In this episode, we delve into the multifaceted world of caregiving with Danielle, a certified financial planner and caregiver for her mother, and Cora, a caregiver for her aging mother who is juggling aches and pains. 
 
Danielle and Cora share their personal journeys of balancing self-care while providing unwavering support to their loved ones. From caring for loved ones with “invisible” conditions to handling mobility and accessibility issues, they offer valuable insights into caregiving across generations.

Join host Dr. Laurie Ferguson and expert caregiver Mike Eidsaune as they explore these compelling stories, offering a blend of empathy, practical advice, and a deeper understanding of the family caregiver journey.

Among the highlights in this episode:

01:46: Danielle shares her background as a certified financial planner and her transition to specializing in financial education for family caregivers

02:56: Danielle discusses her personal journey as a multigenerational caregiver, supporting her elderly grandmother and her mother

03:54: Cora describes her experience caring for her 70-year-old mother

05:01: Danielle and Cora reflect on the balance of caring for loved ones and self-care, with Danielle addressing her recent realization of the toll caregiving has taken on her

07:42: Mike Eidsaune, CEO of Caregiving.com, offers insights on the importance of self-care for family caregivers and suggests reframing it as a crucial part of the caregiving role

10:52: Cora discusses her activities outside of caregiving, like going to the gym, and its positive impact on her mental health and ability to care for her mother

11:38: Danielle explains her role in planning for her mother's retirement and her grandmother's comfort and care needs

12:30: Mike emphasizes the significance of addressing mental health issues in caregiving, highlighting the importance of community support

15:31: Cora and Danielle share insights on managing mobility issues for their loved ones, including planning for accessibility and comfort during travels

18:31: Mike discusses strategies for caregivers to plan for mobility challenges and the emotional impact of mobility loss on the cared-for individual

23:27: Danielle and Cora offer final pieces of advice for other caregivers, emphasizing living life to the fullest and balancing caregiving with personal well-being

27:14: Mike concludes by expanding on the role of a support system in caregiving, stressing its variety and importance in addressing different needs of caregivers

Contact Our Host

Dr. Laurie Ferguson, Director of Education Development at the Global Healthy Living Foundation: [email protected]

A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Manager of Programs & Special Projects at GHLF.

We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to [email protected]

Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we explore a unique facet of caregiving as Alyssa, a young woman passionate about hiking, unexpectedly forges a deep bond with an older woman (lovingly known as “new grandma”) who she met while walking her service dog Kernel. This chance encounter grows into a meaningful companionship enriched by shared walks, a mutual love for dogs and nature, and emotional support.

Together, they navigate through the obstacles of aging and the pain of loss, while celebrating the joys of friendship and shared interests like photography. Alyssa realizes that caregiving isn’t just about assistance; it’s about connection.

Among the highlights in this episode:

01:57: Alyssa describes her caring friendship with “new grandma”, highlighting their shared activities like hiking

04:56: Dr. Ferguson explores the significance of friendship in mitigating loneliness and pain in older age

05:24: Alyssa reflects on how unexpected relationships can be life-changing, mentioning her dog Kernel's role in building connections

06:28: Mike Eidsaune, CEO of Caregiving.com, provides expert insights on the importance of companionship in caregiving, emphasizing human and animal connections

07:26: Dr. Ferguson and Mike address the broader context of loneliness

08:44: Mike highlights the value of finding common ground in caregiving relationships across different generations

10:51: Dr. Ferguson comments on the broader aspects of caregiving, such as companionship and emotional support, beyond physical assistance

11:24: Alyssa talks about the role of humor in her relationship with “new grandma” and how it helps them cope with challenges

17:00: Mike emphasizes the idea that caregiving doesn't always fit traditional definitions and highlights Alyssa's significant impact

18:02: Mike concludes by suggesting resources for caregivers, focusing on the importance of companionship and community engagement for the well-being of loved ones

Contact Our Host

Dr. Laurie Ferguson, Director of Education Development at the Global Healthy Living Foundation: [email protected]

A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Manager of Programs & Special Projects at GHLF.

We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to [email protected]

Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we dive into the unique story of Aisha, a young Black woman who stepped into the role of caregiver when her mother was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia. Facing the dual challenges of her youth and a lack of caregiving resources tailored for her cultural background, Aisha's journey is one of remarkable resilience and innovation.

Aisha shares her personal struggles and triumphs, detailing how she navigated uncharted territories to create a supportive and essential community and resources for caregivers like her.

