.

Because vascular dementia is so commonly undiagnosed, it is recommended that your loved one undergo cognitive testing – especially if they have suffered a stroke in the past. If your loved one has suffered a stroke, or is vulnerable to heart or blood vessel disease, there are ways to reduce the risk of developing vascular dementia.

Avoid anything that raises blood pressure or cholesterol, don’t smoke, and limit your drinking. Exercise and healthy eating also do wonders for reducing the risk of vascular dementia, along with a myriad of other health issues.

Treatment for vascular dementia is all about stopping the condition from worsening. This can be accomplished through eating a healthy, low-salt diet to manage high blood pressure, losing weight if necessary, quitting smoking, and cutting down on or cutting out alcohol. Therapies like physiotherapy and occupational therapy can help your loved one to get through daily tasks. Music and dance therapy, massages, and meditation have also proved helpful in patients with vascular dementia.

Another type of dementia is known as Dementia with Lewy Bodies – or DLB. DLB is sort of a hybrid of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, a disease that heavily affects mental and physical abilities in a diagnosed person. About 10-15% of dementia cases are DLB.

DLB is so similar to Alzheimer’s, that it is often misdiagnosed for the latter – but there are key differences that are worth looking out for. The right diagnosis means the right care for your loved one. Of course, DLB and Alzheimer’s require much the same care, so a misdiagnosis likely won’t make a great impact on your loved one’s treatment. Still, understanding the difference between DLB and Alzheimer’s can mean little changes in treatment and care that go a long way.

Lewy bodies refer to deposits of protein that emerge in nerve cells within the brain. While it is unknown why these deposits show up, their impact on the brain is clearer. Lewy bodies lead to low levels of chemicals that are important for brain function – especially acetylcholine and dopamine, which are essential for carrying messages through the nerve cells. A lack of connections in the cells leads to nerve cell death.

Lewy bodies also affect the areas of the brain that control movement and mental disease. Because of this, many people with DLB are also diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.

Treatment for DLB is used to keep a patient’s quality of life as high as possible, for as long as possible. As with other forms of dementia, a healthy diet will help to keep your loved one feeling strong and energized. A psychotherapist can help your loved one to feel supported and learn how to manage emotional and behavioral difficulties.

Talk to your loved one about joining a support group or taking on one on one therapy. Even in the age of COVID-19, therapies and support groups are taking place over Zoom. You might even find that your loved one is more willing to share their experiences through a camera than in person, which might make them feel overwhelmed.

Another form of dementia is Frontotemporal Dementia – or FTD. This is a rarer form of the disease, but it does affect about 50,000 to 60,000 people in the United States each year. FTB takes place when the nerve cells in the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain are damaged or dying. This causes connections to break down and chemical messengers to decrease significantly.

For a person with FTD, behavioral and personality changes are common. Because the frontal lobe plays a huge role in personality, this can mean drastic changes in the people we love. Their emotions, behaviors, and focus will be greatly impacted, to the point where they may not be recognizable to us.

At the same time, the temporal lobes are involved with language. Someone with FTD might struggle with the meanings of words or using the correct words to describe an object. If you notice that your parent is having trouble with language and their personality and behavior have significantly changed, they might be suffering from FTD. Unlike other forms of dementia, where the first symptoms are typically memory loss, personality changes and language problems occur early on in a patient with FTD.

Establishing a care plan for a loved one with FTD is important. Choosing a type of care that can help them to stay as independent as possible, for as long as possible, can make the transition to long term care helps a little bit easier.

Therapies like physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech and language therapy can be enormously helpful for anyone with FTD. Physiotherapy will assist your loved one with mobility problems, while occupational therapy will help them with other problems – like dressing and problem solving. Speech and language therapy will help with communication, memory, and even issues swallowing.

The more stimulating, active assistance your loved one can receive, the longer they can hopefully remain relatively independent. Of course, nothing is guaranteed, but therapies have been proven to make every day living easier for patients with FTD.

Your loved one may also be struggling with mixed dementia. Mixed dementia is when a person has more than one type of dementia. Most commonly, a person will have Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia at the same time. Another common combination is Alzheimer’s disease and LBD.

About one in ten people with dementia has more than one type – this is especially common for people over the age of 75. Even though that’s a high number, it is not commonly diagnosed. According to Alzheimers.org.uk, doctors usually only diagnose mixed dementia when a person struggles deeply with more than one type that are both contributing equally to their symptoms.

Unsurprisingly, symptoms of mixed dementia vary greatly, depending on the combination of diseases. In most cases, one type of dementia is considered the “predominant” disease in a person and impacts more of the brain than the other. If a person has Alzheimer’s and Vascular Dementia, for instance, they will probably have more symptoms of Alzheimer’s if the blood supply blockage is only in one part of the brain.

Dementia is not reserved for the elderly. Early onset dementia in younger people, a common form of young-onset dementia affects about 200,000 Americans every year, according to Alzheimers.org. This is usually difficult to diagnose, just because doctors don’t tend to think of dementia when meeting with younger patients.

If you are under the age of 65 and have been experiencing symptoms related to memory loss or personality changes, it might be smart to meet with a doctor who specializes in Dementia, rather than your regular physician.

Early onset dementia is often hereditary, but it can also be caused by over consumption of alcohol. In that case, it’s known as alcohol related dementia, or ARBD.

Alcohol-related dementia affects about one in eight people with dementia under the age of 65. Usually, a person with ARBD is about 40-50 years old. This occurs when a person drinks or binge drinks regularly, leading alcohol to damage the brain’s nerve cells, blood vessels, or ability to process VitaminB1. A person with ARBD might struggle with day-to-day tasks and memory loss, balance, and mood swings.

There are many other types of dementia, that can affect people of all ages. These include Huntington’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease Dementia, Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease, and more.

Regardless of the type of dementia your loved one is struggling with, they will need constant care and support from their family, friends, and caregivers. This includes constant care as the disease progresses, brain stimulating activities, and a whole lot of patience, gentleness, and love.

Remember that these diseases are greatly impacting your loved one’s brains, so your loved one is not at all in control of her behavior, mood, or thinking. Because of that, it’s essential not to blame your loved one for their behavior, no matter how frustrated you might feel. Always keep in mind that this is as hard for your loved one, if not harder, than it is for you.

If you are worried that your parent might be suffering from dementia or Alzheimer’s, but aren’t entirely sure, make sure to schedule a doctor appointment where all of their symptoms can be addressed.

The earlier you can pin down a diagnosis, the sooner you can provide your parent with the treatment and support they need. While there is no cure for dementia, treatment plans can help delay the progression of the disease. To learn more about that, listen to our episode on supporting a loved one with dementia.

We know how devastating it can be when a loved one is struggling with a cognitive disease. We hope that through a better understanding of these diseases, you can better prepare yourself to understand what your loved one is going through.

Sources:

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/types-dementia

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/expert-answers/alzheimers-and-dementia-whats-the-difference/faq-20396861

https://www.healthline.com/health/types-dementia

https://www.healthline.com/health/alzheimers-disease/difference-dementia-alzheimers

https://www.seniorlifestyle.com/resources/blog/understanding-different-types-dementia/

https://www.tuftsmedicarepreferred.org/members/caring-loved-one/understanding-dementia-and-alzheimer%E2%80%99s-disease

https://thebristal.com/where-to-begin/understanding-alzheimers-and-other-types-of-dementia/

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-alzheimers/brain_tour_part_2

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-dementia/types-of-dementia/vascular-dementia#:~:text=Vascular%20dementia%20is%20widely%20considered,%25%20to%2010%25%20of%20cases.

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/difference-between-dementia-and-alzheimer-s#:~:text=Dementia%20is%20a%20general%20term,Dementia%20is%20not.

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-dementia/types-of-dementia

https://www.alz.org/media/documents/understanding-alzheimers-dementia-b.pdf

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As your parents or grandparents age and become more dependent, there may come a time when your role transitions into that of a caregiver. For family members, this can be a difficult adjustment. As well as we know and as much as we love our parents, we’re probably used to them supporting us, more than the other way around. Still, being a family caregiver is a wonderful way to bond with our loved ones and truly appreciate the time we have left with them.

While being a caregiver for a loved one can be immensely rewarding, it’s also emotionally taxing, with a huge learning curve. If you’re just starting this new role, you probably feel a bit daunted. You’ve had to take on a long list of new responsibilities – and learn to balance them with your own personal lives.

Being a family caregiver isn’t an easy task, but with the right preparation, you can make the experience more positive for you and your loved one. That’s why today, we’re diving into the family caregiver’s checklist – so you can know what to expect for the years ahead and be as prepared as possible.

First on the checklist? Gathering and recording important information. You might feel like you know everything about your parent – after all, you’ve known them your whole life, and had lived with them for years growing up. Even still, it’s essential that all the information you know is written and recorded in one easy-to-access, organized place.

Important information includes all those basics you have floating around in your head. Your loved one’s social security number, driver’s license number, and blood type, and any possible allergies. If your loved one is a veteran, record their service serial number. Even though it might feel redundant to write down something you know by heart, it’s important to prepare for possible emergency situations, when someone else needs access to these files, or you simply have a mental blank.

Once you’ve gathered and organized basic details, you can turn your attention to medical history. Write down everything you know about your loved one’s medical history – including family history. Record the phone numbers of anyone who handles their medical care – including their physician, physical therapist, and anyone else who seems relevant.

You’ll also want to keep a list of their medications – including any supplements, vitamins, over the counter drugs or even creams that they use. To learn more about organizing your parents’ medications, check out our episode on medication safety.

After you’ve organized personal and medical information, you can look toward important people in your loved one’s life. Create a list of your parent’s most important contacts – including addresses and phone numbers – so you can easily contact them in the event of an emergency. Even if you think you know this information from the top of your head, it can easily be forgotten in the moment.

After all, if your loved one has an emergency, you will be entirely focused on them – and not want to rack your brain for who to call. If you accidentally forget someone, that could lead to hurt feelings and unnecessary stress. It’s a good idea to have a list handy, no matter what.

Once all this information is noted, you can shift your focus to the deeper things you know about your parent. Their likes and dislikes, values, talents, goals, favorite meals and activities, least favorite meals and activities.

Having a clear understanding of who your parent is – beyond the informational basics – will help to ensure that you’re giving them the best possible care. As your parent becomes more dependent, it might be harder for them to express themselves to you – so you’ll want to know these things like the back of your hand. That way, your parent will never have to eat a food they dislike, and they can participate in games and activities that hone their interests.

Next, you’ll want to make an assessment of your parents’ capabilities. How much care does your parent need? At the beginning, you might just be helping with the basics, like shopping or cleaning. There’s a chance, though, that your parent might require more heavy-duty care – maybe they have trouble eating on their own or keeping up with personal hygiene. Maybe they need help keeping track of medications.

By making a list of what your parents’ abilities are, you’ll have a better idea of how much they really need from you. Too often, family caregivers are thrown into the ocean without a life raft. They might not be prepared for just how much help their parent needs and be overwhelmed when it’s more than they expected. To avoid this type of situation, start assessing right away.

If your parent is moving in with you from out of town, or if you’re moving in with them, you might not know their present situation as well as you need to. Contact the people closest to them – doctors, friends, other family members – and ask questions. Has your parent had trouble walking lately? Do they ever seem confused or forgetful? What’s the condition of their living space – are they keeping up with house care?

Gather all the information you can and make a checklist of activities your parent can do by himself, and the ones he needs more help with. AARP suggests assessing the following activities of daily living: feeding, toileting, selecting proper attire, grooming, maintaining continence, putting on clothes, bathing, walking and transferring from a chair or a bed to a wheelchair.

In addition, they suggest you look at the following IADLs, or instrumental activities of daily living: managing finances, handling transportation (driving or navigating public transit), shopping, preparing meals, using the telephone and other communication devices, managing medications, performing housework and basic home maintenance.

In addition to assessing these needs yourself, take your parent to a doctor or a geriatric social worker. There, they will conduct an official assessment of activity that will give you a much better idea of the level of care they need.

If your parent requires around the clock care, you’ll need to consider how you plan to meet their needs. Can you handle this level of care by yourself, or do you need to consider other options? If keeping your loved one at home is important to your loved one and to you, then consider speaking with a professional home care provider about options that can help you manage their needs and yours. If your loved one requires medical care, then you can discuss home health care options with their doctor. To learn more about the varying types of care available, check out our episode on how to choose the best care for your loved one.

