By Lynn Smargis
The podcast currently has 16 episodes available.
Caring for Your Aging Parents
Season 01 Episode 17
Effective Strategies for Introducing Assisted Living to Aging Parents
Ever found yourself at a loss for words when discussing the topic of assisted living with your aging parents? I'm here to guide you through these complex conversations. Together, we'll navigate the often challenging path of discussing elder care, all wrapped up in my personal insights from my own journey of caring for my terminally ill parents.
Key Components to Discuss Assisted Living Transitions for Your Senior Parents
Empathy, patience, and open communication are key in these discussions, and we'll delve into how to make your loved ones feel empowered in their decision-making process. We'll discuss the transition from home to assisted living or independent living communities, not as a way of shirking responsibilities, but as a means to ensure the safety and well-being of your loved ones. Furthermore, we'll explore effective communication within caregiving, namely the importance of using "I" statements and asking open-ended questions to express genuine concern. I'll share invaluable advice on how to introduce your parents to the idea of assisted living, from touring communities to engaging them in activities with potential future neighbors.
The Importance of Understanding Your Elderly Parents Concerns
This episode is the beginning of a journey that we'll take together, demystifying the world of elder care and providing you with the tools you need to support your loved ones. Navigating these conversations can be challenging. That's why we devote time to discussing the importance of empathy, patience, and involving all family members in these decisions.
I encourage you to understand your elderly loved one's fears and concerns so you can incorporate those feelings into your discussions about the future. Get tips on how to include trusted friends or family members in these conversations, and learn how to foster open communication that empowers your loved ones in their decision-making process.
(00:01) Aging Parents' Care Tech Solutions
(00:01) Talking to Aging Parents in Assisted Living
(06:34) Having the Conversation About Assisted Living
(10:37) Fostering Independence and Discussing Senior Care
(18:01) Effective Communication in Caregiving
Podcast Resources
Caring For Your Aging Parents on YouTube
Visit us to find out more on Caring for Your Aging Parents
Give me a call to locate a senior placement specialist in your area 503.830.1812
Caring for Your Aging Parents
Season 01 Episode 16
Technology’s Ability to Empower Older Adults with Keren Etkin
What if you could use technology to significantly improve the lives of your aging loved ones? Gerontologist and founder of thegerontechnologists.com, Keren Etkin, joins us today to shed light on this exciting and rapidly growing intersection of technology and elder care. We are debunking myths about older adults using technology, discussing the ever-growing realm of age-tech solutions, and stressing the importance of education and training in this sphere.
Technology Designed for Seniors
We dive right into the fascinating capabilities of Elli Q, a social robot designed to provide companionship and assist with daily tasks for the elderly. Karen gives us a sneak peek into the collaborative efforts of Elli Q with healthcare providers to enhance the health and well-being of older adults. We also touch on the remarkable advancements in age-tech, such as Apple Watch's fall detection feature and iPhone's gate assessment. The conversation takes a spirited turn as we discuss the growing ecosystem of age-tech startups and the potential for big tech companies to contribute positively to this space.
Baby Boomers Using Tech
The final piece of our chat is dedicated to the impact of the Baby Boomers on tech design and the significance of involving older adults in technology design. We discuss the challenges young designers face when trying to understand the unique needs of aging individuals. Keren shares her valuable insights into the Age-Tech market and we wrap up with personal experiences that have shaped our perspectives on aging. Tune in to this enlightening episode for a deep look into the Age-Tech industry and the importance of addressing the needs of older adults in technology design.
(00:01) Aging Parents' Care Tech Solutions
(04:38) Elli Q
(09:42) Innovative Age Tech for Aging Parents
(18:36) Baby Boomers' Impact on Tech Design
Podcast Resources
Caring For Your Aging Parents on YouTube
Visit us to find out more on Caring for Your Aging Parents
Give me a call to locate a senior placement specialist in your area 503.830.1812
Caring for Your Aging Parents
Season 01 Episode 15
Preserving Family Legacies with Aviva from Family Love Letters
Inspired by a heartfelt letter from her late father, our guest Aviva from Family Love Letters embarked on a mission to capture the essence of family stories. She founded "Family Love Letters," a service that provides a timeless keepsake of stories, wisdom, and values. Aviva has graciously shared her journey with us, detailing her process of conducting comfortable phone interviews with the elderly to generate these treasured family love letters.
Why Preserve Your Family Memories?
We delved into the significance of preserving family memories through these tangible letters, putting to rest the misconception that younger generations aren’t interested. Quite the contrary, we found that these pieces of family history are deeply cherished by all, stimulating deeper conversations and connections. We underscore the importance of initiating this preservation process before it's too late. Sadly, many experience regret when precious stories are lost to time.
