Eldercare Success
Join us in Doing it Best with Eldercare Success where we explore ways to relieve the stress, exhaustion and overwhelm that we all face in caring for an aging parent, frail spouse, or partner. Fear, frustration, emotional and financial strain do not have to be your MO! In this show, we dive into unraveling the tricks, traps, and gotchas that create more questions than answers while caring for those we love. Join Nancy May, and her guests as she helps relieve the pressures and delivers solid ways to find more joy and freedom as we care for those with those...
Wed, August 28, 2024
Hospice with mom: It's different each time. This is what happened.
Hospice Round #3: What's different this time? Before we jump into this episode of Eldercare Succes s, I'd like to share that I've been going through a bit of a rough patch . For every faithful follower and listener to this show, I'd like to give you my sincere thanks. Just knowing you're out there listening, doing well—or trying to—gives me the strength to continue moving forward, too. Just because someone is known as an "expert" caregiver and care advisor doesn't mean that every day is sunny for us. But, instinctively, I think you know that. In any case, thank you for being at my side as a listener, subscriber, and someone who cares enough to share this show with others who need support in caring for their parents or a loved one. Sometimes, we forget to say thank you, and I hope saying so to someone you know makes your day just a little better, as saying thank you to you here has made mine. Now, let's get on with this next episode. Hospice round #3 - this time with mom, what was that like? Well, it was different. Listen in to learn more. Episode Overview: In this episode of the Eldercare Success podcast , Nancy May shares her personal journey with hospice care for her mother. Nancy offers a candid and emotional account of the challenges and comforts she experienced during this difficult time. Listeners will gain valuable insights into navigating the complexities of end-of-life care and the importance of cherishing every moment with loved ones. Things Listeners Will Learn: The Unique Experience of Hospice Care : Discover how every family’s hospice journey differs (and can be different even within the same family) and how to prepare for the unexpected. Coping Mechanisms : Learn about the emotional support and coping strategies that can help during this challenging time. The Importance of Cherishing Moments : Understand the significance of creating meaningful memories and sharing stories with loved ones in their final days. Personal things you can do during these final days, and how what Nancy did helped her sister, her aides, and her own heart. Why You Should Tune In: This episode provides a blend of practical advice and emotional resonance, offering comfort and guidance to those facing similar situations. Whether you're a caregiver or someone who wants to be better prepared, this show will leave you feeling supported and informed. What You Can Do Next: If you found this episode helpful, ple
Wed, August 14, 2024
What Hospice is like: A personal caregiver's experience shared.
What's it like to make a hospice decision? The path ahead, Part #1 of a very personal and shared experience. In this gripping episode of Eldercare Success , your host, Nancy May, bares her soul, recounting her raw and personal journey through her first experience with hospice care for her father. From the agonizing decision-making process to the final moments of her dad's life, Nancy takes listeners on a rollercoaster of emotions, challenging preconceptions about end-of-life care. With unexpected twists, touching moments, and even a dash of humor, this episode promises to change how you view hospice and prepare you for the unthinkable. Can you afford not to listen? Part Two, next week, is going to give you an entirely different experience into how to manage Hospice care for your parent or loved one. Key Takeaways: 📌 Hospice decisions are deeply personal and should align with the wishes of your loved one. The experience is never easy , but there are good people who can still make you smile and even laugh through the final days. Preparing for end-of-life care can help ease the emotional burden during difficult times. Helpful Links: 📌 Podcast: Eldercare Success (please share with those you care about) Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, and After Eldercare Success on YouTube Eldercare Success, link to ask Nancy a question : A small blue tab on the right side of the page says "Send a Voice Mail Message to Nancy." Click on that and follow the directions on the pop-up. Then, send me your comments and questions so I can answer them on the show. 💪 How you can help: If you found this episode helpful, please share it with a friend, family member, or even someone you see at your local coffee shop who might be dealing with similar caregiving challenges. Don't forget to subscribe to "Doing it Best with Eldercare Success " on your favorite podcast platform and leave us a five-star review . Your support helps us continue to bring valuable content to caregivers eve
Wed, August 07, 2024
Hospice Care Decisions: Making the Tough Calls In the Beginning (Part 1)
What happens when you sign a parent into or up for Hospice care services? In this deeply moving and informative episode of the Eldercare Success podcast , we dive into the challenging world of hospice care. This is the first part of a two-part series designed to provide comfort and clarity during one of life's most difficult times. Your host, Nancy May shares valuable insights into the hospice industry, highlighting both its compassionate mission and the complexities of its for-profit and non-profit models. By shedding light on personal experiences and offering practical advice, this episode aims to make the journey a bit more bearable for caregivers and their loved ones. 🌸 Key Takeaways Hospice Care Models : Understand the difference between for-profit and non-profit hospice organizations and their impact on care quality. 🏥 Making Informed Choices : Learn the importance of research, as well as when and how to ask questions about hospice agencies to ensure the best care for your loved one. 📚 Emotional Preparedness : Some key emotional challenges and pressures of making hospice decisions and how to cope with them. 💔 Cost Considerations : Be aware of potential costs associated with hospice care and the importance of clarifying what is covered by insurance and other sources. 💸 Types of Hospice Care : Explore the options of hospice at home versus inpatient hospice facilities and what each entails for caregivers and patients. 🏡 Stay tuned for part two, where your host, Nancy May , shares more facts, personal experiences, additional insights, and more details to help you with your caregiving journey. Helpful Links: 📌 Podcast: Eldercare Success (please share with those you care about) Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, and After Eldercare Success on YouTube Eldercare Success, link to ask Nancy a question : A small blue tab on the right side of the page says "Send a Voice Mail Message to Nancy." Click on that and follow the directions on the pop-up. Then, send me your comments and questions so I can answer them on the show. 💪 How you can help: <
Wed, July 31, 2024
Caregiver Blues: Beating them before they beat you.
Caregiving Blues: Beating Them Before They Beat You and Your Parents, too! In this episode of Eldercare Success , Nancy Ma y delves into a topic that resonates deeply with nearly every caregiver at some point in time - battling depression while caring for aging parents. Renowned for her insightful guidance and compassionate approach, Nancy tackles the emotional toll of caregiving with practical, uplifting advice. Why Listen? For anyone feeling the weight of caregiving, this episode is a must-listen. Nancy blends some rather personal anecdotes with expert advice to offer strategies that not only uplift caregivers but also help them recognize and address the emotional needs of aging parents. This episode promises to give you some good tools to keep the caregiving blues at bay and foster a more positive, resilient mindset. P.S. (from Nancy) I was dealing with a rather blue day when recording this episode. Listen to the very end to learn why and what happened next. Key Points: Discover simple yet effective practices to rejuvenate your spirit and enhance your well-being. Learn how to create a robust support system - and what/who to avoid through your caregiving journey. Ways to understand the signs of depression in elderly loved ones and explore creative ways to boost their emotional health, too. Helpful Links: 📌 PDF Blues & Depression Signals to watch for in yourself, and your parents. Podcast: Eldercare Success (please share with those you care about) Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, and After Eldercare Success on YouTube Eldercare Success, link to ask Nancy a question : A small blue tab on the right side of the page says "Send a Voice Mail Message to Nancy." Click on that and follow the directions on the pop-up. Then, send me your comments and questions so I can answer them on the show. 💪 How you can help: If you found this episode helpful, please share it with a friend, family member, or even someone you see at your local coffee shop who might be dealing with similar caregiving challenges. Don
Wed, July 24, 2024
Care Facilities: How to Research the Details for Mom and Dad
🏡 "Navigating Senior Living: Insider Tips and Tricks" 🌟 In this episode of Eldercare Succes s , host Nancy May and her guest Lynn Smargis discuss the ins and outs of finding a care facility for our delve into the intricacies of finding the right senior living arrangements for your aging parents. This episode is a must-listen for anyone grappling with the emotional and logistical challenges of eldercare. Episode Description Are you facing the daunting task of finding the right care facility home for your aging parents? Join us as Nancy May, host of Eldercare Success , and her guest Lynn Smargis, Senior Care Advisor, explore the essential steps in navigating the senior living landscape. This episode provides invaluable expertise on everything from initial medical evaluations to financial planning, helping you make the best decisions for your loved ones. Discover the common pitfalls families encounter and learn how to avoid them, ensuring your parents receive the best possible care possible without unnecessary stress for them and you. Whether you're at the beginning of this journey or in the midst of it, this episode is packed with practical advice and insights to guide you through the process. Key Takeaways: Understanding Senior Care Needs: critical steps to take when assessing your parent's need for assisted living. 🩺💼 Avoiding Common Pitfalls : Discover tips on avoiding the most common mistakes families make in vetting senior living communities 🚫❓ Medicaid and Financial Planning : Understand the intricacies of Medicaid and how it impacts eligibility for admission into care facilities. 💸📋 Evaluating Senior Living Options: We discuss the different types of senior living communities, including Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) and regular retirement communities, and what to consider when choosing the right one. 🏠🔍 Handling Emergency Situations : Insights on what to do when emergencies arise in senior living facilities and the importance of being prepared with necessary information and resources. 🚨📞 Personal Stories and Practical Advice : Throughout the episode, personal anecdotes and practical advice are shared to help listeners navigate the emotional and logistical challenges of eldercare. 📖💬 Previous <a href="https://www.eldercares
Wed, July 17, 2024
Importance Keeping Up Appearances in Dementia Care: looking good and feeling good counts.
Why it's Important to Help Mom and Dad Maintaining Appearance, Even if They have Dementia! In this next episode of Eldercare Sucess , Nancy May addresses an issue few mention: why looking good is important, even if your parent or loved one has dementia. 💇♀️Ever wonder why it's crucial to keep our parents with dementia looking and feeling their best, even on their toughest days? This episode dives into the profound impact of appearance and self-esteem on their overall well-being. Tune in to learn why a simple haircut or a stylish outfit can make a world of difference for your loved one. In this episode of " Eldercare Success ," host Nancy May shares her experience and valuable insights on the importance of maintaining the physical appearance of our parents who live with dementia. From ensuring regular salon visits to avoiding demeaning adult bibs, Nancy emphasizes how looking good can boost self-esteem and improve the quality of life for those battling cognitive decline. These points will make your life and job in caring for them easier and better too. 📌 Key Takeaways: 👵👴 Physical Appearance Matters: How regular grooming and even the simplest stylish clothing can significantly enhance the self-esteem of individuals with dementia. 🌟 Impact on Treatment: Being well-kept can influence how caregivers, medical professionals, and strangers treat your loved ones. 🧠 Self-Esteem and Health: Maintaining a positive self-image can contribute to mental and emotional health, making daily living more enjoyable and dignified. 🙌 Practical Tips: How to avoid using adult bibs that look like oversized baby bibs; and, instead opt for more dignified solutions like larger utensils or quick wardrobe changes post-meal. Personal Stories and Anecdotes: 👗 Nancy recounts her own challenges and triumphs in caring for her parents, including confronting a well-meaning aide about her mother’s increasingly bad haircuts and the joy of seeing her mother light up with new, stylish clothes. Helpful Links: 📌 Podcast: Eldercare Success (please share with those you care about) Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, and After Eldercare Success on YouTube <a href="https://www.eldercaresuccess.live
Wed, July 10, 2024
Neuropathy: 10 important ways to help keep parent's safe and their dignity in tact
How can you help keep mom and dad safe when they can't feel their fingers or toes? Does your aging parent struggle with tingling, numbness, or pain in their hands and feet? This episode of Eldercare Success dives deep into the world of neuropathy, a common condition among seniors that can significantly impact their independence and quality of life. Host Nancy May shares her personal experience caring for her father with neuropathy, offering compassionate insights and practical advice for navigating the challenges caregivers face. Discover how neuropathy affects daily activities like eating, dressing, and even walking, and learn ten actionable strategies to empower your loved one to maintain their dignity and autonomy. From adaptive kitchen tools and mobility aids to home safety modifications and understanding the importance of proper footwear, this episode equips you with the knowledge and resources to provide the best possible care for your aging parent. Key Concerns for Family Caregivers: Safety Risks: Neuropathy increases the risk of falls and accidents due to numbness in extremities. Loss of Independence: Simple tasks like buttoning clothes or using utensils can become difficult, impacting dignity and autonomy. Communication Challenges: Understanding the impact of neuropathy on your parent's ability to communicate their needs. Finding the Right Adaptive Tools: Navigating the world of adaptive equipment and identifying products that meet your parent's specific needs. Emotional Well-being: Caring for a parent with neuropathy can be emotionally challenging; prioritizing self-care and seeking support is crucial. 5 Key Takeaways: Listen in because there are actually 10 in this episode. Neuropathy is More Than Just Numbness: It can cause pain and tingling and affect balance, making everyday activities difficult and increasing fall risks. Adaptive Tools are Essential: Simple modifications like rocker knives, grab bars, and non-slip mats can make a huge difference in your parent's independence. Proper Footwear is Crucial: Well-fitting, supportive shoes are essential to prevent falls and ensure comfort. Where Occupational Therapy Can Help: OT can provide personalized strategies and exercises to improve dexterity, strength, and mobility. Patience and Dignity are Key: Approach caregiving with empathy, understanding, and a focus on preserving your parent's dignity. Helpful Links: Podcast: Eldercare Success (please share with those you care about) <a href="https://howtosurvive911.com/" rel="n
Wed, July 03, 2024
Top 10 ingenious tips For when Dad's lost his hearing aids! Can You Hear Me Now?
Tracking Lost Hearing Aids: Tips and Solutions Welcome to another episode of " Doing it Best with Eldercare Success," titled "Can You Hear Me Now?" In this episode, your host and family senior care expert, Nancy May, dives into the all-too-common issue of lost hearing aids and gives you practical solutions to keep those costly devices safe. From simple low-cost solutions that might remind you of your own camp days to more costly high-tech options and Bluetooth trackers, Nancy shares valuable tips to help you and your loved ones avoid the frustration and expense of losing hearing aids. Whether your elderly parents are at home, in a care facility, or even if the dog has a taste for expensive tech, this episode is packed with creative and affordable ways to ensure those tiny but vital devices stay put. Listen in for real-life advice and innovative solutions to keep the hearing aids secure and your mind at ease. Key Points: 🖊️ How to Labe for safety 🧵 Simple "Tye'm On" tools 🖊️Serial help - really! 📱 Find them anywhere with Bluetooth trackers. Helpful Links: Helpful Links: Podcast: Eldercare Success (please share with those you care about) Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, and After Eldercare Success on YouTube Eldercare Success, link to ask Nancy a question : A small blue tab on the right side of the page says "Send a Voice Mail Message to Nancy." Click on that and follow the directions on the pop-up. Then, send me your comments and questions so I can answer them on the show. Hearing Aid tools and solutions Hearing Aid Retention Clilps Jabra Enhance Plus ReSound One Phonak Audeo Paradise How you can help: If you found this episode helpful, please share it with a friend, family member, or even someone you see at your local coffee shop who m
Wed, June 26, 2024
Can You Lose Who You Are: Caregiver Codependency Help
Can you become Co-Dependent on the Caregiving Role? What's that about? In this episode of ' Doing It Best with Eldercare Success ,' host Nancy May addresses the profound challenges and emotional journey faced by those caring for multiple elderly family members and what happens when our “job” in caring for them is over. Have you identified so much with being a caregiver that you become stuck in knowing who you really are? How do you move forward? How do you get the right support from friends and family? When is their support detrimental to your own well-being? Nancy’s guest in this episode is Joined by Dr. Evan Plys, a Ph D a board certified geropsychologist and professor at Harvard Medical School. Listen in as Dr. Plys and Nancy delve into the impact of caregiving on personal identity and emotional well-being. Their discussion covers the struggle with accepting the term 'caregiver,' redefining roles beyond caregiving, and managing the emotional highs and lows associated with long-term caregiving. They also provide practical strategies for dealing with grief and transitioning to a new normal after a loved one's passing. This episode of Eldercare Success is rich with insights and recommendations for you and other caregivers to maintain balance and mental health while fulfilling their caregiving duties. Key Takeaways: How to. . . 📓 Better understand your role and position as a caregiver 🌟 Redefine your life after caregiving 📝 Maintain your personal identity ⚖️Normalize caregiving experiences 🧘♀️Get the right support from friends and family at the right time 💔How to move with strength. Episode Goals: This episode of Eldercare Success aims to support and empower caregivers like you to understand how to identify some of the key issues that will make your life easier after your care role has been completed. Even if you're in the beginning, middle, or end of your caregiving role, this episode can help you find more strength for yourself and those you love and who are dependent on your support. Helpful Links: Center for Health Outcomes and Interdisciplinary Research: Massachusetts General Hospital <a href="https://www.mghchoir.com/facultystaff" rel="noopener noreferre
Wed, June 19, 2024
Top Creative Shopping Hacks for Caregivers: :How to Find Solutions from Unexpected Places
Best Places to Find Creative, Low-cost Solutions for Caregiving Challenges. Welcome to another episode of "Doing it Best with Eldercare Success ." I'm your host, Nancy, and today we're talking about creative shopping solutions to make caregiving easier and more enjoyable, even fun! Today, we'll explore how to think outside the box and find innovative tools in unexpected places, whether you're at a hardware store, a grocery store, or even your favorite ice cream shop. This episode is packed with practical tips and ideas to help you be more resourceful, save money, and solve everyday caregiving challenges creatively. Even those that feel insurmountable. Key Takeaways: How to. . . 📓 Find new places to find better solutions. 🍦 Be more innovative with everyday things to solve problems. 🛠️ Leverage low-cost tools and supplies safely and more effectively. Episode Goals: This episode aims to inspire you to learn how to be more creative and resourceful in working to resolve everyday problems. By thinking outside the box and finding innovative solutions during everyday shopping trips, caregivers can make their lives easier and more enjoyable while providing better care for their loved ones. 🌐 Helpful Links: Podcast: Eldercare Success (please share with those you care about) Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, and After Eldercare Success on YouTube Eldercare Success, link to ask Nancy a question : A small blue tab on the right side of the page says "Send a Voice Mail Message to Nancy." Click on that and follow the directions on the pop-up. Then, send me your comments and questions so I can answer them on the show. 🎧🎤 Host : Nancy May has gone from the Boardroom to the Emergency Room to care for her aging parents and educate business owners, corporate employees, and leaders with more strength and confidence in doing well and doing good. Nancy is the five-star author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Sur
Wed, June 12, 2024
Top 10 Great and Unique Father's Day Gift Ideas For an Elderly Dad: That Don't Cost a Lot!
10 Heartfelt Last-Minute, Money-Saving, Father's Day Gift Ideas for Your Elderly Dad! 🎁👴 Are you struggling to find the perfect Father's Day gift for your elderly dad, who says he has everything? Whether you’re dealing with the challenge of finding something special or just looking for a new way to show your love, we’ve got you covered. In this special episode of Eldercare Success , Nancy May shares her top 10 creative and thoughtful gift ideas that will bring a smile to your dad's face and create lasting memories, for you, dad, and even mom too.. ⭐ Helpful Links 🌊 Chills Cooling Pad 🧦 Ski Socks 📚 National Geographic 💌 Heroes to Heroes ⚓<a href="https://www.history.navy.mil/content/history/museums/nmusn/explore/photography/wwii/wwii-atlantic/battle-of-the-atlantic/engagements-german-uboats/1944-attacks-german/wwii-atlantic-u50
Wed, June 05, 2024
Want to Get Paid to Care for Your Aging Parent: Here's How!
How do you get paid to care for Mom & Dad? In this episode of Eeldercare Success , your host, Nancy , explores an essential and practical topic for many families: getting paid to care for your elderly parent at home. Here, Nancy breaks down the basics, discussing the basic difference between Medicare and Medicaid qualifications and how these programs can impact your ability to receive financial support as a caregiver. Discover how states like California, New York, Texas, and Massachusetts offer robust programs to support family caregivers, with payments ranging from $8 to $19 per hour, depending on the state and specific program. Nancy provides detailed examples of some states with compensation programs, such as Texas's STAR+PLUS, Massachusetts's Adult Foster Care (AFC), Florida's SMMC-LTC, and Colorado's HCBS Waivers, including qualifications and payment details. We'll also cover eligibility criteria, disqualifying factors, and steps to get started with these programs. If you're navigating the challenges of caring for an aging parent and wondering how to make ends meet, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice. Tune in to learn how to provide the best care for your loved one while receiving the financial support you deserve. To subscribe to the Eldercare Success podcast and future conversations with Nancy and other experts, go to EldercareSuccess.Live, or subscribe on your favorite podcast listening platform. If you like this show, please also give Nancy and the show a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts and other listening platforms. Your efforts to do so will help others and Nancy. Finally, Share this episode with others who might benefit from understanding the options available for family caregivers. Let's continue the conversation and support each other on this caregiving journey. Helpful Links: Podcast: Eldercare Success (please share with those you care about) Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, and After Eldercare Success on YouTube Eldercare Success, link to as
Wed, May 29, 2024
How Packrat Dad's Stuff Can Help You.
Packrat Dad to the Rescue! The best gift your parents can give you is a list of where things go. What happens when your parents keep piling up the papers and never toss things away? In this episode of Eldercare Success, your host, Nancy May discussed how a parent’s packrat habits can work to your advantage in taking over caregiving responsibilities. Nancy also dives into the challenges of packing and moving, especially when dealing with multiple households and inheriting items from parents. It also highlights the value of a list of where everything is and what parents want to be done with them, as one of the best gifts they can give. The episode concludes with tips on initiating family history conversations and the emotional significance of a parent's handwriting and personal notes. Helpful Links: Podcast: Eldercare Success (please share with those you care about) Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, and After Eldercare Success on YouTube Eldercare Success, link to ask Nancy a question : A small blue tab on the right side of the page says "Send a Voice Mail Message to Nancy." Click on that and follow the directions on the pop-up. Then, send me your comments and questions so I can answer them on the show. Host : Nancy May has gone from the Boardroom to the Emergency Room to care for her aging parents and educate business owners, corporate employees, and leaders with more strength and confidence in doing well and doing good. Nancy is the five-star author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After ! and an award-winning expert in managing the complexities of caring for an aging parent or family member, even from over 1200 miles away, or more for a Free File-of-Life to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC and the private FaceBook group Eldercare
Wed, May 22, 2024
Getting Mom & Dad to Accept Help. Tips and More!
Riding the Road of Eldercare: Balancing Independence and Support Ever feel like you're walking on eggshells trying to help your aging parents? Your Eldercare Success host, Nancy May, gets it. In this episode of Eldercare Success, s he ditches the usual dry advice. She takes you on a surprising ride, comparing navigating eldercare to her own early experiences of riding a motorcycle. As tough as it may be, respecting her parents' need for independence while ensuring their safety is a delicate dance that can be done well—for them and you. This episode shares practical tips, sprinkled with personal anecdotes and even a touch of blinged-out biker chic, making it relatable and informative. Want to learn how to offer support without being overbearing? Some key takeaways include: How to ask questions and gain acceptance without interrogation The "Dripping Water" Approach of small gestures How to be a partner with your parents This episode is packed with real-world examples, including a cautionary tale about sneaky scams targeting seniors, that you might not even consider an issue... until it's too late. Nancy even unveils cutting-edge tech solutions, like an AI pin that can call for help with a simple tap. Ready to find a smoother ride on the road of eldercare? Tune in to this episode for practical advice, heartwarming stories, and a fresh perspective on supporting your aging parents with love and respect. Helpful Links: CVS Pharmacy Medication Packaging Humane AI Pin Pill Reminder System : there are many others, but this is just one that works on a 90-day supply Podcast: Eldercare Success (please share with those you care about) Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, and After Eldercare Success on YouTube Eldercare Success, link to ask Nancy a question : A small blue tab on the right side of the page says "Send a Voice Mail Message to Nancy." Click on that and follow the directions on the pop-up. Then send me your comments and questions so I can answer them on the show.
Wed, May 15, 2024
Things to do with elderly parents: fun for all and inexpensive too.