Once you’ve gathered all this information about your loved one – from their social security number to their ability levels – it’s time to take a look at the living environment. It might be necessary to install extra safety precautions at home. From extra handrails in the shower and by the toilet, to possibly installing a stairlift, you’ll need to make sure that the house is as safe as possible for your loved one.

The main reason to check home safety is to prevent unnecessary falls. Start with the bathroom. You can add non-skid strips to the tub or shower, to make the floor less slippery, in addition to adding safety rails in the bathroom. Make sure to wipe the floor whenever it’s wet, and to put bathmats beside the shower and tub. Finally, add a shower or bath seat.

Now, take a look at the rest of the house. Make sure there is a clear path from one room to another, so that your parent can easily move around the house. Are there cords or wires that your parent could trip over? Uneven steps on the staircase? Rooms with poor lighting? Evaluate any risks and see what you can do to minimize them.

Things like removing throw rugs from the house and installing thinner carpet can help prevent falls. You can also install handrails by the stairs (if not a stairlift) and make sure your parent is wearing shoes and slippers with non-skid soles. Make sure chairs have arm rests to help your parent get in and out of them more easily.

Next, make your way to the kitchen. Open the drawers, cabinets, oven, and refrigerator. Are any doors jammed or stuck? Do they feel heavy and difficult to open? Are there items on high shelves that your parent will need regular access to?

Once you’ve examined your loved one’s living space, it’s time to examine yourself. This isn’t an easy job – so you need to make sure you’re in the best possible shape to perform it. That means making time for yourself, too. Schedule in time for yourself every day – even if it’s just for an hour. Go for walks, read, engage in hobbies that you love.

If you can, try to make room for a day out at least one day a week. You might need to find respite care for this time – see if any friends or family might be able to help or speaking with a professional home care provider. Caregiving is emotionally and physically taxing – so while it might seem selfish to put in the time for yourself, it’s actually one of the most selfless things you can do.

If you feel like you’re having a hard time, ask yourself the following questions: are you eating healthily? Are you sleeping enough? Are you taking breaks? Do you have a support system? Have you considered or looked into a caregiver support group? Do you ask for help when you need it? Does your employer know that you’ve taken on these extra responsibilities?

Remember – when you’re taking care of yourself, you’re taking care of your loved one, too. You might find that caregiving is too overwhelming, and if it’s just not working, it’s okay to be honest with yourself. You will need to accept help from time to time, as this is an enormous task for any one person to take on. Be patient and gentle with yourself as you begin this journey.

Making the transition to a family caregiver is never easy. We hope that this check list will help you to get started – so you can feel a little bit less daunted and a lot more prepared as you begin. Caregiving can be one of the most rewarding experiences in the world – and the more prepared you are, the better the experience will be for both you and your loved one.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. Next time on All Home Care Matters we will be discussing and explaining the different types of dementia, you won’t want to miss it.

Sources:

https://www.aarp.org/content/dam/aarp/entertainment/books/2015-04/Caregivers_Excerpt.pdf

https://www.caregivingmetrowest.org/InfoCenter/Home-Health-and-Safety/Home-Safety-and-Modification

http://www.agis.com/Document/5/caregiver-self-assessment.aspx

http://www.agis.com/Document/26/tips-for-preventing-falls.aspx

https://www.homecareassistanceftlauderdale.com/caregiving-rewards/#:~:text=Surveys%20indicate%20that%2083%20percent,member%20also%20provides%20many%20benefits.

http://www.caregiverslibrary.org/Caregivers-Resources/GRP-Checklists-Forms

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If you’ve been diagnosed with arthritis, you might find that life has been harder to navigate. Experiencing chronic pain can feel impossible to manage – and it might even be keeping you from engaging in some of the activities you love. No one should have to make sacrifices because they’re in pain, which is why today, we’re going to delve into tips for managing arthritis. While there’s no cure for arthritis, practicing certain treatments can help significantly.

Arthritis is a strikingly common condition in the United States. In fact, according to the CDC, over 54 million Americans are diagnosed with it. Of those, about 24 million suffer from severe joint pain that limits their ability to fully function.

Arthritis occurs when a person experiences joint disease or swelling around the joints. It can be extremely debilitating – according to the CDC, it’s actually the leading cause of work disability, costing about $303.5 billion a year in health care costs and lost income.

Arthritis is not a singular condition. In fact, there are over 100 types of arthritis or related conditions, with varying levels of pain and different plans for treatment. In some cases, Arthritis occurs as a degenerative condition, in which symptoms worsen over time. In others, it’s an autoimmune disease, in which a person will experience frequent ups and downs, pain that flares up and goes away at random. If you have arthritis, it’s important to understand the type you’re experiencing, so you know how to provide yourself with the best possible care.

The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis, or OA. For a long time, doctors believed Arthritis to be caused by wearing down joints over time. In fact, it’s actually a joint disease.

The Arthritis Foundation reports that over 27 million Americans are affected by OA. OA is a degenerative Arthritis, so it worsens over time. It can be caused by injuries, age, joint injury, or obesity. It can also be inherited, so check your family’s history to find out if OA runs in your bloodline. OA most commonly occurs in a person’s 50’s, and women are more susceptible to the condition than men.

Not everyone with OA experiences the same symptoms, but common symptoms include sore joints, poor coordination, and stiffness (especially in the morning). Because OA is degenerative, these symptoms will worsen as time goes on. You might find that your joints are aching when you’re active – and you don’t have to be running on the treadmill. It’s possible that your joints will be in pain after a day spent on your feet at work or even playing the piano. Your muscles might feel weaker than usual, and you may even experience joint instability or buckling, like your knees giving out. If you notice the sound of a “crack” every time your joint is bent, you might have OA.

OA can be felt in the hips, fingers, feet, or knees. In the hips, the pain is usually felt in the groin or rear, or inside knees and thighs. If you have OA in your knees, you might feel a scraping feeling whenever you move them. In your fingers, bone spurs will cause swelling, redness, and tenderness. You might also experience particularly bad pain around your thumb. In your feet, your big toes will feel tender, and your ankles and feet might swell.

The effects of this pain can be debilitating. According to Arthritis.org, “as OA gets worse, cartilage may get uneven edges and cracks. Bones may harden, change shape, and get bumpy. Once the cartilage breaks down, it doesn’t grow back on its own.” Over time, you might find it more difficult to move and you could even experience falls. Arthritis.org reports that people with OA experience 30 percent more falls than people without it. This is because of weakened muscles, side effects from medications, and poor fine motor skills. Falls mean an increased chance of fractures, breaks, or even head injuries.

If you are worried that you might have OA, make sure you see a doctor right away. That way, you can rule out any other problems, and begin treatment as soon as possible. The doctor will numb the area of pain and take fluid through a needle, which she will test for infection or crystals. This will help the doctor to identify the exact type of arthritis you might have. You’ll also receive an x-ray to look for joint damage, and possibly an MRI.

If you go to the doctor and receive a positive diagnosis for OA, there are ways to treat the pain. In addition to taking any prescribed medications, it will be essential to engage in movement and exercise. That way, your muscles and joints will be strengthened to fight the condition. At the same time, exercise will help to fight the stiffness in your joints. The doctor will likely recommend range-of-motion exercises, in which you keep your joints moving through stretches. You might also try balance exercises to strengthen your knees and ankles or strengthening exercises to build muscle around your joints.

People with OA have an increased likelihood of experiencing obesity, due to a lack of movement or exercise. Excess weight can greatly exacerbate OA. Obesity, of course, also leads to a myriad of other health issues, such as diabetes and heart disease. This is why it’s so important to exercise as much as possible – just make sure to consult your doctor about the best types of exercise for you.

You never want to overwork your sore muscles or feel like you’re torturing yourself. Your doctor should have an idea of exercises that you can handle, that will help you to fight off weight and lessen your pain. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, a person with OA should exercise at least 150 minutes a week.

For help with exercising, you can always consider physical therapy. A physical therapist will help you perfect a series of helpful exercises designed to fight against Arthritis. He can also provide handy assistive devices like shoe inserts, that will make walking much more comfortable. Finally, a PT will help you to stay on track with that 150-minute work-out goal. You can get much of your exercising done at the PT’s office, and not have to worry about it too much when you’re back at home.

In addition to exercise, it’s important to watch what you’re eating. It’s common for a person with OA to suffer from diabetes – so do what you can to control your blood sugar levels and avoid foods with high glucose. This will keep your cartilage from breaking down, weakening, or stiffening.

You can also make sure to practice gentle stretching – like raising and lowering arms and legs or going on daily walks. Make sure not to push past the pain – you don’t want to cause more damage to your joints or over-do it. Simple, light movements can work alongside carefully planned exercise to strengthen your joints and keep your muscles from stiffening.

Believe it or not, stress can make OA worse. Be sure to practice self-care, so you can avoid unnecessary or debilitating stress that will put your body at risk. Whether you’re listening to podcasts or music, taking hot baths, or engaging in a hobby like reading or drawing, find something that helps you to feel relaxed. The more relaxed you feel, the more relaxed your joints will feel, too.

Worst comes to worst, you might turn to surgery to fight the pain. Replacing damage joints can drastically improve mobility and decrease pain. Hip and knee replacements are the most common surgeries performed on OA patients. Speak with your doctor about whether surgery is the best answer for you.

The second most common type of Arthritis is Rheumatoid Arthritis, or RA. About 1.3 million Americans suffer from RA, usually between the ages of thirty and sixty. Unlike OA, RA is an autoimmune disease – so the immune system is actually attacking the joints and causing them to swell. While it’s unclear what causes RA, some doctors believe it has to do with an immune system confused by an infection or virus – attacking healthy joints instead of sick ones, leading to inflammation. With RA, the immune system specifically attacks the joints, causing swelling and tissue damage.

According to Healthline, a person with RA has a 60% increased chance of heart attack or stroke after a diagnosis. That’s because RA can actually attack a person’s heart lining, and cause swelling throughout the entire body. At the same time, similarly to OA, people with RA might be reluctant to exercise, and experience excessive weight gain.

There are treatment plans for RA, that can help you to achieve a state of remission, so you can feel more like yourself again. In addition to taking prescribed medication, it’s important to implement diet and exercise changes.

Like with OA, it will be important to consult a physical therapist to help you create an exercise plan that works for you. Exercises like water aerobics, water therapy, and strength training are especially common. Water exercises can work wonders on relaxing stiffened muscles and reducing swelling around joints. Just make sure you follow careful exercise instructions from your doctor or PT, so you don’t accidentally worsen the pain.

When it comes to diet, decreasing sugar and gluten intake and increasing fiber and omega-3’s can be extremely beneficial. Foods that are high in omega-3 include fatty fish like salmon and tuna, and walnuts, almonds, or chia seeds. Consider taking fish oil supplements and even antioxidants, like Vitamin A, C, or E. A change of diet can actually reduce inflammation of your joints, which will provide a great sense of relief to your body.

Another common type of Arthritis is Psoriatic Arthritis. It affects people who suffer from Psoriasis, a disease that causes swollen and inflamed skin. The skin might look patchy, scaly, and reddened – especially around the elbows, knees, scalp, groin, and rear. They might also experience swollen toes and fingers, and discolored fingernails. Joint swelling can occur in many joints or be isolated to just one or two – such as a joint in just one knee. The pain can become quite severe, so treatment to manage symptoms is crucial. This condition is equally prominent in men and women, and usually occurs between the ages of 30 and 50.

Other symptoms include back pain, caused by an inflammation of joints in the spine, foot pain caused by swelling in the ligaments attached to the bone, and deformities in hands and feet. You might even notice the deformities before you are suffering from joint pain.

A person with this disease might also experience eye inflammation, inflamed bowels, obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol, or heart disease. It’s essential to maintain a healthy diet and exercise, in order to avoid worsening symptoms.

Psoriatic arthritis is caused by the immune system attacking healthy cells and the body overproducing skin cells. This disease often runs in families – so a person whose parents have suffered from psoriatic arthritis are more likely to be diagnosed themselves.

Make sure to engage in a treatment plan to avoid eventual disability, even if your pain isn’t too severe. Start by meeting with a rheumatologist for an evaluation of symptoms, and to begin a treat-to-target treatment plan.

