Navigating the World with Your Aging Loved One

How do rural caregivers navigate caregiving challenges with limited resources and support? For many caregivers in these settings, the isolation can be overwhelming. Today, we’re talking about the unique challenges faced by rural dementia caregivers—individuals who often carry the weight of caregiving with little outside help. Research is beginning to shine a light on their needs, and new solutions are emerging that offer hope and much-needed support.

Our guests today, Matthew Zuraw and Pam Brandon, each bring a deeply personal and professional perspective to this topic. Matthew’s journey began after losing his grandmother to dementia and, more recently, his father to Alzheimer’s. He has since become a fierce advocate for those impacted by the disease and co-founded CareVirtue, an innovative platform designed to support caregivers. Pam, with over 25 years of experience in caregiver education, is the founder of AGE-u-cate Training Institute. She’s been a driving force behind programs like Dementia Live® and Compassionate Touch®, which are transforming how we care for those living with dementia.

In today’s episode, we’ll explore the distinct barriers faced by caregivers in rural communities and how Matthew and Pam are working to bridge those gaps. We’ll discuss the emotional toll on these caregivers, the resources they desperately need, and the emerging solutions that are finally beginning to make a difference. So, whether you’re a caregiver yourself or simply want to understand how we can better support caregivers, this conversation is for you. Thank you, Matthew and Pam!

Learn more at https://carevirtue.com/ & https://ageucate.com/

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

What does it take to advocate effectively for ourselves and our loved ones as we navigate the complexities of aging and healthcare?

My guest is Cheryl Field, a seasoned professional with over three decades in nursing, specializing in rehabilitation and post-acute care. Cheryl's journey is in healthcare with a focus on quality, compliance, and patient advocacy. With roles ranging from clinical director to Chief Product Officer, and speaking at state and national conventions, Cheryl brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to our conversation today.

Cheryl is a two-time international best-selling author whose recent book, Prepared! A Healthcare Guide for Aging Adults, offers a simple yet powerful system of advocacy that anyone can follow. Her approach simplifies complex systems with analogies and personal stories, making daunting topics accessible and engaging.

In our podcast, we discussed the vital role of advocacy in improving senior care outcomes, strategies to develop support systems to prevent caregiver burnout, expert insights on navigating the Medicare system, and approaches for simplifying complex healthcare information to empower caregivers in making informed decisions. Thank you, Cheryl!

Learn more at https://www.cherylfield.com/

Thank you to our sponsor Magic Mind. Recieve up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code NAVIGATINGTHEWORLD20 at checkout HERE: https://magicmind.com/navigatingtheworld

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com 

*This episode is brought to you by Gigi Betty co., a boutique gift shop raising awareness and funds for caregivers and care partners. Show now at www.gigibettyco.com. Use the special code WILLGATHER20 for 20% off your order- Just for our podcast listeners!

How can we truly support those who are balancing careers, caring for aging parents, and raising children? Today’s guest is on the frontlines of these challenges and has dedicated her career to finding innovative solutions. Dr. Tina Sadarangani, an Assistant Professor at NYU, is not only a board-certified adult and geriatric nurse practitioner but also a tech innovator and an NIH-funded scientist. Her work is driven by a deep passion for social determinants of health and advocating for health equity. Beyond her impressive academic achievements, Dr. Sadarangani knows firsthand the struggles of caregiving, as she is part of the “sandwich generation,” balancing the care of her aging parents while raising young children.

In this episode, we’ll explore Dr. Sadarangani's contributions to the field of aging and caregiving, including her award-winning mobile app, CareMobi, designed to enhance communication for families caring for loved ones, particularly those living with dementia. She also shares her insights on the systemic challenges caregivers face and how we can navigate the complexities of our healthcare system more effectively. With her unique blend of clinical expertise, research experience, and personal caregiving journey, Dr. Sadarangani offers a wealth of knowledge that promises to inspire and empower our listeners.