17 New Ideas for Creative and Meaningful Activities with Aging Parents and Elderly Loved Ones. Are you tired of the same old routine activities when caring for your aging parents or as a professional caregiver? Do you struggle to develop new, fun, and meaningful ways to connect with your elderly loved ones? Look no further! In this podcast episode of Doing it Best With Eldercare Success , Nancy May shares 17 creative and inexpensive activities that will help combat boredom and foster deeper connections between caregivers and their elderly parents, even if they have some cognitive or physical limitations. Say goodbye to folding laundry as an "entertaining" activity, and hello to a world of more engaging possibilities! These activities suit seniors who are frail, have dementia or have other physical limitations. From musical moments to storytelling adventures, there's something for everyone on this list. Join Nancy and become an Eldercare Success as she delves into each activity, providing tips and insights on making the most of your time together. Whether you're a family caregiver or a professional aide, this episode will inspire you to think outside the box and create lasting memories with your elderly loved ones. Don't miss out on this opportunity to rev-up your caregiving experience and connection. Tune in to "Doing it Best With E ldercare Success " and discover 17 different and fun-filled activities that will bring joy, laughter, and meaningful connections to your daily routine. Share this episode with your family and friends, and let's make caregiving a more fulfilling and enriching experience for everyone involved! Why You Should Listen : Break Caregiving Monotony: Explore creative solutions to overcome the routine boredom that both caregivers and seniors often face. Create Inclusive Fun for All : These activities are tailored for frail individuals, those with dementia, or those with other restrictions, ensuring everyone can participate. Even learn to engage infants and Young Children : Learn how to transform caregiving into a joyful, family-wide event that fosters meaningful interactions and cherished memories. Helpful Links: Bluetooth Speaker less than $25 <a href="https://www.eldercaresuccess.live/going-to-the-
Wed, May 08, 2024
Six Red Flags EVERY Caregiver Needs to Know About Care Facilities
Navigating the Maze of Senior Care: 6 Red Flags You MUST Know Is your parent or loved one considering a move to a care facility? Are they already residing in one? Your Eldercare Success host, Nancy May , gives you an eye-opening podcast episode with guest Justine Bykowski, a gerontology expert who has spent much of her career working with the University of Michigan Health System. This episode sheds light on the often-overlooked issues that can severely impact the well-being of care facility residents – our parents and loved ones. You’ll also learn about the six red flags that you absolutely want to be aware of when evaluating care environments for your elderly parents. These red flags are essential in ensuring that your loved ones receive the care and dignity they deserve and that you, as a caregiver, can sleep well each night. Six Red Flags: This Eldercare Success episode emphasizes the importance of families being proactive, informed, and vigilant in monitoring the care their loved ones receive. You’ll also get invaluable insights on identifying the six red flags , what questions to ask facility staff, and how to advocate for better care. Key Takeaways: Importance of service plans and when to reevaluate them Why you need to know about Medication Administration Records (MAR) Researching resident protection and safety lapses Learning about how staffing can pose a risk to your parent or loved one Simple, or not so simple, importance of food quality and dining experience Other often overlooked indicators of overall care This podcast is a must-listen for those who have a loved one in a care facility. It could mean the difference between a good day and living with caregiver regrets for a long time to come. Don't wait until it's too late - tune in now and learn how to become a powerful advocate for your parent or an elderly loved one's well-being in care facilities. Your vigilance could make all the difference. 🔑 Eldercare Success Episode Links & Resources: Six Red Flags to know about when working with a care home. Recommended fall detection tools are fall calls and emergency<a href="https://daves.deals/fallcall" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_bla
Wed, May 01, 2024
Incontinence Happens Dad! Managing Dignity, a Daughter's Journey
Navigating Dignity and Incontinence: A Daughter's Journey This episode of Eldercare Success dives deep into this daughter's personal, and sometimes humorous journey as she navigates the challenges of assisting her father with accepting that he needs to use incontinence underwear. Nancy May , your host, openly shares her, and her Dad’s personal experiences, including both missteps and successful strategies, revealing the complexities of caregiving with empathy and authenticity. From employing unconventional methods like acupuncture to confronting somewhat embarrassing medical appointments, this episode of Eldercare Success addresses the delicate balance of maintaining dignity and the practical realities of incontinence, and when pee happens. This episode includes lessons on patience, understanding, and respect, providing practical insights into the realities of caregiving for the parents we love. It's guaranteed to make you laugh, and perhaps shed a tear or two, also. Key Takeaways: How to be involved, and even empowered to help Ways to preserve dignity, theirs and yours! Considerations about comfort Important health-related issues Tips to maintain independence, privacy, and respect. This episode of Eldercare Success gives you insights into the practical aspects of caregiving. It also touches on the emotional resilience required to handle such sensitive matters. It's a must-listen for anyone in a caregiving role… wife, daughter, and professional caregivers alike. 🔑 Eldercare Success Episode Links & Resources: Recommended Fall Detection tools: Fall Call , Emergency Door Open Locks . Podcast: Eldercare Success (please share with those you care about) Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, and After Eldercare Success on YouTube Eldercare Success, link to ask Nancy a question : There's a small blue tab on the right side of the page that says "Send a Voice Mail Message to Nancy." Click on that and follow the directions on the pop-up. Then send me your comments and questions so that I can answer them on the show. Host: </em
Wed, April 24, 2024
Going to the Movies with Dementia!
This episode of Eldercare Success is guaranteed to give you some useful tools to make it easier to help your loved ones be accepted and function well in your community and public social settings. Listen in as Nancy May shares the ways that Jim Magnis helped transform his community while caring for his wife with early-onset Alzheimer's Disease. Love for his wife ignited the creation of "Dementia-Friendly Saline," an initiative that’s now making waves beyond Saline, Michigan. Discover how small acts of understanding and adaptation have worked to create an inclusive environment for individuals facing cognitive challenges, and how you can do this too, in your own community. It’s easier than you might think. Key Highlights : ✨ It’s Personal For Everyone : Jim shares his personal journey of caring for his beloved wife, Kathleen, and how it led to the birth of "Dementia Friendly Saline." Easy Education of a Community : Learn about Jim's efforts to educate local businesses and organizations, making everyday activities more accessible and enjoyable for those with dementia. It’s good for business too! Dementia-Friendly Cinema Movies : How a simple idea has increased business for a local movie theater chain, is now bringing joy and a sense of normalcy to families, proving that small changes can make a big difference. Expanding the Movement and Reach : The blueprint for replicating Saline’s success in communities nationwide, encouraging a collective effort towards inclusivity. 💌 Your Takeaway : Inspired by Jim's commitment, let's challenge ourselves to contribute to a dementia-friendly world. Whether it’s through advocating for inclusive practices, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, every action counts . 🕒 Timestamps: [00:00] Welcome: Introduction to Creating Change [02:10] Jim Magnis' Story: A Caregiver's Journey to Advocacy [05:20] Identifying Dementia: Understanding the Early Signs [08:01] Fighting Stigma: Alzheimer’s as a Disease, Not a Disgrace [15:27] Dementia-Friendly Saline: A Model for Community Engagement [21:17] Cinema for All: The Joy of Dementia-Friendly Movie Showings [30:11] Impactful Moments: Stories That Touch the Heart [33:52] Scaling Compassion: Spreading the Dementia-Friendly Initiative [36:58] Conclusion: A Call to Action for Communities Worldwide 🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned: Jim Mangi, and Dementia Friendly Saline Website
Wed, April 17, 2024
How to Navigate Your Career and Caregiving.
Balancing Acts: Ways to Still thriving in your career while caring for aging parents. It is possible to do without driving yourself to the edge! In this empowering episode of Eldercare Success , we delve into the deeply personal and challenging journey of balancing a fulfilling career, or business, with the demands of caring for aging parents. Many of us face the tough choice between professional aspirations and family obligations, a choice that can leave you feeling torn and overwhelmed. This episode is Nancy May, your host, shares a few ways to navigate this turbulent time with grace, resilience, and practical wisdom. Remember, you can do this, and we're here to help. Join us next week for more insights and support on Eldercare Success . Stay well, and keep moving forward — both in your career and in caregiving. 🎁 Quick Takeaway: Please know you're not alone in this journey. With the right strategies, open communication, some basic planning, and a bit of self-compassion, it's possible to thrive in your career while ensuring your aging parents receive the love and care they deserve. You can do this. If you need help or support, please reach out to me directly through a voice message on EldercareSuccess.Live . There's a tab on the right side of the screen where you can choose to send Nancy a voice message. 🔑 Resources: ✨ Key Highlights: Understanding the Challenge: We open up about the emotional and financial burdens that caregiving can impose on individuals, as shared through heart-wrenching personal anecdotes from our listeners. Navigating Company Policies : Insights into how to communicate with employers and leverage FMLA benefits while minimizing career disruption. Practical Strategies : From open communication with family and employers to legal and financial planning, we share actionable tips to manage dual roles effectively. Technology as a Caregiver : Explore how innovations like medical alert systems and remote monitoring can ease the caregiving burden. The Pillar of Self-Care : To many caregivers end up with with life-threatening health issues resulting from the stress of careing for a parent and keeping their own life and career in balance. Finding even a 5 minutes to yourself can help. Empowerment through Organization : Staying organized is crucial, both in caregiving tasks and in maintaining career progression. 🔑 Eldercare Success Episode Links & Resources : Recommended Fall Detection tools : Fall Call , <a href="https://daves.deals/fallcall" rel="noopener
Wed, April 10, 2024
Words as Bridges: voices on care, helping others, and words that heal
Words as Bridges In this episode of Eldercare Success ," host Nancy May talks with sits Dallin Candland , in a conversation that veers into the less explored corridors of caregiving, and the healing power of poetry. Dallin shares his personal journey through hardship and how he turned to poetry as a means to understand and express his emotions, providing solace not just for himself but for others grappling with their own challenges. This episode shines a light on the unique perspective of the next generation of caregivers, the universality of the expected, and the unexpected, and the power of words that can help even a stranger. Key Takeaways: The Healing Power of Words : Dallin discusses how poetry has become a tool to navigate personal, financial, and spiritual issues, offering a fresh approach to healing Art and Creativity as Therapy : In this episode, you'll learn how to tap into and address your emotions and bring a sense of power and honesty to some of your most intimate life, and care experiences The Importance of Patience and Presence: This conversation highlights the significance of being patient and present in the face of caregiving challenges, emphasizing how to find strength in acknowledging and appreciating the moment. Lessons from Nancy and Dallin: How to Open New Pathways for Healing Ideas to Help YOu Acknowledge and Appreciate the Present Understanding the Transformative Power of Pain Connections Across Generations Through Care The Importance in Expressing and Sharing Experiences Eldercare Success Episode Links & Resources: Dallin Candland's book: God is Trying to Talk to Me Dallin's website, writings and more! Podcast: Eldercare Success (please share with those you care about) Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, and After Eldercare Success on YouTube Elderc
Wed, April 03, 2024
MDs Behind Closed Doors: The Medical Decisions You Weren't Part Of
How Tragedy Strikes: The Heartbreaking Truth About Medical Decisions in Eldercare In this episode of Eldercare Sccess, Host, Nancy May bravely shares her family's harrowing experience with the eldercare system, a cautionary tale that will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about protecting your loved ones. With raw honesty and gut-wrenching detail, Nancy exposes the devastating consequences of unchecked medical decisions made without her family's knowledge or consent. Her tragedy unfolds like a nightmare, revealing the harsh reality of a system that can fail even the most vigilant caregivers. But this isn't just a story of loss and heartbreak. It's a rallying cry for all of us entrusted with the care of aging parents or relatives. Nancy's powerful narrative serves as a wake-up call, reminding us of the critical need for unwavering advocacy and vigilance in every healthcare decision. Brace yourself as this is a rollercoaster that even brought Nancy to tears as she recorded this episode. It's her family's true story and her continued relentless pursuit of truth. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the complex world of eldercare, a sobering reminder that the stakes have never been higher. Key Points: Understand the hidden dangers of medical decisions, you might not know about: Learn about outcomes that can occur when doctors make unilateral decisions about an elderly patient's care without adequate family involvement. Know when to push back on medical decisions: Discover the importance of advocating for your loved ones, questioning healthcare professionals, and ensuring all decisions align with your parent, or loved one's wishes. Challenges of navigating Grief and Guilt: Understand how to cope with the complex emotions of grief and guilt following the loss of a loved one due to questionable medical advice. Eldercare Success Episode Links & Resources: Podcast: Eldercare Success (please share with those you care about) Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, and After Eldercare Success on YouTube Eldercare Success, link to ask Nancy a question : There's a small blue tab on the right side of the page that says "Send a Voice Mail Message to Nancy." Click on that and follow the directions on the pop-up. Then send me your comments and questions so that I can answer them on the
Wed, March 27, 2024
Falls and Preventions, with a Trauma Surgeon. Don't wait for this happens to you!
Oh no, Mom's fallen and I can't get to her! Now what? In the latest episode of the Eldercare Success podcast, Nancy May dives into the issues that every caregiver worries about - their parent's falling and getting seriously hurt. Her conversation with Dr. Shea Gregg, a trauma surgeon, and the innovative mind behind FallCall will give you key information on trauma, falls, and a new way to help prevent and get help. Dr. Gregg's dual expertise as a medical professional and caregiver brings a unique perspective to the challenges facing the elderly and those caring for them. This episode delves into Dr. Gregg's journey as a caregiver for his aging parents, his professional insights into trauma and its effects, and the groundbreaking work his company, FallCall , is doing in fall detection and prevention technology. This episode should make your life as a caregiver easier, even if you're supporting your parents from 1200 miles away, or around the block. Key Learning Points: Understanding What Trauma is and Its Implications : learn about the nuances of trauma The Fear of Falling : how fear can impede physical recovery and the importance of addressing both physical and emotional healing Innovations in Elderly Care Fall Detection and Prevention : How Dr. Gregg has leveraged technology in the research and development of FallCall Preventive Measures and Future Directions : insights into future developments, including predictive analytics to prevent falls by monitoring heart rates, irregular heartbeats, and other indicators What You Can do Now, to Help Your Parents, and Yourself. Tools that enable first responders to get to your parent, in the event of a fall, even if their front door is locked, or they're in the grocery store parking lot. This episode is a must-listen for anyone caring for an aging parent or interested in the intersection of technology and elderly care. It not will give you valuable insights into the challenges and solutions related to eldercare but also offers hope and practical tools for improving the quality of life for our aging loved ones, and you, as a caregiver. Eldercare Success Episode Links & Resources: FallCall - fall detection and prevention technology Kwikset Locks - enables fast entry into a home when you can't be there to help. Kwik-Unlock video FallCall on YouTub
Wed, March 20, 2024
Warning! NEVER hire only one home-care Aide - and why
NEVER hire only one home-care Aide: and why! In this episode of the Eldercare Success podcast, Nancy May tackles the key issues when you’re considering hiring an aide for aging parents. This includes whether to hire one or several aides and if it’s a good idea to have a full-time aide living in your parent’s home so you have greater peace of mind – or will you? There are a lot of unintentional mistakes family caregivers can make that can have disastrous results for you, your family, your parents, and even the aide(s) you hire. This episode provides direct-to-the-point advice on how to navigate this tough challenge. You’ll learn to make more informed and compassionate decisions for your loved ones and those you hire to care for your parents. This episode of Eldercare Success is a must-listen for anyone looking for clear, actionable guidance about key considerations when thinking about, and planning to hire one or more homecare aids for an elderly parent. How many home care aides is enough Why you should never have just one aide Risks of moving a home care aide in with your parents Things to consider for your aides as well as your parents. Eldercare Success Episode Links & Resources: Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, and After Eldercare Success on YouTube Eldercare Success, link to ask Nancy a question : There's a small blue tab on the right side of the page that says "Send a Voice Mail Message to Nancy." Click on that and follow the directions on the pop-up. Then send me your comments and questions so that I can answer them on the show. Host: Nancy A. May has gone from the Boardroom to the Emergency Room to care for her aging parents and educate business owners, corporate employees, and leaders with more strength and confidence in doing well and doing good. Nancy is the five-star author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! and an award-winning e xpert in managing the complexities of caring for an aging parent or family member, even from over 1200 miles away, or more. For a Free File-of-Life to <a href="https://howtosurvive911.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_bl
Wed, March 13, 2024
How this caregiver harnessed humor in the eye of the storm.
How Humor and Snark Can Save You as a Caregiver. Seriously! Welcome to Doing It Best with Elder Care Success , where we uncover how to be a more effective and resilient caregiver. In this episode, your host, Nancy May talks with with Kathryn Lang, a caregiver who found strength in learning how to use humor in tough times. you'll learn how laughter - even on the darkest days - can be used as a vital tool in your caregiving journey, even amidst personal and natural challenges. The two share the wisdom of finding joy, staying flexible, and being present while caring for others. Tune in to learn about the impact of humor in overcoming difficulties with a smile. This episode is guaranteed to make you laugh, smile, and even find a new way to discover more meaning and purpose in your caregiving journey Episode links: Kathryn Lang : The Face of Encouragement when the sun is struggling to shine. Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, and After Eldercare Success on YouTube Ask Nancy a Question: Eldercare Success, link to ask Nancy a question : There's a small blue tab on the right side of the page that says "Send a Voice Mail Message to Nancy." Click on that and follow the directions on the pop-up. Then send me your comments and questions so that I can answer them on the show. Timeline Summary: [00:0] - Introduction and the role of humor in caregiving. [02:31] - Laughter as a catalyst for hope. [04:17] - The concept of focused flexibility. [07:23] - The significance of being present in healthcare settings for loved ones. [14:52] - Setting boundaries, guilt, and emotional resilience in caregiving. [21:18] - The therapeutic value of sharing caregiving stories and feeling connected. [29:16] - Embracing the uniqueness of mourning and personal healing processes. [43:30] - Unexpected lessons learned through caregiving. #ElderCareSuccess #Caregiving #LaughterHeals #SnarkyRainbows #ElderCarePodcast #HopeAndHealing #CaregiverSupport #Resilience #FamilyCaregiving Guest:
Wed, March 06, 2024
Easy to use Tools to Balance Caregiving, Stress, anxiety, and Sanity
Do you ever feel overwhelmed, anxious, or stressed in your caregiving role? You're not alone. As a caregiver myself, I've faced those panic moments too. Caring for an aging parent or frail spouse can put us on an emotional rollercoaster, even if we're strong! In this week’s episode of Eldercare Success, I get real about caregiver stress and anxiety. I'll share some practical and easy-to-use tools, that I even use to cope when things feel like they're getting out of my control or ability to cope. These simple techniques can help you tap into your inner strength and find some calm when you need it most. I'll also discuss when it makes sense to seek professional help, and times when an hour with a therapist only adds more stress. This is for all of us trying to balance caregiving with everything else on our plates. You don't have to struggle through this time alone and without support. I can’t wait for you to join me, Nancy May in this next episode of Eldercare Success. Eldercare Success Episode Links & Resources: A Sound Bath for Anxiety and Stress Murry Zelkovitch's Brain Wave Tools: Neural Agility Tool , RevitaMind Tool Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, and After Eldercare Success on YouTube Eldercare Success, link to ask Nancy a question : There's a small blue tab on the right side of the page that says "Send a Voice Mail Message to Nancy." Click on that and follow the directions on the pop-up. Then send me your comments and questions so that I can answer them on the show. Host: Nancy A. May , Eldercare Success, and Five-Star Author, How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies: Step-by-Step Before, During, After . Nancy has gone from a career working with some o
Wed, February 28, 2024
Inside ER: Strategies that demystify the ER with an ER Doctor
Inside the ER in a crisis with an emergency department doctor this is a must-listen episode of Eldercare Success, as Nancy May sits down with Dr. Brittany Lamb, an experienced emergency room doctor with a special interest in elderly patients and dementia care. Join us as we demystify the often-intimidating world of emergency medical care, offering invaluable insights for families of all ages. Why Listen to every word? You'll learn about the essential steps to take during an emergency, understand when to call 911 and learn how to navigate the hectic environment of the ER. This episode gives you tons of insider advice that could save a life, whether you're caring for aging parents or even if you have young children. Special Offer: As a bonus, listeners will get access to the Eldercare Success "File of Life," ensuring that crucial medical information is readily available in emergencies. Key Episode Points: When to Call 911 or just call for support: Learn to identify true medical emergencies. Emergency Room Realities : Insights into the triage process and what to expect upon arrival. Navigating ER with Elderly Patients : Tips for managing visits with elderly relatives, including those with dementia. How to Better Advocate for Your Loved Ones : How to ensure your family member gets the attention they need. What Happens if You're Miles Away and Can't Get to Your Parent's Side in the ER : what doctors can and can't do to help you in a situation like this. How Doctors Can Sometimes Help You Understand What's Nex t: Preparing for discussions and preferences. This is an episode that every family needs to hear. Whether you're facing the challenges of aging parent care or simply want to be prepared for any medical emergency, this conversation. This episode will help prepare you for what's next and to have better peace of mind when an emergency happens. And, yes, it will! Episode links: Dr. Brittany Lamb , Emergency Room Doctor Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After - an essential for anyone caring for an aging or frail loved one. Ask a Question on Eldercare Success: Click the tab on the right side of the page to record and send your questions. FREE, File of Life Guest: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/blambmd/" r
Wed, February 21, 2024
Caregiver 911: Avoid ER Nightmares with Your Elderly Parent
Caregiver 911: Three top ways to help you avoid ER nightmares Emergencies are every caregiver's worst nightmare , but being prepared can make a world of difference. In this episode of Eldercare Success, host Nancy May gives you the top three things to do when the unthinkable happens, and you need to call 911 for elderly loved ones. From getting them to the hospital faster, especially in rural areas, to ensuring doctors have the critical information they need for life-saving care, Nancy shares invaluable tips that could make all the difference. But the surprises don't stop there! If your loved one resides in a care facility, brace yourself for an eye-opening truth about what transpires when they're rushed to the hospital during a crisis – despite the hefty fees you're paying for their care . Don't be unprepared when a crisis strikes. You can help those you love with less stress and strain on yourself too. Tune in this Winter Short Episode of Eldercare Success for invaluable guidance about how to navigate emergencies as a caregiver with greater knowledge and confidence. Episode Links: File of Life (free) Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies Eldercare Success YouTube Subscribe to Eldercare Success: Ask questions by clicking on the tab on the right side of the page. You can send Nancy a message or ask a question to be answered on the air. Host: Nancy A. May, Eldercare Success , and Five-Star Author, How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies: Step-by-Step Before, During, After. Nancy has gone from a career working with some of the most recognized corporate CEOs and boardroom directors to the Emergency Room to care for her aging parents and educate business owners, corporate employees, and leaders on how to do so with confidence. She saved her parents from financial abuse and ruin and recouped over $260k/year while identifying poor-quality care. Nancy is also an award-winning e xpert in managing the complexities of caring for an aging parent or family member, even from over 1200 miles away, or more. You can get a Free File-of-Lif
Wed, February 14, 2024
Elder Romance Scammers: How to Protect our aging parents and our entire family
Elder Romance Scammers: Safeguarding Hearts, Wallets, and even Grandchildren! In this eye-opening episode of Eldercare Success , Nancy May delves into the alarming world of elder romance scams, with her guest, James Feldman a fully accredited Professional Relationship Coach and romance scam protection expert . In our conversation, we dive into this $3.1 billion industry (as reported by the FBI ). We explore the heart-wrenching reality of not just how retires lose their life savings, but also how these criminals are scamming and abusing children and adults of all ages. There are a lot of tips in this episode that you can learn from. Listen to the end for extra details on how James Feldman has worked with the FBI, to put a number of these criminals behind bars . He'll tell you how you can do the same should you be suspicious that someone is trying to pull a dating scam on your parent too. Even the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is working on this one. Key topics covered: Understanding Elder Romance Scams : We break down how con artists use dating apps and online platforms to prey on lonely, older individuals How to Recognize Red Flags : How to ID a scammer's fake profile. Tips on how to report losses : and potentially recover lost funds. Prevention Strategies : for your entire family. Taking Action : Steps to take if you suspect your elderly parent is being catfished. Practical resources : links that you should know about. This episode of Eldercare Success is a must-listen for caregivers or families concerned about protecting their aging parents from the emotional and financial devastation of romance scams. Sadly, this is a growing issue that impacts all of us. Even for ourselves! Helpful Episode Links: RomanceScamExpert.com Links to resources of James D. Feldman Romance Scam Expert Eldercare Success FB Group (private requests) Book, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Survive-Medical-Emergencies-Step-Step/dp/1734841605" rel="noopener noreferrer"
Wed, February 07, 2024
Three Ways to Test and Fix an Elderly Parent's Love Interest Issues.