No matter what type of arthritis you have, it’s important to engage in a treatment plan right away. That way, you’ll reach a point of remission where your pain feels manageable, and you can hopefully go back to doing the activities you love. Remember to follow your PT’s exercise plan and eat a healthy, low sugar, diet. With the right treatment, you should feel like you have your life back on track.

We want to thank you for joining us here at All Home Care Matters, All Home Care Matters is here for you and to help families as they navigate long-term care issues. Please visit us at allhomecarematters.com where there is a private secure fillable form where you can give us feedback, show ideas, or if you have questions. Every form is read and responded to. If you know someone is who could benefit from this episode, please share it with them.

Remember, you can listen to the show anywhere that podcasts are played and you can watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. Please join us on the next episode of All Home Care Matters as we discuss the Caregiver Checklist. If you are currently or transitioning into being a family caregiver then you know it can be overwhelming and daunting at times. We will be providing the tips and resources to make your role as caregiver hopefully a little easier.

Sources:

https://www.arthritis.org/diseases/more-about/how-to-achieve-remission-in-psoriatic-arthritis

https://www.healthline.com/health/anti-inflammatory-ra-diet

https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/basics/rheumatoid-arthritis.html

https://www.arthritis.org/diseases/osteoarthritis

https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/about-arthritis/understanding-arthritis/what-is-arthritis#:~:text=Actually%2C%20%E2%80%9Carthritis%E2%80%9D%20is%20not,cause%20of%20disability%20in%20America.

https://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/resources/publications/factsheets/arthritis.htm#:~:text=In%20the%20United%20States%2C%2023,arthritis%20report%20severe%20joint%20pain.

https://www.healthline.com/health/arthritis-types#osteoarthritis

https://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/guide/most-common-arthritis-types

https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/basics/types.html

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/7621

https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/about-arthritis/understanding-arthritis/what-is-arthritis

https://www.gethealthystayhealthy.com/articles/tips-for-managing-arthritis-pain

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324446

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/arthritis/

https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/managing-pain/pain-relief-solutions/4-tips-for-managing-chronic-pain

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arthritis/in-depth/arthritis/art-20046440

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When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, it can feel devastating. This disease will be life changing for your loved one and, likely, for you. The senior in your life will require a special amount of support, love, and devotion – so you can make sure she is safe and cared for.

Alzheimer’s is a slowly progressing neurological disorder, which means that your loved one will become increasingly dependent as time goes on. While there is no cure for the disease, there are ways to slow the progression. Everyone experiences Alzheimer’s differently, but there are seven stages that you can expect your loved one to go through after a diagnosis.

It’s important to know what to expect as you face this new diagnosis. That way, you can be better prepared to be there for your loved one – and, hopefully, won’t be taken by any painful surprises.

Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging – but it does affect a large number of seniors every year. It’s the most common form of dementia. The disease is the 6th leading cause of death in the United States, affecting 1 in 10 Americans over the age of 65. Far too many cases go undiagnosed. These statistics can be hard to come to terms with. If you sense

that your loved one might have Alzheimer’s, but aren’t sure, it’s important to understand how common the disease is, and what signs and symptoms to look out for.

Because Alzheimer’s is a cognitive disease, it impacts memory, thinking, and language. It can also impact movement, problem-solving and even personality. Eventually, daily tasks will be nearly impossible to accomplish – but with the right treatment, it can be possible to delay worsening symptoms.

Before we get into the stages, it’s important to remember that everyone is different. Alzheimer’s might not look the same for your parent as it did for your grandparent, for instance. Still, these stages give us a pretty good idea of what we can expect moving forward, before and after a diagnosis.

The period before a diagnosis is known as “preclinical Alzheimer’s disease.” This stage is considered a normal part of aging, because symptoms are too subtle to isolate. A person might be in the preclinical stage for years before their disease develops. Over time, scientists hope to develop advanced imaging technology that will indicate when a person is in this stage. That way, they can get an early start preparing for what’s next.

Slowly, a person will start to experience very mild forgetfulness. This is considered the second stage of the disease. It’s common at this stage for a person to forget a word or misplace something. Your loved one’s daily life will not yet be affected by the disease – they can still live independently.

Often, family, friends, and even doctors won’t notice that anything is wrong. Your loved one might confuse names or places, take longer than usual to express herself, and have a hard time with complicated tasks like paying the bills. Again, these symptoms are usually subtle – and they can be mistaken for normal ageing. If you notice that your loved one is experiencing forgetfulness, you can have her engage in mental activities, exercise, and eat healthy. While the progression of the disease is inevitable, activities like these will help your parent to have a stronger cognitive performance.

The third stage of Alzheimer’s is known as the mild dementia stage. It can go on for as long as seven years, and the symptoms will appear slowly. During this time, memory problems might become severe enough for doctors and family members to take notice. A person in the mild dementia stage might have trouble completing tasks or solving problems. If they had been planning an event, for instance, they might struggle greatly with that task, and become overwhelmed or exhausted.

During this stage, they could also start sleeping more frequently during the day and staying up longer at night. They might get lost driving or walking along familiar routes, or struggle to remember new information.

In this stage, their personality might start to slowly change. You might notice that your loved one is withdrawn or irritable during socially challenging situations – like parties, group events, or meetings. She might become overwhelmed by a lengthy visit with grandchildren, for instance, or following a meeting with a financial advisor.

Continue to work with your parent on mental exercises and making sure they are eating right and exercising. It is also recommended that your parent engage in counseling, especially if he or she is in denial or experiencing anxiety.

The fourth stage of Alzheimer’s usually lasts two years. It’s known as moderate dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease. This is the stage when most people receive an official diagnosis. You might notice that your mother or father is struggling to complete everyday tasks, like getting dressed or changing their clothes. They might not know the proper clothes to wear for specific events, such as weddings or funerals. Occasionally, they could lose control of their bladder.

Memory loss will be even greater during this time. They might start to forget important details about themselves – such as their address or their first job. They could make up stories in an attempt to fill disorienting gaps in their memory.

At this stage, they might also begin to wander. Oftentimes, especially when away from home, a person with Alzheimer’s wanders in an attempt to find something familiar. At this stage, it’s important not to leave your loved one alone. They could even wander from their own home if it momentarily seems strange or unsafe to them. Still, home is often the best place for a person with Alzheimer’s to be, because it is where they will feel safest most of the time.

The fourth stage of Alzheimer’s disease is also when most people experience major changes in their personality. This can be extremely difficult to witness. You might feel that you are losing part of your Mom, Dad, or grandparent, or find yourself offended or hurt when they lash out. Remember that these mood swings are your parents’ disease, not your parent. Try to remain calm, patient, and gentle. If you are angry or frustrated with your parent, this will only exacerbate the situation.

These personality changes can be severe. They could become irritable and agitated and even lash out in anger. You might notice they are hearing or seeing things that simply are not there.

Again, these personality changes are heartbreaking for any family to experience. It will take an enormous amount of patience and love to get through. It’s essential to keep in mind that these mood swings are simply not personal. They are the product of a cruel disease.

The fifth stage is referred to as severe dementia due to Alzheimer’s. At this stage, your loved one will need a significant amount of support. It lasts about one to one and a half years. Without care, your parent might feel unsafe, insecure, and increasingly angry. During this time, you might notice that your mother or father is increasingly paranoid. They might become convinced that a caregiver is stealing, that their children are lying to them, or that their spouse is having an affair. With the help of an experienced caregiver, who provides your parent with a steady routine and daily mental exercises, this paranoia can be calmed.

They might not remember what the weather is outside, if their granddaughter just got married, or what their phone number is. Often, they’ll struggle with mental exercises like counting backwards.

They will recognize names and faces of those close to them but might struggle to speak with them in ways that make sense. They will require help with everyday care such as bathing, eating, and using the bathroom.

In some cases, your mother or father might have a hard time walking, sitting, or even holding up their head without support. They could start struggling with swallowing – and will eventually lose their ability to swallow altogether.

Memory care and professional home care are the most common types of care for a person in this stage of the disease. If you are able to keep your parent at home, with constant care, this is usually the best choice – because they will feel safer in familiar surroundings. When a person with Alzheimer’s finds themselves in a strange place, their cognitive abilities can decline at an even faster rate. For more on choosing the right type of care for your loved one, you can listen to our episode on choosing the right type of care.

Stage six is moderately severe Alzheimer’s. This typically lasts around two or three years and you will notice that your parent is struggling very severely. There are five main characteristics for someone in this stage.

They will no longer be able to dress on their own. They will need help brushing their teeth and keeping up with hygiene. They will need help using the bathroom and with toilet cleanliness. They will struggle to count backwards from 10. They might start stuttering or struggling to speak.

At this stage, your parent might also confuse family members and forget significant life events. This can be heartbreaking to experience for any family, but it’s knowing what to expect can help to prepare you.

Ensuring that your parent has 24-hour care is essential – especially because they might leave the house at night and get lost or lose their balance when attempting to dress or bathe themselves. They will also need help to eat.

The seventh and final stage of the disease is severe Alzheimer’s. During this stage, your loved one will feel completely lost. They might become fully immobile and lose their ability to speak.

Forty percent of people in the seventh stage of Alzheimer’s form hardening of muscles, tissues, and contractures, so they may feel constantly uncomfortable. This can result in behavior like thumb sucking, in order to feel more secure.

This stage is especially difficult for family members, because the reality is that you may no longer recognize your parent and feel frustrated that you can’t do more to help. It hurts to see our loved ones in pain and unable to move or speak. You can provide support for your parent by being present with them, speaking gently to them, and making sure they are not alone. Even though your parent cannot engage in conversation, she still benefits greatly from your companionship.

If your loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, make sure that you are getting all the help you need, too. Find local support groups for families facing the disease and turn to friends and family when you need them. The better you care for yourself, the better you can care for your loved one.

Sources:

https://www.alzheimers.net/stages-of-alzheimers-disease/

https://www.webmd.com/alzheimers/guide/alzheimers-disease-stages#1

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/in-depth/alzheimers-stages/art-20048448

https://www.healthline.com/health/stages-progression-alzheimers#takeaway

https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/accepting_the_diagnosis

https://www.seniorlivingspecialists.com/alzheimers-dementia-care/guide-caring-loved-one-alzheimers-disease/

https://www.healthline.com/health/alzheimers-disease#stages

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-alzheimers

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/facts-figures

https://www.alzheimers.net/resources/alzheimers-statistics

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/11825-stages-of-alzheimers-disease

https://www.dementiacarecentral.com/aboutdementia/facts/risk/

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/stages

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A Dementia diagnosis is a hard truth for any family to face. Caring for a loved one with dementia can be a stressful, exhausting, and profoundly emotional experience – but with the right tools and preparation, care can be a little easier.

Too often, the emotional needs of a person with dementia are overlooked or unmet. It makes sense – the physical care can be quite taxing, between feeding, bathing, clothing, and everything else. Not to mention, it’s difficult to be emotionally present for a person with dementia – especially when it reaches the more severe stages. Emotional outbursts, difficulty speaking, and changes in personality can all be barriers in helping a person to emotionally connect. Still, these very difficulties are the reason that our loved ones need our emotional support more than ever.

According to The British Psychological Society, up to a third of people with advanced dementia suffer from depression. Cognitive diseases impact every bit of life, and they can be absolutely devastating to the diagnosed individual. Between increased dependence, a reduced quality of life, and facing higher morality, depression is all too common.

In addition, because of communication struggles, people with dementia can be powerless to make decisions on their own and end up in positions that they are not happy or comfortable with – but they are unable to speak up or defend themselves. Dementia patients are also often excluded from events or activities that family members assume they would not be interested in.

It’s difficult to know how to support a loved one with dementia. That’s why today, we’re going to discuss the best ways to care for your loved one – not just physically, but emotionally. When we are providing our parents or grandparents with the connection and love they need, the entire family benefits.

It is common for a dementia patient to experience mood swings. You might notice that your mother is quicker to anger, or your father gets frustrated constantly. It can be a battle to get your parent to bathe or even eat – and you might find yourself walking on eggshells. Changes in personality are heartbreaking for the family, and they can feel confusing or overwhelming. You might not know how to respond to your mother, or might take her outburst personally – even when you know that it’s a result of the disease.

