In this episode of Advice From Your Advocates, Elder Law Attorney Bob Mannor and Certified Dementia Practitioner Savannah Meksto team up to bust some of the most common myths in estate planning & elder law—and offer real-life advice for families caring for a loved one with dementia.

From “I have a will, so I’m all set” to misunderstandings about Medicaid penalties and asset transfers, Bob and Savannah tackle the legal misconceptions that can lead families astray. They also share actionable caregiving tips to help reduce burnout, create routines, and build a supportive care environment.

💡 Takeaways include:

• Why estate planning isn’t just about documents—it’s about strategy
• How simplifying routines can ease confusion for dementia patients
• What caregivers really need to hear (like: it’s okay to ask for help!)
• The truth about wills, Medicaid rules, and power of attorney
• Resources and events for aging families in Michigan

Whether you're navigating long-term care, caregiving, or just planning ahead, this episode offers expert insight to lighten the load—and help you and your family feel more prepared.

Host: Attorney Bob Mannor

Co-Host & Executive Producer: Savannah Meksto, CDP

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ABOUT US:
Mannor Law Group helps clients in all matters of estate planning and elder law including special needs planning, veterans’ benefits, Medicaid planning, estate administration, and more. We offer guidance through all stages of life.

We also help families dealing with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other illnesses that cause memory loss. We take a comprehensive, holistic approach, called Life Care Planning. LEARN MORE...

In this episode of Advice From Your Advocates, elder law attorney Bob Mannor talks with Douglas Lobdell, Program Manager at the Alzheimer’s Association, about the wide range of support available for families facing dementia—including those dealing with more than just Alzheimer’s.

Douglas shares insights from his years in senior care and highlights essential tools like the 24/7 helpline (800-272-3900), personalized care consultations, caregiver support groups, and educational programs. They also explore creative approaches to care, including how music and art therapy can tap into preserved areas of the brain.

Whether you’re a caregiver, elder care professional, or just planning for the future, this episode is packed with practical resources and compassionate guidance for every stage of the dementia journey.

Host: Attorney Bob Mannor

Guest: Douglas Lobdell, Program Manager with Alzheimer's Association

Executive Producer: Savannah Meksto

Assistant Producers: Samantha Noah, Shalene Gaul

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ABOUT US:
Mannor Law Group helps clients in all matters of estate planning and elder law including special needs planning, veterans’ benefits, Medicaid planning, estate administration, and more. We offer guidance through all stages of life.

We also help families dealing with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other illnesses that cause memory loss. We take a comprehensive, holistic approach, called Life Care Planning. LEARN MORE...

On this episode of Advice From Your Advocates, Elder Law Attorney Bob Mannor sits with author and caregiver, Nicole J. Smith. 

 Nicole shares her journey caring for three aging parents with dementia while raising five children, which inspired her book "Diagnosis Dementia: Your Guide for Elder Care Planning in Crisis." Her experience navigating the "Wild West of elder care" offers valuable insights for anyone facing similar challenges.

• Learning to speak four new languages simultaneously: medical, legal, financial, and elder care terminology
• Challenges convincing doctors to provide documentation for a dementia diagnosis despite clear symptoms
• Navigating resistance from a parent with dementia who fought against necessary interventions
• Managing sibling dynamics when caregiving responsibilities fall unevenly
• The importance of having legal documents in place before a crisis occurs
• Financial realities of long-term care when Medicare doesn't cover these expenses
• Self-care strategies for caregivers to avoid burnout
• Resources including Area Agencies on Aging and Aging Life Care Managers
• Finding support through organizations like daughterhood.org

Connect with Nicole on Instagram @DementiaBookReview or LinkedIn, or visit her website at NJSmithBooks.com to learn more about her book "Diagnosis Dementia: Your Guide to Elder Care Planning and Crisis Management."

Host: Attorney Bob Mannor, CELA

Guest: Nicole J. Smith

Executive Producer: Savannah Meksto

Assistant Producers: Samantha Noah + Shalene Gaul

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ABOUT US:
Mannor Law Group helps clients in all matters of estate planning and elder law including special needs planning, veterans’ benefits, Medicaid planning, estate administration, and more. We offer guidance through all stages of life.