Ways you can help identify, question, and begin to resolve concerns about a love scam that might be happening to your parent. In this episode of Eldercare Success , your host, Nancy May explores three essential considerations for adult children worried about their aging parents' new love interests, especially in cases where loneliness may make them vulnerable to exploitation. This includes observation tips, and the dynamics of the relationship, the importance of open conversations about the nature of companionship, and recognizing the emotional and financial implications of these connections. Learn how to help your elderly loved ones find genuine companionship without hopefully falling prey to potential opportunists. This is a sneak peek into a more detailed and even scary episode about elder love scams that will air next week. Useful Links: Eldercare Success Podcast Homepage: Share this link with friends, family, and others who are caring for a loved one Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After Free: File-of-Life Eldercare Success on YouTube CareManity website (currently under new construction) Host: Nancy May, Author How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! Expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for an aging parent or family member, even from over 1200 miles away, or more. For a Free File-of-Life to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be taken as medical,
Wed, January 31, 2024
How to Manage Caregiver Fear More Easily
In this episode of Eldercare Success, Nancy May deals with the issue of caregiver Fear. Fear is common among all caregivers. It's unavoidable, but not insurmountable. This episode doesn't just acknowledge that fear is part of the caregiver's experience; it focuses on practical strategies to manage and mitigate this fear. Whether it's the anxiety of what the future holds, the stress of current challenges, or the dread of the unknown, we're here to offer you concrete steps to handle these fears effectively. It can be easier than you might think. Episode Highlights: The Fear of What Might Happen for the caregiver and a parent The Fear of What's Happening Now, in The Moment and how to care for your self at the same time The Fear of What's Next and what to do about it Episode Links: Eldercare Success on YouTube Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After - an essential for anyone caring for an aging or frail loved one. Ask a Question on Eldercare Success: Click the tab on the right side of the page to record and send your questions. Host: Nancy A. May , went from the Boardroom to the Emergency Room to care for her aging parents and educate others. She is the five-star author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! She is an award-winning e xpert in managing the complexities of caring for an aging parent or family member, even from over 1200 miles away, or more. For a Free File-of-Life to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be taken as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek advice from your own personal medical,
Wed, January 24, 2024
Behind Closed Doors: care facilities exposed from the inside out - the good, bad, and ugly.
What happens when you leave your loved one behind in a care facility? In this eye-opening episode of Eldercare Success , Nancy May , alongside eldercare expert Eilon Capsis PhD , unveils the hidden realities of eldercare facilities. Eilon, with his extensive background, brings to light the often-overlooked pitfalls and alarming practices within these facilities. This compelling conversation explores the intricate balance between profit and care, the nuances of elder mistreatment, and the critical aspects families should be aware of. It's an essential listen for anyone considering moving their loved ones into a care facility, or even helping them in a rehab facility. Dr. Capsis also shares information about his children's book which is designed to help them understand a grandparent's dementia challenges. Key Points Include: Revealing insights into the hidden challenges and traps in eldercare facilities The balance between profit motives and quality of care Recognizing and preventing elder mistreatment in care facilities Essential considerations for families when choosing eldercare options Episode Links: Book: what I learned about grandma's memory Report #1 : National Investment Center Bluebook for Senior Housing and Care. Report #2 : Life and Death in Assisted Living Review Understanding and Preventing Harmful Interactions Between Residents with Dementia Children's Book: What I've Learned About Grandma's Memory Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After </stron
Wed, January 17, 2024
How to Manage Caregiver Anger. A better way to move forward in 2024
Navigating the Storm of Caregiver Anger with Eldercare Success In this emotionally insightful episode of the Eldercare Success Podcast, host Nancy May kicks off the New Year 2024 by addressing, head-on, a critical emotion in the caregiving journey: anger. This episode, part of the Eldercare Success Winter Shorts series , is specially designed to help caregivers manage and understand the complexity of anger, an emotion that can often leave us feeling out of control and overwhelmed, and even more angry than we were at the beginning of our day. This episode dives into: Anger’s Impact on your ability as a caregiver Managing anger with siblings and other family members Healing wounds opened as a result of anger Helping improve relationships with medical professionals makes you angry How to restore more balance to your words and emotional feelings so you and others can more easily resist getting angry next time around.. Helpful Episode Links: How a Doctor Managed His Anger: Episode with Dr. Mort Orman Eldercare Success Podcast Homepage: Share this link with friends, family, and others who are caring for a loved one Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After Free: File-of-Life Eldercare Success on YouTube CareManity website (currently under new construction) Host: Nancy May, Author How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! Expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for an aging parent or family member, even from over 1200 miles away, or more. For a Free File-of-Life to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC,
Wed, January 10, 2024
Sounds That Can Heal: Brainwaive Entrainment Tools
Sounds That Can Heal: Brainwave Entrainment Tools In this episode of Eldercare Success , Nancy May engages in a fascinating discussion with Morry Zelcovitch , a Brainwave Entrainment Engineer, and creator of The Morry Method. Morry has used this innovative tool to help save his own life and help others with less complex issues. Their conversation delves into the potential of brainwave entrainment to alleviate stress, anxiety, and sleep issues for caregivers, offering valuable insights into its practical applications. Researchers are now looking more deeply into how brainwave and gamma wave stimulation may hold promise for those who have early signs of dementia or Alzheimer's, and other potential benefits for cognitive impairment diseases This is an episode that is quite a thought-provoking discussion. Points of discussion include: What is Brainwave Entrainment? How does it work? How has it helped Morry's quality of life? Research on Brainwave entrainment and dementia How you can try this yourself: Neural Agility Lite Sample RevitaMind Tool Episode Links Morry Zelcovitch Book: End of Alzheimer's Eldercare Success Podcast Homepage: Share this link with friends, family, and others who are caring for a loved one Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After Free: File-of-Life Eldercare Success on YouTube CareManity website (currently under new construction) Guest: Morry Zelcovitch is a brainwave entrainment engineer and the creator of The Morry Method ™. Morry tirelessly produces the most leading-edge recordings that incorporate The Morry Method™ proprietary techniques into his
Wed, January 03, 2024
Ask for what you want and need in the New Year!
The holidays often overwhelm us, caregivers, especially if we are the primary caregiver. As a result, we often forget or forgo our own wants and needs. In this episode of Eldercare Success , I give you several ways to tap into what YOU want and need -- physically and emotionally. And, no, it is not selfish at all. In fact, asking for what you want – from your parents, your family, medical, and other professionals, can help you find more strength to continue through the months and years ahead. It is too easy to fall into the trap of not asking for help or letting others know what you want and need. First, you will need to stop hiding or falling into the role of a victim. Strong, capable caregivers do not do that! The tips in this episode can be applied easily. So, give yourself an extra special gift this holiday season, and into the New Year, by learning how to ask for what you want and need. It’s easier than you might think. Episode links: Eldercare Success Podcast Homepage: Share this link with friends, family, and others who are caring for a loved one Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After Free: File-of-Life Eldercare Success on YouTube CareManity website (currently under new construction) Host: Nancy May, Author How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! Expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for an aging parent or family member, even from over 1200 miles away, or more. For a Free File-of-Life to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be taken as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek advice from your ow
Wed, December 27, 2023
Episode 100, Talking with Mom and Dad When They're Not With You
This is the 100th Celebration Episode of Doing it Best with Eldercare Success ! Caring for an aging parent is not easy: it can take up much time, effort, and even money. But when your job as their caregiver ends, it often stops abruptly. For many of us, it becomes one of the most difficult transitions we'll go through in our caring journey, especially when we still have questions to ask, and things to learn. This is our 100th Episode of Eldercare Success and I wanted to mark this occasion with something special for you and for me, too. I wasn’t sure what, so I thought I could get some ideas from my own parents. Unfortunately, they’ve both passed on. But why give up so easily? So, I found an interesting special guest to help. She’s a spiritual medium who has her Master's in theology, serves as a Hospice chaplain, and is also a Death Doula (I wanted to cover all the bases). I think you might find this episode discussion especially interesting. It’s one in which I share some rather personal things with you, too. Let me know what you think about getting support from those you love who’ve since passed. Send me a note on the Eldercare Success podcast page ( https://EldercareSuccess.Live ). There’s a tab on the right side of the page that will take you to the option to write me a note or send me a personal voice message. I’m interested in hearing about your experiences and what your thoughts are on this episode (and the 99 others). Episode links: Anna-Victoria Osbourn on: Facebook , Beyond The Veil Website, TikTok , Instagram , and YouTube . Eldercare Success Podcast Homepage: Share this link with friends, family, and others who are caring for a loved one Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After Free: File-of-Life Eldercare Success on YouTube Car
Wed, December 20, 2023
Help With Making Change Easier For Caregivers and Aging Parents
In this episode of Eldercare Success , I dive into how to help your parents adjust to change(s) without it becoming a stubborn battle of wills. Most of us know that change is a constant, and quite often necessary part of living. Yet sometimes we forget this when change becomes dramatic, such as when we see our parents or loved ones become older, trailer, or even infirm. Sometimes their own fears, especially if unshared, lead to misunderstandings and relationship-breaking points among family members. While your overall goal is to ensure their safety and well-being, helping them adjust can sometimes be frustrating for you and them. So, what do you do when you meet pigheaded resistance to needed change? Tune in to this next episode. Hopefully, it will make their lives and yours a bit easier! Key Points Include: Understanding their resistance, and yours Ways to build better relationships Addressing fear and understanding How to balance your own needs Episode links:: Eldercare Success Homepage : Share this link with your friends and other caregiver s Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After Free: File-of-Life Eldercare Success on YouTube CareManity website (currently under new construction) Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . She is also the new voice of the Caregivin
Wed, December 13, 2023
How to Stop Getting Angry: A Caregiver's Top Tool
As Caregivers, we're all under tremendous pressure and sometimes that leads us to say things we regret. S#*-T happens and it can lead to short and long bouts of anger. However, anger doesn’t just happen, it grows from something small, lingers, takes over, and can blow up suddenly. Anger begets more anger. Sometimes the parents we love and care for get intensely angry at us. We get angry at them. Siblings get angry at us, and we back at them. The list can go on. Caring for an aging parent can take us all over the edge. In this episode, we dive into ways you can manage anger so that it doesn’t take you over, and hurt you, your family, your parents, or your career while caring for an aging loved one. Episode highlights: What’s psychosomatic medicine and how can it help you? Why most doctors don’t know how to help with your anger issues? Learn how many medical professionals get caught up in anger, and how this can impact you and your parents. How a toy saved one family’s anger How to recognize when anger is about to get the better part of you. Learn how to diffuse anger and reduce stress more easily. Episode Links: How to Stop Being Angry (book) The Panic Attach Solution (audiobook) Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After Free: File-of-Life Eldercare Success on YouTube CareManity website Guest: Dr. Mort Orman, M.D . is an internal medicine physician with 40 years of success as an anger elimination expert. He is the creator of the “Angry No More” 10-session quick anger mastery program, and he has led more than 100 anger and stress elimination workshops for doctors, nurses, lawyers, business owners, entrepreneurs, other professionals, and even the F.B.I. He has also been the official sponsor of National Stress Awareness Month in the U.S. every April since 1992 Host: Nancy May, Author of <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Survive-Medical-Emergencies-Step-Step/dp/1734841605" rel="noopener nor
Wed, December 06, 2023
Top Tools for Better Sleep for Caregivers
This is my Eldercare Success holiday gift to you who have been here with me and others while caring for your mom, dad, spouse, or partner. It's a short episode on h ow to get better, more restful sleep . As caregivers, we all typically have far too many worries or issues running through our minds about what to do next, or what might happen next to our loved one, and us?! For me, it's even worse in the middle of the night, and those first early hours well before sunrise. However, all of these tips and tools have helped me find some restful peace. I hope one, or all, help you too. Episode links, that I hope help you too: Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia : information from the Mayo Clinic Sleep or Workout Headwrap Earbuds Soundbath Example: 3 hours , You can listen as long or as little as you prefer. Mindful and Meditative tips for non-meditators How to block blue light on your cell phone or other devices Best misting bottles for essential oils (two pack) <a href="https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home-products/blanket-reviews/a24734005/best-weighted-blankets/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm
Wed, November 29, 2023
What Would Santa Do? Black Friday Caregiver Holiday Special
This is an Eldercare Success Black Friday Special . I (your host, Nancy May) want to share a rather interesting and enlightening discussion I had with the original jolly old man himself: Santa. What does Santa have to do with aging or elder care? Well, a lot more than you might realize. He’s also got some insightful ways to bring younger children into the caring process. Santa also revealed how to create special gifts for those who say they have everything, how to manage grief during the holiday season, and how to mend broken relationships between family members. This is a special episode that will tug on your heartstrings and is also filled with tips, tools, and ideas. I know it will be special, no matter what your faith or beliefs are. You can send your notes to Santa through one of the episode links below. Stay informed, stay strong. Keep following Eldercare Success. Episode Links: Santa Mike Facherty , IMDB page, and Yes, Virginia, Santa DOES have a FaceBook Page . Eldercare Success Santa Episode on YouTube Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After Free: File-of-Life CareManity website Guest: Santa Clause (AKA, Santa Mike) Santa Mike, AKA Mike Facherty, Henley Santa is a world-class storyteller and Santa. His stories draw from real-life experiences that offer ideas and opportunities to learn and grow from the inside out. Santa Mike spends the off-season in Reading, England tending to his reindeer, his magical garden, and helping mischievous children, and adults, find ways to make the tough times a bit better for everyone. Host: Nancy May, Author<e
Wed, November 22, 2023
10 + a Bonus Tip to Help Caregivers Relieve Stress and Give Thanks This Holiday Season.
Keeping up your spirits through the Thanksgiving holiday while caring for an elderly or frail loved one isn’t easy. Yet, there are ways to find time to catch your breath, stop, and get others to do some of the heavy lifting for you. This is a Thanksgiving holiday short Eldercare Success Episode with caregiver tips, tools, and ideas to make this time of year just a bit easier for you and someone you care for. Even if you’re doing this alone, with family members who swoop in and think they can do better, or from 1200 miles away. Each caregiving tip is easy to do, none of these will break the bank – and in most cases, they won’t even cost you a dime. This list is guaranteed to create memories that you’ll cherish for years to come and bring you a few smiles even after Mom and Dad are gone. There are even a few faux pas laughs. I laughed pretty hard about these and decided to leave them here for you too. You can let me know if I went too far. Happy Thanksgiving to all caregivers and those of you going through this first holiday season alone. Please know that you’re never alone. I’m here for you whenever needed. Just reach out to me on the podcast page, EldercareSuccess.live.Episode Links: You can contact me, Nancy May directly at EldercareSuccess.Live , and even leave me a voice message by clicking on the tab on the right side of the page. Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After Free: File-of-Life CareManity website Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . She i
Wed, November 15, 2023
Things lost and stolen: when family heirlooms go missing. What do you do?
In this episode of Eldercare Success, I tackle a common, yet overlooked, caregiving obstacle: the loss of family treasures. Whether it's an antique, jewelry, or a sentimental photo, these items often disappear. They can be accidentally misplaced and never found again, stolen, or taken by an antique dealer offering to pay cash for them – this was what happened in our case. Either way, the loss of a family treasure, can leave you angry, distraught, or frustrated in not understanding why, or how such a thing could happen. It should however prompt crucial questions. If an aging parent is caught in this type of situation, what do you do? Do you call the police, or care facility authorities? Confront suspicious members? Or take a different approach? This episode delves into the often-underestimated emotional impact of such losses, highlighting their role as potential red flags in our loved one's safety. It's more than a missing item; it's a signal you should take it seriously, and probe deeper into learning if your parents are truly safe on their own, or in their current living environment. Despite all this, there's a silver lining: resilience. It’s important to remember that true wealth isn't in possessions but in cherished memories and experiences - no matter how stressful or depressing the loss of family treasure is. There are additional tips and recommendations for all caregivers and families on how to manage this type of situation well. Caring for an aging, or elderly parent isn’t for sissies! Stay informed, stay strong. Keep following Eldercare Success. Episode Links: Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After Free: File-of-Life Eldercare Success on YouTube CareManity website Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to <a href="https://howtosurvive911.com/" rel="noopene
Wed, November 08, 2023
Keeping Balance: Meditation for Non-Meditators
In this inspiring episode, I dive into a journey of resilience, innovation, and tranquility with my guest, Jennnifer Fink . She not only cared for two aging parents with Alzheimer's, but she also knows how it's impacted three previous generations. When facing recurring waves of caregiving, a unique stress can arise that often goes unnoticed: it takes an emotional and mental toll on everyone, especially when Alzheimer's disease runs in the family. Jennifer has a unique way of managing anger and stress that was taught to her by a friend and colleague. She also shares how nature and crafts gave her the tools to meditate in a non-traditional way, while also being able to help others in her community. Episode highlights: Generational concerns of Alzheimer’s Anger management while caring Finding resilience in the arts How to make tough decisions when you can’t be physically present Preserving your own sanity when caring issues hit the fan Join me and Jennifer for a frank conversation about care struggles, healing, and finding calm after the storm. This episode offers a fresh perspective on managing stress and anger through alternative forms of meditation. Episode Links: Fading Memories Podcast Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After Free: File-of-Life Eldercare Success on YouTube CareManity website Guest: Jennifer Fink spent the first half of her adult life as a portrait photographer, and retired from in early 2020. 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 at 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
Wed, November 01, 2023
Do You Have PTSC? The trap caregivers fall into fare too often.
What are some of the most common unseen caregiver wounds, and how to understand PTSC? In this episode of Eldercare Success, I shed light on a less discussed but critically important topic: Post-Traumatic Stress for Caregivers (PTSC). While the conversation around PTSD become pretty much mainstream, PTSC remains in the shadows, often overlooked, even by family and those of us experiencing it. If you're caring for an aging parent, family member, or loved one, this is an episode you'll want to turn into and even refer back to over time. In this show, I explore the subtle signs of PTSC, many of which we too often dismiss or don't understand, or see that this could be happening to you too. There are also a number of simple, yet practical tips to help you start to dig out of this situation yourself. Or better yet, recognize if you're falling into this trap so you don't go further down the caregiver rabbit hole. Episode highlights: What is PTSC? How to recognize emotional traps The unspoken impact of PTSC Tips to dig out Join me in breaking the silence around Post-Traumatic Stress for Caregivers . Whether you're experiencing symptoms of PTSC, know someone who is, or work in caregiving or mental health, this episode is a must-listen. Share your stories, questions, and insights with us, because healing thrives in community. Episode Links: Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After Free: File-of-Life Eldercare Success on YouTube CareManity website Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, <a href="https://www.fac
Wed, October 25, 2023
Preserving Mom & Dad's Assets so You Don't go Broke
What are “go-go,” “slow-go,” and “no-go” years, and which of these phases are your parents in? What happens when they can’t cover the cost of their own care and you need to step in financially? How can you create ways to protect their assets – at different stages in their lives - so they don’t become a financial liability for you, your siblings, or your own children? What’s safe and what’s not? There’s a lot that falls into the money bucket when we take over caring for our parents. Even if we have an extra $30,000/month to spend on their care, do we really want to risk our futures? In talking with financial advisors of even the wealthiest families, this is something that most don’t want to have to face. Tune in as I talk with my guest Jason Nightingale, an expert on creative ways and effective ways to improve the stability of your parent's assets, and help ensure their ability to care for themselves financially, even if they haven’t set things up well, before now. Episode Links: Jason Nightingale Safe Money Solution CareManity website Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After Free: File-of-Life Eldercare Success on YouTube GUEST: Jason Nightingale is a banking educator and CEO of Safe Money Solutions, LLC. He has been noted as one of the top 100 people in finance by the Top 100 Magazine and has over 3500 clients in 46 states, and 3 countries. His primary areas of focus are Banking Strategies which assist in debt elimination, asset acquisition time, and wealth accumulation. The firm services homeowners, businesses, churches, farmers, Veterans, and retirees. His team has achieved exponential results for scores of investors, families, and organizations. While leveraging Advanced Planning Strategies, they accelerate the mission of those they serve. Their partners offer Estate Planning, Insurance, Tax Planning, and multiple creative funding opportunities for meaningful Advancement. Jason travels and teaches the strategies to investors and advisors all over the US. His firm provides weekly education to those affiliates. Jason has been a guest on mult
Wed, October 11, 2023
When bad things happen to good people: It's Easy to Get Caught in the Middle.
In this episode, I discuss what can result from being caught between our parents when each thinks the other is losing their marbles. What do you do when each says to you, confidentially, “Something seriously wrong with him (or her)”? Or even worse, one parent, out of fear or concern, unintentionally “gaslights” the other into thinking that they have cognitive issues, when it may be the other way around! This is an unnerving position when you’re just about to step in to care for your parents. It helps to know that there are more than just a few types of dementia to watch for. However, that can make our role as caregiver even more confusing. This stage of caregiving can get even more confusing when learning that not every type of Alzheimer’s results in memory loss. This early phase of family caregiving has some unlooked-for hurdles. Tune in to learn more. Episode Links: Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After Free: File-of-Life Eldercare Success on YouTube CareManity website Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After ! is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . She is also the new voice of the Caregiving Network. Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be considered or used as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice of your own me
Wed, October 04, 2023
Reverse Mortgages Are They Safe for Your Parents? What You Didn't Know Could Help.
I’m guessing you’ve seen some of those older actors, in TV ads, promoting reverse mortgages. One of whom got jammed up as the firm he was representing was pursued by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau over concerns that they were misleading seniors. Even I became skeptical, afterward, on this subject. However, my guests, Peter Tourigny and Jason Nightingale, shed some light on this topic in our next discussion, including:· How they work Who can benefit and who won’t Related costs (yes, there are costs!) Tax-related issues - there are some good things here How mandatory counseling with a third party works The amount that someone can get out of their home And a lot more. This is a power-packed episode that will help arm you and your parents with a list of questions to ask before you make any reverse mortgage decisions with or for your parents, or even yourself. So, tune in to this direct, to-the-point, discussion. Myths and realities of reverse mortgage notes, and if they're part of the answer to your care cost challenges. Linkes: Peter Tourigny Jason Nightingale Public litigation article about one well-advertised reverse mortgage company Nancy A. May LinkedIn, FaceBook , Instagram Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After Free File-of-Life Eldercare Success, YouTube Ask Nancy a Question About Your Care Challenges and Ideas Guests: Peter Tourigny , has been helping h
Wed, September 27, 2023
What Happens When Caregivers Get Sick?
What happens when we, the primary caregivers, get sick or injured? Can our elderly parents, frail spouses, or other dependents help care for us? Too many of us let our own health fall short of where we need to be. This can make us miserable and add to the financial burdens on our families and others we love and care for. In this episode, I share several ways to get help from work colleagues, friends, neighbors, those we care for, and even from a few sources you might not have thought about. I’ll also share a special antioxidant tea/brew that you can easily make at home. It’s good for you and those you care for, even when you’re not ill. Here’s that special recipe . Olive and Basil Leaf tea: A large heaping tablespoon of dried olive leaves . Two or three large, dried bay leaves . Fresh ginger, which you can get at your local grocery store in the produce aisle. Honey to taste. Local unprocessed honey is the best! Boil a pot of water. add the above ingredients and let steep until the water turns a goldish-green color. Strain, drink, and enjoy –hot or cold This tea has been known to keep colds at bay (excuse the pun) and even help with tooth infections – should you ever have one. It's also delicious as an iced tea! The benefits of bay and olive leaves are numerous. However, like any herb, they can interact with medications. Please consult your medical professional before trying this tea, or other herbal teas. Bay Leaf, benefits: Improving digestion Reducing risk factors of type 2 diabetes. Lowering blood pressure. Helping provide extra vitamin C. Contains antibacterial properties. Helps with sleep. Olive leaf benefits, per Memorial Sloan Kettering: Olive leaves contain oleuropein, which is thought to help reduce cholesterol levels and some levels of inflammation. Olive leaf extracts (OLE) also reduce glucose levels in the blood. Laboratory studies found that OLE can kill several microorganisms including yeasts, bacteria, and fungi. It was also shown to have anticancer effects, but more hu
Wed, September 20, 2023
Lewy Body Dementia, Myth Busting!