Unfortunately, depression is harder to diagnose in dementia patients – because much of the symptoms, like apathy, lethargy, isolation and withdrawal, are also symptoms of dementia. Further, a person with dementia will have difficulty articulating their feelings.

If you are worried that your parent might be suffering from dementia, it’s a good idea to meet with a geriatric psychiatrist. These are mental health professionals who specialize in recognizing symptoms in seniors – and they might be able to detect symptoms that you are not able to.

In addition, the National Institute of Mental Health has a set of guidelines for recognizing and diagnosing depression in Alzheimer’s and dementia patients. The institute recommends that a caregiver examines whether the patient is tearful, hopeless, suicidal, or irritable. If your parent is experiencing these symptoms, whether as a result of the dementia or depression (or both), it’s essential that they are provided with feelings of safety, love, and unconditional support.

A study by the British Psychological Society found that the more emotional care your parent is given, the less frequent her outbursts will be. Outbursts are a result of internalized fears, frustrations, and confusion.

It can be difficult, or even feel impossible, to understand exactly what your parent is going through. When you feel distanced from your parents’ experience, you might struggle when things become uncomfortable. That’s understandable. It’s heartbreaking to watch a parent’s personality slowly transform into something unfamiliar.

When our parent is often frustrated or angry, it can be hard not to take their words personally. You might feel an urge to fight back, to defend yourself, to argue. The more patience and understanding you show, however, the better you and your parent will feel.

According to Alzheimers.net, as the disease progresses, “it becomes easier to forget that your loved one is still present. Many caregivers are frustrated by their loved one’s inability to communicate their thoughts or remember faces and names. The disease eventually takes away independence so that caregivers become the feet, hands, and minds of people struggling with dementia.”

Try to keep in mind just how difficult this is for your mom or dad. Imagine waking up and not knowing where you are or having enormous gaps in memory that you simply can’t account for. Imagine struggling with basic needs, like dressing or bathing. Imagine being stripped of your independence and not understanding why.

When your parent feels safe, secure, and loved, she is less likely to grow frustrated or irritable. Of course, that will still happen from time to time, but the outbursts should become less frequent and intense. Why? Because when your parent feels safe and supported, she is in a better position to be strong, calm, and comfortable.

For most dementia and Alzheimer’s patients suffering from depression, treatment includes medicine, counseling, and engagement in activities and socialization. A person with dementia cannot merely “snap out of it” and will not be able to recover on their own. They will require a significant amount of encouragement, support, and medical and professional help.

In addition to providing help for depression, it’s important to ensure your parent has the best possible quality of life. There are plenty of ways to care for your parent and make them feel safe and loved. Understanding the disease and knowing what to expect, as well as how to respond to varying situations, can help to make the experience easier for you and your loved one.

The type of support you provide will depend on the stage of dementia your parent is facing. Being supportive, loving, and communicative, though, is key regardless of the severity. In the early days, you can begin by educating yourself about the disease and creating a plan for the future.

Be sure to include your parent in the planning. This is their life, after all, so they should have a say in the type of care they will receive and where they will live. Try to respect their choices, when possible, with an understanding that this is already such a difficult transition for your parent.

The more supported they are, the safer they will feel. If your parent wants to remain at home, for example, you may want to explore speaking with a professional home care provider about their memory care services. This is one of the more common choices for dementia patients and their families. For a person with dementia, familiar surroundings mean reduced stress and strengthened memory.

To learn more about home care for dementia patients, listen to our episode on choosing the right type of care for your loved one. There, you will also find insight about other types of care and living situations that might be best for your loved one and your family.

I understand that including your loved one in the conversation might be difficult. If your parent is struggling to express themselves or has difficulty asking or answering questions, that doesn’t mean they don’t have feelings or opinions on the matter. In fact, it can feel embarrassing, degrading, or even heartbreaking to be excluded from these conversations.

To improve communication, it’s important to be clear, positive, gentle, and to acknowledge your loved one’s feelings. When speaking about challenging topics, keep a calm tone of voice and gentle body language. Avoid using harsh language or sounding frustrated or angry. Even if you feel frustrated, try your best not show it. If your parent believes they are an inconvenience to you, they will struggle even more to communicate with you. Remember, we want our parents to feel loved and supported.

Speak calmly and slowly, using simple words – and be prepared to have to repeat yourself. Only ask yes or no questions, and only provide choices that are realistic. In other words, don’t promise something that can’t be delivered. Provide the truthful information in a calm and reassuring voice and repeat it as many times as your parent needs you to. They are trying to understand, even if that doesn’t seem apparent.

It’s also important to make eye contact. That way, you’re respecting your parent while also helping them stay engaged in the communication. You can also use body language, like holding their hand or leaning toward them, to help them stay focused on the discussion.

Being purposeful with your words and word placement is essential, as well. Avoid pronouns like “he,” “she,” or “they,” can be confusing. Instead, use the full names of people and places. You can also use positive words, like “I enjoyed this,” or “I am so glad we spent this time together.” Finally, choose your last words carefully. The last word is the easiest to remember, so this is the part of the sentence your loved ones will cling to.

The Harvard Health Review explains, “if you ask, ‘would you like to wear the green shirt or the blue shirt,’ only the word ‘shirt’ might stick in the person’s mind, and you won’t get an answer…ask ‘would you like to wear this green shirt today or the one that’s blue?’ and the person will say ‘blue.’ She feels as though she has decided for herself rather than being told what to wear, but the choice has been made so easy that she feels little anxiety about it.’”

Acknowledge your parents’ feelings by letting him know that you see him, and you understand. For example, if your parent is growing irritable or frustrated, don’t ignore that. Say things like, “I understand that you are frustrated and I’m sorry this is something you are facing.” Offer to take a break from the conversation if your parent feels exhausted or overwhelmed.

Communication is not only important for the hard conversations. It’s a way to provide support and friendship to a loved one, on a consistent and routine basis. In the early stages, you can remind them of things like doctor appointments, events, or anything else by writing notes on Post-Its and placing them around the house where your parent will see them. These notes can also be notes of friendship, that remind them of how loved they are and that they are not alone.

Communicating may be a lengthy and tedious process, but its importance cannot be emphasized enough. If you show up one day and take your parent into a long-term care facility or residence without warning, her condition will likely worsen – and she could face feelings of betrayal, shock, depression, or even heartbreak. Never forget that at the end of the day, this is your mother’s life. Your father’s life. Not yours. If possible, include them in the conversation.

Of course, if your parents’ dementia has increased in severity, this simply may not be possible. In this case, your parent might no longer be speaking or they might not understand their surroundings at all. If you have to make important decisions without their input, remember to be patient and gentle with them – and don’t leave them alone to experience these difficult times. For example, if there is no choice but to move them into a memory care facility without communicating with them, do what you can to be present through the move and in the days or weeks following.

In addition to communication, there are ways to help your loved one build their self-esteem and sense of dignity. Offer praise and encouragement whenever you can – especially if your parent has achieved a small victory, like remembering an appointment or even putting on a shirt by herself. At the same time, don’t berate them or criticize mistakes or forgetfulness. It is common for a person with dementia to forget what clothing is appropriate for certain occasions, for example. If your parent puts on a t-shirt before a wedding, don’t be critical or accuse her of making a mistake. Be patient, warm, and gentle as you help her pick another blouse to wear.

A dementia patient’s self-esteem can also be increased by engagement in social activities. While your parent is still able, attending support groups, classes, or activities can help them to feel more dignified and happier. If your parent is past the point of being able to participate in socially challenging events, help them with memory games, books, hobbies or other stimulating activities that can keep them busy and engaged.

If your parent is experiencing delusions, be patient and supportive. Rather than challenging their perception of reality, acknowledge it and try to redirect their thinking. For example, if your parent is paranoid that their caregiver has stolen a piece of jewelry from them, don’t jump to say, “how dare you accuse her of something like that!” or “that’s ridiculous.” Instead, tell them that you’re sorry their jewelry is missing and offer to help them find it.

Similarly, if your parent believes a lost loved one is still alive, ask her questions about the person instead of shutting her down.

In Learning to Speak Alzheimer’s, author Joanne Koenig Coste tells a story in which her husband is scrubbing the Teflon off a frying pan. She congratulates him for doing a good job, instead of telling him that he’s ruining the pan. To tell him that he ruined the pan, would lead nowhere except for frustration and upset feelings. By congratulating him, she redirected his feelings in that moment and turned a situation positive, ensuring his feelings of safety.

The frying pan story is also a great example of letting your loved one do something for himself. If your father wants to help with the dishes, let him. Don’t say that you can do it faster or more efficiently. Even if it means you have to do the dishes all over again when he’s no longer present, letting him feel helpful is enormously important for his feelings of self-esteem and independence.

When it comes to helping your parent with her mood swings, you can take preventative measures to ensure that she isn’t put in uncomfortable or exhausting situations. Dementia patients can become impatient quickly, due to their shortened attention spans. So, don’t put them in situations where they need to be patient. If you’re going to bathe them, for instance, don’t tell them it’s time for a bath until their bath is drawn and ready to go. Don’t tell them it’s time to go to the doctor until it really is time to go to the doctor.

Of course, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t prepare them for what to expect each day. You can let your parent know they have a doctor appointment that day, and you should, to avoid any unnecessary stress or surprise. It simply means that when it’s time to go, don’t make them wait to get into the car and get to the appointment.

You can also help your parent feel calmer by avoiding over stimulation. While it’s important to include family members in events so they don’t feel left out or forgotten, avoid loud or crowded gatherings that might be overwhelming. During the holidays, for example, you could aim for small gatherings or provide a quiet room for your parent to escape to. Avoid turning on the TV while your parent is trying to have a conversation.

A 2003 study by researchers at the Karolinska Institute found that music positively effects dementia patients, even in later stages of the disease. The study is explained in The Harvard Health Letter, which says that when listening to music, patients “sat up straighter, their movements became stronger and more regular, and their awareness improved.” Amazingly, even more effective than playing music was singing songs. When caregivers sang to their patients, their mobile and cognitive abilities actually improved. Singing brings a sense of calm and positivity to the patient, and therefore improves their overall move and cognitions.

Finally, try your best not to treat your loved one differently. I know this can be tough, especially on the days when your parent feels unfamiliar or incredibly difficult to communicate with. Of course, you will have to treat your parent a little bit differently no matter what, since you can’t engage in conversation like you once could and will need to be extra patient with them. But in this sense, not treating them differently simply means to treat them with respect and kindness.

If there’s another person present on a visit, don’t talk about your parent in front of them, as though they’re not there. Include them in your conversation. In addition, try not to speak down to them like they are a child. This is a person who has lived a full life, not a toddler who is learning to speak. Finally, allow them to make their own choices whenever possible.

It can be devastating to learn that your loved one has dementia, but when you know what to expect, you can prepare yourself to be more patient, kinder, and more understanding. Always lead with empathy first and never make your parent feel alone in his or her struggle.

We have seen countless families that have been touched by this disease and what may work for one family may not work for another. But, there is one common thread for every family and loved one that is facing dementia and that is everyone deserves to be treated with respect, dignity, and love.

When you help your loved one to feel safe, loved, and supported, you are giving her the strength to face what’s ahead.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. Please join us next time where we will be explaining the different stages of Alzheimer’s disease. This is a topic that we are always getting questions about and what the different stages are and what to expect with each stage – you won’t want to miss that episode.

Sources:

https://www.bps.org.uk/sites/www.bps.org.uk/files/Policy/Policy%20-%20Files/Evidence%20Briefing%20-%20Emotional%20and%20Psychological%20Needs%20in%20Advanced%20Dementia.pdf

https://edisonhhc.com/coping-with-emotional-aspects-of-dementia/

https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/the-emotional-side-of-alzheimers-disease

https://www.weatherlyinn.com/blog/how-to-support-a-loved-one-with-early-dementia

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/help-dementia-care/understanding-supporting-person-dementia

https://autumnleaves.com/5-simple-ways-help-someone-dementia-short-long-term/

https://www.alz.org/media/documents/alzheimers-dementia-care-10-ways-to-help-a-family-c.pdf

https://www.alzheimers.net/caring-for-someone-with-dementia/

https://www.helpguide.org/articles/alzheimers-dementia-aging/tips-for-alzheimers-caregivers.htm

https://www.caregiver.org/caregivers-guide-understanding-dementia-behaviors

https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/depression

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As your loved one has gotten older, you might have noticed a steadily growing number of medications building up in their medicine cabinet. While it might be a bit of a shock to see just how many pill bottles your parents are collecting, it’s important to remember that this is a normal part of getting older. According to The Journal of Patient Safety, “people over the age of 65 use more medications, both over-the-counter and prescription, than any other age group.”