Join us as we dive into a conversation that touches on the heart of caregiving—balancing love, responsibility, and innovation. We’ll discuss practical strategies, the power of community, and the hope that comes from knowing we are not alone on this journey.

Learn more at https://nursing.nyu.edu/w/caremobi

Thank you to our sponsor Magic Mind. Recieve up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code NAVIGATINGTHEWORLD20 at checkout HERE: https://magicmind.com/navigatingtheworld

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

This episode is brought to you by Gigi Betty co., a boutique gift shop raising awareness and funds for caregivers and care partners. Show now at www.gigibettyco.com. Use the special code WILLGATHER20 for 20% off your order- Just for our podcast listeners!

How often do we contemplate the ripple effect of taking our medications as prescribed, particularly for the senior community? In today's episode, we're talking all about medication adherence, a cornerstone of effective healthcare, especially for our senior population.

My guest today is Dr. Sarah Almilli, an Advanced Clinical Pharmacist, Founder and CEO of ELAK Health Inc. Dr. Almilli's journey from Loma Linda University to her role in healthcare showcases her dedication to enhancing patient care. Her accolades, also include the esteemed 2024 40 under 40 Leadership Award.

In this conversation with Dr. Almilli, we'll tackle various facets of medication adherence, from common challenges faced by older adults to innovative digital solutions that can streamline healthcare management. We'll discuss how caregivers can better support their loved ones and the importance of discerning credible information in the vast digital health landscape. Prepare to gain valuable insights and practical tips as we explore how to navigate the complexities of healthcare with Dr. Almilli, bringing us her empathy and expertise in the field.

Learn more at https://elakhealth.org/

Thank you to our sponsor Magic Mind. Recieve up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code NAVIGATINGTHEWORLD20 at checkout HERE: https://magicmind.com/navigatingtheworld

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com 

*This episode is brought to you by Gigi Betty co., a boutique gift shop raising awareness and funds for caregivers and care partners. Show now at www.gigibettyco.com. Use the special code WILLGATHER20 for 20% off your order- Just for our podcast listeners!

After her grandmother was diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 2020, Jennifer Hendrickson was inspired to make a difference. She joined the Alzheimer's Association Minnesota - North Dakota Chapter as the Director of the Walk to End Alzheimer's - Twin Cities. Her work ensures that vital resources and support are accessible to those who need them most.

In our conversation today, we’ll discuss the upcoming Twin Cities Walk to End Alzheimer's at Target Field on September 21—this event is filled with stories of hope, unity, and determination. Jennifer will share insights into the event's atmosphere, the significance of the funds raised, and how community members and companies can get involved. We talk all about the many walks and fundraisers taking place across the country, the vital support programs offered by the Alzheimer’s Association, the importance of early detection, and the promising new treatments for Alzheimer's disease. Get ready to be inspired by stories of resilience and learn how you, too, can contribute to a future where Alzheimer’s is a thing of the past.

Register or volunteer: alz.org/walk. We have 17 walks in MN and ND this September. 

The Walk to End Alzheimer's Twin Cities is at Target Field from 8-11:30am on Sept. 21.There's a short program at Target Field with a few people sharing their stories, then the walk goes through nearby streets in Minneapolis. Our MCs are Karla Hult from Kare11 and Gabi Del Moral from Telemundo. This is one of the largest fundraising walks in the country, with around 8 to 10,000 people. Funds raised support local classes, support groups, education and resources for families, and advance research to end the disease. Our goal is to raise $1.5M

About the Alzheimer’s Association

The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Our mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer's and all other dementia.® The Minnesota-North Dakota chapter provides no-charge support, education/classes, support groups, training and other resources. For more information and to register for upcoming classes and support groups, visit www.alz.org/mnnd or call the 24/7 Helpline at 1.800.272.3900.

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

*This episode is brought to you by Gigi Betty co., a boutique gift shop raising awareness and funds for caregivers and care partners. Show now at www.gigibettyco.com. Use the special code WILLGATHER20 for 20% off your order- Just for our podcast listeners!