The Impact Behind Leaving the Legacy of Your Story
Our lively discussion with Aviva and Lynn explored future collaborations and the profound impacts of letter writing and storytelling. Both agree on the joy and value storytelling brings to the writer and the recipient. It was a laughter-filled, inspiring conversation that may well be the spark to preserving your family's legacy. This episode of Caring for your Aging Parents is a testament to the power of family stories, and the love letters that beautifully encapsulate them.
(00:01) Capturing Family Stories
(12:15) Preserving Family Stories Through Letters
(17:54) Preserving Family Stories and Legacies
(28:36) Future Collaboration on Storytelling With Lynn
Podcast Resources
Caring For Your Aging Parents on YouTube
Visit us to find out more on Caring for Your Aging Parents
Give me a call to locate a senior placement specialist in your area 503.830.1812
Caring for Your Aging Parents
Season 01 Episode 14
Revolutionizing Health and Wellness for Seniors and Individuals with Parkinson's: A Conversation with Bennett from Total HealthWorks
Can exercise be enjoyable and life-enhancing for seniors? Bennett from Total HealthWorks answers this question with a resounding 'yes'. As a guest in our podcast, he unveils the revolutionary digital health platform that's changing the way seniors, especially those with Parkinson's disease, view and approach their health and wellness. The secret lies in a blend of brain workouts and physical exercises, facilitated through online classes that cater to various levels of functionality. Even those with disabilities aren't left out, with modifications in the program to allow for inclusive participation.
Virtual Senior Fitness Program
Imagine a fitness program that is not only effective but also fun, social, and devoid of the stress of commuting to a gym. That's Total HealthWorks for you. Bennett highlights how the program's success is built on a unique community aspect, fostering a sense of camaraderie and enjoyment. He underscores the need to love your exercise routine and stay committed to it – a sentiment we echo wholeheartedly. But it's not just about the workout; the program's accessibility plays a pivotal role in its success. With online classes, fitness is no longer a chore or a distant gym away but just a click away.
Personalized Health and Lifestyle Programs for Seniors
Beyond the workouts, Total HealthWorks takes it a step further with one-on-one coaching and personalized programs to enhance sleep, nutrition, hydration, and overall quality of life. Bennett shares compelling stories of clients who have reduced their pain levels and increased function, simply by improving lifestyle habits. He extends an invitation to our listeners to try out their two-week free trial and experience the transformation. His approach to health and wellness demystifies and simplifies the process, making it accessible for older individuals. Tune in to discover how you can support your loved ones in leading a healthier, happier life.
(00:22) Improving Health in Senior Adults
(11:40) Benefits of Total Healthworks Program
(20:41) Improving Health and Wellness Program
(25:55) Simplified Approach to Health and Wellness
Podcast Resources
Caring For Your Aging Parents on YouTube
Visit us to find out more on Caring for Your Aging Parents
Give me a call to locate a senior placement specialist in your area 503.830.1812
Caring for Your Aging Parents
Season 01 Episode 13
Strategies for Leveraging Life Insurance Insurance Cash-Outs for Elderly Care with Lisa Rehburg
Have you ever wondered about ways to ensure long-term care for your elderly loved ones without breaking the bank? Our special guest, Lisa Rehburg, an expert in life insurance policies with her company Rehburg Life Insurance Settlements, unveils how seniors can unlock the potential of their life insurance policies to fund extended or long-term care. A must-listen for those in their 50s and older, this episode is a trove of invaluable information about the regulated process of cashing in life insurance policies and its significant benefits, especially when health and well-being are a primary concern.
Cashing Out Life Insurance Policies to pay for Senior Care
When it comes to deciding whether to cash out a life insurance policy, the details can be overwhelming. Lisa, however, skillfully untangles the complexities for us. From discussing the types of policies that can be sold to talking through the potential uses of the cashed-out funds, she also provides guidance on how to approach these discussions with your parents. With a free consultation process up her sleeve and a couple of pieces of good news to share, Lisa's advice is sure to enrich your understanding.
Accessing Funds for Senior Care
Lastly, we delve into the often murky waters of accessing funds for elderly care. Lisa's practical advice on understanding different policy types to the art of navigating conversations with loved ones about the process is guaranteed to guide you every step of the way. We also explore the how-to of cashing in a life insurance policy for seniors with Lisa's expert guidance. A lesson packed with a wealth of information, this is an episode you wouldn't want to miss.
Using a Knowledgeable Life Insurance Broker
Lisa has been in the insurance industry for over 30 years. Before she started her own insurance agency, she worked in corporate running sales teams nationwide. She found that working with seniors assisting them with life insurance settlements for their care was more rewarding so she made the move to build her own insurance brokerage. Having a passion for helping advisors and their clients, selling life insurance to fund senior care is a solution which continues to increase in relevance, as our senior population grows.