We also help families dealing with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other illnesses that cause memory loss. We take a comprehensive, holistic approach, called Life Care Planning. LEARN MORE...

In this episode of Advice From Your Advocates, Attorney Bob Mannor interviews Reagan Hopkins, founder of One by One Subscription Boxes—a unique service designed to support individuals living with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and memory loss. These monthly subscription boxes are filled with brain-stimulating activities like painting, gardening, puzzles, and creative projects, all carefully crafted to engage seniors and promote cognitive stimulation.

Reagan shares the inspiration behind her business and how interactive activities can create meaningful moments for both caregivers and their loved ones. Learn how these tools help improve quality of life, reduce caregiver stress, and spark joy for individuals in various stages of dementia and memory care.

Whether you’re a caregiver, family member, or elder care professional, this conversation offers valuable insight into supporting seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia through simple, creative activities delivered right to your door.

🎧 Tune in now to discover how One by One Subscription Boxes are helping caregivers connect, engage, and provide elder care support across the country. 

Learn more about One by One here: https://www.onebyonecare.com/

Host: Bob Mannor, CELA

Executive Producer: Savannah Meksto

Assistant Producer: Samantha Noah

Assistant Producer: Shalene Gaul

About our guest, Reagen Hopkins: 

Reagan started One by One Subscription Boxes after working in an Adult Day Center specifically for people with Alzheimer's/dementia, understanding the need for more options of brain stimulation for our loved ones affected by these diseases. Because Day Centers aren't a viable option for everyone, One by One Subscription Boxes brings the mental stimulation and activities to your doorstep every month! Reagan's love for working with seniors started from a young age as she spent a lot of time hanging out with her grandparents and visiting elderly neighbors. When not working, Reagan enjoys going on walks, visiting residents in assisted living, reading, and spending time with her family.

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ABOUT US:
Mannor Law Group helps clients in all matters of estate planning and elder law including special needs planning, veterans’ benefits, Medicaid planning, estate administration, and more. We offer guidance through all stages of life.

We also help families dealing with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other illnesses that cause memory loss. We take a comprehensive, holistic approach, called Life Care Planning. LEARN MORE...

In this enlightening conversation, Attorney Bob Mannor interviews Dr. Michael Hession, a cardiologist who shares his profound near-death experience and the subsequent transformation in his life and practice. Dr. Hession discusses the importance of acknowledging and accepting one's health challenges, the impact of PTSD in medical contexts, and how his experience has made him a more empathetic physician. He emphasizes the need for proactive health management and the significance of family support during medical crises. The discussion culminates in Dr. Hession's insights on the importance of mindfulness and the philosophy of 'Acknowledge, Accept, Adapt' as a framework for dealing with life's challenges.

Episode highlights: 

• Discusses Dr. Hession's background as a cardiologist 
• Describes his near-death experience and its impact on his life 
• Highlights the importance of family presence in healthcare 
• Explores the concept of PTSD in patients experiencing critical health issues 
• Introduces the philosophy of “Acknowledge, Accept, Adapt” for coping with illness 
• Emphasizes the significance of self-advocacy in health management 

Check out Dr. Hession's book, *Physician Heal Thyself, Nearly Dead: The Journey Back to Health* and his website at acknowledgeacceptadapt.com.

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ABOUT US:
Mannor Law Group helps clients in all matters of estate planning and elder law including special needs planning, veterans’ benefits, Medicaid planning, estate administration, and more. We offer guidance through all stages of life.

We also help families dealing with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other illnesses that cause memory loss. We take a comprehensive, holistic approach, called Life Care Planning. LEARN MORE...

How can you navigate the complexities of aging with confidence? In this episode of Advice From Your Advocates, Elder Law Attorney Bob Mannor sits down with Laura Lynn Morrissey, founder of Silver Savvy, to discuss proactive aging, healthcare navigation, long-term care insurance, and choosing the right home care agency.