What’s it like to be diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia when you’re an entrepreneur running a successful business? How can you recognize its symptoms for yourself or a loved one? Can good things come out of a Lewy Body diagnosis? Can someone continue to lead a meaningful life, run their business, and contribute to the world, society, or community after diagnosis? How do family and friends usually behave, once they hear about the diagnosis? What are the “silver bullets” that can help someone with Lewy Body Dementia now and as the disease progresses? This next episode of Eldercare Success covers these and other interesting points. You might be surprised even if you’re an experienced caregiver or medical professional. Episode Links: 4 Twidde: dementia-friendly comfort product Dementia screening aid and personal log Dr. Allen Power Episode: Dr. Michel Okun The Power of Meaning (book) CareManity website Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After Free: File-of-Life Eldercare Success on YouTube Guests: Barney Nelson : Barney Nelson, from Portland, OR. spent 2 decades working for a global technology company, then became an entrepreneur and ran a very successful business. In 2018, he noticed he was beginning to feel overwhelmed. It was more difficult to multitask and keep up with the pace of his business. He also started to experience tremors and hallucinations, leading to a Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) diagnosis in early 2019. He is now a <a href="https://dementiasymptomstrackingto
Wed, September 13, 2023
BIG Question: Is it a privilege, obligation or burden to care for our aging parents?
In this episode of Eldercare Success , we discuss the answers to a question that everyone should ask themselves before and while caring for an aging parent: Is this a privilege, an obligation, or is it going to be a burden that I will regret? If you’re already on the caregiving path, knowing the answer to this will color every decision you make along the way. I recently asked this same question of other caregivers. Although a tough question to ask, the responses received surprised even me. It’s a complex, emotional subject that reveals valuable and useful ideas. Episode Links: CareManity website Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After Free: File-of-Life Eldercare Success on YouTube Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . She is also the new voice of the Caregiving Network. Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be considered or used as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice of your own medical, legal, or financial advisors as each person’s situation differs . (c) Copyright 2023 CareManity, LLC all rights reserved. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.po
Wed, September 06, 2023
Is There Magic in a Pill? What's new with dementia?
Who’s out there in the medical world fighting to protect our loved ones with Alzheimer’s or dementia? I address this big question, and others, with my guest, Dr. Allen Power , a geriatrician and noted expert in providing good care for and protecting aging adults. In this episode, we look at the most recent push for FDA approval of Alzheimer’s drugs - those “magic pills” that we’re all hoping will save our parents from a fate we even fear for ourselves. The most recent ones have some nasty side effects. Why did the FDA review panel not want to approve the most publicized breakthrough (noted to have side effects of brain swelling and bleeding)? What alternatives have been used for years that are known to have fewer side effects? But maybe there are ways for our aging parents, who might have dementia or Alzheimer’s, to help us help them. And: Can someone live well with dementia or Alzheimer’s? How can we determine if there are medication side effects that users can’t describe to us? How are our loved ones being treated or drugged by others when we don’t know about it? There’s a lot more in store in this episode of Eldercare Success. Links: Dr. Allen Power Book: Dementia Beyond Disease: Enhancing Well-Being Help for Alzheimer's Caregivers CareManity website Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After Free: File-of-Life Eldercare Success on YouTube Guest: G. Allen Power, MD is a renowned geriatrician, international educator, musician, composer, and author specializing in transformative care for older adults with changing cognitive abilities. He holds the Schlegel Chair in Aging and Dementia Innovation at the Waterloo Research Institute for Aging in Ontario and is a clinical associate professor at the University of Rochester, NY. Dr. Power is the author of "Dementia Beyond
Wed, August 30, 2023
Mom and Dad Inc.: Easier Ways to Start
Have you ever considered that your #career skills might be your secret weapon in helping you better survive caring for your aging parents well? In this episode, I dive into how to think, and work through your #caregiving years, a bit differently. I’ve often said that caring for our parents is like running a highly complex small enterprise. That sounds a bit cold, but the ups, downs, ins, and outs can often be best managed if we understand how to leverage our career skills well. Listen in as I break down the components which are designed to help you manage this part of your life, and your # parents' care, with greater ease. Thinking about how each aspect works together, how you can plan, and who your customers, vendors, and staff members are, can help relieve the added stress and strain that impacts our lives, #family, and careers. Caring for our aging parents, or another loved one, isn’t easy, yet stepping back and looking at how the structural blocks of your care responsibilities work together can help. I’m pretty this episode will help you manage your caregiving years with a bit less stress. It may even help your career! This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
Wed, August 23, 2023
Care Lessons with The school of Unusual Life Learning
In this episode, my guest Jeanne Denney and address how to talk about life's most difficult moments. When the end of life draws near, what do those you’re caring for want for themselves? It’s a question that stops many dead in their tracks (no pun intended). We are all drawn to, yet repelled from, asking questions about death and dying. Is it because of fear or some other reason? What fears and taboos do we hold onto that keep us from sharing our wishes? What should we be afraid of? Should we even tell someone that they’re dying? How do you make such a difficult subject easier to talk about? In this episode, my guest Jeanne Denney, a Somatic Therapist and founder of The Unusual School of Life Lessons, and I discuss the answers to some of those questions about death and dying. This subject is particularly interesting and useful as it involves discussions we may be afraid to have with those we care for and those who might wind up caring for us. Talking about those final stages of life could help us actually better understand our loved ones and ourselves. #death, #hospital, #care, #parents, #doctor, #cancer, # rehab, #broken hip, #test for dementia, #emergency, #rehab, #brokenHip, #seniorcare #careforagingparents Episode Links: Jean Denny : School of Unusual Life Learning Eldercare Success on YouTube CareManity How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After Social Media Links: FB , IG , Twitter (X ), YouTube , LI Guest : Jeanne Denny , who is a transpersonal and somatic psychotherapist, educator, hospice worker, healer, author of The Effects of Compassio
Wed, August 16, 2023
I Want to Go Home! What does that mean?
What does it mean when your mom pleads with you and says, “ I want to go home ,” but she’s already at home? Even worse, your lead aide tells you what she really means is that she wants to die! There are all sorts of things that hurtful and even incompetent professional caregivers will say and do. Here’s what that phrase (which just might drive you nuts) really means. It’s not always an easy thing to resolve, yet, in this episode, we’ll give you a path to a better solution. Episode Links Eldercare Success on YouTube CareManity How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After Social Media Links: FB , IG , Twitter (X ), YouTube , LI Host: Nancy May, is an award-winning authority Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . She is also the new voice of the Caregiving Network. Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be considered or used as m
Wed, August 09, 2023
Sandwich Generatopm Caregiving Tips.
In this episode of Doing it Best with Eldercare Success , we unpack the ultimate sandwich-generation caregiving experience. If you’ve been caught between caring for aging parents, in-laws, a spouse, your own kids, and even yourself, you’ll find this episode funny and of value. Jennifer Hardy, podcast host of Fabulous Over 50, and I explore practical ways to manage those complex emotions and issues that arise in the caregiving journey, such as; successful ways to invite others to help you; learning to ask for help without being a nag; and managing the daunting tasks of caring for someone you’re not related to. Finally, we share tips on self-care, both physically and emotionally. This episode is a treasure trove of tips, ideas, and some laughs. Those of you wearing multiple caregiving hats will find beauty in the struggle, strength in vulnerability, and the special sense of fulfillment that only comes from the caregiving experience. LINKS More about Jen Hardy Fabulous Over 50 Podcast Hardy Mom Podcast CareManity website How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After Eldercare Success on YouTube Guest: Jennifer (Jen) Hardy is an author, podcast host, speaker, and community builder. She has written a book and three journals that focus on empowering women, spreading positivity, and helping people set and meet their goals. Her books offer practical advice and real-life experiences that help women navigate various challenges and achieve their goals. She is also the host of two podcasts, " Fabulous Over 50 " and " Medical Gaslighting ." Through these podcasts, she provides a platform for women to share their experiences, opinions, and knowledge, and inspire others to lead a fulfilling life. Jen’s mission with her podcasts is to help people live their best lives and make the world a better place. Host:
Wed, August 02, 2023
Is It OK To Lie To Mom And Dad? Truth's Told And More1
In this episode of Eldercare Success, I address one of the more challenging issues you’ll have as a caregiver – “is it ever okay to lie to an elderly parent?” This is a tough question, and you'll see it's trickier than you might first think. A clear 'yes' or 'no' just doesn't fit here. It’s important to remember that our elderly parents are special and unique. So, with each twist and turn, your response will likely shift too. As one of the most googled queries by caregivers, lying to a parent with dementia isn't a conundrum exclusive to family caregivers. Even medical professionals don’t always know how to respond well to this issue. Tune in as I share my own experiences with Mom, who had dementia, and Dad who didn’t. Each response to the twist and turns in “Should I lie, or gloss over the truth” brought another challenge. I hope this episode helps you with your own caregiving journey. Remember, every day counts! Episode Links: Eldercare Success on YouTube Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies: Step-by-Step Before, During, Afte r Free File-of-Life CareManity Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be considered or used as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice of your own <
Wed, July 26, 2023
Finding Money at The Social Security Office!
In this compelling episode of Eldercare Success, I speak with two esteemed experts on social security benefits. My guests are Marc Kiner and Jim Blair who know this subject from the inside out. This is an invaluable discussion for anyone caring for an aging parent. These two demystify the convoluted process of adjusting benefits, something that can help those caring for an aging parent avoid common financial mistakes. They also reveal how to uncover additional financial resources that may be due: a treasure trove of information that many caregivers are sadly oblivious about. They also describe how to navigate the complex dynamics of the Social Security office and define the roles and limitations of a POA. My discussion with Marc and Jim could make a difference to you, as a caregiver, and your parents. Listen to this informative episode. It’s more than just a conversation -- it's a lifeline for managing your parents’ care. Helpful Links: Premier Social Security Consulting Social Security Office Cost of Living Adjustments 2023 How it Works, Types of Benefits Found money and more Things you might not know about Social Security How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After Guests: Marc Kiner is th e CEO, and Founder of Premier Social Security Consulting, and has 35 years of experience in public accounting. Marc recently sold his CPA practice to concentrate on Social Security. His primary areas of service were to privately held businesses and individuals. Marc also consulted with clients on a variety of complex tax and business issues. He is licensed to practice as a CPA in the state of Ohio. <a href="https://www.premiersocialsecurityconsulting.com/about-pssc/" re
Wed, July 19, 2023
Caregiver Mistakes I Made, So You Don't Have To.
In this episode of Doing it Best with Eldercare Success , I share the top 10 mistakes that I made along the way in caring for my parents. These were not-so-proud moments in my journey. Hopefully, my experiences will help you avoid some of the landmines I stepped on. Caregiving can be filled with challenges. Even if there was a play-by-play or “Caregiving for Dummies” book, there is no one-size-fits-all solution for each of our journeys. They all have their unique ups, downs, and calm moments. So, plug in your earbuds, or headphones, and listen in while I bare some of my caregiver soul. These points just may make your days a bit smoother. Episode Links: Eldercare Success on YouTube Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies: Step-by-Step Before, During, Afte r Free File-of-Life Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be considered or used as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice of your own medical, legal, or financial advisors as each person’s situation differs . (c) Copyright 2023 CareManity, LLC all rights reserved. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
Wed, July 12, 2023
Infection Control, Things You Don't Know.
What happens when an infectious disease spreads through a care facility or nursing home? Just because the Pandemic has been declared over doesn’t mean our loved ones are safe in a facility, hospital, or even at home. In this episode, I speak with Dr. Diane Cervantes, Assistant Professor and Director of the MPH Epidemiology program at the University of North Texas School of Medicine. Dr. Cervantes has worked as an infectious disease expert for over 17 years, has been a Bioterrorism Response Microbiologist, and served as Chief Epidemiologist for the Texas Department of State Health Services. Her expertise centers on preventing infectious diseases and control measures within health care, medical facilities, and even our own homes. The little things we can’t see can wreak havoc on the quality of life of those we love and care for. This power-packed episode will help you protect your parents and learn to how to better determine: If a care facility would be considered clinically dirty or potentially unhealthy how hidden microbes can impact the health and well-being of our loved ones How to better protect those we care for at home How to resolve cleanliness issues and where to get help The top three things to do to ensure your loved ones are better protected against infections And more! Show Episode Links: Patient Rights and Protections as Nursing Home Residents Basic infection control and protection information CDC information on disease control and prevention in nursing homes Family Communication and Resident's Rights Long-Term Care National Ombudsman : Also see Episode #39 about how to get help from an Ombudsman TEDx: Dr. Diana Cervantes , Person-Centered Prevention; The Key to Preventing the Spreading Infectious Disease <a href="https://portal.ct.gov/DPH/HAI/Hand-Washing-A-Simple-Way-to-Help-Stop-the-Spread-of-Infections#:~:text=It%20is%20best%20to%20wash,skin%20and%20are%20fast%20acting." rel="noopener
Wed, July 05, 2023
I Secret Shop Care Facility Sales Agents
In this episode, I unearth some of the ways that those “free services” abuse you while proposing to help you find a place for your elderly or infirm parents to live. Most are very adept at pulling on your emotions. They all are aggressive, and, in being so, ask for some very personal information. This is so they can better “help you and your parents.” How do they get paid? Are they really working for you? Is there actually a good way to use these services to help you narrow your choices? Episode Links: CareManity on Instagram CareManity on FaceBook Nancy May : LinkedIn Get a Free File of Life here: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies: Step-by-Step Before, During, After Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be considered or used as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice of your own medical, legal, or financial advisors as each person’s situation differs . (c) Copyright 2023 CareManity, LLC all rights reserved. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
Wed, June 28, 2023
Will Anesthesia Change Everything?
In this episode, you’ll get an insider’s look into some issues related to anesthesia and some unspoken fears about it when a loved one undergoes a medical procedure. Anesthesia, despite its benefits, can also present problems for the body and mind, especially for an aging person. The last thing any one of us wants is for someone we care for who has “gone under” for a procedure and woken up forgetting who you or they are! Nor do we want to experience the other life-threatening complications that result from anesthesia. My guest, Bobby Jones, a Certified Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), and I discuss some of these issues and how to best work with a CRNA. We also talk about the difference between a CRNA and other credentialed anesthetists. In many cases, they can help your loved one more comfortably go through medical procedures with a bit more ease. We also discuss some of the problems that anesthetists face that may impact you and your loved one, including training, burnout, and communications with physicians and providers. Lastly, we dive into the practice's changing landscape and how this affects patient care, and those we love, or even ourselves! This telling discussion is filled with nuggets of wisdom and offers some assurances and valuable insights to caregivers of aging family members. Guest: Bobby Jones CRNA has had a long and respected career as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). He's served as a member of the board of the North Carolina Association of Nurse Anesthetists (NCANA), and as their District Director and Treasurer. Like many healthcare professionals, he was overworked, exhausted, and faced burnout. He now uses his talents to advise his colleagues and other CRNAs on how to live their life to the fullest while investing in assets that can provide additional financial benefit to their families and loved ones. He's CEO and Founder of On Call Capital Links to Bobby Jones and his Plan B CRNA podcast/channel. The Plan B CRNA Podcast : on YouTube The Plan B CRNA Podcast: Spotify Nancy May, guest on Bobby's Show On Call Capital CareManity, Host of Eldercare Success CareManity on Instagram CareManity on FaceBook <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancyamay/" rel="
Wed, June 21, 2023
Money Talks with Family
Managing the cost of a parent’s care can be like running a small, complex enterprise. Discussing the ins, outs, and intricacies of financial oversight and care can sometimes bring up all sorts of emotions among siblings. In this episode, I dive headfirst into a few ways to prepare for those “money talks” around the cost of care with your siblings, or even a parent. Reminding yourself of the end goal is a great way to start. However, when someone else has a different goal, your motives might come into question too. It's not always easy, but when managed well, this can relieve some of your stress and help educate your siblings about what more they can do to help you and their parents through this time of their life. Tune in to learn more. Helpful caregiver links: CareManity on Instagram CareManity on FaceBook Nancy May : LinkedIn How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies: Step-by-Step Before, During, After Free File of Life Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be considered or used as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice of your own medical, legal, or financial advisor
Wed, June 14, 2023
Caregiver Betrayal and Healing (Part #2)
This is part two about the caregiver and the feelings and hurt from betrayal. My guest Holli Kenley , is a licensed therapist, author, and well-known expert on the subject of betrayal and healing. While few caregivers want to discuss this topic, many of us suffer invisible wounds from past experiences. Holli and I dive into how betrayal costs us more than trust. It can contribute to our loss of self. Holli covers the depths of our caregiver experience on this front: what lurks beneath the surface and how to heal and find strength again. Join us, to learn more about how this can happen to almost anyone, how to recover, and then find greater strength in your caregiving journey. Show Links and Resources: Holli Kenley, MA, LMFT Holli's books TEDx on Betrayal Facebook , Pinterest , Instagram , Holli Kenley CareManity, Host of Eldercare Success CareManity on Instagram CareManity on FaceBook Nancy May : LinkedIn How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies: Step-by-Step Before, During, After Guest: Holli Kenley, MA LMFT is the author of "Daughters Betrayed By Their Mothers: Moving From Brokenness To Wholeness , <a href="https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B003299A5C/allbooks?ingress=0&visitId=013aa5b3-e76c-4e9d-a8ae-edf61b67a85e&store_ref=ap_rdr&ref_=ap_rdr" rel="noopener noreferr
Wed, June 07, 2023
Mom Got dementia after a hospital Stay!
In this episode, I discuss the challenges of hospital-induced delirium. This syndrome can affect people of all ages, not just older individuals. Drawing from a personal conversation with someone who experienced this, I explain how this happens, and how to reduce the chances of this affecting your parent, spouse, or even your child when hospitalized. Highlights: Personal Stories : One caregiver shares her experience with an aging parent who was hospitalized. Another, my own, on how we managed to avoid this from happening to my own parents. Understanding Hospital-Induced Delirium : I discuss the nature of this condition, and how it can affect individuals of all ages, not just the elderly. It can result in cognitive impairment and disorientation. Triggers and Concerns : I note the triggers that can contribute to hospital-induced delirium, especially during extended hospital stays and from certain medications. Emotional Impact : There is an emotional toll faced by caregivers and their loved ones when confronting sudden cognitive changes. Coping Strategies : I offer practical advice and strategies to help caregivers navigate hospital-induced delirium, and offer a ray of hope amidst uncertainty. Listen to this full episode of Eldercare Success and learn more about how you can help those you love to reduce their chance of getting hospital-induced delirium or hospital-induced dementia. CareManity, Host of Eldercare Success CareManity on Instagram CareManity on FaceBook Nancy May : LinkedIn How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies: Step-by-Step Before, During, After Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to <a href="https://howtosurvive911.com/" r
Wed, May 31, 2023
Betrayal; healing Caregiver wounds (Part #1)
This is part one of a two-part episode featuring my guest, Holli Kenley , a licensed therapist, author, and well-known expert on the subject of betrayal. While few caregivers want to discuss this topic, many of us suffer invisible wounds from past experiences. Holli and I dive into how betrayal costs us more than trust. It can contribute to our loss of self. Holli covers the depths of our caregiver experience on this front: what lurks beneath the surface and how to heal and find strength again. Join us, to learn more about how this can happen to almost anyone, how to recover, and then find greater strength in your caregiving journey. Show Links and Resources: Holli Kenley, MA, LMFT Holli's books TEDx on Betrayal Facebook , Pinterest , Instagram , Holli Kenley CareManity, Host of Eldercare Success CareManity on Instagram CareManity on FaceBook Nancy May : LinkedIn How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies: Step-by-Step Before, During, After Guest: Holli Kenley, MA LMFT is the author of "Daughters Betrayed By Their Mothers: Moving From Brokenness To Wholeness , <a href="https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B003299A5C/allbooks?ingress=0&visitId=013aa5b3-e76c-4e9d-a8ae-edf61b67a85e&store_ref=ap_rdr&ref_=ap_rdr" rel="noopener
Wed, May 24, 2023
Can Caregiver Stress Cause Memory Loss?
This episode even caught me by surprise. In this segment, I dive into research about how the daily pressures of caregiving can take a serious toll on our own memory, and a few ways to manage stress better. While extreme stress hasn’t been found to cause Alzheimer's, it has been associated with accelerated brain aging and can even lead to temporary memory loss. In addition, you’ll get some invaluable strategies for handling persistent caregiver stress, while finding more balance at home and work. There’s even a bit of humor in this one. And, as always, good tips to get additional support from coworkers and your employer, too. Extra links: RuPaul shares how he felt while caring for his mother in Finding Your Roots CareManity on Instagram CareManity on FaceBook Nancy May : LinkedIn How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies: Step-by-Step Before, During, After Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be considered or used as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice of your own medical, legal, or financia
Wed, May 17, 2023
Tea on the Commode, Really Nancy?
How do you cope with an aging mom? So many assume this is the eldest daughter’s job. However, when the one who steps in and steps up had to be a son, things might be different. What do you need to overcome, as a son, to help your mom bathe, or dress, or even use the toilet when you’re her son? The same kinds of challenges can hold true with daughters and their dads. How will you hold it all together? Pride and modesty will need to take a backseat for necessity and practicality. Creativity and empathy can help you move forward. Here’s one son’s story on how offering a cup of tea to his mom, while on the commode, helped him move forward, with more strength on his caregiving journey. There’s more in store here! #momlife #family #caregiving #sonswhocare #eldercare Links: A Cup of Tea on the Commode (book+) GUEST: Mark Steven Porro is an award-winning designer, writer, and director. He has written lots of jokes, several screenplays, and one award-winning short film. A Cup of Tea on the Commode —a sad, sweet, and funny debut memoir—chronicles his multitasking adventures of filling his mother’s last years with love, laughter, and joy. Though not always successful, he came pretty damn close. A native of New Jersey, (Exit 163), where he moved back to from his then home in Hollywood so that he could care for his mother when she needed him the most. He now lives in the South of France. But hold your pity. He of sound mind and body chose to suffer in the heart of wine country where the locals insist his French isn’t so bad—at least that’s what he thinks they’re saying. Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show
Wed, May 10, 2023
Is Mom and Dad's Money Safe?
Concerned about recent bank financial failures? Your aging parent may be too, but they might not tell you. When you’re on a fixed or reduced income, every penny counts. In this episode, my guest, Philip Van Doorn from Market Watch explains, simply, how to calm your parents’ fears and help them protect their assets. We also talk about finding additional ways to earn money on their deposits and how to find extra dollars for them. We also cover how to make sure that their investment brokerage is safe and what to look for. Yes, every dollar counts! This episode focuses on your, your parents, and your family’s best interest. Financial interest, that is. Special note: Philip is also a caregiver and helps to care for his dad. Helpful links: FDIC information about your insured deposits Credit Union protection information SPIC brokerage insurance and your coverage WSJ article about bank collapses and brokerage accounts #marketwatch @philipvandoorn #money #costofcare @marketwatch GUEST: Philip Van Doorn is an investment analyst and columnist for MarketWatch. He's known as a "rare find" with the exceptional skill of being able to take complex issues and translate them into everyday language. It's a privilege to have Philip as one of our guests on the show. Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/ElderCareSuccess/" re
Wed, May 03, 2023
How to "Un-Isolate" yourself
If you’re working full time but also caring for an aging parent, the stress and feeling of isolation can be significan t. Adding to that stress can be a fear (real or imagined) of potential retribution from your boss or peers if they find out. Even if you’re not working full-time, or part-time, you can find yourself isolated from the rest of the world – except for doctors, or other care providers. For those employed and caring for a parent, understand that 56% of our colleagues who are also caregivers like you find themselves more stressed at work. No surprise there! Learn how to recognize if you’re falling into this isolation trap and how to “get out, ” before you can’t even dig yourself out. In this episode, I discuss the three key situations where you’re most likely to fall into the isolation trap: at home, at work, and in social settings. However, I’ve got a few solid tips to help, including how to help your boss have more confidence in you as a leader, even when you’re called away to caregiving duties at home or even in another state. Caregiving can be a lonely responsibility, but it doesn’t have to be. Tune in to learn about better ways to cope, win, and live well while caring for those you love. The tips shared in this episode are ones you can start putting to use immediately! #caregiver #isolation #loneliness #leadership #howto #eldercare Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be considered or used as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice of your own medical, legal, or financial advisors as each person’s situation di
Wed, April 26, 2023
Are you more prepared as a second time caregiver?