(00:23) Elderly Care Life Insurance Cash Out
(11:49) Insurance for Older Clients and Health
(16:17) Understanding Life Insurance Policy Cash Outs
(26:04) Accessing Money for Elderly Care
Podcast Resources
Caring For Your Aging Parents on YouTube
Visit us to find out more on Caring for Your Aging Parents
Give me a call to locate a senior placement specialist in your area 503.830.1812
Caring for Your Aging Parents
Season 01 Episode 12
Navigating the Maze of Memory Care and Dementia
Navigating the intricacies of dementia and memory care facilities can feel like trying to solve a complex puzzle with missing pieces. In this episode, I give you my best professional advice to navigate these complexities on my latest podcast episode, offering insights that can help in finding the missing pieces of memory care.
Why Your Senior May Not Be Accepted at a Skilled Nursing Care Facility
I delve into the different types of dementia, its four stages, and why skilled nursing facilities might not accept individuals diagnosed with the condition. In addition, I also underscores the importance of seeking a diagnosis and managing symptoms effectively.
How to Find a Suitable Memory Care Facility for Your Senior
Continuing on this enlightening journey, we explore the process of locating a suitable memory care facility for aging parents with dementia. You'll learn about the transformative potential of the Montessori method in memory care and get tips on finding resources in your area.
I also delve into the nitty-gritty of financing the care costs and talk about options like private pay or long-term care insurance. In the midst of all these, I always emphasize the importance of self-care for caregivers. Regardless of where you are on your caregiving journey, this episode is sure to provide you with invaluable insights and resources.
Podcast Resources
Caring For Your Aging Parents on YouTube
Visit us to find out more on Caring for Your Aging Parents
Give me a call to locate a senior placement specialist in your area 503.830.1812
Caring for Your Aging Parents
Season 01 Episode 11
Charting Your Course through the Medicare Maze with Niki Feret
In this fascinating chat with Niki Feret of the Brickhouse Agency, a certified Independent Medicare Insurance Broker, we unravel the complexities of Medicare and lay down the basics of this significant benefit that you've been investing in throughout your working life. Our conversation also shines a light on the importance of creating a Medicare account online and how to go about it. Listen in as we explore the various types of Medicare plans and their costs, equipping you with knowledge to make informed decisions.
What is Medicare?
Medicare is a federal health insurance program in the United States that provides coverage to individuals aged 65 and older and certain younger individuals with disabilities or specific medical conditions. Medicare is designed to help individuals access essential medical services and reduce the financial burden of healthcare costs. The program consists of different parts that cover various aspects of healthcare services. Medicare was established in 1965 under the Social Security Act and is administered by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services division.
Medicare Options for the Upcoming Enrollment Period
Nikki expertly guides us through the details of Medicare Parts A, B, and D, including yearly premiums, deductibles, and coinsurances. Our discussion underscores the necessity of planning ahead and ensuring you have the coverage you need. We then examine the two options available for Medicare recipients who need drug coverage. Nikki highlights the differences between the standalone prescription drug plan and the Medicare Advantage plan, as well as the implications of late enrollment.
How to Navigate Medicare
Lastly, Nikki shares her invaluable expertise on how to navigate the nuances of Medicare to find the best plan for individual needs. We discuss the advantages of working with an experienced insurance agent and ask the right questions to ensure you aren't overpaying. The importance of enrolling in Medicare before the December 7th deadline and the process of doing so are also discussed. With this enlightening conversation, you will be better prepared to navigate the Medicare maze. Make sure to join her on Facebook to get involved in the Medicare discussion on her page.
Podcast Resources
Caring For Your Aging Parents on YouTube
Visit us to find out more on Caring for Your Aging Parents
Give me a call to locate a senior placement specialist in your area 503.830.1812
Caring for Your Aging Parents
Season 01 Episode 10
What is Medicare and Who Can Utilize Medicare benefits?
Have you ever felt lost in the labyrinth of Medicare, grasping for clarity amidst the parts, costs, and enrollment periods? Well, you're not alone - so join us as we decode this complex health insurance maze designed for Americans aged 65 and older. We address common misconceptions, take a look at the costs you need to consider, and breakdown Medicare from parts A to D. We also shine a light on the often overlooked fact that you've been contributing to this program throughout your working life - it's your right, not a handout. Yet, you must be aware of the gaps in Medicare as it doesn't cover everything, like hearing aids and long-term care.
What is Medicare?
Medicare is a federal health insurance program in the United States that provides coverage to individuals aged 65 and older and certain younger individuals with disabilities or specific medical conditions. Medicare is designed to help individuals access essential medical services and reduce the financial burden of healthcare costs. The program consists of different parts that cover various aspects of healthcare services. Medicare was established in 1965 under the Social Security Act and is administered by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services division.
