Caregiver Crossing

Falls are the leading cause of injury for older adults, but the Stepping On program is helping change that. This evidence-based program, now launched as a pilot through a partnership with Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, supports older adults and caregivers in building strength, confidence, and independence. Emily Tisdale, Executive Director of the Center for Aging & Community at the University of Indianapolis, joins us to share how the program works, who it's for, and how to get involved. Special thanks to Anthem for sponsoring this important conversation.

Show notes:

www.Joyshouse.org

https://uindy.edu/cac/stepping-on-info-registration

https://www.anthem.com/

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Tina and Terri open the episode with laugh-out-loud stories and sweet reflections about their grandparents before diving into what caregiving really looks like in Indiana. From daily challenges to growing needs, they talk honestly about how families are navigating it all. You'll also hear how Joy’s House is celebrating 25 years and why your support matters right now.

Show notes:

www.Joyshouse.org

https://visitcaregiverway.com/

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What if the most meaningful moments didn’t come from grand plans, but from something as simple as a shared laugh or a quiet activity done with care? This week on Caregiver Crossing, Beth Timko from CarDon & Associates joins us to explore how play, purpose, and connection show up in everyday life for older adults. We talk about what it really means to be engaged, how activities can meet people where they are, and why caregivers should never underestimate the power of small joys.

Show notes:

www.Joyshouse.org

www.caregivercrossingradio.org

https://cardon.us/

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What makes a city feel like home as we age? In this conversation with Indianapolis City-County Councilor Nick Roberts, we explore how public spaces, transportation, and even neighborhood design can impact daily life for older adults. As one of the youngest council members in the country, Nick shares what he's learning from older residents who show up, speak up, and care deeply about the communities they call home. We talk about the importance of being seen, the vision behind reimagining areas like Castleton, and how thoughtful leadership can help create cities that work for every generation.

Show notes:

www.Joyshouse.org

https://www.indy.gov/activity/councilor-nick-roberts

https://visitcaregiverway.com/

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Grief can be confusing at any age, especially for children. In this episode, we talk with Hilary Bercovitz and Danielle Behnke from Brooke’s Place about how kids experience and express grief, what it can look like when they don’t have the words for their feelings, and how caregivers can support them through it. We also explore how grief may show up differently in neurodivergent children, including those on the autism spectrum, and share simple, meaningful tools to help them feel seen and supported. Whether you’re carrying your own grief or walking alongside a young person through theirs, this conversation is a reminder that love and loss are deeply connected.

Show notes:

www.Joyshouse.org

https://visitcaregiverway.com/

https://www.brookesplace.org/

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What if the right kind of care could help your loved one stay out of the hospital and help you feel a little more human? Dr. Greg Sachs joins us to talk about the IN-PEACE Study, a new model of dementia care that gave families the kind of support they’ve been asking for. From check-ins with nurses to coaching through hard moments, this approach made a real difference. Dr. Sachs also shares what palliative care really is, and why it just might be what your family needs.

Show notes:

www.Joyshouse.org

https://www.regenstrief.org/article/in-peace-integrates-palliative-dementia-care/

https://visitcaregiverway.com/

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, we’re stepping outside and slowing down. Learn how forest bathing (yes, it’s a thing) can lower stress and boost your mood. Then hear about Tina’s new homesteading adventures and why digging in the dirt might be just what your soul needs. We’re also sharing a beautiful story from our Caregiver Way community about what happens after caregiving. Spoiler alert: you still matter.

Show notes:

www.Joyshouse.org

https://visitcaregiverway.com/

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Becky Barton, a former occupational therapy professor, shares her journey of adapting to life with dementia and the small adjustments that help her continue enjoying her passions, from singing and reading to cooking and spending time with her grandchildren. Through her story, Becky reminds us that while dementia brings challenges, it also opens opportunities to find new meaning and purpose in each day.

Show notes:

www.Joyshouse.org

www.caregivercrossingradio.org

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We’re joined by Tim Harms from the American Heart Association and Michael Hicks, a Belonging Fellow and graduate student at UIndy. Tim shares why heart disease remains the leading cause of death and how caregivers can take action through screenings and early awareness. Michael challenges us to rethink how we view disability, pushing beyond surface-level inclusion to create true belonging. Together, their voices offer powerful reminders about advocacy, awareness, and the everyday impact of listening with intention.

Show notes:

www.Joyshouse.org

https://www.heart.org/

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Caregiver Crossing, we’re joined by Jalysa King. She’s an author, educator, and social work practicum student at Joy’s House. Jalysa shares what she’s learned from our Guests and caregivers, how trauma-informed care can support families through emotional moments, and why setting boundaries is one of the most important skills a caregiver can build. She also reminds us that even in the thick of caregiving, it’s okay to dream, grow, and hold on to the things that bring you joy.

Show notes:

www.Joyshouse.org

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.