Still, as important as these medications are to our parents’ health, they can also be dangerous, if not taken correctly. It’s essential for anyone to practice medicine safety – but especially for seniors, who might have trouble keeping up with their growing number of medications.

From medicine storage to ensuring that no incompatible drugs are being taken together, there are many ways to ensure your parent is taking her medications safely. Today, we’ll let you know exactly how you can help prevent medication-related problems for your parent.

There are many reasons that your parent might struggle with his or her medications. For one thing, age-related changes such as weight loss or decreased body fluid can alter how drugs perform in a body. Similarly, weakened kidneys and livers may not process drugs as easily, so medication could stay in the body for longer periods of time. In addition, issues like memory loss or hearing and vision difficulties make it hard to remember when to take medications or understand how to take them properly.

Finally, if your parent suffers from a condition like arthritis, high blood pressure, or diabetes, he will likely follow a complex medicine regimen that can be difficult to keep up with.

According to the FDA, “as you age, body changes can affect the way medicines are absorbed and used. For example, changes in the digestive system can affect how fast medicines enter the bloodstream. Changes in body weight can influence the amount of medicine you need to take and how long it stays in your body. The circulation system may slow down, which can affect how fast drugs get to the liver and kidneys. The liver and kidneys also may work more slowly affecting the way a drug breaks down and is removed from the body.”

Regardless of the reason, at its worst, practicing medicine safety can mean the difference between life and death for seniors. Be sure that you, your parent, and your parents’ caregiver are doing all that they can to prevent any problems.

First, it’s important to make a note of what we consider medications. Believe it or not, medicine covers more than just the pills inside an orange bottle. In addition to prescription pills, there are prescription creams, asthma inhalers, epi-pens, and more. Medicine also refers to over-the-counter meds, like pills, creams, liquids, or chew tablets. Additionally, things like vitamins, ear and eye drops, and dietary supplements are all considered medications.

This is an exhaustive list – and it’s essential that you keep track of everything your parent is taking. You never know if a vitamin can’t mix with a certain prescription, or if a cream will cause an allergic reaction.

On that note, be sure to coordinate your parents’ care. If your mother has more than one provider, it can be more difficult to stay on top of all of her medications. It’s not impossible, though. You just need to get everyone on the same page. You can use something called medication reconciliation to get everyone on your mother’s health team coordinated. Medication reconciliation means creating a thorough list of all possible medications that your parent might be taking and comparing it to her patient record and medication orders.

When creating this list, make sure it’s as detailed as possible. Try to include the drug name, the frequency of use, and the dosage. Again, don’t forget to add the seemingly little stuff here – like eye creams or vitamins. The more information you can provide, the better for creating a clear understanding of your mother’s medicinal needs. After comparing the list with your mother’s medical records, ensure that everything is updated and correct. Be sure to take the list to all doctor appointments or care appointments of any kind.

In addition to coordinating care through medication reconciliation, you can also ensure that all of your mother’s medicine is coming through the same pharmacy. That way, you’ll have a clear, organized record of your mother’s medications and you will have an easier time keeping track of everything. Not only that, but the pharmacist will keep an updated list of all the medicines your parent is taking – and will know if any two medicines should not be taken together.

If your mother has prescriptions sent to multiple pharmacies, mix ups can happen very quickly. This could mean forgotten meds, double dosages, or a lost record of prescriptions – all of which can be extremely dangerous or even deadly.

Pharmacists are also a great resource for answering any questions you might have about a medication. Having one pharmacist is even better, because she will be somewhat familiar with your parents’ medications and history.

In addition to keeping an organized record of your parents’ medication, you’ll want to make sure the medicine is organized within the household. If your dad is keeping one pill bottle in the kitchen, another in the living room, and another in the bathroom – he’s more likely to forget a dose or two. Make sure that all of his medications are stored in one place, like the bathroom cabinet. If your dad does not have a caregiver, help him to organize the cabinet as efficiently as possible – in the order of when he takes each dose, for instance.

Of course, certain medications need to be stored in the refrigerator or in another specific environment. Consult your parents’ doctor to ensure that the medications are being stored properly.

While you’re going through the cabinet with him, make sure that nothing is expired or out of date. Check over each bottle with your own list to ensure that there’s nothing missing, or nothing present that shouldn’t be. If your dad has any over-the-counter drugs, check with his doctor to make sure they can mix with his prescriptions. If they can’t, get rid of them right away.

Every week, you should also pre-sort a week’s worth of medication or they also have monthly pill organizers now if that is easier. Use a pill organizer to best manage your parents’ medication, dose by dose. Choose an organizer that has the correct number of compartments per day for your parents’ individual needs. If any drugs need to be split or crushed, do so ahead of time, so your parent doesn’t need to struggle trying or accidentally forget and take too much.

Once you have an organized record of your parents’ medications – and you’ve gathered everything into one place – take your parent to the doctor. Bring your list, so that the doctor can go over every medication carefully and ensure that it all looks good. While you’re there, get the facts about each drug.

For every medication, you should know: the name, the reason it’s being taken, and the possible side effects. While you might not pay attention to side effects for yourself, it’s essential that you know what they are for your parents. As we age, our kidneys and livers can weaken, making medications stay in our bodies longer. This means that seniors are more susceptible to feeling side effects than younger people. If you notice that your parent is suffering from side effects, consult their doctor right away.

Make sure that your parents’ doctor also has an updated list of your parents’ allergies – so that he can make sure there’s no risk of a reaction with new types of medications.

In addition to asking about side effects, be sure to check in about possible drug interactions. Drug interactions occur when one drug affects how the other works, a specific medical condition reacts poorly to a certain type of drug, a food or drink reacts with a drug, alcohol reacts with a drug, or supplements react with a drug.

Learn about interactions by speaking with your parents’ doctor, carefully reading labels, and reviewing special instructions with your parents’ pharmacist. It’s possible that drug interactions will cause side effects that seem similar to natural health problems in the elderly. Most commonly, memory problems or light headedness. If you notice that your parent is suffering from a sudden health issue, don’t write it off as a normal part of ageing before speaking to your parents’ physician.

Watch out, especially, for dizzying side effects. If you notice that your father’s medication is making him dizzy, be sure to tell the doctor right away. Dizziness could affect your father’s balance and cause him to fall – which could lead to a plethora of health problems.

Pay careful attention to how drugs might interact with food or alcohol. Drug-alcohol interactions can be incredibly dangerous – so know which of your parents’ drugs do not mix well with alcohol. If you notice that your parent is dizzy, irritable, or imbalanced after drinking – it may be the result of a bad interaction.

When it comes to food, a food/drug interaction occurs when the digestive tract cannot absorb the drug properly because of a certain type of food being digested. In addition, it’s possible for medication to affect how nutrients are absorbed in the body. Ask your doctor if there are any foods your parent should avoid with his medication.

In addition to getting the facts, make sure you ask questions. According to The Journal for Patient Safety, “up to half of prescription medications are not taken properly.” That’s a scary statistic. Be sure your parent (or your parent’s caregiver) knows exactly how to take her medication. Examples of questions to ask your parents’ doctor might include:

Should this medication be taken with food or water?
Can this medication be taken safely with my other medications?
How should I store the medication?
How do I know if it’s working?
What side effects can I expect?
What do I do if I miss a dose?
How does this affect over-the-counter medications?
How will traveling to a different time zone affect this medication?

Never be afraid to ask questions. According to medical officer at the US FDA, Sandra L. Kweder, MD, FACP, “as a society, we have become reliant on pharmaceuticals to help us attain a longer and higher-quality life. It’s a wonderful success of Western medicine. The goal should be for each of us to access that benefit from respect that medicines are serious business. To get the most out of them, you should take them with great care and according to directions.” There isn’t such thing as stupid questions when it comes to medicinal care. This is, after all, “serious business.”

Here’s the thing – medicine won’t help if you aren’t taking it properly. In fact, it could make things worse. Make sure your parent is not choosing a dose for herself but is following the directions to a tee. Kweder reminds us that, “medication can’t work unless you take it. For instance, medications that treat chronic conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes typically only work when taken regularly as directed. You have to take them continuously to maintain control over your condition.”

When it comes to taking medicine correctly, don’t forget to account for any drugs taken in the middle of the night. If you have to wake up at night to take a dose, keep that medicine beside your bed, with a glass of water, in its proper dosage.

Try to go over your parents’ medication list at every doctor appointment – to ensure that all medications are still necessary, and any over-the-counter drugs are safe to take. At the very least, schedule a medicine “check in” appointment at least once a year for your parent.

If your parent travels, make sure they bring their doctor’s contact information with them in case there are any problems with their medications while out of town. Ensure that they know how to adjust their routine to the new time zone. Additionally, have your parent carry their meds with them at all times – and never pack them in a checked bag. You also want to make sure your parent keeps the medication away from direct sunlight or heat while on a trip. If medication is lost or tampered with on a trip, have your parent call their doctor and set up a refill at a local pharmacy.

In addition to scrutinizing every detail with your parents’ physician and pharmacist, you need to make sure that your parent is not struggling with the logistical aspects of the drugs. For instance, does your dad have a hard time opening the container? If he does, the pharmacist can provide containers that are easier to open. Does your mom struggle with swallowing pills? See if there’s a liquid form of her medication available. The drug may not work if you crush it, break it, or chew it – so make sure you know if the drug will still work if its tampered with.

If your parent has trouble reading the label, ask the pharmacist to print a label in larger font. If she still can’t read the label, you will want to make sure that you or a caregiver are helping her to take her medicine properly.

In addition to ensuring that your parent can open her medicine and read its label, you want to make sure she doesn’t forget to take it. It can be hard for caregivers and seniors alike to keep track of all the dosages – even when they’re kept in a pill organizer. Set up a medication reminder system so you can make sure all drugs are accounted for and that the right dose is taken at the right time.

One method is to create a chart on poster board, a white board, or a wall calendar. Carefully list the medications, along with their dosages, within the proper day and time. After taking each dose, mark the poster with a check mark so you know it was taken. That way, you’ll never have to wonder if a dose was missed.

You can also set alarms on your parents’ phone and their caregiver’s phone. A little notification will “ding” at the time of the medication, and you can even write down the proper dosage there. If your parent is good with technology (or if their caregiver is) you can also use a medication management app, like Medisafe, Pillboxie, or CareZone to keep track of your medications.

Medisafe is the number one app recommended by pharmacists for medication management. It sends reminders that automatically adhere to changing time zones – so if your parent is travelling, her medication reminder will go off at the proper time, regardless of what time zone she’s in. You can also manage an entire family’s medicines into the app – so if your mom and dad are taking medications, this is a way to organize both of their meds at once. The Medisafe app is completely free to use.

Pillboxie is all about visually managing your medications. By dropping an animated pill into a pillbox within the app, the app will tell you the name, color, and shape of your medication, to ensure that you’re taking the correct pill. The app also allows you set daily medication schedules with a checklist that you can mark as you go. Pillboxie is $1.99 in the App Store.

With CareZone, you upload pictures of your medication bottles and the app makes a list for you. This is a great app to use for making a list of medications and dosages. You can set reminders not just for when you need to take a pill, but also for when you need refills from the pharmacy. The app is also printable – so you can print off a pre-formatted schedule to provide your parent or her doctor with. CareZone is free in the App Store.

Speaking of technology, there might be times when your parent needs to purchase medicine on the internet. This is rare, but it does happen. Maybe they’re abroad or unable to see their doctor in person. Never order medication online without consulting a doctor first, even if remotely. If you must order your parents’ medication online, check the Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Sites program for a seal of approval on each drug.

As your parents’ medication needs get more complicated, so do their daily routines and schedules. The more organized and efficient you can help them be, the better. After all, medicine safety is no joking matter. When it comes to medicine, responsibility means safety.

Sources:

https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/4-medication-safety-tips-older-adults#:~:text=Take%20your%20medicine%20regularly%20and,first%20consulting%20with%20your%20provider.