Registering for Medicare Online
Now, as if understanding Medicare wasn't daunting enough, we also dive into the intricate task of caring for aging parents. In this digitally connected age, support isn't just at our fingertips, it's also online. We guide you through the wealth of online resources available, helping you find the right assistance in your area, and show you how to access Medicare and other health insurance programs. Don't worry, we understand you might need some guidance on how to rate and review our podcast. So, we share some nifty tips so you can help others benefit from the knowledge we've shared together. As your trusted companions in this journey, we're here to simplify the complexities of eldercare. Together, we can navigate this maze.
Podcast Resources
Caring For Your Aging Parents on YouTube
Visit us to find out more about Senior Care in Oregon
Find out more about Caring for Your Aging Parents
Caring for Your Aging Parents
Season 01 Episode 09
How to Pay for Long Term Care for the Elderly and Senior Population
Do you feel your parents aren’t getting along as well as they used to? Are they staying at home more and not going out? Has your loved one had a recent fall? These are all signs that your parents may need long-term care. Listen to today's episode to find the options available to pay for long-term care.
Planning for Long-Term Care
Because people are living longer, planning for long-term care needs well in advance is essential, as costs can be substantial and unexpected. Consulting with financial advisors, elder law attorneys, and healthcare professionals can help individuals and families navigate the complexities of long-term care financing and make informed decisions based on their unique circumstances. If you need help finding a financial advisor, eldercare lawyer, or attorney, please reach out to me at [email protected]
Who provides long-term care?
Long-term care services are often provided by trained professionals, including nurses, nursing assistants, therapists, social workers, and other healthcare providers. Long-term care needs can arise due to age-related factors, chronic illnesses, disabilities, or injuries. Planning for long-term care is an important consideration for individuals and families as they age and encounter changing health needs. Understanding the available options, costs, and resources is important to make informed decisions about long-term care arrangements.
What is the cost of long-term care?
Depending on the level of care needed and the length required, you can spend several hundred to several thousand dollars a month for care. Care cost also depends on the geographic area in which care is given. Make sure to follow my podcast and tune into the next episode, where I talk about how to pay for in-home care.
Options for paying for Long Term Care
There are several options to pay for long-term care, including using a reverse mortgage. While a good option for many homeowners, you’ll want to know the rules and regulations for paying back your reverse mortgage, especially if two seniors are on the reverse mortgage loan. You can find out more by visiting the US Department of Housing and Urban Development website to find a HUD government-approved counselor.
Podcast Resources
Caring For Your Aging Parents on YouTube
Visit us to find out more on Caring for Your Aging Parents
Give me a call to locate a senior placement specialist in your area 503.830.1812
Caring for Your Aging Parents
Season 01 Episode 08
What is Long Term Care?
Have you noticed a decline in your parents' physical, mental, or spiritual health lately? Do you feel they aren't getting along as well as they used to? Are they staying at home more and not going out? Has your loved one had a recent fall? These are all signs that your parents may need long-term care. Listen to today's episode to discover what long-term care means and when you want to consider accessing long-term care for your parents or loved ones.
What is long-term Care?
Long-term care (LTC) refers to a range of services and support designed to meet the needs of individuals who have functional or cognitive limitations and require assistance with activities of daily living over an extended period. These services are typically provided to individuals who cannot fully care for themselves due to age, illness, disability, or other factors. Long-term care can encompass a variety of settings, including home care, assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and specialized care facilities.
Activities of daily living (ADLs) that individuals might need assistance with include tasks such as bathing, dressing, eating, using the toilet, transferring (e.g., getting in and out of bed or a chair), and maintaining continence. Additionally, instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) such as meal preparation, housekeeping, managing medications, and transportation might also be included in long-term care services.
Who provides long-term care?
Long-term care services are often provided by trained professionals, including nurses, nursing assistants, therapists, social workers, and other healthcare providers. Long-term care needs can arise due to age-related factors, chronic illnesses, disabilities, or injuries. Planning for long-term care is an important consideration for individuals and families as they age and encounter changing health needs. Understanding the available options, costs, and resources is important to make informed decisions about long-term care arrangements.
What is the cost of long-term care?
Depending on the level of care needed and the length of care required, you can spend several hundred to several thousand dollars a month for care. Care cost also depends on the geographic area in which care is given. Make sure to follow my podcast and tune into the next episode, where I talk about how to pay for in-home care.
Podcast Resources
Caring For Your Aging Parents on YouTube
Visit us to find out more on Caring for Your Aging Parents
Give me a call to locate a senior placement specialist in your area 503.830.1812
The podcast currently has 16 episodes available.