Laura shares her journey from Wall Street to aging advocacy, highlighting the importance of personalized support, nutrition, fitness, and the right resources to help seniors and their families make informed decisions. Whether you're planning for your own future or supporting a loved one, this conversation is packed with insights to help you age well with the right tools and knowledge.

Topics Covered on this episode:
✔ How to navigate the healthcare system without getting overwhelmed
✔ The truth about long-term care insurance and what to look for in a policy
✔ Key factors in selecting the right home care agency
✔ Why nutrition and fitness play a crucial role in aging well
✔ The importance of advocacy and tailored resources for seniors

Listen to Advice From Your Advocates wherever you get your podcasts. Full video available on YouTube. 

Host: Elder Law Attorney Bob Mannor

Guest: Laura Lynn Morrissey, Founder of Silver Savvy

Executive Producer: Savannah Meksto

Assistant Producers: Miranda Donaldson & Samantha Noah

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ABOUT US:
Mannor Law Group helps clients in all matters of estate planning and elder law including special needs planning, veterans’ benefits, Medicaid planning, estate administration, and more. We offer guidance through all stages of life.

We also help families dealing with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other illnesses that cause memory loss. We take a comprehensive, holistic approach, called Life Care Planning. LEARN MORE...

The caregiving crisis is real—but what if the solution is already on campus? In this episode, Elder Law Attorney Bob Mannor sits down with Neal K. Shah, CEO and co-founder of CareYaya, to discuss how this innovative platform is transforming elder care by connecting college students with families in need of affordable, high-quality caregiving.

Neal shares his personal journey into caregiving, how AI is shaping the future of care, and why the traditional caregiving model simply isn’t built for the average family. Learn how CareYaya provides cost-effective care, gives students meaningful healthcare experience, and is scaling nationwide to bridge critical gaps in elder support.

Key Takeaways:

• CareYaya connects families with college students pursuing healthcare careers.
• The platform addresses the nationwide caregiver shortage with affordability in mind.
•  AI-driven technology enhances caregiver matching and quality.
•  Families pay caregivers directly—no hidden fees or middlemen.
• Over 25,000 students are ready to provide compassionate care.
•  The future of caregiving lies in community-driven innovation.

Tune in to discover how CareYaya is reshaping the caregiving landscape—one student, one family, and one breakthrough at a time!

Host: Attorney Bob Mannor

Guest: Neil Shaw

Executive Producer: Savannah Meksto

Assistant Producer: Samantha Noah

Assistant Producer: Miranda Donaldson

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ABOUT US:
Mannor Law Group helps clients in all matters of estate planning and elder law including special needs planning, veterans’ benefits, Medicaid planning, estate administration, and more. We offer guidance through all stages of life.

We also help families dealing with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other illnesses that cause memory loss. We take a comprehensive, holistic approach, called Life Care Planning. LEARN MORE...

What if you could unlock a treasure trove of government benefits with the wisdom of a legendary icon? Matthew Lesko, the man who danced into our hearts with his question mark suits, joins us to share his enduring passion for helping individuals access financial support. At 81, he remains dedicated to shedding light on the "giving society" — a world of government and non-profit resources that often goes unnoticed.

In this engaging conversation, Attorney Bob Mannor interviews Matthew Lesko, a well-known figure in the realm of government benefits and financial resources. They discuss the importance of understanding the 'giving society' as opposed to capitalism, emphasizing how many resources are available to help individuals in need. Lesko shares insights on accessing government benefits, the significance of community support, and the lessons learned from both success and failure. The conversation concludes with practical tips for listeners on how to navigate available resources effectively.

Episode Takeaways

• The 'giving society' comprises 40% of our economy, providing resources to those in need.
• Many people are unaware of the financial assistance available to them.
• Community support is crucial for personal and professional growth.
• Success can be a handicap; learning from failure is essential.
• Accessing resources often requires asking the right questions to the right people.
• There are thousands of nonprofit organizations ready to help individuals with various needs.