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/safe-use-medicines-older-adults

https://dailycaring.com/medication-management-for-seniors-10-safety-tips/

https://www.bemedwise.org/medication-management-for-older-adults/

https://www.fda.gov/drugs/resources-you-drugs/medicines-and-you-guide-older-adults

https://eldercare.acl.gov/public/resources/brochures/docs/Older_Adults_and_Medication_Safety.pdf

https://journals.lww.com/journalpatientsafety/Citation/2009/03000/Medication_Safety_for_Seniors.10.aspx

https://www.healthinaging.org/medications-older-adults

https://www.drugs.com/cg/medication-safety-for-older-adults.html

https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/6-medication-problems-aging/

http://www.ihi.org/Topics/ADEsMedicationReconciliation/Pages/default.aspx

https://senioradvocacyservices.org/technology-for-aging-in-place-apps-for-managing-medications/

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Episode 51 -

Choosing the best senior living option for your mom or dad can feel overwhelming. Many of us expect the answer will be obvious – if our Mother is suffering from Dementia, for instance, the time will come when she needs to engage in Memory Care. Or, if our Dad has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s, we know he might need assisted living or maybe he prefers home care instead?

The truth is, though, that the right choice isn’t usually in front of our eyes. More often than not, it’s the little things – like that time Dad complained about the single stair in his shower, or the time Mom forgot to feed the dog – that indicate it’s time to look into care options.

In those less obvious cases, choosing between so many different types of care might feel daunting. What’s the difference between assisted living and a nursing home? Are there ways my parent can continue to live independently? Do I have to hire a full-time caregiver? Does my mom really need that extra help?

In today’s episode, we’ll break down the options for you – so that this new and treacherous landscape can transform into something simple and comprehensible. When you understand your options, you can make a much more informed decision – without worrying that you might be missing something. We’ll discuss assisted living, nursing homes, memory care, home care, and even whether moving Mom or Dad in with you is an ideal option. We’ll also talk about independent living – and ways to stretch that period out for your parents, while still giving them the help they need.

Before we get into all that, though, let’s get into the signs that it might be time for more help in the first place.

You can begin by analyzing your parents’ overall physical health. If your parent is in great physical shape, then their options might be a lot more open. If you notice changes or problems in their health, though, you don’t want to wait to consult a doctor and start planning your next steps. Physical health is nothing to mess around with and must be a priority.

If you can visit with your parent, take the time on your next trip to absorb their behavior and look for any signs of health changes. Observe details like weight, sleep patterns, and possible injuries.

Has your mom lost a surprising amount of weight lately? If she looks thinner than usual, this could indicate that she’s been forgetting to eat. It could also be a sign of something more serious – like cancer, dementia, or depression. If you notice dramatic weight changes, you shouldn’t wait to get your parent to a doctor. When the reason for the weight loss is determined, not only can your mother begin treatment – but together, you can decide the best care option. If this is an early sign of dementia, for instance, you can think about Memory Care. If it’s a medical condition like cancer, your doctor will help you find the most suitable care.

If your parent’s weight is about the same – that’s a great sign. It’s possible that your mother can continue to live independently. Still, there are other – equally important - factors to consider. Once you’ve analyzed your parents’ weight, find out how they’ve been sleeping.

Have you noticed that your dad has been falling asleep at the couch more often, or taking a long time to get out of bed morning? In a non-confrontational, conversational manner, ask him if he’s had any trouble sleeping lately. Has he missed early morning appointments or been consistently late due to sleeping in? This could be a sign that he’s struggling to fall asleep at night. Has he been taking “naps” during the day that tend to last for hours? Does he seem lethargic or is he alert? Changes in sleep patterns are a sign that physical health might be declining. Dad could be losing sleep because of new aches or pains in his body, or because he is just generally slowing down.

If you notice that your mom or dad’s sleep is being affected, be sure to take them to the doctor. Once you understand why this is happening, and treatment begins, you can start looking into the best options for care.

Finally, try to notice if there are any signs of injury on your parent’s body. Your parent might not always tell you when he’s suffered a fall – so you’ll need to look out for these signs yourself. If you notice new bruises, possible limping, or broken skin – this is a sign that your parent has been facing mobility struggles. Now, depending on the severity of these struggles, you might not need to jump to assisted living or a nursing home. Depending on your finances, there are plenty of options to making the home a safer place for your loved one. However, if the falls are a sign of something bigger – like Parkinson’s disease – you will have to look into more serious care.

Of course, not everyone can observe their parents’ physical health. Maybe you live out of town or you aren’t able to see your loved one in person due to the COVID-19 pandemic. If this is the case, ask yourself if there is anyone who is able to stop by Mom’s house for you and report back. Do you have a sibling in town or a family friend? Try to find a neutral party who will report their findings in an honest way. If your sibling is adamantly against long-term care, for example, he might not be the best person to ask – because he’ll go out of his way to only look for signs that help his cause.

You can also ask your parent about their health on the phone. Just keep in mind that they might not be entirely honest with you – or they might not even know the answers. If your dad has suffered weight loss, for example, he probably hasn’t noticed. Still, it’s worth speaking directly to your parents so that they have a chance to voice their own concerns about their health.

Once you’ve analyzed your parents’ physical health, it’s time to address their mental health. Mental health is equally important to consider when it comes to knowing if it’s time for extra help. If your parent is suffering from memory loss, depression, anxiety, or anything else concerning – you’ll want to get them help right away.

Signs of faltering mental health might not be as obvious, but there are certain signs you can look for. Have you noticed if your parents’ house is being neglected, for example? If your mother or father is no longer caring for their home – this could indicate that they are no longer managing their lives well. Look for dirty dishes, messy floors, cluttered corners – anything that indicates that domestic needs are being forgotten. If your parent is not able to keep up with housework, it’s safe to assume he’s struggling to keep up with his own care. Not to mention, no one wants their parent to be living in filth. It might be time to enlist extra help around the house.

Does your parent seem confused? Has mom been leaving the oven on or has dad forgotten to put groceries away? Did you find the TV remote in a kitchen cabinet? Is your mom calling her cat by the wrong name? Sure a simple mistake might happen from time to time and not be cause for alarm, but if you’re noticing frequent signs of confusion, it’s a sign that something more serious might be happening. If this is the case, it’s time to take your parent to a doctor and discuss care options.

Finally, take note of your parents’ physical appearance. If it looks like they are failing to shower, brush their teeth, or keep up with basic grooming, this might mean they are suffering from depression or that a change in their health has impacted their ability to care for themselves. When your parent is unable to care for themselves, it’s time to enlist extra help. Bring your parent to the doctor for further assessment.

Once you have assessed the situation and determined that your mom or dad does need help, it’s time to decide the best type of care for them. Remember to include your parent in this conversation – after all, this is their life, and they should have a say in any major changes they are facing whenever possible. To learn more about how to begin this conversation with your mom or dad, check out our episode “When is it Time to Move?”

If you know that your parent needs some extra help, but believe she still has a great bill of health overall, you might want to make some simple adjustments to her independent living style. This can be the best option for many families – especially when the parent is hesitant to make a more drastic move. Independent living adjustments can also act as a transitionary period to get your parent used to accepting more help.

There are many instances in which independent living is still the best option. If your mom is physically and mentally healthy, for example, but she is struggling to move around the house, consider hiring an occupational therapist or speak with her doctor to see if she qualifies for home health care – that would provide an occupational therapist through her Medicare.

Occupational therapists will evaluate the home and recommend safety changes – like installing grab bars or chairlifts for the stairs. They will also help your parent to improve their physical strength and balance, by teaching them new exercises and techniques. According to AARP, “studies show that visits from an OT help older people stay in their homes longer.” If your relatively healthy parent is adamantly against moving into a facility, an OT just might be the perfect answer for both of you.

In addition to installing grab bars and other safety measures, you can also look into purchasing assistive technology. There are a number of products available meant to help with your parent’s at-home safety. AARP reports that, “SimplyHome offers monitoring equipment such as motion sensors and GPS watches, and QuietCare has a motion-sensor system that can learn a person’s daily patterns and send alerts when there is a significant change.”

If your parent is resisting help, but you can’t be around to track their health and keep up with their living situation, assistive technology might provide just the help you need – temporarily, at least.

You can also enroll in your mom or dad into an Adult Day Care program. If you don’t want your parent to be alone or unsupervised throughout the day, this could be a good solution. Adult Day Care programs provide meals, activities, and companionship – so if your mom is forgetting to eat or your dad is staring at the TV all day, this could be extremely helpful. It can also provide your parents with a new community of friends who can relate to them – which is especially important if they are living alone and don’t spend much time socializing.

The most popular of these services is the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly or, PACE. If your loved one qualifies for Medicaid, this service is completely free. Otherwise, it’s about $3,000 a month.

If your mom or dad seems perfectly healthy, but they are suffering from loneliness, service programs like Senior Corps could be a great help. Senior Corps sends volunteers to visit with the elderly right in their own home – and the volunteers are 55 and up, to ensure that your mom or dad will feel comfortable.

There are also support networks known as “Villages” available in certain areas around the country. These are nonprofit networks that are intended to help seniors stay at home and get the care they need. Villages volunteers will help your parent with everyday tasks. Your parent will also qualify for discounted services – including everything from household maintenance to at-home nursing care. Villages cost around $300 to $500 a month.

Finally, if your parent wants to stay home but has major health problems that require constant medical care, you can look into hiring a registered nurse. Whether you need a registered nurse for 24-hour healthcare, or only in certain durations, this is something to consider if your parent’s health is failing, but they are adamantly against leaving their home.

While independent living is a wonderful option for many seniors, it is not always possible. If your parent has been diagnosed with a chronic illness, is feeling depressed, has severe mobility struggles, or is simply not in a place to care for their home at all anymore – it might be time to consider other options.

Now, that doesn’t necessarily mean your parent needs to leave their beloved home. In fact, the most common type of care option is Home Care. It’s the largest and fastest growing sector of long term care out there – and it’s easy to understand why.

With home care, your Mom or Dad doesn’t need to make the move to assisted living or a nursing home – which means that in addition to saving on the stress and transitionary position that moving comes with, you’ll also be saving quite a bit financially.

Chances are, your loved one isn’t ready to leave their home – and might not ever be. Home care allows them to stay where they are most comfortable, without making many adjustments. They’ll be able to eat what they love, engage in household activities that they are familiar with, and feel safe in their own familiar surroundings.

If your parent is suffering from dementia, home care is often the best option. It’s highly recommended that a person with dementia remains within familiar surroundings – in order to reduce stress and strengthen memory. Depending on the degree of the disease, you might need to consider memory care – but often, dementia patients are able to stay at home for the remainder of their lives.

Home care also allows you to be in control of when your parent receives help. If your mother needs help maintaining her home or cooking her meals, for example, you can schedule assistance for just a few hours each day. This is a great alternative to paying for a full-time lease with assisted living, especially when your mom or dad may require more hands-on care and assistance.

Finally, home care is customized to your loved one. That makes it pretty indispensable. Your loved one will be the number one priority to his caregivers and his care will be fully customized to fit his individual needs. Unfortunately, that’s not as possible at move-in facilities, just because the staff has so many residents to keep track of. With all the focus on your Mom or Dad, you’ll never have to worry that their individual needs are not being met to their liking.

Home care can provide your loved one with everything they need, up to needing a licensed registered nurse (if you are looking for 24-hour nurse care, we’ll dig into that later on).

Of course, if you and your loved one decide that leaving the home is the right option for them, there are plenty of live-in facilities to consider.

Assisted living is a fantastic option for any person who needs extra help, but is still able to function on their own to a significant degree. The reason a person might choose assisted living over home care is if they are interested in residing in a community of other seniors – where they can build friendships and connections. Assisted living also provides a safe place to live with regular visits from nurses, as well as a nice community and daily activities.

Assisted living doesn’t strip your parent of her independence – it just provides a space in which daily living is easier. Not to mention, the community of other seniors establishes a foundation for friendships and companionship that simply would not be available to your mom or dad at home.

Many seniors report that assisted living communities feel like college again – because they are surrounded by new friends and have so much to do. From community theatre to art classes to book clubs, the activities really are endless. Plus, if you are not able to be with your parent most of the time, you can rest assured that your parent is being well taken care of in an assisted living community.