Being a caregiver has its joys and tough times, too. Sometimes we step into the role thinking that we are knowing what our job will be. But it’s hard to foresee how being a caregiver will interrupt our families, jobs, finances, relationships, and lives. If you are or have been a caregiver, are you ready to do this once again? Do you feel more prepared now for surprises, and think you know how to do the job better, or just as well as you did? What happens when you’ve done this twice and now you have to step into the role a third, fourth, or even fifth time? In this episode, my guests, Dr. Emily Mroz , and Amanda Piechota, from the Yale School of Medicine share their research and findings on how second, third, or multiple-time caregivers thought about their roles and whether they’re more prepared and willing to take this responsibility on again. Would you do this again for others, such as a parent, family member, or even friend? You might be surprised to learn how other who have cared for a loved on - men and women alike in this role - are managing the second, third, and even fourth time around. Here's a link to the Been There Done Tha t: A grounded theory of future caregiver preparedness in former caregivers of parents living with Dementia study. #dementia, #caregiver, #alzheimersdisease, #familycare #elderly #dementia #medicalstudy #yale #yaleschoolofmedicine #dementiacare GUESTS: Emily Mroz Ph.D ., is a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Yale School of Medicin e, where she’s focused on geriatric medicine and caregiver research. She completed her doctorate in Psychology and Gerontology at the University of Florida. Her research examines pathways to positive and maladaptive psychological outcomes for seriously ill individuals and their informal family caregivers. Dr. Mroz also develops tools and techniques to improve palliative care communication. Amanda Piechota , is a research assistant at the Yale School of Public Health, Social and Behavioral Sciences. Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After ! is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a <a href="https://www.howtosurvive911.com/" rel="noopene
Wed, April 19, 2023
ER Screw Ups: what should you watch out for?
What happens when you get a call from your dad who says: “ don’t worry, Mom’s just been taken to the ER ,” then hangs upon you? You’re 1200 miles away and on your way to work! The first you think: OMG what happened? The second thing: What else can go wrong? Yes, mistakes happen do happen in the ER. In this episode, I share the top seven things that can make going to an Emergency Room a potential disaster, and how to avoid joining the 10 million people a year who get worse in the ER, not better. Tip: Make sure your parents all have a file of life. You should have one too. Get your free file and instructions on how to use it here. My File of Life Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be considered or used as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice of your own medical, legal, or financial advisors as each person’s situation differs . (c) Copyright 2023 CareManity, LLC all rights reserved. CareManity, and Eldercare Success are a trademarks of CareManity, LLC. "There is a Better Way" is a Service Mark of CareManity, LLC This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
Wed, April 12, 2023
When Alzheimer's is a Surprise!
What happens when your father, who appeared to be just fine, surprises you by telling you he has Alzheimer’s Disease? Watching anyone’s steady cognitive decline is always difficult. However, my next guest, Peter Maeck took, along with his other siblings, a different and rather poetic approach to their dad’s caregiving. His father even joined in on the creative solutions that they discovered together. You might be surprised about how creativity, analytical thinking, and caregiving can all come together to build even stronger bonds within a family. Guest: Peter Maeck , poet, novelist, playwright, photographer, and Caregiver to his father. His narrative poem Remembrance of Things Present: Making Peace with Dementia , celebrates his father's brave, and good-humored experience with Alzheimer's disease. Peter's novel, Zänke r, will be released in June of 2023. Peter served as a US State Department American Cultural Specialist in Tanzania and Morocco. He holds a BA in English from Dartmouth College and an MFA in playwriting from Brandeis University. Links to Peter's TEDx talks follow: Remembrance of Things Present Cradle and All Beautiful Dreamer , with his son Gabriel Maeck a former social worker Host: Nancy May , Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, a
Wed, April 05, 2023
Senior Dumping and the GoDaddy Guy
What’s Senior Dumping and can it happen to your parents without you even suspecting? In this episode, I share a conversation that I had with a GoDaddy customer service person who had this issue with his dad. While running for several days from work to home to bring his dad to the hospital, and then to rehab, he was hoping to get some relief by returning his dad back to his care facility. Unfortunately, once his dad was ready for discharge from the hospital, the care facility’s management refused to allow him back into their care. Find out what happened next. Also, tune into Episodes #41 and #43 for tips on researching care facilities , and Episode #53 for things you’ll need when you’re bringing a parent loved one back home from the hospital or a care facility. Yes, there is a better way. Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be considered or used as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice of your own personal medical, legal, or financial advisors as each person’s situation is different. (c) Copyright 2023 CareManity, LLC all rights reserved. CareManity is a trademark of CareManity, LLC. "There is a Better Way" is a Service Mark of CareManity, LLC This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
Wed, March 29, 2023
A Message from Our Loved Ones Pt #2
Your parent or loved one has always been there for you but has now passed. Is there a way to still contact them? Knowing what to do might help you manage through some tough days a bit easier. How do you attain guidance from your loved ones? What might you be doing, unintentionally, to discourage them from reaching out to you? You may learn some surprising facts including that spiritual guides have been around and involved (in and out) of traditional religions for centuries. You might also be surprised to learn that there really is a college for spiritual mediums, similar to divinity universities. This is Part #2 of my discussion with spiritual medium Sloan Tate, who’s a well-known third-generation medium. She also shares how to find and identify a good medium to help us –one who has integrity and is qualified to help us tap into our own inner guides. P.S. This episode releases on my birthday, so I hope my own mom and dad are listening too. Guest: Sloan Tate is a third-generation, spiritual medium and best-selling author of A Guide to Afterlife Communicatio n . Born with natural mediumship gifts, she first learned the importance of using intuition while training horses on her family's farm. Sloan rediscovered the importance of developing this connection in everyday life through the study of meditation and yoga. Sloan is accredited with over 500hrs of yoga teacher training, is a Holy Fire ® III Karuna Reiki ® Master, and has studied mediumship at the Arthur Findlay College and with several renowned mediums in the United States. Sloan is known for her unique spiritual humor and is an advocate for normalizing mediumship to support better practices in global mental health. Video of a live reading and additional information about Sloan's book. Sloan's Facebook Group, The Mediumship Support group Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Survive-Medical-Emergencies-Step-Step/dp/1734841605" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_bl
Wed, March 22, 2023
Who's Drugging Dad at the Care Home?
In this episode you might be surprised to learn how often chemical restraints are used on our folks to keep them calm, sleepy, and complacent, and easier to care for in hospitals, rehab facilities, nursing homes, and even in our own homes by some lesser concerned home health aides. Sometimes it’s tough to figure out if this is happening to your parents while hospitalized. All you have to do, though, is ask about every medication they’re being given and why. You’ll also likely see these medications showing up as billed to their accounts. Care facility treatments and situations in your own home, or mom and dad's, when you’re not there may be more difficult to detect. Here, I share a true story on how some simple over-the-counter medications were first started by my dad (his wish, not mine), and then continued on, for a different reason, by an aide. How did I figure this one out, and put a quick stop to it? Tune in and learn the details. Host: Nancy May , Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be considered or used as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice of your own personal medical, legal, or financial advisors as each person’s situation is different. (c) Copyright 2023 CareManity, LLC all rights reserved. CareManity is a trademark of CareManity, LLC. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
Wed, March 15, 2023
Messages from Your Loved Ones (Pt #1)
Can you get support, guidance, and love from a parent, spouse, or even a family member who died before you were born? Turns out, that might be true if you know about how spiritual guides or mediums work. This is part one of a two-segment show where my guest, Sloan Tate, an accredited Medium, and I dive into how you can tap into those you have loved and moved on. We also discuss things you should avoid when seeking out this type of spiritual guidance. There are things you can do to tap into the wisdom of others. Sloan shares some interesting tools you can use to help you on this journey. Guest: Sloan Tate is a second generation, spiritual medium and best-selling author of A Guide to Afterlife Communicatio n . Born with natural mediumship gifts, she first learned the importance of using intuition while training horses on her family's farm. Sloan rediscovered the importance of developing this connection in everyday life through the study of meditation and yoga. Sloan is accredited with over 500hrs of yoga teacher training, is a Holy Fire ® III Karuna Reiki ® Master, and has studied mediumship at the Arthur Findlay College and with several renowned mediums in the United States. Sloan is known for her unique spiritual humor and is an advocate for normalizing mediumship to support better practices in global mental health. Video of a live reading and additional information about Sloan's book. Sloan's Facebook Group, The Mediumship Support group Host: Nancy May , Author o f How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to <a href="https://howtosurvive911.com/" rel="
Wed, March 08, 2023
Lucky 7, Ways to Feel Better.
In this episode, we'll be discussing how to get rid of those crappy, crummy, pissy moods that can come with caring for an elderly parent. It's normal to feel overwhelmed, stressed, and frustrated when caring for someone you love who needs your help all the time. However, sometimes the worst feelings can get the best of us. It happens to me too.! In this episode, I share seven practical tips to help you dig out of that hole and find solid ground again. Not every day will be filled with sunshine and roses, and it’s OK to have bad days. Just try not to let them get the better part of you and your day. I hope this helps you. It helped me! Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . Disclaimer: T he views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be considered or used as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice of your own personal medical, legal or financial advisors as each person’s situation is different. (c) Copyright 2023 CareManity, LLC all rights reserved. CareManity is a trademark of CareManity, LLC. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
Wed, March 01, 2023
Final Words with the Wall Street Journal
In this episode, my guest, James Hagerty, the Wall Street Journal Obituary writer , and I discuss how to capture the most interesting parts of our parents and loved ones’ life stories. Too often, those final days come about, and we lose, forever, stories about what our parents did in their lifetimes. How does one start, though? What are the best questions to ask? Where do you search for things about them? What happened in their times, that they might have difficulty remembering themselves? You might be surprised how enjoyable and important their stories can be to you, your siblings, your children, and your grandchildren. In some cases, historical societies, schools, and even museums may take notice. As James says, “ if obituaries can’t be fun, what’s the point in dying? ” Learn the best ways to draw out the more intriguing stories from those you love, from a Wall Street Journal Obituary writer who chronicled and summarized world-renowned celebrities, business moguls, famous artists, and some of those who made our world more interesting. Guest: James R. Hagerty, Author, Yours Truly, The Obituary Writer's Guide to Telling Your Life Story Based in Pittsburgh, James is the lead obituary writer for The Wall Street Journal. Over the past four decades, he has worked as a reporter, editor, and bureau chief for the WSJ and the International Herald Tribune in Hong Kong, London, Brussels, Paris, Atlanta, and New York. He is the author of "Yours Truly" and "The Fateful History of Fannie Mae. The Washington Post named Yours Truly one of the 10 noteworthy books published in December 2022 . "No one understands the treasures to be found in life stories better than James R. Hagerty," says the New York Times bestselling author, Bob Green in his advance review of the book. Having written more than 1,000 obituaries in the past seven years, Hagerty believes that everyone has interesting stories to tell and that preserving them can be the best gift ever given to loved ones. “Being famous is not a prerequisite for valuing and preserving your best stories and the lessons you’ve learned," he says. Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive <a href="https://www
Wed, February 22, 2023
Get a 5 Year Old Care Advocate, NOW!
In this episode, I share how even a whiny five-year-old can help us become better advocates and caregivers for those we love. It starts with one key question that adults often forget to ask, themselves. That simple question, asked over and over again, can be annoying to respond to. But, with patience and some extra thought, you may be able to satisfactorily answer it more often. And, in doing so, you just might get some surprising results. Tune in to this Winter Short and learn more. I promise it’s easier than you might think. Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be considered or used as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice of your own personal medical, legal or financial advisors as each person’s situation is different. (c) Copyright 2023 CareManity, LLC all rights reserved. CareManity is a trademark of CareManity, LLC. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
Tue, February 14, 2023
Tough Choices, Right Decisions, Every Day Counts!
What happens when the quality of care provided by your mom’s care facility was great, but then declined to a point where you’re worried that she’s suffering? Do you just suck it up and hope the quality of aides and services will get better? Or do you call medical transport, wrap her up in a blanket, and move her to a place that will make every minute with her count? In this episode, we’ll tell you how this real-life, boots-on-the-ground, mother-daughter team fought to find the right place to finally find peace. Guest: Cindy Whitehead is an American professional skateboarder and public advocate for girls in sports. A pioneer of vertical skateboarding, she was inducted into the Skateboarding Hall of Fame in 2016. Her TEDx talk in Santa Monica, CA titled “ Girl is NOT a 4 Letter Word ” is about her experience growing up in a male-dominated sport. She is also the author of several Girl Power journals and It’s Not About Pretty . Today, she is a world-renowned wardrobe stylist who specializes in dressing athletes and models for athletic and lifestyle-based ad campaigns, commercials, movies, and editorials. Host: Nancy May , Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be considered or used as medical, legal, o
Wed, February 08, 2023
Surprising ways to find more strength.
Personal treasures or talismans have been used for a long time by caregivers, and those grieving, to reduce pain and stress. In this episode, I share a bit of history and some ways that you can use personal items to help you recover from loss and make better care decisions. My own experience with such simple items as my mom and dad’s handwritten notes, a silver bangle bracelet, and even a fleece jacket of my dad’s, gave me strength when I felt lost. You might be surprised to learn that it’s not a ‘woo-woo’ thing but can actually help ground your head, heart, and actions. Here are a few related links that you might find interesting. Before you decide to click on the links below, a heads up: some may be a little creepy. Oh, I forgot to share that when my dad passed, I collected the rifle shell from his veteran memorial gun salute. Those shells were taken to my local jeweler where some were dipped in silver and others in gold. Each shell casing had a special phrase engraved, that meant something to my sister (who got one), and each of his aides (all who received one too). Yes, I have one as well. Each shell was hung off a necklace chain that was different for each of us. I personally wear that necklace when I need a little extra strength and motivation. Here's a link to that jeweler, who is pretty special herself . Campus Jewelers in Wilton, CT . If you do call them, please say hello to Sonya for me. Ways people remember loved ones (NY POST) Grave Metallum Jewelry artisan : incase you want to create something different for your family. Victorian hair art Mourning hair watch fab Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a </stro
Wed, February 01, 2023
Researching Hospitals to Get Better Care (Part #2)
This episode is Part Two of my discussion with attorney Dan Frith. The quality of care our aging parents receive can vary by which hospital they use. The one closest to home might not be the safest, or even appropriate for them, or you. Not all hospitals are the same, nor equal, nor even similar in the types of services they offer or specialize in. It’s important to assume that hospital systems are businesses too. Before you need one, learn how to research your local hospital. Understand the strengths, weaknesses, and reputation, of a hospital that's nearby, or in another state. In this episode, we’ll cover how to get the details you need on all those specialists watching over your parents’ recovery. You do have choices, and it’s important to know how to get what you need if a loved one's life, or even yours, is ever at stake. Helpful links: HHS.Gov Hospital compare US News Best Hospitals, report Hospital Safety Grade Guest: Dan Frith, JD has been practicing law in Virginia for over 35 years and is with the law firm Frith& Ellerman, Law Firm, P.S . He limits his practice to litigation of medical negligence cases, wrongful-death litigation, and business/employment claims. Dan has represented clients throughout Virginia in both state and federal courts, authored numerous publications, and is a frequent speaker for continuing legal education programs for other trial attorneys. Dan is a recognized member of the Million Dollar Advocate Forum due to the results of his diligent work for his clients. Dan has served as a chair of both the Litigation section of the Virginia State Bar and the Standing Committee on Professionalism. Dan currently is an active member of the American Association for Justice, and Virginia Trial Lawyers Association, and previously served as the President of the Virginia Chapter of the American Board of Trial Advocates. Since March 13, 2003, Dan has received the highest rating by his peers (AV) from Martindale-Rubble. Dan, a married father of two boys, is a graduate of Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and Washington and Lee University School of Law. Host: Nancy May, Author of <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Survive-Medi
Wed, January 25, 2023
Things You'll Need When Bringing Dad Home
How do you prepare your home, or a parent’s home, so it’s safe for them to return to after a hospitalization or long-term rehab stay? They might have recovered, but the last thing you want is for another issue or accident to happen. In this episode, we provide a list of suggestions to help you, the family or professional caregiver, better ensure continued safety and sustained quality of life for those you care for, even if their physical or mental abilities are starting to decline. Resource PDF download: Here's a link to the PDF mentioned in this episode, which will give you a list, and links to items that will be helpful to you and your parents. Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be considered or used as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice of your own personal medical, legal or financial advisors as each person’s situation is different. (c) Copyright 2023 CareManity, LLC all rights reserved. CareManity is a trademark of CareManity, LLC. fgm3KRt0A8ZgywxbkmOt This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
Wed, January 18, 2023
Due Diligence on MDs (Part #1)
In this episode, we discuss how to learn if your doctor is the right one for your parents, or you. Sometimes we base our trust on a doctor’s “likeability,” or bedside manner. But someone who seems good doesn’t mean they are good or even competent. When it comes to your health, skills, competency ( a low "accidental" death rate), and experience usually trump attitude and charm. We also touch on some other points and questions to ask: What’s the prime age for a doctor,? When might you want to re-think using the doctor your parents have used for years? How do you know your doctor’s qualified to treat your parents’ specific conditions? Note they will change over time and can change quickly. Should you trust a doctor’s online medical website ratings? Should you rely on a doctor’s referrals to other specialists? When might it be dangerous to work with a general surgeon? When you’re pressured to make decisions during a critical health scare, how do you take out the emotion and do what’s best for those you love? Finally, how do you avoid signing away all your, or your parents’ rights before getting a procedure? If there's an issue that you are seriously concerned about, with your doctor, you can fire their doctor. There's a lot more to learn from this episode. Tune in and share with those you care about, and others caring for a parent too. This information could make everyone's life just a bit better. Here's an extra link/resource that may be helpful to you: The Federation of State Medical Boards . Guest: Dan Frith, JD has been practicing law in Virginia for over 35 years, and is with the law firm Frith& Ellerman, Law Firm, P.S . . He limits his practice to litigation of medical negligence cases, wrongful-death litigation, and business/employment claims. Dan has represented clients throughout Virginia in both state and federal courts, authored numerous publications, and is a frequent speaker for continuing legal education programs for other trial attorneys. Dan is a recognized member of the Million Dollar Advocate Forum due to the results of his diligent work for his clients. Dan has served as a chair of both the Litigation section of the Virginia State Bar and the Standing Committee on Professionalism. Dan currently is an active member of the American Association for Justice, Virginia Trial Lawyers Association, and previously serve
Wed, January 11, 2023
Can You Predict Emergencies?
In this episode, I share some research done on the most challenging days of the week for those who care for an aging parent or spouse. From this, I learned that there really is an official calendar day called Blue Monday . Also, there are specific days when it seems, the effort of caregiving is that much more stressful. It’s good to know this and be better prepared. I also dive into some ways to make the tough winter months a bit easier for you and those you’re caring for. Here's a link to my friends, Walter and Naiad Einsel , and their love story. This will lift anyone's mood. That's a promise. Quotes to help lift your mood on a bad day Transcript: Episode #51, Can you Predict Emergencies? Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be considered or used as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice of your own personal medical, legal or financial advisors as each person’s situation is different. (c) Copyright 2023 CareManity, LLC all rights reserved. CareManity is a trademark of CareManity, LLC. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
Wed, January 04, 2023
Disability and Caregiving
What happens when you’re both a caregiver and, at the same, disabled yourself? In this episode my guest Daniel Hodges, JD, who is blind, was a caregiver for his parents and children while needing special care himself from the medical community. We discuss how he was able to succeed at this, by being a non-stop advocate for himself and those around him to overcome surprising biases and other obstacles put in his way. Our conversation includes: How to get doctors to treat you with respect How to get more time when needed. What happens when a doctor wants to “Fix” you or your loved one – and it goes wrong When the doctor goes outside the box to be a savior/hero How quality of care can decline if you’re perceived to have a disability. Bias and ignorance in the medical community and how to make things work in your favor In addition, we dive into how best to sharpen your own self-advocacy skills and get more from your doctor and healthcare providers, than the average person. Learn how to work the system before it works you over! Special Note: I am fortunate to have Daniel as a friend and guest here on the Eldercare Success podcast. I am confident that his words and experiences will be lessons that you, the listener will learn from too. Nancy The TRANSCRIPT for this show is available by clicking here. Guest: Daniel Hodges, JD Social entrepreneur, connector, and servant leader. My unique approach to access, inclusion, and health equity facilitates real solutions. When each of us has a chance to succeed, all of us benefit. He is the cofounder of Pure Access and the President and Founder of The Peaces of Me Foundation . Daniel was born blind, and with a connective tissue disorder called Ehlers Danlos syndrome. His constellation of symptoms is so rare that they have never appeared together in any medical text that I have been able to find. He says "Sometimes I struggle to lead with this part of my story because my health struggles do not define me. EDS has taken a lot of things, but it will not take my identity. Nevertheless, my experiences provide me with a valuable lens through which I view the world. It inspires me to question the status quo on several levels, and it causes me to dream of what we can yet achieve." Host: Nancy May, Author of <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Survive-Medical-Emergencies-Step-Step/dp/1734841605"
Wed, December 28, 2022
Toxic People Who Hurt You
Caring for those we love is tough enough. When toxic people enter our lives wanting more of our time, attention, energy, and even money, offering nothing in return, they make caregiving even more difficult. In this episode, I share some tips on identifying, assessing, and more easily separating yourself from those I refer to as time vampires, bloodsuckers, and jerks. I also discuss how to turn things around and find more good souls to bring joy, kindness, and sharing into our lives and those we love and care for. This is a great way to end the year and start 2023 with a lighter heart. Note: people who whistle or hum throughout the day are actually (unintentionally) toning their vagus nerves, which puts them into a more relaxed state. That’s why people who whistle or hum frequently are usually happier than those who don’t. Click her for other benefits of stimulating your vagus nerve . Give it a try. Happy New Year to all! Lots of Love, Nancy Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be considered or used as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice of your own personal medical, legal or financial advisors as each person’s situation is different. (c) Copyright 2022 CareManity, LLC all rights reserved. CareManity is a trademark of CareManity, LLC. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
Wed, December 21, 2022
Caregiver Blues, How to Survive the Holidays
In this episode, I share tips on how caregivers can overcome those holiday blues when you’re alone and away from those you love. The show mentions how to make your days brighter when you start feeling a little dark. Below are several links to those tips and solutions discussed in this episode. They’re fun and easy to do yourself or with your parents even if they have physical challenges: Holiday Cookie Houses: Option #1 , Option #2 , Option #3/Mansion Style , and no-bake Option #4 How to create your own private YouTube channel Create a Chinese T
Wed, December 14, 2022
Finding Special Gifts
This show is in memory of J ames Degenheardt who was a gift that showed up on my dad's doorstep one New Year's Day. Finding that special, thoughtful gift for an aging parent , or loved one can be tough. Even more so when you are short on time, or just can’t bear the thought of going shopping. In this episode, I share how I faced this same dilemma as my folks got older – after all, who really needs another bathrobe or pair of slippers ? One way to do this is to think outside the (gift) box : what stories did they tell you, what memories did they share, that was extra special to them? Build on those memories. Find things, or people they may have known, or places they loved to go that will bring those memories back, in a different format. A little creativity can go a long way: messages and songs from special people, photo storybooks, short trips to places they once knew and loved, etc. The stories I share may just spark your imagination and help you create a unique gift that could surprise even give you, a ton of joy too. Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be considered or used as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice of your own personal medical, legal or financial advisors as each person’s situation is different. (c) Copyright 2022 CareManity, LLC all rights reserved. CareManity is a trademark of CareM
Wed, December 07, 2022
Help Line: Choking, Breathing, Speaking, Eating and more!
