Senior Matters Podcast

The concept of Powers of Attorney seems pretty straightforward. By definition, you are granting someone the right to make decisions or take action on your behalf in private affairs, business, or some other legal matter. Although having a simple Power of Attorney is better than not having one at all, they are often very limited. Patti Paz, Paralegal and Team Leader at Idaho Estate Planning, joins us to discuss the different types of POAs and things to keep in mind when putting one together.

Did you know that Veterans and their survivors who are eligible for a VA pension could potentially qualify for an additional allowance called aid attendance? In continuing our goal to help 1,111 Veterans and their families this year, attorney Mark Wight breaks down the medical requirements for the VA Aid & Attendance Benefit.

Lindsay Meloy of the Greater Idaho Alzheimer's Association joins us to discuss community events happening in the coming weeks to bring Alzheimer's issues to light. If this terrible disease has impacted you, personally or indirectly, this episode will provide you with resources to take action for change at a local and legislative level.

Aging tends to bring on many complications. Illness, disability, and a multitude of medications can become overwhelming for many seniors. Dr. Chad Boult, Geriatrician Medical Director at Saint Alphonsus, joins us to discuss how a geriatric or palliative care team can provide an extra layer of support for patients navigating the complexities of their medical care.

As the 7th Annual Family Caregivers Conference approaches, Anne Tumlinson of Daughterhood joins us to discuss the importance of bringing family caregivers together. With over two decades working on improving how America cares for its frailest, most vulnerable older adults, Anne shares some of the challenges and universal truths that many caregivers experience. Ms. Tumlinson will be a guest speaker at the Family Caregivers Conference on February 17, 2018.

As con artists seek new opportunities to prey on others, it's no wonder the art of deception is ever evolving. On this episode, Attorney Mark Wight shares common traits used to weed out potential victims and how you can avoid being a target.

People often associate hospice with negative feelings of mortality. Although this type of care is designated for the terminally ill, Mike Briggs of Keystone Hospice shares how working with a team of caring individuals can help you live the best you possibly can at the end of your life.

2018 marks a century since the end of WWI. This year Idaho Estate Planning wants to honor our servicemembers by educating 1,111 Veterans about a little-known pension benefit for nonservice-connected disabilities. On this episode, Attorney Mark Wight discusses the eligibility requirements Veterans must meet to qualify.

Navigating through end-of-life care can bring up feelings of isolation for many patients and families. On this episode we are joined by representatives from Harrison's Hope and Heritage Assisted Living and Memory Care, to discuss the organizations' heartfelt venture to help ease the feelings of loneliness that many people face while caring for loved ones in hospice.

Holidays can be a struggle for many seniors, that is why spending time with your loved ones might be the most precious gift you can give. A visit or phone call grants cherished time together and a chance to see how they are doing physically and mentally. On this episode, Attorney Mark Wight highlights a few things to consider when extending holiday cheer.