Depending on the facility and the state – as well as the insurance, assisted living costs can vary greatly. On average, though, the cost can range fairly significantly from $2000 to $4000 up to $8000 to $10,000 a month depending on the facility and the amenities that are offered. If you believe that this is the best option for your parent, look into long-term care insurance or the living benefits of your parents’ life insurance.

Now, if your parent is unable to live independently at all, a skilled nursing facility might be the best option. At a skilled nursing facility, your parent will receive round-the-clock care for everything from their illness to their daily needs. Much of their care will be monitored by doctors and they will receive physical, speech, and occupational therapy to help strengthen their minds and bodies.

If your parent is unable to feed, bathe, dress, or move on her own – this is likely the best option. These facilities don’t have to be permanent residences, though. If your parent has suffered a bad fall or is recovering from surgery, they may need to stay here temporarily while they recover.

Much like assisted living facilities, the cost of skilled nursing facilities depends on the state and the location itself. A private room in a nursing home can be quite costly – averaging about $7000 a month. If your parent is a veteran, though, they might qualify for discounted care. Otherwise, again, look into insurance options – either from Medicare, long-term care insurance, or life insurance and Medicaid.

If your parent is suffering from Alzheimer’s or Dementia, Memory Care living might be their only option. Memory Care provides specialized care for patients suffering memory problems. Specific routines are structured to decrease stress, and staff is trained to deal with the unique difficulties that coincide with Alzheimer’s and Dementia.

There are more frequent check-ins than at Assisted Living Facilities and everything from meal to basic care is highly organized, so there are never any breaks from routine or surprises.

Daily activities are meant to improve cognitive function – so that residents are mentally engaged and strengthening their memory. There are different activities offered depending on the stage of your parents’ disease.

According to registered nurse and memory care consultant Megan Carnarius, “in regular assisted living, residents are expected to manage their own time; menus and mealtimes are posted, but staff is not checking in on them. In memory care, the staff ensures residents are getting to meals, coming to activities, and moving onto the next thing.”

At the same time, these facilities also offer heightened security – so that patients with a tendency to wander cannot leave the premises or risk getting lost. Elevators need codes, doors are alarmed, and in some instances, patients wear tracking bracelets.

If your parent has recently suffered a stroke and is suffering from temporary cognitive and memory problems as a result, Memory Care is probably not the best option. This type of care is intended to be permanent or long-term, not temporary. Instead, you might consider at-home care specialists that are memory specialists or a temporary stay in a skilled nursing facility while your parent recovers.

Memory care costs around $5000 a month on average – but, again, this pricing varies depending on the state and the level of care. Unfortunately, insurance does not always cover the cost of this type of intensive care. According to elder law attorney Richard Newman, “most families that utilize memory care have to pay out of their own pockets.” Long-term care insurance is an exception, though – so, if it’s not too late, be sure to look into purchasing a plan if you haven’t already.

After assessing the different options for long-term care, you might have decided that you want your parent to move in with you. If this is something you are considering, it’s essential that you analyze the situation closely and ask yourself some serious questions before you take that leap. Having a parent move in might not be as cost-efficient as you are hoping or might entail a great deal more work than you’re anticipating.

You also need to make sure this is in the best interest of your parent. Have your parent analyze the situation just as much as you do, because oftentimes, she may simply not want to move in with her adult child. This could make her feel a loss of dignity or she may simply want her space.

Before you move your parent home with you, ask yourself these questions:

Will I need to quit work to care for my loved one?
Can I afford to implement the proper safety measures – like grab rails – into my home?
Can I afford the extra expense of another household member?
Do I have a good relationship with my parent – or do we fight a lot? Is there any unresolved issues between us?
How will this move affect the rest of my family members?
How will I establish boundaries?
Do I have the resources to provide my loved one with the care they need? Do I want to take on this responsibility?

At the same time, have your parent answer these questions for themselves:

Do I feel comfortable living in my child’s space and respecting their household rules?
Do I feel comfortable confronting my child if they are doing something I do not like?
Do I have unresolved issues with my child?
Will I still be able to participate in activities I love?
Do I need to help pay for my care in their house?
Will this move make me feel less independent?

After both parties have answered these questions, if you determine that moving in together is still the best fit, make sure to implement the necessary safety measures and set up local community resources to help your parent feel at home in the community. These might include church memberships, classes, and counseling services. Then, make sure you speak with your parent openly and honestly about how they can continue to feel independent when living with you.

Finding the best care solution for your parent is never easy. There are so many factors to consider – from your parents’ abilities and desires, to cost of care. Once you have carefully assessed all of your options, however, you should be in a better place to make the best decision for you and your parent. Just be sure to include them in the conversation, too, since this decision will be impacting the rest of their lives.

With the right care, you and your parent can set your worries aside and focus on what’s most important: spending time together and reclaiming happiness.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. Please join us next time as we discuss an important issue that all families need to hear and that’s medication and prescription safety.

Sources:

https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/basics/info-2017/your-loved-ones-next-move.html

https://www.caring.com/caregivers/elder-care-options-for-senior-living-arrangements/

https://caringadvisor.com/level-of-senior-care/

https://www.senioradvisor.com/blog/2018/12/types-of-senior-care/

https://www.payingforseniorcare.com/types

https://www.kiplinger.com/article/retirement/t066-c000-s001-how-to-choose-a-long-term-care-facility-for-a-love.html

https://www.elderly-homecare.com/types-of-senior-care-how-to-choose-the-best-elder-care-option/

https://www.familyassets.com/senior-care-options

https://www.visitingangels.com/knowledge-center/care-options/understanding-the-different-kinds-of-senior-care-available/282

https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/basics/info-2019/memory-care-alzheimers-dementia.html

https://www.aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/moving-parents-into-your-home

https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/home-care/info-2018/living-with-aging-parents.html

https://www.care.com/c/stories/5412/9-signs-your-parent-needs-help/

https://www.caregiver.org/selected-long-term-care-statistics

https://www.whereyoulivematters.org/how-much-does-assisted-living-cost/

https://www.seniorliving.org/nursing-homes/costs/

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Episode 50 – Coping with Cognitive Issues

Before we get started, we would like to take a quick moment and say thank to everyone for their support and encouragement. This is our 50th episode of All Home Care Matters and we would not be here if it weren’t for all of you. We have received countless emails, comments, and feedback from you sharing what the show has meant to you and from some of you how it has helped you in even the smallest of ways. That is why we do this show, to help families and individuals who are going through these issues with their loved ones.

When a loved one’s diagnosed with a cognitive problem, it can be devastating. In a lot of ways, watching a parent or grandparent suffer from memory loss or a change in personality feels like a devastating loss. Your parent or grandparent just isn’t the same. Still, there are ways to cope with this difficult news – and ways to maintain a meaningful relationship with your parent even once they have lost their memory or are suffering from other cognitive difficulties. Today, we’re going to talk about how to cope with a loved one’s diagnosis – so you can have the tools you need to get through this period together.

First of all, keep in mind that you and your parent are not alone. According to the CDC, 1 in 9 adults suffer from subjective cognitive decline in their older years. This most commonly occurs in the form of Alzheimer’s, dementia, Parkinson’s Disease, or a brain tumor. Stroke victims also often face cognitive difficulties.

With a diagnosis, often comes a major lifestyle change. Dementia patients, for instance, will usually require constant care and may need professional assistance in the home or have to move into a long-term care facility or nursing home depending on their circumstances. It can be devastating to watch a parent go from living independently to needing full-time care fairly quickly, while you are still trying to make sense of their diagnosis.

Along with major lifestyle changes, cognitive difficulties might lead to behavioral changes that can be frustrating or disheartening to witness. You might find that your parent is easily irritable, paranoid, or even aggressive. Try to remember that while it hurts to see a parent behave this way, nothing that they say or do is a personal attack. It’s a rage that stems from their disease and they have little to no control over it. If you feel like you don’t recognize your mom, or find yourself thinking, ‘Dad would never say something like that,’ remind yourself that it’s the disease talking, not your parent.

To protect your parent and yourself during this time, it’s essential that you practice patience, compassion, and good humor. Getting angry with your parent isn’t productive – they don’t understand what they’re saying or why, and at the end of the day, all they need is your support and love. Your anger or frustration could only make them more confused. With that in mind, begin your visits with the expectation that not all days are good and that there is a chance Mom or Dad won’t be in the brightest mood today.

It’s important that you savor the good days for when your loved one has their more difficult days. If you go into the visit with this in mind, you are better preparing yourself to remain calm and rational in case of an emotional outbreak.

Now, maintaining control over your emotions might feel impossible, right? Cognitive difficulties lead to an overload of mixed feelings. You might find that you’re both heartbroken and angry when your mom lashes out. Or that you want to hug your mom as much as, in that moment, you want to get away from her. This is normal. I promise. There’ll be days where you feel frustrated, hurt, and overwhelmed – where you just want a break, even though you love your parents more than anything.

It’s so important that you allow yourself to feel whatever you’re feeling – without guilt. Don’t show these emotions to your parents but make room for them in the rest of your life. Make sure that while you’re caring for your parent, you are caring for yourself too. Confide in a friend or a spouse, write in a journal, go on long walks, take hot baths. The more you practice self-care, the better prepared you will be to care for your loved one. I can’t emphasize that enough. You’re much more likely to lose patience or get outwardly frustrated with your mom or dad if you are exhausted and neglecting your own needs. Self-care might sound cliché, but it’s a necessary step to caring for others.

While you’re caring for yourself, you also want to educate yourself on your parents’ new diagnosis. The more you know about what’s happening inside of their brains, the more you can be there for them – and the more you’ll know what to expect. You also might find that the information is comforting – after all, the unknown can be really scary. When you have an idea of what you are facing, less is left up in the air.

Learning about the disease is also a great way to stay in-the-know when it comes to possible new treatments or medications. Talk to your doctor about the best resources to look into and listen to their advice when it comes to how to best care for your parent.

You’ll also want to help your parent be as comfortable as possible in their new life. If they had to move into a long-term care facility, help them decorate their new surroundings with sentimental furniture or art. Make sure that their living space is kept clean and their things are properly organized. Making their new place feel like home will help them to get comfortable faster – and they might feel calmer and more relaxed as a result.

You can also help your parent to improve their mental difficulties by playing mind games with them – and no, I don’t mean manipulating them – I mean playing games that help to strengthen their memory function. A mind game can be any game that keeps a person’s brain stimulated and engaged. Board games, card games, or puzzles are a great place to start. Puzzles have actually been proven to help strengthen seniors’ mental health – and they’re a lot of fun, too.

You can also read with your parent, write with them, or even help them learn a new instrument, depending on their current abilities. The Washington Post reported that learning an instrument helps a person to process memory speed and enhance verbal fluency. Reading and writing help to reduce stress and get better sleep.

Helping your loved one to keep up with friends can also make a big difference. The more a person is stimulated, the more their brain is engaged and building strength – and what’s more stimulating than a fun hang out with friends? Arrange weekly or bi-weekly engagements with your parents’ friends – even if it’s over Zoom. Not only can socialization help their minds, but it can also keep them from feeling lonely or even depressed.

If you want to make sure you’re on top of your parents’ progress, but can’t be around as often as you’d like to be, make sure to stay in close contact with their caregivers. Stay informed not only about their treatment and progress, but also about their socialization and how often they have access to games and hobbies. If you get the impression that your parent isn’t doing enough to engage their minds, mail a care package of puzzles and other games to them and ask the caregiver to challenge your parent to a friendly competition.

When you focus on your own needs while allowing yourself to feel what you need to while you face these difficult circumstances, you are equipping yourself with the energy and strength you need to care for your parent with patience and compassion – no matter what. It can be devastating to watch a parent suffer from a cognitive impairment, but with the right tools you can make the process easier and more meaningful for everyone.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. Please join us next time as we discuss the different long-term care options available and what might be the right choice for you.

Sources:

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/talking-older-patients-about-cognitive-problems

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/cognitive-health-and-older-adults

https://caregiver.com/articles/coping-cognitive-impairment/

https://www.caregiver.org/caring-adults-cognitive-and-memory-impairment

https://health.usnews.com/health-news/patient-advice/slideshows/5-ways-to-cope-with-mild-cognitive-impairment?slide=2

https://www.salmonhealth.com/blog/senior-mental-health/

https://www.cdc.gov/aging/aginginfo/subjective-cognitive-decline-brief.html#:~:text=The%20prevalence%20of%20subjective%20cognitive,compared%20to%2010.6%25%20among%20women.