About Matthew Lesko:
Matthew Lesko, the“Free Money Guy”, is an author and infomercial personality best known for his flamboyant question-mark suits and promotion of government grants. A former naval officer and Fortune 500 consultant, he gained fame in the 1990s and 2000s through bestselling books and TV infomercials on accessing free government resources. With over 70 published works, including Getting Yours and Free Money to Quit Your Job, Lesko remains a passionate advocate for public access to financial aid. Learn more at Leskohelp.com

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ABOUT US:
Mannor Law Group helps clients in all matters of estate planning and elder law including special needs planning, veterans’ benefits, Medicaid planning, estate administration, and more. We offer guidance through all stages of life.

We also help families dealing with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other illnesses that cause memory loss. We take a comprehensive, holistic approach, called Life Care Planning. LEARN MORE...

In this episode of Advice From Your Advocates Podcast, Attorney Bob Mannor speaks with Lenora Edwards, speech & language pathologist, and Chief Knowledge Officer at Better Speech, about the importance of speech therapy, particularly for the elderly and those experiencing cognitive decline. 

Bob and Lenora discuss how online therapy can be beneficial, especially for caregivers and family members, and the role of communication strategies in managing conditions like dementia. Lenora also emphasizes the significance of nonverbal communication and the integration of neuro-linguistic programming in therapy. The conversation concludes with practical tips for families dealing with these challenges.

Listen to learn more about how: 

• Better Speech offers online therapy that is accessible anywhere.
• Recording therapy sessions can help reinforce learning for patients and caregivers.
• Speech therapy can address not just speech but also swallowing and cognitive issues.
• Family involvement is crucial in the therapy process for dementia patients.
• Engaging the brain through activities can slow cognitive decline.
• Nonverbal communication is key in interactions with dementia patients.
• Adjusting tone and approach can significantly impact communication effectiveness.
• Neuro-linguistic programming can enhance communication strategies in therapy.
• Respect and dignity should be maintained in all interactions with elderly patients.
• Curiosity and open-mindedness are essential for families navigating dementia care.

More on our guest: 
Lenora Edwards, Board Certified Speech-Language Pathologist and Chief Knowledge Officer at Better Speech, is a communication expert with over 15 years of experience specializing in adult communication. Integrating Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP) and evidence-based techniques, Lenora empowers professionals to master public speaking, refine interpersonal skills, and optimize nonverbal cues, guiding them towards achieving their personal and professional communication goals with clarity and confidence.

To learn more about Mannor Law Group visit: www.mannorlawgroup.com
Thanks for listening!

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ABOUT US:
Mannor Law Group helps clients in all matters of estate planning and elder law including special needs planning, veterans’ benefits, Medicaid planning, estate administration, and more. We offer guidance through all stages of life.

We also help families dealing with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other illnesses that cause memory loss. We take a comprehensive, holistic approach, called Life Care Planning. LEARN MORE...

In this episode of Advice From Your Advocates Podcast, Attorney Bob Mannor speaks with Stacey Bruss from St. Croix Hospice to discuss the essential aspects of hospice care, addressing common misconceptions and emphasizing the holistic approach to patient care. Bob and Stacey explore the benefits of hospice, including Medicare coverage, the importance of respite care for caregivers, and the need for families to understand their options when choosing a hospice organization. The discussion highlights the philosophy of hospice as a means to enhance the quality of life for patients and their families during challenging times.

Episode Takeaways:

• Hospice is a comfort care-based philosophy, not just end-of-life care.
• Patients often wish they had known about hospice sooner.
• Medicare covers hospice services fully for eligible patients.
• Respite care is crucial for preventing caregiver burnout.
• Patients can still receive treatment for other conditions while on hospice.
• Hospice eligibility is determined by a medical director, not insurance companies.
• Families should interview multiple hospice organizations to find the best fit.
• Hospice care focuses on the patient's quality of life and comfort.
• It's a common myth that hospice means giving up hope.
• Families can change their minds about hospice at any time

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ABOUT US:
Mannor Law Group helps clients in all matters of estate planning and elder law including special needs planning, veterans’ benefits, Medicaid planning, estate administration, and more. We offer guidance through all stages of life.

We also help families dealing with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other illnesses that cause memory loss. We take a comprehensive, holistic approach, called Life Care Planning. LEARN MORE...