Guest host Angie Light of RadiusCare joins Caregiver Crossing for a conversation with Lyndsay Bilbrey and Julia DeLong from Dillman & Owen about what caregivers need to know when planning for long-term care through Medicaid. They share guidance on eligibility, common mistakes, and how to start the process with less stress. The episode also highlights Be My Eyes, a free app connecting people who are blind or have low vision with sighted volunteers through live video

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Phyllis Ferrell, global advocate for brain health and Honorary Chair of the Joy’s House 25th Anniversary Gala, joins Caregiver Crossing to share practical ways to protect our cognitive health and challenge the way we think about aging. She explains the Five Finger Study and how small, intentional steps can make a lasting difference. The episode also features Jahri's World, whose inclusive concerts for neurodivergent kids bring families together through music and movement.

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Nearly 60% of Americans don’t have crucial healthcare documents like a Power of Attorney or advance directive. On this segment of Caregiver Crossing, we speak with Audrey Augustinovicz, founder of Peaceful Journey LLC, about why planning ahead is key for caregivers and families. Audrey walks us through the importance of personalized advocacy, from attending medical appointments to preparing healthcare documents and opening up vital family conversations. Tune in to learn how you can simplify healthcare decisions and gain peace of mind for the future!

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What happens when the person who supports families through dementia has lived that journey herself? Precious, Memory Care Support Specialist with American Senior Communities, joins Caregiver Crossing to talk about what families may notice during the holidays and how to make gatherings feel good for everyone. She shares real moments from her own experience, tips for keeping loved ones comfortable, and why respite care can be one of the best gifts you give this season. We also celebrate National Physician Assistants Week and honor the lasting impact of Jane Goodall.

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Medicare can be confusing, especially during open enrollment. In this episode of Caregiver Crossing, Bruce Muller from the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)explains how his team helps families cut through the complexity. From breaking down Parts A, B, C, and D to clearing up myths about coverage and costs, Bruce shares practical guidance and stories that show how SHIP makes a real difference for seniors and caregivers

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Companion Care can mean everything from a ride to the grocery store to help with bathing, meal prep, or simply sharing conversation over coffee. In this episode of Caregiver Crossing, we sit down with Kim Moore, Companion Care Administrator at CarDon, to explore how these services meet both the practical and emotional needs of seniors and their families. Kim walks us through the first steps families can take, the signs it might be time to seek support, and why companionship is just as vital as daily routines. She also shares personal insight from her own journey with a loved one living with dementia.

Show notes:

www.Joyshouse.org

https://lifespanservices.us/companion-care/

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Laura Johnson has spent years walking alongside families at Joy’s House, first in direct care and now in development. She’s seen caregivers at their most stretched and at their most resilient, and she carries their wisdom with her every day. In this conversation, Laura shares what those lessons look like in real life: a family discovering relief when they finally accept help, friendships that start in the Joy’s House lobby and turn into lifelines, and the creative ways caregivers lean on churches, neighbors, or even a quick tip from someone who understands.

Show notes:

www.Joyshouse.org

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When a loved one gives the gift of life, the journey for their family is only beginning. Courtney Tillotta, Aftercare Support Manager at Indiana Donor Network, joins Tina McIntosh to explain what Aftercare Services look like in practice. She shares how families are paired with a coordinator, the kinds of grief resources and personal check-ins that are offered, and why traditions like quilts and remembrance ceremonies matter. Courtney also describes how donor families can stay connected to the lives touched by their loved one’s gift and what support continues in the years that follow.

Show notes:

www.Joyshouse.org

https://indianadonornetwork.org/

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"You are capable of anything", a sentiment shared by Kris from the popular TikTok account Lifewithgrams. In this touching episode of Caregiver Crossing, Kris shares her experiences caring for her grandmother with dementia, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and moments of joy she finds along the way. Her down-to-earth nature and unwavering love for her grandmother shines through every word. Kris’ story is a beautiful reminder of the everyday strength that caregivers bring to their loved ones’ lives.

Show notes:

www.Joyshouse.org

www.caregivercrossingradio.org

https://www.tiktok.com/@lifewithgrams?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

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What happens when a caregiver decides she’s done facing it all alone? Ellen Gullett took her experience caring for her mom and turned it into something powerful: a support group that now brings comfort, laughter, and honesty to caregivers at Second Presbyterian Church. In this episode, she shares how the group began, the surprising things she’s learned, and the stories that stay with her. You’ll also hear the kind of support caregivers really need, what not to say, and how one small act of kindness can carry someone.

Show notes:

www.Joyshouse.org

https://visitcaregiverway.com/

https://www.secondchurch.org/supportgroups

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