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Episode 49 – A Discussion on Dementia with Jennifer Fink

We have a very special guest joining us today and her name is Jennifer Fink. Jennifer is the founder of the Fading Memories Podcast. Fading Memories is a podcast that helps families who have loved ones with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Jennifer spent the first half of her adult life as a portrait photographer, a business she still maintains. Listening to podcasts became a favorite way to learn new things while walking the dogs or doing household chores. After the death of her father in March 2017, dealing with and caring for her Mother became a much bigger part of her life. Looking to her favorite media in search of answers and not finding what she was looking for, Jennifer decided she would create a supportive podcast that caregivers of Alzheimer’s patients need and deserve.

Jennifer is the daughter, granddaughter & great granddaughter of women who suffered from Alzheimer’s or other cognitive impairment. Looking for answers on how not to become the fourth generation with this problem while also seeking ways to connect better with her Mom has led her on this interesting journey with her new passion, podcasting.

If you or someone you know is trying to navigate caring for a loved one with memory loss you’re busy even if you’re not responsible for their full time care. There are so many daily questions and challenges and finding the answer isn’t as easy as it should be. Fading Memories is a podcast designed to answer those daily questions in an easy to use format. Their weekly podcast has conversations from folks who have some of the answers and personal stories from family members dealing with a loved one with memory loss.

But the caring and the questions didn’t end there, in fact, more questions piled on and finding answers took more time than she or her sister had. This podcast is the result of the search for answers. If you are interested in learning more about Jennifer and the Fading Memories podcast you can visit fadingmemoriespodcast.com. We will be providing links to Jennifer and the Fading Memories podcast in our show notes.

We want to thank you and Jennifer for joining us here at All Home Care Matters, All Home Care Matters is here for you and to help families as they navigate long-term care issues. Please visit us at allhomecarematters.com there is a private secure fillable form there where you can give us feedback, show ideas, or if you have questions. Every form is read and responded to. If you know someone is who could benefit from this episode, please share it with them.

Sources for Fading Memories Podcast:

Fading Memories Website:

www.fadingmemoriespodcast.com

Apple:

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/fading-memories/id1372194620

Google:

https://www.google.com/podcasts?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5mYWRpbmdtZW1vcmllc3BvZGNhc3QuY29tL2ZlZWQvcG9kY2FzdC8

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/show/3deSSZyYhuvND3XQtbBE0W

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO3X7ufUPUrq5j1aNcW_ELg?view_as=subscriber

Fading Memories Podcast

http://www.fadingmemoriespodcast.com

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Episode 48 – Isolation and Seniors

Hello, and welcome back to All Home Care Matters. If this is your first time visiting us here at the show we want to say thank you for taking time out to be with us today. We appreciate how valuable everyone’s time is and that is why we try and make each episode here at All Home Care Matters something that will hopefully matter to you.

As COVID-19 rates continue to surge, many isolated seniors are facing a second epidemic: loneliness. Because so many seniors live alone, the elderly in the United States have been disproportionately impacted by loneliness for decades, but the pandemic has only made this problem worse.

It hurts to think of our parents or grandparents as lonely – especially when we aren’t able to visit with them the way we used to. Still, this is something we must acknowledge. The hard truth is that the number of seniors in isolation continues to rise. And loneliness is not merely undesired. It can actually have devastating effects on health. That’s why it’s so important that we can identify signs of loneliness in our loved ones and get them the help they need.

Loneliness, by the way, isn’t just a problem for seniors. Many family members who step into the role of caregiver will experience loneliness. Often, this major life change happens quickly and unexpectedly. The balance between personal life and caregiver life can be easily blurred, or you may not feel you have any balance at all. In this episode, we’ll go over ways to combat loneliness for seniors and caregivers alike.

There is hope – even during a pandemic. But to find it, we need to be informed.

Loneliness in seniors is getting worse. AARP recently reported that “millions of older adults across the country struggle with feelings of loneliness, isolation, and a lack of regular companionship.” These high numbers only seem to be growing. According to the Pew Research Center, more than 27% of adults over the age of 60 live by themselves. At the same time, an AARP survey by the University of Michigan found that 1 in 4 people complain of feeling isolated from time to time, while 1 in 3 say they “lack regular companionship.”

For those who only socialized once a week or less, loneliness was reported in higher numbers. On the other hand, seniors who said that they are socially active several times a week, were far less likely to report feeling isolated.

There are many reasons for seniors to feel especially lonely. As their independence dwindles, so do their options. If they have trouble moving, it can feel too difficult to get to social events, and it may even be impossible to leave the house. At the same time, a lack of mobility can damage a person’s dignity. It’s common for an older adult to isolate himself, simply because he doesn’t want friends or family to witness his new struggles.

When a senior can no longer drive, isolation is probable. Driving goes hand in hand with freedom – and without access to a car, attending social events and leaving the house is far more difficult. If your loved one is no longer driving, make sure to offer her rides or find another solution to help her leave the house and keep her world more open.

The elderly may also feel more alone if they have no family in the area and the health of their friends is declining. The sad reality is that seniors have to face the loss of friends and even spouses far more often. If visiting with friends is simply not an option, due to poor health, and family can only visit once a month – feelings of loneliness are pretty much inevitable.

The pandemic has only made this harder. As seniors are urged to stay at home, they are facing limited interactions with friends or family – if they have any at all. The University of Michigan poll found that a staggering 56% of elderly people reported feeling isolated in June of 2020. In a December 2020 survey by A Place For Mom, “62% of adult children caring for their parents or elderly relatives say their loved one has suffered physically or mentally from isolation during the pandemic.” Clearly, the pandemic has paved the way for an epidemic of loneliness.

There are certain demographics of seniors that are more likely to experience loneliness. The CDC explains that LGBT people, immigrants, minorities, and victims of elder abuse are especially vulnerable. For immigrants, language barriers, cultural differences, and family members who live internationally, all contribute to loneliness. For LGBT and minorities, discrimination can mean added challenges to finding care.

Women are another demographic that face loneliness in higher numbers. Often, women live longer than their husbands and have a smaller income. The median income of women over the age of 65 is $18,380. For men, that number is closer to $32,000. This means that many women lack the necessary funding to hire caregivers or move into an assisted living facility.

Finally, caregivers, too, are a population that suffers from loneliness. Family caregivers, especially, struggle to get used to their new routine – and might spend less time with friends or family because they don’t want to leave their loved one. During the pandemic, they might not even have a choice. Tamara Lynn Meadows, the divisional director of clinical operations in Oklahoma at Stonegate Living, explained that many caregivers turn to respite care when they need a break. She said in an interview that, “we get calls all the time from families and even hospices or home health care agencies looking for a place of respite for the senior in their care. They’re either worn out or in need of a vacation.”

So, why does loneliness matter so much? Well, loneliness can actually have devastating effects on health. Lonely seniors have a higher chance of experiencing high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, depression, cognitive disorders, and Alzheimer’s disease. AARP senior vice president Alison Bryant warned that “social isolation and loneliness are as bad for our health as obesity and smoking.”

Steve Cole, PhD, is the director of the Social Genomics Core Laboratory at the University of California, Los Angeles. He explained to the National Institute of Aging the reason that isolation can impact physical health. “Loneliness acts as a fertilizer for other diseases. The biology of loneliness can accelerate the buildup of plaque in arteries, help cancer cells grow and spread, and promote inflammation in the brain leading to Alzheimer’s disease.

Loneliness promotes several different types of wear and tear on the body.” At the same time, lonely people have a higher chance of having weakened immune cells that are not equipped to fight off viruses. Perhaps most disturbingly, seniors who are lonely are at a much higher risk of morality.

Loneliness has other effects on physical health, too. People who are lonely are more likely to feel depressed – and therefore take up unhealthy habits like drinking, smoking, or stress eating. This can lead to obesity, lung diseases, and alcoholism.

At the same time, those who experience regular socialization, tend to have a better bill of health. Not only are these folks not being biologically impacted by isolation, but they also have healthier habits – such as keeping up with a balanced diet and exercise.

Clearly, loneliness is a great risk to our loved ones – for more reasons than one. So, we want to make sure that we can identify the triggers of loneliness and intervene, before it’s too late.

If your loved one is living alone and rarely socializes, they are likely suffering from over-isolation. This is perhaps one of the easier triggers to identify, because we know if our loved one is living alone.

It’s important to look for less obvious triggers as well, though. These might include the recent loss of a spouse or even a friend. Losing a loved one is devastating for anyone – but for seniors, it can feel like the world is colliding in. That’s because their friends and spouses might be the only people they have who can truly relate to what they are going through as they age.

At the same time, if an older adult loses a spouse, they are likely going from a life spent with another person, to a living alone for the very first time. That’s a shocking feeling that some people never truly get used to. Grief can lead to depression – so if your loved one is going through a loss, make sure that you are able to visit with them or take other steps to combat their isolation.

A decline in health might also lead a family member to feeling isolated – even if they live with other people. When a person struggles with memory, or is diagnosed with a new disease, they are likely to feel scared and alone. Just like grief, health issues mean a major life transition – and everything seems harder to do.

If you believe your loved one might be experiencing a trigger to loneliness, don’t be afraid to speak with them directly about it. When you open up a space for them to talk safely about their feelings, you can come up with a solution together. And, by talking, you are reminding your loved one that they still have a person who loves them on their side.

While combatting loneliness during a pandemic might feel impossible, there is hope. There are many ways that an adult child can help their parent to be socialized. You don’t want to wait to begin helping your parent get back out there. After all, the longer a person is lonely, the harder it might be to get them back on track again.

If you can’t be with your parent on a regular basis, encourage him or her to take walks and get some fresh air. No, this might not lead directly to socialization, but exercise will help them to fight depression. Not to mention, even something as simple as waving hello to a neighbor can help fight loneliness. Outside on a walk, seniors have a good chance of running into community members and engaging in social-distant conversation. Even the simplest connections can work wonders.

Never be afraid to reach out. Under normal circumstances, planning visits as often as possible is a great way to help your parent or grandparent get socialization. Bringing their grandchildren along can especially brighten the mood. Try to have some fun activities planned for the visit – like taking a nature walk, painting, or having a movie night. Even if you aren’t sure how to spend the time, though, just being together is enough. You can visit with your loved ones even during the pandemic – but you must quarantine for a minimum of ten days before you do so.

Of course, quarantining isn’t always possible. If you’re an essential worker who has to leave the house, or you’re a parent with young kids to tend to, visiting your loved one simply might not be an option. In this case, be sure to take advantage of technology. Elderly people need more than one day a week of socialization, so Facetime as often as possible. Play board games over Zoom. Have movie watch nights on Netflix.

Of course, technology can’t compare to the real thing – but it can still make strides in helping your loved one’s empty house feel a little bit fuller. If you have children, you can arrange Zoom bedtime stories with their grandparents – in which your child reads to your grandparent, or your grandparent reads to your child. Don’t be afraid to get creative – and don’t assume that a lack of physical visitations means no visitations at all.

We want to thank you for joining us here at All Home Care Matters, All Home Care Matters is here for you and to help families as they navigate long-term care issues. Please visit us at allhomecarematters.com there is a private secure fillable form there where you can give us feedback, show ideas, or if you have questions. Every form is read and responded to. If you know someone who could benefit from this episode, please share it with them.

Remember, you can listen to the show on any of your favorite podcast streaming platforms and watch the show on our YouTube channel and make sure to hit that subscribe button, so you'll never miss an episode. Please Join us next time on All Home Care Matters as we welcome a very special guest, Jennifer Fink of the dementia and Alzheimer’s podcast show Fading Memories, you won’t want to miss it!

Sources:

https://homecareassistance.com/blog/the-impact-loneliness-and-isolation-has-on-senior-brains

https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2019/study-isolation-health-risks.html

https://www.aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/senior-isolation-facts

https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/social-isolation-loneliness-older-people-pose-health-risks

https://www.seniorlifestyle.com/resources/blog/what-is-senior-isolation/

https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpub/article/PIIS2468-2667(20)30061-X/fulltext

https://stonegatesl.com/one-is-the-loneliest-number-combating-senior-isolation/

https://www.agingcare.com/articles/loneliness-in-the-elderly-151549.htm

https://www.commonwisecare.com/how-elder-care-can-help-combat-loneliness/

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