Imagine not being able to eat, swallow or enjoy your favorite foods. Or feeling so tired you could fall headfirst into your soup bowl! Or, even worse, getting your tongue cut, and rebuilt due to cancer, and having to learn how to talk again! Would thinking about these things happening freak you out? Well, there’s lots to learn from my special guest in this episode, and some good things, too. Often when someone’s parent has a stroke, heart attack, early dementia, or other health issues requiring hospitalization, they’re typically referred to a rehab facility, or special nursing care facility. This can include different types of physical and occupational therapy. Some of these therapists wind up saving lives, this even includes speech and language pathologists. In this episode, Phyllis Ayman and I dive into situations where hospitals, rehab facilities, skilled nursing homes, and even in-home care professionals don’t know how the simple act of swallowing works, and thus frequently ignore the condition. When things like this are missed, they could result in early or sudden death. We dive into ways to: Prevent choking hazards Reduce the chance of aspiration pneumonia Understand the impact of a stroke or dementia on eating and swallowing Do “weightlifting” for your throat Know when a cough isn’t from a cold or allergy You’ll even learn how to make sure that the medical facility discharge nurse/doctor hasn’t missed critical information relevant to your parent’s quality of life. As an extra bonus, we discuss six top tips to determine when to call in a speech and language pathologist. GUEST: Phyllis Ayman is an expert Speech/Language Pathologist, Certified Dementia Practitioner, Trainer, and Manager and holds a Certification in Montessori for Dementia. She has worked in approximately 45 skilled nursing/short-term rehabilitation facilities and is the principal owner of Phyllis Ayman Associates and the author of Nursing Homes to Rehabilitation Centers, What every person needs to know , and Dignity & Respect . Phyllis is the host of the podcast Seniors Straight Talk , on the Voice America Empowerment Channel. She is also a board member of the Massachusetts Advocates for Nursing Home Reform. Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive </stron
Wed, November 30, 2022
Electronic Pickpocket, How to Protect Against
In this short episode, we talk about how to protect your parent’s credit cards from getting skimmed while in their wallets. RFID chips are now embedded in almost all our credit cards. For those of us caring for aging parents who are out and about shopping on their own, or with the help of an aide, the idea that their cards can be charged without their knowledge just adds another layer of concern to our caregiving workload. There’s some controversy about whether these cards can be skimmed from a distance, yet this recently happened in my family. Although it wasn’t fraudulently skimmed, a purchase transaction was placed on their card, before they were able to take the card out of their wallet. Tune in for some simple researched tips you can do now to prevent some financial catastrophes from happening later. Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an acknowledged expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life g o to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be considered or used as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice of your own personal medical, legal or financial advisors as each person’s situation is different. (c) Copyright 2022 CareManity, LLC all rights reserved. CareManity is a trademark of CareManity, LLC. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
Wed, November 23, 2022
Remember Everything! Caregiver Toolkit
The stress from caregiving can wreak havoc on one’s entire body. Yet our brains and mental abilities often end up suffering the most. While in caregiving mode, some of us end up with overload. We feel like our brains are in a total fog. We question whether we’re the ones with dementia or suffering from early-stage Alzheimer’s. Fortunately, that’s probably not the case. In this episode, Matt DiMaio , the Memory Maestro , gives us some easy ways to reduce stress, have some fun, and remember anything and everything we want. You won’t have to hunt through the 50 sticky notes you’ve posted on the fridge after learning how to use his techniques. In this episode we discuss how to: Turn your brain into your BEST service tool Leverage the ways your brain works naturally Use the tone of your voice to remember things Create an easy mental remembering filing system Have fun and reduce stress too. You'll also learn about the three causes of what Matt calls “ Forgetory .” Knowing this will help you in nearly every situation where you need to remember important things. That alone could make a huge difference in your life, the lives of your family, and those you care for. Guest: Matt DiMaio, The Memory Meister, is a .world renowned authority on how to increase your ability to remember nearly anything. He's known for teaching powerful mental strategies, tactics, and techniques to BE SMARTER-FASTER. Learn everything and anything faster and easier than you ever dreamed possible. You can learn more about Matt through his YouTube channel where he explains simple ways to double your brain power in half the time. You can reach Matt through his websites An Incredible Memory , and Start Remembering . He's the author of three incredibly useful memory books, which are also available on Amazon . Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an acknowledged expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 mil
Thu, November 10, 2022
How to research problems before they happen to you
How do you identify a problem doctor or facility before they become a problem for you? We all put more effort, time, and research into buying a car than into selecting medical care for our parents, and ourselves. Why do that? In this episode, I share easy ways to find out if the doctor, rehab, or care facility you select for your parents is competent, qualified, and honest about what they do. That “care home” may look like a luxury resort, but how do you research and dig out their hidden secrets? The answers are in plain sight -- if you know where, and how to look . BONUS: Here's an extra tip sheet with details on how to dig deeper and investigate medical providers online before you make any decision to have them cut into you with a scalpel. Click here , for that bonus tip sheet. Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an acknowledged expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be considered or used as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice of your own personal medical, legal or financial advisors as each person’s situation is different. (c) Copyright 2022 CareManity, LLC all rights reserved. CareManity is a trademark of CareManity, LLC. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
Wed, November 09, 2022
Law, You, and Care Facilities (Part #2): Avoid becoming a victim.
Part two: Holding everyone at the facility(ies), including you, accountable (Part #2) Here, in part two, we dive into more ways to avoid falling into the traps that Long Term Care homes, nursing homes, rehab facilities, in-home aide agencies, and hospitals use to protect themselves from your or your parents’ outrage. Are your folks one of what they consider their “ golden meal tickets ,” or corporate profit “ cash cows ?” This doesn’t mean they are going to get the best care. Learn whether you’re getting the right care for your parents, and avoid those things these facilities often do that wind up shortening their lives or outright killing them (and your wallets) in the process. Finally, we discuss ways to be a better advocate for your parent’s care. It takes more than just walking in and loudly squawking. There’s a lot more here. Tune in for more insider tips on how to raise the quality of care your parents can get in our health and aging care facilities. Guest: Lauren Ellerman, JD, Partner, Frith & Ellerman, PC. Lauren's practice is focused on Medical Malpractice, Non-Compete litigation, and Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect. She helps clients in a range of civil litigation matters, including medical malpractice, and business litigation. She was recognized as one of the youngest Super Lawyers in Medical Malpractice for the Commonwealth of Virginia. In 2020 she was named the BEST Lawyer in America in Roanoke for Plaintiff’s Medical Malpractice, and the first female to receive the nomination . She is the co-author of How to Beat Your Virginia Non-Compete. Lauren and her husband, Whit, are very active in the Roanoke Valley: opening a restaurant, The River and Rail; starting a non-profit Turn the Page, Inc. , attending Second Presbyterian Church; spending time with their daughter, and dogs; and, camping as much as work will allow. Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an acknowledged expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even
Mon, November 07, 2022
We're Moving!
Mondays are tough for everyone, especially those of us who are caregivers. That's why we're moving our show release day to Wednesdays, "hump day." Who doesn't need a little extra dose of energy, motivation, and laughter midweek? Me included. We'll see you, or hear you this next Wednesday. Oh, if you love this show, consider sharing the link as a gift to those you know who care for others too. We love sharing!
Mon, October 31, 2022
Law, You, and Care Facilities (Part #1)
Elder Law and Care Home Mishaps . Who’s on your side to help, are they able, and will they help? You might be surprised by the answers. After listening to these next two episodes (part 1 and part 2), you will gain a new, more empowered understanding of your parent’s care facility and what they’re legally allowed to do, or not do for them. In addition, you’ll learn how to get better care for them and understand where you have the power to make a difference. First off, here is where most of us get caught off guard when we think our folks are safer in these facilities: You visit your parents in their new care home residents and notice things aren’t what you thought they’d be or were at first. Everything was great early on and the staff seemed friendly and welcomed you with each visit. Then… little things started to happen or pile up: Their room smells bad like a used urinal. Their bed is soiled, even though the sheets and bathroom towels should have been changed on Monday (it’s now Wednesday) – per the marketing and agreement documents. Mom appears depressed, sits in her darkened room, and rarely ventures out to walk and visit other residents. You notice she’s being charged meals to be delivered to her room, but they’re only piling up in the mini-fridge. Dad’s not eating like he used to and is rapidly dropping weight. The staff doesn’t notice or tell you. One of them took a fall and it took hours (or longer) for someone to discover they’d been on the floor trying to get help. Mom enjoys bantering with a tablemate during mealtimes. Staff misinterprets this and now wants to move her to a memory wing. You refuse to approve. Her tablemate is swept off to memory care instead. Dad’s has an unexplained gash on his leg, which is now infected. The staff nurse has no record of the incident or gash, so it’s not her concern, so you’re told. You take a firm stance and it’s time for a “serious” conversation with the facility’s management. Nothing changes (a laughable moment for those who know better about the industry). Trips to the ER increase because Management says their needed. The monthly bill increases by another $5k because management says mom needs more oversight. The quality of that oversight is ultimately a lot less than what you expected, based on cost, and the list goes on. This is when you decide it’s time to get legal counsel. This is where you learn exactly what happens in many care facilities, and the difference between a care home/facility, Rehab Facility, Nursing Home, and in-home care agency. Tune into Part One and learn how to take more control where you can. Guest: Lauren Ellerman, JD, Partner, Frith
Mon, October 24, 2022
How to Make Better Care Decisions
When caring for your parents, how do you make the right decisions for them when they can’t? Some of us go into paralysis mode, some panic, and others decide based on what choices they feel are best for their folks. But what’s a good way to weigh the options available? Do you use facts, desires, and what seems right, or face the realities of life – yours and theirs? A lot of factors come into play. In this episode, you'll learn a “how to” exercise that will help you tackle these big decisions a little easier. This method can also be a tool to balance out the needs of everyone involved in the outcome: yours, your family’s, and your parents' too. If you want to reach out, you can contact me on Instagram , or on FaceBook at CareManity . Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an acknowledged expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be considered or used as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice of your own personal medical, legal or financial advisors as each person’s situation is different. (c) Copyright 2022 CareManity, LLC all rights reserved. CareManity is a trademark of CareManity, LLC. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
Mon, October 17, 2022
Get Help With an Ombudsman!
What is a Long-Term Care or Nursing Home Care Resident Ombudsman? Who do they serve? How can they help you, if your mom or dad reside in a facility where they’re NOT getting the proper care needed? Knowing how to get help from an independent outside authority can give you the support you may need or help with deciding what to do if you’re concerned about their safety. With over 15,000 nursing homes in the US and nearly 66,000 long-term care facilities, the demand for care workers in these places is huge. However, at times, many lack the support they need to care for your patients properly and safely. Each state has an ombudsman program that works to help those of us who have aging parents residing in some type of care or nursing home. Why we try our best to help our parents, sometimes an Ombudsman can be the key to making the necessary changes so that your parents, and others, stay safe and keep their care assured. Why? Because Ombudsmen: Often know the facilities and management better than you Have a higher level of clout with state and local legislators Know the state licensing guidelines for nursing homes Can help you know who to contact and what to say to get your voice heard at a higher level Information about The National Ombudsman Resource Center : Here you can also learn how to become a volunteer ombudsman in your state through the organization. The National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care is the overseeing body for the National Ombudsman Resource Center. Your parents, as residents of a care facility, can join The National Consumer Voice membership for free. You as a family member are also encouraged to join. The National Consumer Voice’s primary role is recommending policy and procedures for care facilities through government legislation and leading organizations like the Center for Medicare and Medicaid, among others. Every family should know about this organization. An Ombudsman can be a powerful tool to help you make sure your parents are well cared for, happy, healthy, and remain safe. Guest: Carol Scott, Manager, LTC Ombudsman Program & Policy for the National Ombudsman Resource Center . Carol is a healthcare leader with more than 32 years of advocacy experience at both the national and state levels. She provides technical assistance to state and local ombudsmen across the country; analyzes Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program (LTCOP) program and policy information; conducts training for new State Ombudsmen; hosts webinars for local representatives; shares i
Mon, October 10, 2022
10 Ways to Help Your POA
Top 10 Ways To Reduce The Burden Of Being Cared For : It can be tough to avoid becoming emotionally involved in and impacted by an aging parent’s needs. But, what about when YOU become that aging parent? Well, there are things you can do, now, to reduce the likelihood of becoming that caregiving ball-and-chain around your kids’ necks. Here are 10 ways to start setting things up so that you and those who may help care for you, get on the right path from the start. Identify who can and will take responsibility: Among all the details mentioned in the show, this means determining which child(ren) can take responsibility to lead oversight of your personal, financial, legal, and healthcare decisions when needed. Create a contingency plan: Who will take over if something happens to your medical and financial POA, Executor, or Trustee. Your life and that of your children may change – for the better or worse – after they’ve agreed to accept responsibility to oversee your care. Keep aware of their situations and keep conversations open should you have any concerns. If a spouse will be involved in helping them, consider bringing them into the discussion as well. The life of a spouse or partner is also impacted, in some way, when it’s time for your child to step into the role they’ve agreed to accept. Have all legal, financial, and military documents complete, secured, available, and reviewed every few years. If you haven’t already established a Will or Trust and all the other necessary fiduciary and care oversight legal documents, do so now. Keep them where they will be safe and available when needed. Know if, when, and who to hire to support your adult children who will care for you . Overseeing your care will likely have an impact on their career, personal time, relationships, emotional strength, and even financial standing. Write out and share your end-of-life extension care wishes. Let those in charge of your care know what you want as far as life-extending care. This will help your family make the right decisions for you when you can’t. This may wind up being a huge gift to them, if and when that time comes. If that’s your desire, start setting up your home/living environment so that it will be safe for you to stay there later on. Look about for what will get in the way, and what you don’t really need anymore. Steps now can become mountains later. Slippery areas need handrails. Reduce clutter: things you were planning to give away when you pass, could be given to them now to enjoy. If something doesn’t give you joy every time you look at it, why hold onto it? Establish a contingency plan should you not have the financial means to care for yourself later. You’ll need to discuss this issue with trusted family members and those who can advise you on financi
Mon, October 03, 2022
More Care With The VA; Some is Free!
Listen in to this important show. If you’re a Veteran or caring for one, the US government has a ton of benefits available to help you . Listen in as my guests from the US Veteran’s Administration share information on some incredibly valuable benefits, that you may not know of, that are available to you, your mom, dad, or spouse. Here are a few examples: Additional pension and financial support (based on need and service) Respite care for caregivers of a veteran for up to 20 days per year Free burial in a Federal Military cemetery and financial support if buried in a private cemetery In-home care services Nursing home and rehab care Some financial support for private care facility living Special veteran-directed care Medical care equipment including incontinent supplies, medical beds, walkers, hearing aids, and more! Prescription medications Special hospice care program Home health aides and a homemaker support program A fiduciary program if your family member is unable to manage their own bills and financial situation And much more! Links and phone numbers: Veteran Benefits Administration VA Pension Benefits and how to apply for them Elderly benefits for Veterans Geriatric and Extended Care support for Veterans Support for caregivers of Veterans Free help filling out VA Claim Forms: call 1-800-827-1000 Veteran Crisis Hotline: Dial 988 then press the number 1 when the phone is answered. Guests: Kevin J. Friel: Kevin was appointed as Deputy Director of the Pension and Fiduciary Service on June 24, 2018. The Pension and Fiduciary Service Staff is responsible for oversite and administering the pension, dependency and indemnity compensation, and fiduciary programs to include the development of policy and procedures, per
Mon, September 26, 2022
How to prepare for a hurricane when a caregiver
How do you prepare for a natural disaster emergency if you’re caring for an older person? Natural, weather-related, and other disasters happen -- they're often difficult to avoid. Yet, you can prepare, in advance, so that you and your loved ones stay safer. In this episode, I review how you can make sure that your parents are safe in their own home, in a care facility, and even in a hospital, during a weather-related disaster. First, and foremost, if you’re told to evacuate, listen carefully to what local authorities advise. Evacuate to where they recommend you go based on the needs of the person you’re caring for. It’s important to note that first responders may not be able to get to you, when and after a disaster strikes, especially if conditions would place their own lives in danger, or if roads are blocked. Below is a list of points to review in each living environment: In a care facility : Questions to ask and confirm: Does the facility have adequate generator backup equipment, and when was it last serviced and tested? If it needed repair, how were the issues addressed? When? How many staff members and hands-on aides , and medical staff will be on-site during a weather event? What are the facility’s evacuation plans ? Know where the facility is in an evacuation map zone . You can check this on the town, county, or state maps. Each should have an emergency update page during times of natural disaster. Where will your loved one be evacuated ? Know the location yourself, even if you're not physically there with them. Is there enough suppor t to do this safely for everyone? Although staff members may be required to work through a storm, many will want to go home to care for their own families. Who can blame them? Ask if you can volunteer to help if they’re short-staffed. If evacuated, what medical support will they have on hand at the evacuation location? Consider : Spending the night at the facility with your loved one, in their room. Sleeping in their room on a couch, chair, or floor if necessary. Bring extra blankets, pillows, and a sleeping bag, and hunker down for the duration of the storm. Bringing your own kids along for the adventure if they’re able to stay calm. Staying if needed, until you are confident that things are back as they were before the emergency. In Hospitals: Ask <em
Sun, September 25, 2022
Love Letters to a Wife with Dementia
Watching one’s spouse or other loved one suffer from dementia may be one of the toughest things ever . In this episode, we listen to how a social worker and home health aides recommended that their client's husband move out of their primary home in order to ease the anxiety and anger of his afflicted wife. While this was emotionally difficult, he wanted to be supportive and make sure his wife received the best possible care. So, he moved out and into their country home. Now he misses the love of his life and wonders if he’s made a big mistake . Listen in to an alternative solution that was created and offered to him to make things better for everyone. Such a move might work for someone you love, too. Resource links to help you and others are: GlobalRose Bouquet Subscription 3D Cards: FreshCut Paper , and LovePop A blanket with your personal photos printed on the front A custom love song , created just for her or him Send a Love Note in a Bottle or a What I Love About You book Or, create your own <a href="https://lovebookonline.com/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=GOOG_US_BRANDLB_BM_6-21&gclid=Cj0KCQjw1bqZBhDXARIsANTjCPJZSk4suspW22zvz_56DUimKFJFTFBVA
Mon, September 19, 2022
Parkinson's 1 in 4 Misdiagnosed!
Did you know that as many as 1 in 4 people who have Parkinson’s Disease are misdiagnosed? Even worse, those with the disease may have seen a doctor three or more times before receiving an accurate diagnosis. Too often it’s diagnosed as Alzheimer’s in older patients. We all need to be aware of this, for ourselves and those around us. In this episode, our guest expert, Dr. Michael Okun , is a leading expert in the research and treatment of Parkinson’s disease (bio details at the end of these show notes). Dr. Okun has a unique way of working with patients and lives by the mantra that “the medical profession should look at the patient as the sun: everything done to help patients should revolve around their needs, just like our entire solar system revolved around our sun.” This goes for doctors, hospitals, caregivers, therapists, families, and all their entire teams. He further states: “if we all work this way with each and every patient, then our abilities to work towards a cure and build a better quality of life for that person will prevail.” He believes that the greatest indicator of success is not how much money one raises for a cure, but how many lives can we all save! You’ll find this discussion is rich with words of wisdom and advice for patients, families, caregivers, and everyone in the medical and healthcare community. Some (maybe) startling points worth noting include: What chemical is directly linked to Parkinson’s and why is it banned in Europe but not here in the US. Why Alzheimer’s is the most common neurological disease, yet Parkinson’s is the fastest growing. How diet is now one of the “hottest” areas of research and how microbiomes may impact our potential to acquire Parkinson’s. He shares the difference between the early symptoms of Parkinson’s vs. Alzheimer’s and why it’s more frequently misdiagnosed and mistreated. Including: How to better identify symptoms What type of doctors often misdiagnose Parkinson’s vs others How medical professionals lose their ability to be more observant Why it’s misdiagnosed Some other points we discuss include : Different symptoms of Parkinson’s vs Alzheimer’s. Why it could be a blessing to be diagnosed with Parkinson’s over Alzheimer’s or other diseases. How to help with the emotional response when first diagnosed. What happens when doctors don’t listen and respond instead to time pressures placed on them when seeing patients. Some key failure points in our healthcare system and what we might do to respond. The importance of finding the right doctor and when to move on to the next. Do listen to the full episode as this one is rich beyond expectations! Tune in and share with your family and friends. Additional links of value: <a href="ht
Mon, September 12, 2022
Tips for Hiring Great Aides and Caregivers
Finding good aides, or a health care agency isn’t easy. In this episode, I disclose some key points to make your caregiving life easier, especially when it comes to hiring aides as well as knowing when and how to let them go -- even if they’re with an agency. While I’m at it, I recommend that everyone in your family and all those caring for your parents learn CPR . Below is a link to where you can find a local program. When checking these out, make sure that the course instructor covers CPR for older, frailer, adults, as their bodies require special care and pressures when applying resuscitation. CPR Professor : However I highly recommend everyone attend the program in person. Knowing how to do hands-on CPR takes practice American Heart Association , CPR, First Aid, and Emergency Cardiovascular Care The American Red Cross : The Red Cross also offers online training, yet the hands-on experience is critical to sharpening one’s ability and building ‘’muscle memory’’ skills in any emergency situation. Key tips for hiring an aide. . . Look for: Experience in working with older and frail adults, physically/emotionally challenged persons, or groups of children. C.N.A. or other training. While important, certifications can be acquired later, if necessary for your situation. Many visiting nurses will provide the necessary support and basic skills training to anyone caring for an aging parent or adult Compassion and Empathy Patience : an ability to calm or slow things down without getting frustrated with the person they’re caring for. Caring for an older frail adult, especially someone who’s dealing with anxiety issues can be challenging. This takes patience and the ability to provide gentle guidance when necessary. An understanding of how to connect with and speak with older or impaired adults without being overly simple or using baby talk. Conversation patterns that show a willingness to personally connect with your parent How often do they ask questions and how they wait for responses. Eye contact : How often do they look at someone like they are a person rather than as an object in a chair? Engagement : Do they ask you about your parent’s life stories? What were they like as a parent? What things do they love (or had loved) to do? Their suggestions
Mon, September 05, 2022
Caregiver Loneliness and Fears
Many of us as caregivers often feel isolated and alone. When this happens it may be tough to overcome, even when surrounded by those who care about us and want to help. It’s tough enough to deal with this ourselves. It’s even tougher when we try to shield others from that sense of emptiness, we sometimes feel or let them think they’re being ignored or abandoned by us. Loneliness and all the other emotions of caregiving have gotten increasingly sharper these past few years, especially as travel and gatherings were curtailed in our lives almost altogether. Thankfully the world is starting to open up again. In this episode, we tackle this issue and share some tips and ways to help you: Understand that you’re never truly alone Overcome the feelings one experiences from being a long-distance caregiver Make sure that your loved ones won’t also feel abandoned or alone Find peace and other benefits during those times when you’re physically alone. If you ever feel like you're caring for someone you love all by yourself. Reach out to me, and all of us in the Eldercare Success group on FaceBook. Together we help each other become, and stay strong. Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! i s an acknowledged expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be considered or used as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice of your own personal medical, legal or financial advisors as each person’s situation is different. (c) Copyright 2022 CareManity, LLC all rights
Mon, August 29, 2022
The Mystery of Mom's Lost Jewelry
What happens when your mom or dad thinks their jewels have been stolen? It’s frightening when one of your parents believes that a wedding ring, piece of jewelry, or something precious was stolen. Unfortunately, some of our loved ones, with fading memories, will sometimes accidentally toss away or accidentally lose a family heirloom or keepsake. Hands and fingers can shrink with age, or swell with l arthritis, weight gain, or water retention, making wearing precious things uncomfortable. Yet their fears can easily spread to us. Were they really robbed? Whom do I trust? What else is missing? How can I find the lost items? Do we call the police? To prevent worrying about what might happen, consider having replicas made of important personal jewelry. If losing such items is not something you can bear, and you can afford something a bit less expensive, consider duplicates that your parents can hold onto. Many rings, earrings, bracelets, or other family pieces can be replicated in low-cost materials, such as cubic zirconia, or plated metals. Getting this done can be quite reasonable, and you’d be surprised how real they look. We did this for my mom with her wedding and engagement rings. The resulting replicas were better than I could have imagined. More of that story is laid out in this episode. If you go this route, make sure you’re working with a reputable jeweler as you’ll want to show them the items you want to be duplicated. This may mean handing over pieces for a few days or weeks. If that’s the case, and mom or dad asks “where are my rings” simply share that they’re being repaired. Here’s a link to Sonya Taheri and Wilton Campus Jewelers, the shop that helped me create beautiful replicas of mom’s wedding rings. Sonia helped me on many occasions with repairs, appraisals for insurance, and more. I recommend her 110%. I’ve also noted two other places you might want to investigate for creating family jewelry replicas. I’m not personally familiar with their work, however. Wilton Campus Jewelers on FaceBook Serendipity Diamonds : replica rings for travel and other needs. Cubic Zirconia: Make your own designs Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Survive-Medical-Emergencies-Step-Step/dp/1734841605" rel=
Mon, August 22, 2022
What's a Death Panel? Are They Real?
