Caregiver Crossing

Leo Rafail from the ACAP Indy Metro North leadership team joins us to talk about the questions families face as loved ones age, the conversations that can help them feel more prepared, and how ACAP brings caregivers together to learn from local experts. Then, longtime Indianapolis musician Mark Moran shares his experience living with kidney disease, continuing to teach and perform while on dialysis, and what receiving a kidney transplant could mean for him. If you or someone you know may be interested in learning more about kidney donation for Mark, please reach out.

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Bill Trussell and Dan McKenzie, Co-Founders of Restore Rehab, join us for a conversation about helping older adults stay strong, independent, and confident through proactive rehabilitation. We talk about why therapy should begin before a crisis, how regular screenings can catch subtle changes early, and what this new partnership with Joy's House means for Guests and their families. Plus, our co-hosts explore the surprising history of the tactile domes on sidewalks and how one creative idea improved accessibility for millions.

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Dom Kelly, Co-Founder, President, and CEO of New Disabled South, joins us for a conversation about disability justice and building systems that truly support disabled people and their families. We talk about the connection between art and activism, why awareness alone is not enough, and how community care can keep one person from carrying everything alone. Plus, our co-hosts discuss caring for senior animals and a new report showing Indiana leads the nation in the decline of children enrolled in Medicaid.

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DeAndre Safer and Jevon Hill from Helping Hands Home Management join us for a conversation about recognizing when a family needs more support and knowing where to begin. We talk about home care, Medicaid waivers, caregiving, and why finding the right resources can feel so overwhelming. They also share details about the upcoming Senior Summer Festival. Plus, our co hosts discuss Danny Glover’s recent diagnosis.

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Lisa Reed and Kelli Tungate from Careforth join us for a conversation about home and community-based services in Indiana and what families need to know when they are trying to find support. We talk about Area Agencies on Aging, No Wrong Door, managed care, waiting lists, and why system changes can feel so confusing for caregivers. They also share why families should document everything, including every interaction with providers, care coordinators, and support agencies.

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Emily McAndrews from Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield joins us for a conversation about home and vehicle modifications and how thoughtful changes can help older adults stay safer, more independent, and more comfortable. We talk about the parts of daily life that can become harder over time, from moving through the house to getting in and out of the car, and why planning ahead can bring relief before a crisis happens. We also reflect on legacy and share ways families can spot scams during vulnerable seasons.

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Christy Johnson from CarDon & Associates joins us for a conversation about the SPEAK OUT! Therapy Program and how it helps people with Parkinson’s and related disorders strengthen their speech and swallowing. We talk about why communication changes can be easy to miss, what it means to speak with intent, and how families can support daily practice without making their loved one feel corrected. We also recognize Men’s Mental Health Month and talk about ways to support the people we love when they are struggling.

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Dr. Kent Berry from Ascension St. Vincent Center for Healthy Aging joins us for a conversation about brain health, cognitive screening, and when families should bring memory concerns to a doctor. We talk about neuropsychological evaluations, mild cognitive impairment, dementia risk reduction, and why early answers can help families plan with more clarity and less fear. We also share details about the Joy’s House Open House and talk about Tyler Mane’s breast cancer diagnosis and the importance of awareness for men’s health.

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Holly Hess from CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions joins us for a helpful conversation about dementia support, Memory Cafés, Dementia Friends Indiana, and how families can take the first step when they are not sure where to turn. We talk about what a dementia friendly community looks like in everyday life and how CICOA helps older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers find resources that fit their needs. We also look at Indianapolis’ clinician led response teams and the Hoosier Heroes preparing for the National Veterans Golden Age Games.

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Lana Wilhelm joins us for a personal conversation about caring for her husband, Rick, after his stroke and how that experience changed the way she understood caregiving, even after more than 40 years as a registered nurse. We talk about marriage after stroke, what spouse caregivers often face behind the scenes, and how her books helped lead to CarePower Connect, formerly Stroke Caregiver Connection. We also recognize Aphasia Awareness Month and share communication tips for supporting someone living with Aphasia.

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