What does it mean to have a lifelong friend? Imagine knowing someone for over 75 years—growing up together, sharing triumphs and heartaches, and watching each other’s lives unfold in ways you could never have predicted. Today, we explore the enduring friendship of two remarkable individuals who did just that.

I'm honored to introduce Herb Cohen, a true master of negotiation, whose sharp wit and profound wisdom have made him a legend in his field. As a lawyer, best-selling author of YOU CAN NEGOTIATE ANYTHING and NEGOTIATE THIS!, and dubbed 'the world’s best negotiator' by Playboy magazine, Herb has shown us all that with the right mindset, any challenge can be turned into a win. Joining Herb is Lisa Melmed, the creative force behind Larry King: Beyond the Mic, a documentary that beautifully captures Herb and Larry’s friendship and the touching reunion between Larry and his long-lost son. Lisa’s passion for storytelling shines through in her award-winning work.

Herb and Larry King, yes, the Larry King, shared a bond that spanned decades—from their childhood days in Brooklyn to the heights of their respective careers. We hear how their friendship is not just a story of loyalty and connection but also the lessons of life’s unexpected turns. Herb and Lisa also share with us the behind-the-scenes of filming, their stories, their lives, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.

Herb's timeless wisdom on aging, life, and love has touched me deeply, and it's something I'll carry with me for years to come. You won't want to miss this inspiring conversation.

Larry King: Beyond the Mic will be airing on PBS stations around across the country beginning September 8th of 2024. 

Learn more at https://www.larryandme.com/

Listen to our episode HERE.

About the Film

Larry King was known around the world as the preeminent interviewer.  From heads of state to the most prominent celebrities and politicians, his curiosity and non-confrontational style elicited surprising revelations – but what went on beyond the microphone in King’s own personal life?

This half hour documentary recounts two of King’s most remarkable relationships – one with his life-long friend, the best-selling author on negotiations, Herb Cohen; the other with his son, Larry King Jr., whom King first met when his son was in his 30s.

The documentary explores the importance of male friendships and challenges our understanding of father-son relationships, while examining what made Larry unique — his desire for success, his curiosity and his sense of humor. The movie offers a new perspective on an American icon and is brimming with personal photos and video footage from family archives.

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

*This episode is brought to you by Gigi Betty co., a boutique gift shop raising awareness and funds for caregivers and care partners. Show now at www.gigibettyco.com. Use the special code WILLGATHER20 for 20% off your order- Just for our podcast listeners!

We will be taking our annual summer break, and as we temporarily say goodbye, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to all of you who listen and support our podcast. We couldn't do this without you!

We continue making an impact and fulfilling our mission of supporting older adults, family caregivers and the care economy!

Out of three million podcasts, we are thrilled to announce that we currently rank in the top 5% most popular via to Listen Score. Thank you!

While we may be taking a short break, we are working tirelessly behind the scenes, preparing to return with fresh episodes and working on some upcoming speaking engagements and fun projects.

We encourage you to revisit our past episodes and share them with others who may be interested. You can find our entire catalog on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other major platforms. If you haven't already, feel free to follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses into our podcasting adventures.

In the meantime, please check out my other podcast with the wonderful Carrie Aalberts, aka Dementia Darling. Gather Darlings is a place to come as you are and hear the real-life stories and conversations with other caregivers. You don't want to miss these fun conversations! Listen HERE!

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

Instagram: @willgather

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Thank you once again for being a part of our incredible podcasting journey! We will see you soon!

In a world where we often feel disconnected and overwhelmed, the quest for deeper meaning and spiritual awakening becomes ever more urgent. Today, my guest is Catherine Duncan, a board-certified chaplain, certified spiritual director, an expert in positive neuroplasticity, and a leading integrative spiritual consultant. She is also an author, holistic healer, inspirational speaker, and resilience trainer. Guided by her personal experiences as a childhood cancer survivor and a near-death experience, she brings a unique perspective on the interplay between emotional, physical, and spiritual health.