What are Death Panels ? Are they real? Decisions to provide, or not provide life-saving care to an elderly patient, while not specifically publicly called “Death Panels,” happen far more often than many realize. I’ve had a number of discussions with healthcare professionals who have shared how and when such decisions on who they try to save, and who they choose not to. These decisions are often made by medical groups, but sometimes by others, and seem to become more visible during disasters, emergencies, and other times of social stress. The book Five Days at Memorial highlighted examples of such decisions made right after Hurricane Katrina. With the recent pandemics, lockdowns, and other political and societal upheavals, decisions on who should be helped may have also been based on their ages, physical conditions, and family situations -- more than we might ever know. Once you are told that continued life support or life-saving measures will (or will not) be made for your loved one(s), you face your own decisions. Those are to either accept what you’re told and let others decide on whether or not extraordinary measures should be taken, or exercise your right to speak up and push for your loved one’s end-of-life wishes. I’ve made both types of continuing life support decisions for my own parents, in their end years. My dad wanted to push forward and hold on as long as he could - 120 years was his goal. My mom told me that this wasn’t her desire. As such, I did my best to make sure that doctors understood and accepted what they wanted. If you know the personal life wishes of those you’re caring for, then when their final days come, you’ll likely have fewer regrets about how you advocated for them. Related articles: Rules Rules doctors can follow when they decide who gets care and who dies . Who should be saved First? The hardest questions doctors may face: Who will be saved? Who won't? Tenent Healthcare and
Mon, August 15, 2022
Dad Please Stop Driving!
This episode is about how to get your parents, or a frail spouse, to give up driving . This is a sticky subject for many families and such conversations often erupt in anger. Trust between you and your parents can wind up strained and your own frustrations and doubts pushed to the limits. Some families resort to lies, big and little ones, to get their parents to stop driving. However, once they discern that you’re lying, or trying to, that bond of trust between you all may never recover. As a consequence, your caregiving days will grow more difficult. If they’ve agreed to give up driving, and you find you need to dispose of that car. Finding someone to “take it off your hands” may not be easy, especially if it’s seen lots of wear. If it turns out it’s not worth much, consider donating it to a local vocational school where students can practice repairs. Or donate it to a charitable organization like Kars4Kids , V eterans Car Donation , Make A Wish , or Habitat for Humanity - Car Donation . If the car still has some value, contact We Buy Any Car . This organization will buy used vehicles for anything from $100 to $100,000! If the registered owner of the car has already passed, you can try asking the family’s estate attorney to help transfer ownership. However, this may be through probate if you’re not a beneficiary. Finally, if you’re just starting down this road (pun intended) a little empathy will serve you well in moving the conversation in a positive direction. Listen in for more details on how to get things done. Host: Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! i
Mon, August 08, 2022
Recognizing the 12 Steps of Caregiver Burnout
How do you know if you’re heading into a Burnout? Some professionals say there are three stages leading to burnout. Here, you’ll learn there are really 12 stages. Each shows we’ve sunk a little deeper toward the bottom. Surprisingly, knowing whether you’ve reached your limit might not be obvious. Learn how to identify if you’re facing burnout and when it’s too late to get out without needing medical help. As caregivers we’re often exhausted at the end of a day: the emotional and physical strain and stress take their toll, bit by bit. Yet, sometimes we think that how we’re feeling is just part of the job. We think it will eventually ease up, or go away when our charge passes or goes into a care facility. If you’re caring for someone outside the home, the strain can be worse. If your employer doesn’t understand what it’s like to be a caregiver for someone, they might not understand how this could impact your work performance -- which it often does. It’s the rare individual who can burn the candle at both ends and still remain physically and mentally strong. In this episode of Summer Shorts, Eldercare Success style we also dive into how to get the support you need at work from your employer and your peers. Here's an article that is of value to any caregiver, but especially if you're employed outside the home. How the public sector can better support key workers' wellbeing. Guest: Sharon Aneja is a Positive Psychology coach, wellbeing consultant, and founder of Humanity Works Consultancy . She helps organizations put out the flames of burnout through her signature energizer program. She also founded Recharge@Work and is a UN Women UK Delegate for the Commission on the Status of Women. Sharon and her Humanity Works team’s focus is to help you maximize your organization’s people-first approach through their Positive Psychology coaching, training, and consultancy services. Host: Nancy May , Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! is an acknowledged
Mon, August 01, 2022
How to Have Wish Planning Conversations
“Final Wishes” conversations don’t always have to be difficult. Some people believe such discussions create “bad mojo” or push the inevitable forward. However, they can be somewhat fun, especially if turned into a travel-type game. In this episode of Summer Shorts , I dive into some easy ways for you and your loved ones to lay things out for when that time comes. Sharing your wishes, and outside legal documents, can make caregiving a bit easier, when you know what, how, and when to make such difficult decisions. It moves us, caregivers, away from later heartaches when that time comes, while allowing for more time to celebrate life, now. It’s important not to wait to have these conversations because attorneys can’t legally accept someone’s signature on a document when they’re later determined not to be of sound mind and body. Besides, one can learn so much more about family history, quirky growing-up stories, traditions, and special treasures you never knew about, while memories are fresher. It’s good to understand who gets grandma’s keepsakes or grandpa’s favorite watch, or the family photos and books. These small bequests often mean more to some than most bigger things. Discussions should be had, and decisions made on when to enter into Hospice, being kept on life support, getting CPR and intubated, etc. They are best known before things happen and there’s no time. These things will eat at your heart, as a caregiver, if you don’t know or make the wrong call. Here are some books/tools to get you started. Book: Being Mortal . I absolutely love this book, by a surgeon, who has seen many families suffer by not knowing what their family member’s last wishes. He gently guides the thought process in how to make your wishes known with more dignity. Most doctors do not know how to have these types of conversations with their own families. Workbook: Final Wishes: Estate Planning Documents . A book that won’t help with personal wishes, yet it does provide a good workbook-style format for what documents are needed and where all accounts are located. Tool/Resource: Consider helping someone write a letter to those they love, to be opened once they’ve passed. This might be a little scary for the person writing the letter, and for those who’ll wind up opening it. Consider what might be included for you, the caregiver, and others. <a href="https://www.thebalance.com/how-to-make-your
Mon, July 25, 2022
Do Dementia Patients See White?
Do people with dementia see the color white? The other day a professional caregiver friend of mine told me that those with dementia have difficulty with the color white. Although skeptical, this statement piqued my interest. However, with some research, I found out more about this, and although there’s some truth there, it isn’t exactly correct. Over time changes occur in the brain of those afflicted with dementia. Some become more challenged than others in detecting shapes of the same hue. In this episode, we dive into this a bit more, including how cognitive impairments impacted the world-famous artist, William de Kooning, as well as my good friend, and renowned kinetic sculptor Walter Einsel. After sustaining some stroke-involved brain damage, Walter used the book Drawing from the Right Side of the Brain to retrain his hands and mind to draw and work again. Art can also be a wonderful tool for our loved ones as they grow frailer. We’ll share more tips on how art can be very therapeutic, and the joy of gaining special keepsakes that your loved ones can create. Here are some tools and resources to help spark creativity: Michael’s Art Supply Store will price match any other advertised price. If you’re in the store and know of a price that’s lower elsewhere, show them the advertisement and you’ll get the discount. Also, if you sign up for their free membership, you’ll get weekly updates on coupons and other price discounts. 10 Pack of 8”x 10” stretched frame canvas Super value 25-piece artist brush set 36 colors acrylic paint set (only $14.99) Tabletop art box easel $29.99 special sale price So that you and your new artists feel the part: a French (artist’s) beret. I bought several of these for mom in different colors. She loved them and they stirred up memories of the beige one she wore when we were growing up on Long Island. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Chapeau-Tribe-Classic-Stretchable-French/dp/B07TW8NCX8/ref=asc_df_B07TW8NCX8/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=406271256156&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=16494284397483545998&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9012365&hvtargid=pla-914467044197&psc=1&tag=&ref=&adgrpid=89223259320&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvadid=406271256156&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=164942843
Fri, July 15, 2022
Dementia Road Trips & Tips
Have you ever worried about taking a road trip with a loved one suffering from dementia? If so, this show is for you! You don’t have to restrict outings with them just to doctor visits. Always staying in can be tough on you and even more so for those you’re caring for. Trust me on this one! This episode’s tips come from one of our listeners: Polly. She shares her stories about how she takes her husband, who’s suffering from Leukodystrophy (a rare form of dementia) on special road trips. Although he’s lost some basic functions, he still seems to understand what’s going on around him. Listen in and learn what Polly’s been doing to help her husband, and herself, through both good and tough days. You’ll also hear my story about how my own dad and I used to take long day trips together and get lost together in the Florida swamps. In the meantime, here are some items that may make things easier and safer while you enjoy your own trips: Auto Door Assist Handle Grips : These are easy to use on any car. Car Grab Handles (over door) : A bit less stable but they are great for extra stability when you need someone to twist and turn before sitting. Lift Support Handle: Wow, these are great when your passenger has some strength in their grip and simply needs a little extra pull to get up. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GC48KZ3/ref=sspa_dk_detail_6?psc=1&pd_rd_i=B07GC48KZ3&pd_rd_w=w4Me5&content-id=amzn1.sym.3481f441-61ac-4028-9c1a-7f9ce8ec50c5&pf_rd_p=3481f441-61ac-4028-9c1a-7f9ce8ec50c5&pf_rd_r=3FSJXWQCNSX8V2EJ3H8C&pd_rd_wg=F6mfi&pd_rd_r=5d787348-4c0a-45e4-aca3-61f43d7c0515&s=hpc&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkU
Thu, July 07, 2022
Protein Drinks, Recipes & Solutions - Yummy!
Protein Drinks. Here's how to make your own, that taste better, and costs less! In this episode, we discuss how to make a home blended protein drink that tastes better and costs less to make than those big brand-name protein meal replacement drinks. Its protein content is also higher and there’s less processed sugar (unless you add another sugar-based ingredient). The cool thing with this is that you should enjoy the recipe too. I certainly did! You can substitute any extra ingredient or mix up the flavors so that you or those you care for don’t get bored. Here’s my example Using a large counter blender or bullet brand-type blender: Use the blender cup or container to mix the following ingredients. Add a few chunks of your favorite store-bought or DIY frozen fruit. I like mango, strawberries, blueberries, and pineapple. N ext, some water, or milk, cashew milk, or almond milk to cover the fruit. Add one scoop of your favorite protein powder. I mention two of these in this episode: Dymatize Protein Powder (25g protein, Voita Proteins Powder (18 g protein, 0 sugar). This protein powder has no flavor so you can make up your own as you create your own recipes. Organic Protein Powder (21g plant protein, 0g sugar). This one comes in vanilla, iced coffee, strawberries and cream, and unsweetened/natural flavors. 4. You can also add your own concoction of flavors including: Cinnamon – a dash or two based on your taste Coffee from your leftover morning coffee pot (store leftover coffee in the refrigerator, too) Cocoa powder – no sugar Vanilla extract, or other extract flavors you might like Yogurt – ideall
Mon, June 27, 2022
Caregiver Burnout and How to Heal
Caregiver burnout is real. It’s something to be taken very seriously. It can cause you physical harm. In this episode, my guest, Cait Donovan, and I discuss burnout. She has a ton of information to share that will help all of us who are responsible for the welfare of someone. Burnout doesn’t only happen to family caregivers; it happens to those in the profession of healthcare and caregiving, too. Few are immune. Knowing what to do to recognize burnout’s symptoms is important to keep them from getting worse. This show should prove invaluable to us caregivers, those we care for, and even our employers! In this show Cait and I discuss: Three symptoms associated with burnout Understanding if you really are burnt out or on your way there How the body is physically harmed by burnout That gratitude may not be your best way to start healing Caregiver traps and what to do about them How Oxytocin is good medicine Using stress to help us heal How to get help from your boss and employer instead of quitting because they don’t understand Ways to recover, heal and find joy again In this episode, you’ll also learn how, in 20 seconds, you can start feeling better and healing. Don’t set yourself up to be a caregiver martyr. Over the years, through experience, observations, and by reading blogs and social media posts, I see how many caregivers wrongly place blame on others and become martyrs in their families. We don’t have to be the ones who fall ill from caring for those we love. Caregivers, anyone who supports a hands-on caregiver, or anyone who expects they’ll need help from others in the future, should listen to this important episode. Guest: Caitlin (Cait) Donovan is one of New York City’s leading burnout experts and acupuncturists, host of “ Fried – The Burnout Podcast ,” and author of the book " The Bouncebackability Factor: End Burnout, Gain Resilience, and Change the World " . Her master’s degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine enables Caitlin to combine Eastern wisdom with her natural practicality. She has been featured on podcasts and online magazines such as “Forbes”, “Elephant Journal,” “Thrive Global,” “Addicted 2 Success”, as well as quoted in Oprah Magazine. <
Sun, June 05, 2022
Dad's New Surprise Wife!
What happens when you find out that your lonely, long single parent suddenly has a new, (perhaps secret) love interest? Far too many times, questionable characters who don’t have the best intentions, steal the hearts, and destroy the lives of vulnerable seniors, in ways that can’t be repaired – financially, emotionally, and yes, even medically. It’s so sad that we must be both vigilant and suspicious about who befriends our aging parents. As we age, we naturally become more trusting, and more dependent on those good people in the world who truly do want to help us. However, the creepy characters who purposely look to feed on our hearts and bank accounts make everyone else’s lives even more difficult. In this episode, my good friend retired Sargent Michael R. Herst, and I dive into some of the cunning ways love scammers worm their ways into the lives of those we love. Michael’s own father-in-law almost fell prey to one of these crooks! Here we discuss: How to detect when a secret “love interest” is creeping into your parent’s life How love scammers justify their actions Tricks they’ll use to pull on your heartstrings Identifying such people for who they really are Best ways to protect them personally, financially, and emotionally How to confront someone you suspect How to get support from the police and others And much more! This is an important episode that everyone should listen to and learn from. The following links provide additional resources you can use, should you suspect one of these love scammers is focusing on your mom or dad. An important side note: Romance scams were one of the top frauds that resulted in the greatest losses for seniors during these past two years, according to the National Consumer Law Center. These love interests are not always created in person either. Many happen online. Please keep vigilant. Preliminary background and abuse reporting links: Check People Been Verified Truth Finder National Center on Elder Abuse Guest: Michael R. Hearst , a retired Police Sgt, Husband, Father, and former caregiver, and podcast host of “ O ne More Thing Before You Go ,.” Michael and his wife, Diane, also hos a podcast together which airs on Sunday mor
Tue, May 17, 2022
Has your doctor overcharged you?
How do you fight what you think is an outrageous bill ? How common are medical billing errors ? How do you stop out-of-network charges ? How can you avoid getting an unexpectedly large medical bill ? What’s the No Surprises Act and how does it help us? Why should you g et a price upfront , for a procedure that you, or someone in your family, needs? Believe it or not, medical billing errors are quite common these days. Even though we’ve moved to electronic medical records, the coding process that is supposed to ensure that procedures are properly noted for your insurance provider or Medicare payers can get complicated. Sometimes as many as three or more codes are needed to describe one procedure before your carrier will approve your coverage. Recent research notes that a s much as 90% of all medical bills have at least one error in them. Who pays in the end, and why should you be responsible for these mistakes? That’s where “coders” come in: medical billing coders can be a patient’s best friend. Especially when they can help us understand our bills, correct errors, and reverse coverage denials. In this episode, we take a deeper, and rather interesting, look behind the scenes with a medical coding expert. These are the folks who keep your medical providers organized so they can focus on keeping you healthy or recovering. Either way, we need coders ! There’s a lot more in store for you in this episode, and, as always, a laugh or two to keep us all moving forward. Tune in as we learn more from Jennifer McNamara, one of the best coding instructors and educators I know. Additional links of value: How new rules help protect us all from surprise medical bills Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services How to dispute medical bills. List of commonly used codes New consumer/patient billing protection, with or without insurance Special Note: the No Surprises Act supplements individual state surprise billing laws. It's important to first check into such protections that have been instituted in your state. One term to research in your state is the All-payer Model Agreement
Fri, May 06, 2022
Native Caregivers and Sprit Guides: Life Lessons and More.
"If you lead a good life, you’ll never really die ." Native First Nations Saying. If you care for someone you love long enough, chances are you’ll be there as they go through the process of dying. All cultures, communities, and tribes have their rituals for helping those through their final breath, including how to treat the remains and placate spirits after passing. This is the first in a series of shows I’ll host over the course of the year about cultural rituals and rites for the dying, and those who’ve passed. There are many things we can learn from these rituals. Although they can differ quite a bit, there are similarities and overlaps. Understanding each may help our own hearts and minds heal after those we love have left us. This episode opens with a native prayer offered to us by my friend, Maurice Switzer, a citizen of the Missasaugas of Alderville First Nation in Ontario Canada. In our conversation, Maurice shares how the Anishinabek Nation traditions have changed over the years. He describes how younger generations are looking back and working to adopt historical traditions of their own native tribe’s people. Maurice’s family culture is a unique blending of Mohawk and Jewish heritage. Both cultures’ approach to caring for aging parents isn’t as far apart as we at first might think. Together, we discuss aspects that can help us think differently about how we care for our own loved ones, and ourselves, too. Listen in to learn more about:· Insights into how native/indigenous caregiver skills differ from our own care approaches How families are benefiting by coming back together again What traditions are being re-adopted by younger people and how this can help older generations How grandparents have become the North Star for many The importance of the number 4 to native peoples How the position of First Nation elders is differs from seniors in mainstream society How tribal elders influenced the early formation of the US government What traditions are changing over time and why How Native people’s life beliefs are similar to the position of the sun throughout the day and year, and how this impacts the heart at the time of passing Beliefs of how the spirits decide which newborn baby they’ll inhabit Beliefs in how ancestral spirits work through pregnant mothers How spirit guides are determined The importance of how elder’s name newborn children How spirits guide us through life accomplishments The understanding of a thanks giving vs. prayer And more! Guest : Maurice Switzer, Bnesi , is a citizen of the Mississaugas of Alderville First Nation, one of some 40 member communities of the Anishinabek Nation in Ontario, Canada. He is also p
Mon, April 04, 2022
How to Tell if Your Doctor is Lying to You.
How do you know when someone’s lying to you? What about when they’re hiding something from you? It’s one thing if that person is a friend, co-worker, or even enemy. It could be much worse if it’s a medical professional unwilling to deliver bad news to you, or the one you’re caring for. Where do you start to uncover the truth? Start by watching faces. Many good doctors, aides, hospice members, and other medical professionals are never comfortable delivering bad news. Although trained on so many levels, few master the skills of deceit. In this episode Joseph McGuire and I discuss how to more easily detect what’s going on in the heads of your medical team as they talk with you. Learning how to identify which information they feel they can’t (or simply won’t) share can save you and yours a lot of grief later on. In this show, we cover a lot including: How understanding pre-language “caveman” communications can help us better decipher someone’s hidden intent How body language can get help you determine if you’re getting the “real story” How to set higher acceptance standards for what doctors should be telling you – even if it hurts How to look into someone’s eyes and know what they might be thinking next What to listen for when trying to determine a doctor’s true level of engagement with you How to look beyond the fancy façade of a facility being marketed by a slick salesperson How to challenge someone with a smile And much more! One more thing… you might also learn how to understand your own sibling’s behavior from some of the details that Joseph shares with me here in this show, as well. Helpful links: Article: Why Faces Don't Always Tell us The Truth Book: Never Split The Difference, by Chris Voss Guest : Joseph McGuire, is the CEO of Clearshight Communications. Having practiced, taught and honed his techniques over a period of more than 30 years Joseph has developed a mastery of observational skills. He uses them to add an extra degree of clarity and accuracy to many levels of decision making and negotiations. Within his group work he teaches people using his 7 stage program of ‘Communicate, Negotiate and Collaborate’. He is highly experienced in the role of impartial and unbiased observer, enabling interviewers to focus on asking questions specifically role related. Author of ‘Face Facts: The Art of Reading Your Clients and Prospects for Sales, Negotiation and Recruitment’ Presents regular training for clients in Ireland and abroad using the ancient Chinese traditio
Mon, April 04, 2022
Fun with Funerals: Costs and Bargains (Part #2)
The funeral business is a business- something important to keep in mind. In this second episode, my friend Paulette Hamel, and I dig (pun intended) further into the funeral industry and highlight some key issues you should know, right now. There’s so much that we hold in until the final farewell, the wake and/or funeral, and the following celebration of life (for those who chose to do so). Yet many of us don’t plan for those final moments. It’s hard enough to stand in front of a group of people to share stories about your loved ones, voice your love for them, and poignantly recall, funny, and sometimes frustrating memories. It makes it harder if you’re worrying about not knowing what they really wanted in the end. If funeral plans weren’t set up in advance, you might be hit with a lot of questions, and even forced to make some costly decisions. In this next podcast, we’ll address such points as: Do all funeral homes have crematoriums? Will a funeral director be upset if you “shop around” for such services, compare and come back ready to bargain? Are they required to divulge all their pricing up front? Will you get sticker shock or surprise fees, weeks later? Will they hold your loved ones’ ashes until you can pick them up for burial? Will they bring those ashes to the cemetery or do you have to do that? What happens when burial insurance doesn’t cover everything? How much should you get? What if you want to bury someone at sea? Can you do that legally? There’s much more that we cover in this show, including how not to become a victim of the system when your emotions are running high! Stay tuned and tune in! Additional links discussed in the show are: Link to Death Café https://deathcafe.com/ Death Doulas: What are they? https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Death_midwife Consumer Affairs, National Cremation Society of America Guest: Paulette Hamel, Founder, DoeRayMe, Inc. Paulette is also known as The Legacy Lady is on a mission to help 1 million women organize their affairs so that their loved ones will not have to be burdened by doing so once their time to pass comes. For more information on Paulette, The Legacy Lady go to: http://www.legacycreator.io/legacycreator Host: Nancy May, Author How to Survive 911 Medical Emerg
Sun, March 20, 2022
Fun with Funerals and Final Wishes (Part #1)
Those final days right before your last breath aren’t the time to plan or hope that you’ll be sent off to the great beyond with special fanfare. You can, however, get that, and more, such as being set adrift at sea in a beautiful handmade paper flower box (environmentally friendly, of course). If you want to spend eternity with the fishes, you can even become part of a coral reef that’s being created on the ocean floor to look like the city of Atlantis. However fun and even quirky these ideas may be, they take some very real planning, in advance, to accomplish. If you’re a business owner, you should be planning for what happens, after you pass, to your company, employees, and family. My dad found himself suddenly and unexpectedly required to take over his father’s optical firm while on active duty in the closing days of WWII. Don’t let a sudden change in your health or life put everything you’ve worked for, and those you care about, in peril. In this episode you’ll meet my guest, Paulette Hamell also known as the Legacy Lady. Together we discuss some fun and sometimes serious points of discussion about our final days. Some points that many of us are uncomfortable having with family, friends, and employees. We even dive into the scary things we think happen based on what’s presented in the movies. No, it’s not like those creepy horror shows. So step out from hiding and listen up as we have a very frank, yet fun discussion about making final plans and wishes for after that last breath. We’ll also cover: Cool ideas for funeral wishes Inexpensive funeral ideas How to make your wishes known to others How to shop for funeral arrangements Unique ideas for urns Alternative funeral ideas Alternative ways to be buried, and more. There might be a better way than what you’ve already thought about. Additional links to items mentioned in this show: Flying Wish Papers - environmentally safe and fun alternatives to Chinese luminaries. Note, if you do want to use a luminary for a tribute, check with your local fire department to learn about safety regulations and ways to prevent fires. Handcrafted Biodegradable Floating Flower Urns - these unique and beautiful urns are environmentally sa
Mon, March 14, 2022
How Medicare Works For and Against You.