In this episode, we are honored to speak with Catherine, whose book, Everyday Awakening, has touched many lives and received endorsements from notable figures like Mel Robbins. With her book now in its second print run, she offers 42 exercises designed to help individuals awaken their heart and soul. Her work is not just about healing but about guiding others to unfold their true selves, helping them navigate life's transitions, and finding joy and peace amidst challenges. With credentials spanning theology, divinity, chaplaincy, and holistic healing practices, her approach is both heartfelt and deeply informed.

Join us as we explore insights she shares from her journey and expertise. We'll discuss what it means to awaken, how to practice presence in everyday life as caregivers, and ways to connect with something greater than ourselves. Whether you are a caregiver seeking solace and strength or someone on a quest for deeper understanding and purpose, today's conversation promises to encourage you.

Learn more at http://everydayawakening.com/

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

*This episode is brought to you by Gigi Betty co., a boutique gift shop raising awareness and funds for caregivers and care partners. Show now at www.gigibettyco.com. Use the special code WILLGATHER20 for 20% off your order- Just for our podcast listeners!

How do the spaces we inhabit and the art we encounter shape our emotions and thoughts, especially as we age? Today, we look at a world where architecture meets art and lifelong learning, a space where curiosity fuels our every day, no matter our age or stage in life.

We're joined by Lauren Henkin, the founder and CEO of The Humane Space, an innovative platform that's redefining how we engage with art and education throughout our lives.  She is an award-winning artist who has had multiple museum exhibitions, has been featured in Architectural Digest, Wallpaper* and NPR and whose work resides in premier museum collections. From shaping luxury wellness amenities to exploring the depths of creativity through her architectural expertise, she's now on a mission to enrich our lives with moments of awe and discovery.

In our conversation today, we talk about how Lauren's app is transforming the way that people of all ages including older adults and caregivers interact with art, offering a sanctuary for the mind where imagination and learning meet. We'll explore the science behind this artistic engagement and share tangible ways to invite more curiosity and mindfulness into your daily routine, proving it's never too late to explore, learn, and feel inspired. Thank you, Lauren, for joining me today!

Learn more at www.thehumane.space

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

*This episode is brought to you by Gigi Betty co., a boutique gift shop raising awareness and funds for caregivers and care partners. Show now at www.gigibettyco.com. Use the special code WILLGATHER20 for 20% off your order- Just for our podcast listeners!

What does it take to create a global movement that champions the well-being of our aging population? Joining us today is Jérôme Pigniez, founder and president of On-Medio and SilverEco.org, the premier portal for the Silver Economy sector. With decades of experience in demographic transition and technologies for autonomy, Jérôme has become a leading voice in aging well. His work spans speaking at international conferences, authoring influential reports, and guiding companies through the complexities of this vital industry. Today, we talk about the Silver Economy, and how exploring innovation and dedication come together to support our older adults.

The SilverNight Awards and the SilverEco & Ageing Well International Festival is an event that unites global leaders to celebrate and advance the cause of aging well. From Paris to Tokyo and now Cannes, this festival has grown to become a gathering for those dedicated to making a difference.

This international festival is a premier event that brings together experts, innovators, and passionate individuals from around the world, dedicated to improving the lives of older adults.

The SilverEco International Ageing Awards, SilverNight Gala, Expo, educational programs with 6 exceptional international congresses, and networking. Thank you, Jérôme Pigniez, for bringing us all together. In 2023, 16 countries were represented, and +1,500 attendees. This year they are expecting over 2,000 participants.

Don’t miss this chance to learn, share, and be part of a vibrant community working towards a better future for our aging population.

Join us on September 16 & 17th, 2024, and be inspired by these innovations in aging well. 

Learn more and register here

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

*This episode is brought to you by Gigi Betty co., a boutique gift shop raising awareness and funds for caregivers and care partners. Show now at www.gigibettyco.com. Use the special code WILLGATHER20 for 20% off your order- Just for our podcast listeners!