Medicare can be a confusing to anyone. When we need to help our parents out, many trip up along the way. Worse, the more we age the more we seem to trust. Such trust often leads well-intentioned folks to switch policies because their older TV actor “friend” said they’ll save a “boat load of cash” by using the policy they know and trust. Switches get made and many believe they’ve made the right choice, without checking any further. After all, they made many good choices in the past, including, hopefully, in raising us. However, the right Medicare benefits are needed more as we age. That bit of extra insurance, on top of Medicare, when selected well, can save them, (and sometimes us) from financial ruin. Health stuff happens. In this episode we discuss some tough challenges in making sure our parents get on the right Medicare related plans for their needs. We’ll talk about how to determine what to add and when; who to trust; what questions to ask; what questions they ask when you’re applying for Medicare, what information to share, and what to monitor and watch out for. Also, just as important, how to fix missteps, what happens if you don’t pay your Medicare bill, and signup challenges that can cause greater confusion and financial loss. All of which aims toward making their personal care and well-being more stable. My guest on this show is Wendy Allegaert, a Medicare insurance agent who’s been in on those call center banks. She now counsels and supports many on how to help their parents and others, with Medicare and private insurance. It’s a long and helpful conversation for all. Guest: Wendy Allegaert, Independent Medicare Insurance Specialist. Wendy is an independent licensed health insurance agent with a passion for people, healthcare, and customer service. Her special focus is in helping people figure out Medicare options. She's an educator at heart and loves to simplify the Medicare world for her clients. Wendy offers end-to-end customer service starting with the basics of Medicare, enrollment periods, cost-savings, comparisons of plan types, eligibility for financial assistance and more. Medicare can be a confusing puzzle, but, fortunately, Wendy takes great delight in helping clients put all the pieces together and create the options best suited for their lifestyle and budget! Host: Nancy May , Author How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! Expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for an aging parent or family member, even from over 1200 miles away, or more. For a Free File-of-Life to www
Tue, February 15, 2022
The Hollywood Caregiver
Are there lighter sides to being a caregiver? How can humor ease tension and boost your mood? Could a sense of humor be an essential part of being a good caregiver? What happens when a celebrated comedy sitcom writer, once known for her hotpants in Hollywood jumps into the world of caregiving for her parents? You’ll find it hard to believe what Susan Silver shares in our next podcast From caring for an aging and frail father, to rescuing her perfectly quaffed mom with dementia, to her own near death-by-chopstick, Susan shares some of her life’s unexpected twists and turns. Yes, even strong men have laughed, smiled, and shed a tear over the stories Susan shares with us. You’ll also hear her top 10 things that anyone, of any age, should avoid while in a hospital. Tune in: surprises await! Host: Nancy May , Author How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! Expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for an aging parent or family member, even from over 1200 miles away, or more. For a Free File-of-Life to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . Guest: Susan Silver , the author of Hotpants in Hollywood has written for some of the most iconic sitcoms of all time, creating laugh lines for Mary Tyler Moore, Sarah Jessica Parker, Beatrice Arthur, Bob Newhart, and The Partridge Family. Susan was a trailblazer when she began her writing career in 1971 at The Mary Tyler Moore Show. A female comedy writer in an industry overwhelmingly dominated by men, she is perhaps the first and only television writer to be featured in TV Guide wearing hot pants. As casting Director at Rowan and Martin’s Laugh In, she also knew (and not just in the Biblical sense) some of Hollywood’s most desirable leading men, and even had a run-in in with Richard Nixon (non-romantic, thank you very much). Susan went on to write for The Bob Newhart Show, Maude, The Partridge Family and Square Pegs. She continues to teach comedy writing at venues including the Television Academy and the New School and has lectured at the Paley Center, SCAD, and Brandeis University. Susan has appeared on CNN, HLN, Good Day NY, and The Today Show. She has written opinion-editorials for The New York Times and Refinery 29 and had a long running colu
Thu, February 03, 2022
Can the Doctor Take Your Home?
Host: Nancy May , Author How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! Expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for an aging parent or family member, even from over 1200 miles away, or more. For a Free File-of-Life to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . Guest: Shawn Yesner, Esq. has over 20 years of bankruptcy and real estate experience. He built his firm, Yesner Law to help homeowner, borrowers, consumers and real estate investors buy, sell, protect and preserve the single greatest asset someone will own in his or her lifetime – their home. Shawn and his colleagues are experienced in handling chapter 7 and 13 bankruptcy, debt alternatives and other various real estate matters. He says “you do not have to keep living with so much financial stress. Shawn and his firm will help you get back to stability.” Shawn is also the host of the Crushing Debt Podcast , and author of the book C rushing Debt: 9 Strategies to Eliminate Financial Bullies. Show Overview: More and more people, old and young alike, are considering bankruptcy because of extraordinary and unexpected medical bills. After working hard all their lives, it’s tough for our parents and loved ones to consider such drastic measures because they can’t afford to pay their doctors or the hospital. After years of working hard, providing for families, unexpected medical situations can arise, and the fear of not being able stay financially afloat is frightening. This happens more often than many of us realize. As for our aging parents, some might be afraid or even embarrassed to bring their financial concerns to their adult kids. Sometimes financial difficulties don’t have to do just with medical bills. Memory declines, and depression can lead to ignored bills piling up on tables. Or, excessive and extravagant purchases help feed or self-sooth the heart and ego can become fairly common. What happens when the creditors start calling? What happens when you’ve signed documents for loved ones without knowing you have assumed legal
Mon, January 24, 2022
How a CEO Faced Several Life and Death Crises.
Host: Nancy May, Author How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! Expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for an aging parent or family member, even from over 1200 miles away, or more. For a Free File-of-Life to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . Guest: Mark T. Bertolini (full bio at the end of these show notes) is Co-Chief Executive Officer of Bridgewater Associates , the world’s largest and most successful hedge fund. Based in Westport, Connecticut, Bridgewater manages approximately $150 billion in assets for sophisticated institutional investors across the globe, including public and corporate pension funds, university endowments, charitable foundations, supranational agencies, foreign governments, and central banks. Mark previously served as Co-Chairman of Bridgewater’s Operating Board of Directors, having served as an Independent Director of the firm’s Internal Board since 2019. Show Description: What happens when the CEO of a Fortune 500 healthcare company faces a personal family crisis, with the likelihood that the medical system will fail him and his and family? As his son’s death appears foregone, does he battle doctors and a seemingly nefarious medical system looking to give up on him? How did his own company respond to his needs? What does he do a year later, when unrelenting pain from a ski accident starts him thinking about creating his own demise while racing his sportscar around the city at high speed? What lessons did he learn from each life crisis, how did he later apply them to the loss of his own mother to ovarian cancer? Listen in to how Mark Bertolini former CEO of Aetna, and current Co-CEO of Bridgewater Associates, created a new program for families facing life and death decisions to overcome the obstacles placed in their way by unempathetic, business-driven medical systems. There’s much more in store! Guest Full Bio: Mark T. Bertolini is Co-Chief Executive Officer of Bridgewater Associates , the world’s largest and most successful hedge fund. Based in Westport, Connecticut, Bridgewater manages approximately $150 billion in assets for sophisticated institutional investors across
Fri, December 31, 2021
The New School of Life, Living, and Dying Well.
Episode Overview: In this episode, my guest Sue Brayne and I address new ways to think, behave, live more consciously, and help others right to their very last breaths. We dive into different ways that near death/out-of-body experiences may change our quality of life and help us to better understand and cherish our own mortality. We discuss how to make caring for someone we love a bit more comfortable for them, as well as us as caregivers. The episode also covers research on psychedelics being tested to comfort the terminally ill, and the positive impact that Death Cafés are having on the hearts and souls of so many around the world. Yes, l ife is beautiful ! Join me as Sue shows us how to live better with what we know and have now. Guest: Sue Brayne originally trained as a state registered nurse. She has an MA in the Rhetoric and Rituals of Death (King Alfreds, Winchester), a second MA in Creative Writing (Oxford Brookes), and was an honorary researcher for Dr. Peter Fenwick’s five-year retrospective study into end-of-life experiences through the Clinical Division of Southampton University. She is the author of several books on death, dying, and mortality, including Nearing the End of Life: a guide for relatives, friends, and carers . This has now been translated into six languages, most recently Finnish and German. For many years Sue worked as a psychotherapist, specializing in trauma, end-of-life issues, bereavement, and grief. She has also facilitated numerous Death Cafes in many different settings and hosts the Embracing Your Mortality podcast . Recently she published Granny Mo, Is Teddy Going to Die? her first early years picture book helps young children and adults talk together about death and dying. Suebrayne.co.uk Host: Nancy May, Author How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by
Wed, December 22, 2021
Creating a Better Life For Families, Generations, and Communities.
Show Host: Nancy May, Author How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! Expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for an aging parent or family member, even from over 1200 miles away, or more. For a Free File-of-Life to www.howtosurvive911.com . Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success . Guest: Dana Griffin is the Co-Founder and CEO of Eldera.ai , the purpose driven global platform for older adults, on a mission to tap into the time and wisdom of 1 billion elders around the world as a new natural resource for the next generation. It's all about bringing forth the Era of the Elders. She envisions Eldera as a virtual multigenerational village where kids benefit from social-emotional learning and increased resilience, elders benefit from a sense of purpose and expanded community, and most importantly everyone experiences more joy. Episode Overview: Life presents us all with challenges , and especially to those who care for family members as they grow older and more frail. Family members are important to us, yet they may not always be available improve quality of our lives. Fortunately, there are other ways to bring the communities of young and old together to combat and even reverse the symptoms of mental decline and even dementia. Listen to this next episode as we discuss how to transfer the value and wisdom of over 1 billion elders down to legacy generations. Learn how communities that never met before in person are starting to create richer qualities of life for parents, families, and caregivers. Life doesn’t stop until we all stop. Every day should count since every day can bring joy to everyone. Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guest and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. Information discussed should not be taken as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice or you own personal medical, legal or financial advisors as each person’s situation is different. (c) Copyright 2021 CareManity, LLC all rights reserved. CareManity is a trademark of CareManity, LLC.
Mon, December 13, 2021
Caregiver Survival Updates: Yale School of Medicine/Public Health
Show Host: Nancy May , Author How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! Expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for an aging parent or family member, even from over 1200 miles away, or more. For a Free File-of-Life to www.howtosurvive911.com Guest: Yale School of Medicine, Joan Monin, Ph.D ., Associate Professor of Public Health, Social & Behavioral Sciences. Professor Monin's research examines how emotional processes affect health in older adult relationships. Her research combines survey methods and laboratory experiments to understand the mechanisms (e.g. emotional contagion, cardiovascular reactivity) and moderators (gender, individual differences in attachment) involved in these processes. Currently her research focuses on understanding how caregivers and care recipients support one another in the context of early stage dementia. All things considered, we as caregivers are really a special group of individuals. In this episode, I discuss with Professor Joan Monin, Ph.D, from the Yale School of Public Health, the research she’s been doing to better understand how families support parents and spouses going through dementia and Alzheimer’s. She has managed to flip some of the traditional assumptions on how stress impacts us and how to deal with it. She describes the differences between husbands and wives as caregivers, and well as generational understandings. She also mentions how to better partner – yes, “partner” with someone who has dementia, and gives some great tips for more open communication that, in turn, could bring more joy and understanding into your family and your own life. You can also participate in, and benefit from the studies she’s currently doing now. Here’s a link to those details. Yale Caregiver Study . It’s a power packed, yet enlightening, show you’ll definitely want to hear. Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guest and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. Information discussed should not be taken as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice or you own personal medical, legal or financial advisors as each person’s situation is different. (c) Copyright 2021 CareManity, LLC all rights reserved. CareManity is a trademark of CareManity, LLC. This podcast uses the following thi
Thu, November 25, 2021
Finding A Great Home Healthcare Agency: You Don’t Have to Go It Alone.
Finding a good home healthcare agency can be a challenge for any family caregiver, especially for those living in suburban and rural areas. In this episode, I speak with two special guardian angels who seem to know just how reduce the fear and loneliness that comes from caring for an elderly parent or frail spouse. In-home care does not have to be just for the wealthy. In our discussion, we dive into how caregivers can effectively research and successfully hire a home care agency. We also talk about when NOT to hire an agency, how to manage your own loneliness and stress as a caregiver; what happens when things go wrong, and more. My guests, Julie Brubaker and Inga Lake are the founders of EPAGA Home care in Bigfork, Montana. They’ve combined their personal and professional experience, heart, and love of farming (think sheep, cattle, apple pie, and more) and family, and their Christian faith to build the foundation of their values-based homecare agency. Part of that is their rule that every hire must meet their “Grandma Test.” Listen and learn more on this and other guidelines they live and work by. Extra bonus: Checklist on how to hire an agency. Show Host: Nancy May, Author How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! E xpert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for an aging parent or family member, even from over 1200 miles away, or more. For a Free File-of-Life to www.howtosurvive911.com Guests: Julie Brubaker and Inga Lake, Co-CEOs, EPAGA Home Care, Inc, Kalispell, Montana. The EPAGA is Agapé spelled backwards, which was not not picked randomly or without purpose. The Biblical definition of “agapé” exemplifies what Inga and Julie believed to be the key reason for their mission and service to others in the home care setting. Agapé is “love”, the highest form of love, especially brotherly love – the love of God for man and of man for God. They felt their choice of such an agency name was essential to convey to the world the true meaning and mission of their business. Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guest and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. Information discussed should not be taken as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice or you own personal medical, legal or financial advisors as each person’s situation is different. (c) Copyright 2021 CareManity, LLC all rights reserved. CareManity is a trademark of CareManity, LL
Mon, November 08, 2021
How to Change the Care Industry, Bit by Bit, For the Better.
Show Host: Nancy May , Author How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! E xpert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for an aging parent or family member, even from over 1200 miles away, or more. For a Free File-of-Life to www.howtosurvive911.com Guest: Jessica Juchau-Scott , a no nonsense daughter, in the UK, working to help families impacted by Lewy Body Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease. We’re all challenged in getting the best care for those we love. Sometimes things just don’t work as we want. In this episode, we dive into how Lewy Body Dementia impacted one remarkable former Scotland Yard Detective, Ray Scott, and his entire family. System shortcomings with his care while frustrating, galvanized his daughters and wife to create better care solutions for other families in the UK. Thanks to his daughter Jessica Juchau-Scott and wife Sylva, many families will have an improved way to work with dementia care managers, work the system of care in the UK better, and hopefully create memories that generate more smiles than tears. It only takes one person to start a wave that can impact an entire industry . This episode is one that I hope will inspire you and others to find strength from adversity, particularly for those caring for someone with dementia. Our strength is powerful when we all work together. Yet, it takes a first spark to light a fire. Photos of Ray Scott and his wife, Sylvia, and daughter Jessica . The approach that Jessica and her family have worked on to further improve the original National Health Service (NHS) strategy for supporting carer families in the UK is based on an initial program that was established in 2015. The Scott family has worked to improve how families are considered and supported, together with their ailing loved ones, in the UK. In addition to improvements to this program, Jessica and her sister are working together with the NHS to co-present Carer Awareness training and mental health staff training to further support the initiative improvements and help carer families. The baseline information can be found here : NHS Foundation Trust, Service User and Carer Involvement Strategy. This podcast uses the following third-party service
Mon, October 18, 2021
Could Your Number be Up? Understand How Medical Responders Respond.
Show Host: Nancy May, Author How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! E xpert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for an aging parent or family member, even from over 1200 miles away, or more. For a Free File-of-Life to www.howtosurvive911.com Guest: Doug Levy , Author, Public Emergency Communications Expert and CEO Doug Levy Communications, LLC Ever wonder who first responders and healthcare authorities turn to when they need to reach and talk with those of us at “street level” during a large public emergency? Doug Levy is the pro to whom the healthcare responders and local and state government groups turn to for advice. Doug will relay tips on how to increase your chances of a better outcome if you ever face a natural or manmade disaster. He even gives us an inside view of how medical facilities determine who to care for when their own systems get overwhelmed, and what you can do to get care in those times. Knowing how your healthcare system will respond to your needs could result be a life saver (or not, if you don’t know). Doug Levy is the author of The Communications Golden Hour, When Every Minute Coun ts . He has spent his career in the middle of emergencies, bringing calm to chaos. He has been a firefighter, emergency medical technician, lawyer, award-winning reporter, and communications executive at three top universities. One of the first to embrace social media as an emergency communications tool, Doug developed the Communications Golden Hour to streamline emergency communications planning and response so that it works effectively and efficiently. An adviser to public safety agencies, he’s trained emergency officials in how to get clear messages to the public when minutes count. He was a health and technology reporter for USA Today, and his investigative reporting won a Peabody Award in 1987. Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guest and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. Information discussed should not be taken as medical, legal, or fin
Mon, October 18, 2021
Worth a Thousand Words! XOXOXO
Show Host: Nancy May, Author How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! E xpert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for an aging parent or family member, even from over 1200 miles away, or more. For a Free File-of-Life to www.howtosurvive911.com . Guest: Ron Clifford, master photographic storyteller . What’s the difference between a snapshot and photograph? The answers are revealed in this episode as my guest, Ron Clifford, explains how to capture memories that will touch your heart forever – even if only on your cell phone camera. Ron gives us excellent tips on how to connect with the person being photographed and reveal their character. You’ll hear about simple ways to have more fun and take the pressure off in getting that best photo. He even helps us understand how our brains interpret a visual image. It’s different from you might think. Even the tone of Ron’s voice will put an image in your mind. Ron Clifford is a professional Newmarket portrait and branding photographer known for his innate ability to capture the inner soul of a person or subject. His work has reached and touched the hearts of millions, and has been featured by Google and National Geographic.com . Learn more about Ron and his work at https://ronclifford.com/about/# Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guest and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. Information discussed should not be taken as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice or you own personal medical, legal or financial advisors as each person’s situation is different. (c) Copyright 2021 CareManity, LLC all rights reserved. CareManity is a trademark of CareManity, LLC. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
Mon, October 18, 2021
Help I've Been Guardianshiped!
Show Host: Nancy May, Author How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! E xpert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for an aging parent or family member, even from over 1200 miles away, or more. For a Free File-of-Life to www.howtosurvive911.com . Guest: Kelly O’Donnell, J.D., Associate, Pullman & Comley, LLC If you’ve ever heard of, or watched the Netflix film “I Care A Lot,” then you’ll want to tune into this episode where my guest Kelly O’Donnell, an attorney with Pullman & Comely, and I dive into the frightening where a family member or parent’s rights and assets can be taken away and given away by the courts. Fortunately, in the state where Kelly practices law, there are many hurdles for professional guardians and conservators to jump over and/or adhere to. Such regulations help protect the elderly and infirmed. However, this does not hold true in all states. Some are more lenient with who and how others can take control over the health care and financial wellbeing of someone you love. It’s important to understand – in detail - the laws that protect or make it difficult to protect an aging parent, spouse, or anyone you love and care for. Should you ever have any concerns or fears that your parent, or you, could run into these types of challenges, it’s important to find and consult with a reputable eldercare attorney in your jurisdiction. While this show covers just the tip of the iceberg, it’s better to be forewarned than become a victim. You’ll find our discussion fascinating. Promise! Here’s a link to the Netflix show: I Care a Lot . If you haven’t seen it, you may want to take one evening to watch. Although a fiction story, made for entertainment, it is based on research, a 2017 article from New Yorker Magazine titled How the Elderly Lose Their Rights , and other public cases. Kelly F. O’Donnell is an attorney in the Business Organizations, Finance, and Trusts and Estates practice areas with the law firm of Pullman & Comely, LLC. Kelly advises clients regarding business succession planning, healthcare decision-making, and estate planning. On the corporate practice side, she wo
Mon, October 18, 2021
Reclaim Your Inner Strength and Energy
Show Host: Nancy May, Author How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! E xpert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for an aging parent or family member, even from over 1200 miles away, or more. For a Free File-of-Life to www.howtosurvive911.com . Guest: Joan Sotkin Founder & CEO of Prosperity Place, Inc . Prosperity and Mindset mentor. In this fabulously interesting show Joan Sotkin and I discuss ways to take control of our own energy and inner thoughts: good, bad, and indifferent. Those three or so pounds of gray matter control everything. Most times our brain works with us, but sometimes it sabotages us. Joan helps us better understand how much our mental state impacts our actions. Together, we’ll work through an exercise that can help us learn how to better manage our minds, thoughts, and actions. Trust me, you’ll feel totally different after listening to this program and working through this exercise with us. It’s easier than you might imagine. Joan Sotkin guides people on energy journeys to find and learn how to better use their inner strengths to express their true selves through their business or profession. Over the years, she has developed a high degree of intuition that allows her to see a side of her clients they seldom see themselves. Combined with decades of business experience, Joan’s intuitive approach has helped men and women quickly gain a new understanding of who they really are and discover new ways to move forward, in their business and personal lives with renewed energy and strength. For more information about Joan and energy mindsets go to https://www.prosperityplace.com . Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guest and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. Information discussed should not be taken as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice or you own personal medical, legal or financial advisors as each person’s situation is different. (c) Copyright 2021 CareManity, LLC all rights reserved. CareManity is a trademark of CareManity, LLC. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
Mon, October 18, 2021
Situational Awareness: Do You Know What You've Gotten Into?
Show Host: Nancy May, Author How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! E xpert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for an aging parent or family member, even from over 1200 miles away, or more. For a Free File-of-Life to www.howtosurvive911.com Guest: Colonel Brian Searcy (Ret) USAF, CEO, the Paratus Group Have you ever had that funny feeling that something just wasn’t right? Or walked into a care facility and thought, things look good but what am I missing? Or I’m afraid that mom’s not telling me everything I need to know? In some circles that’s called intuition, others, gut instinct, and some even call it ESP. Some of us may know that’s the part of our human makeup that keeps us safe, yet many of us don’t know how to use that “feeling” or instinct to keep our parents, family, and ourselves safe. Listen to this discussion, with our guest, Colonel Brian Searcy , who describes what to listen for in your guts, how to hone that skill, and what we can do to sharpen that natural born instinct that can mean a better road ahead for those we know and love. It’s called understanding about and working with situational awareness. Colonel Searcy , the founder of The Paratus Group , was a decorated combat veteran and had a senior leadership career in the USAF. He now teaches how to be more aware of potential threats that may erupt around us, whether from being in your own home, in a care facility, doctor’s office, hospital, or just sitting at a restaurant. For more information about Situational Awareness go to: https://paratus.group/ Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show Guest and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. Information discussed should not be taken as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice or you own personal medical, legal or financial advisors as each person’s situation is different. (c) Copyright 2021 CareManity, LLC all rights reserved. CareManity is a trademark of CareManity, LLC. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://ana
Mon, October 18, 2021
(2) Cutting Anesthesia in Half? Yikes!
When you, your spouse, parent, or child were facing some form of surgery or procedure, were you worried that the anesthesia given would do more harm than good? Listen to my guest, Alexandra (Sasha) Chalif, who has brought her unusual hypnotherapy skills right into the operating room. Working alongside surgeons, she’s successfully used her skills to dramatically reduce the need for anesthesia, and/or sped up post-op recoveries, for over 9,000 patients to date. Show Host: Nancy May, Author How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! E xpert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for an aging parent or family member, even from over 1200 miles away, or more. For a Free File-of-Life to to www.howtosurvive911.com Guest: Alexandra (Sasha) Chalif MS. MP, Innovator in Medical Hypnotherapy . Alexandra (Sasha) Chalif, MS. MP https://alexandrachalif.com/ Ms. Chalif is trained and practices professionally in Eriksonian Hypnotherapy and holds certifications in, hypnosis and Medical Hypnosis. She is a member of the Harvard Medical School Post Graduate Association, Harvard Medical CME in Stress Management, and Harvard Medical CME in Visualization and Meditation. Alexandra is also a Master Practitioner in Neuro-Linguistic Programming and holds an MS in Special Education and Emotionally Disturbed with additional credits in Language Disabilities, Group Therapy, Advanced Sex Therapy, and Improvisational Drama as a tool for emotional change. Her articles have been published in: Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine Psychotherapy Networker , Harvard Mental Health , Johns Hopkins Health , and other noted medical and scholarly journals. Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show Guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be taken as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek advice for your own personal medical, legal or financial advisors as each person’s situation is different. (c) Copyright 2021 CareManity, LLC all rights reserved. CareManity is a trademark of CareManity, LLC This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
Sun, October 17, 2021
#1 - Finding Home Again!
There are more types of care facilities than what most of us are typically exposed to. Besides the large heavily advertised assisted and independent living facilities, there are other options including small, intimate homes serving six or fewer elderly residents. Learn from Kimberly Noyse, the founder and leader at Melody Care Homes, about what it takes to live a life of service by managing smaller, more personal care homes. You might be surprised in hearing some of the more personal and joyful stories, including some unique challenges. There are good care facilities out there, but you need to do some serious research before signing on and moving your loved ones. Learn ways to evaluate a care facility to make sure it’s the right place to move someone you love into, if or when necessary. Guest: Kimberly Adcox Noyse , founder and former of three personal aging care homes. Show Host: Nancy May, Author How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After! Expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for an aging parent or family member, even from over 1200 miles away, or more. For a Free File-of-Life to to www.howtosurvive911.com Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show Guest and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. Information discussed should not be taken as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice or you own personal medical, legal or financial advisors as each person’s situation is different. (c) Copyright 2021 CareManity, LLC all rights reserved. CareManity is a trademark of CareManity, LLC This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
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