Among the highlights in this episode:

01:11: Aisha explains her entry into caregiving at age 27 and the adjustments she made, including leaving her job to care for her mother

03:40: Aisha describes her evolving role as a caregiver, from companion to handling more complex tasks as her mother's condition progressed

04:48: Aisha discusses the lack of available caregiving resources for her specific demographic as a young, African American woman

06:05: Aisha details her initiative in creating "Our Turn 2 Care" to support young caregivers of color and those in the LGBTQ community

10:19: Dr. Ferguson, Director of Education Development at GHLF, highlights the significant issue of resource scarcity for specific caregiver groups

10:54: Mike Eidsaune, CEO of Caregiving.com, emphasizes the importance of tailored solutions and representation in caregiving resources

13:16: Aisha stresses the importance of a strong support network for caregivers

14:36: Aisha shares how music and the arts played a crucial role in her caregiving experience

19:52: Aisha advises caregivers on the importance of self-prioritization and reflects on her caregiving experience

22:11: Dr. Ferguson comments on the non-linear nature of the caregiving journey and the importance of self-patience

23:42: Aisha lists various organizations and resources useful for caregivers

28:43: Mike concludes by suggesting ways for caregivers to educate themselves and find local resources

Contact Our Host

Dr. Laurie Ferguson, Director of Education Development at the Global Healthy Living Foundation: [email protected]

A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Manager of Programs & Special Projects at GHLF.

We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to [email protected]

Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this touching episode, join Olivia as she navigates the intricacies of caring for her father, who is battling lung cancer. Despite her own struggles with chronic migraine, Olivia finds unique ways to bring joy and empowerment to her father's life. From daily texts to engaging conversations in her father's native language, Tagalog, each interaction helps build a beautiful relationship of care and connection.

This episode highlights the challenges caregivers face and illuminates the profound impact of creativity and storytelling in fostering resilience and deepening familial bonds.

Among the highlights in this episode:

02:00: Olivia discusses her role in supporting her father with lung cancer, while managing her own chronic condition

03:14: Olivia describes her creative approach to caregiving, such as fostering communication through daily texts and phone calls

06:13: Olivia shares her experience of connecting with her father by practicing Tagalog, her father's native language, highlighting the importance of cultural connection in their relationship

07:54: Dr. Ferguson, Director of Education Development at GHLF, notes the empowering aspect of Olivia's approach, where she enables her father to be the teacher and expert with the practice of Tagalog, enhancing their bond

09:31: Mike Eidsaune, CEO of Caregiving.com, reflects on the impact of Olivia's caregiving approach, emphasizing the significance of small, regular actions and the therapeutic benefits of storytelling in caregiving

11:19: Olivia discusses her passion project – a podcast about Filipino tennis players, starting with her father's story, and how this project enriches their relationship

15:53: Mike discusses the broader implications of Olivia's storytelling approach, including its impact on her father's sense of legacy and the therapeutic benefits for both caregivers and their loved ones

19:01: Olivia shares her philosophy on caregiving, focusing on the importance of finding joy and meaning beyond the illness and diagnosis

21:09: Olivia talks about her personal coping mechanism and source of resilience, including cycling and participating in century rides, drawing parallels between her personal challenges and caregiving

24:30: Mike concludes with key takeaways from Olivia's interview, highlighting the importance of positivity, consistency, and the power of storytelling in caregiving

Contact Our Host

Dr. Laurie Ferguson, Director of Education Development at the Global Healthy Living Foundation: [email protected]

A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Manager of Programs & Special Projects at GHLF.

We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to [email protected]

Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Thriving While Aching, we meet Marilyn, who lives in Salt Lake City, Utah, with her husband, Joel, who has arthritis and was first introduced in Season 1. This season focuses on how caregivers and care partners can help their loved ones thrive as they age. Marilyn shares how she keeps Joel and herself mentally and physically active.

She teaches us that, with some adjustments, you and your loved one can continue to enjoy the things you love, albeit with a twist, and she highlights the significance of adding laughter and curiosity to help them thrive.

Among the highlights in this episode: 

02:39: Marilyn discusses the major life adjustments she and Joel had to make due to his arthritic pain, impacting their active outdoor lifestyle

03:14: Marilyn explains how she and Joel remain physically active, focusing on bicycling as their primary activity

05:48: Mike Eidsaune, CEO of Caregiving.com and our expert caregiver this season, discusses the importance of finding shared activities and adapting to new life phases

07:27: Marilyn talks about the mental aspects of caregiving, focusing on humor, reading, and maintaining curiosity

11:49: Marilyn describes how she and Joel maintain their social life, adapting their long-standing traditions to suit their current lifestyle

14:20: Mike emphasizes the importance of community support and finding small inspirations in everyday life for caregivers

16:08: Marilyn discusses how she and Joel entertain at home and adapt to changes in household responsibilities

18:21: Marilyn talks about Joel and her community activities, including involvement in the homeowners association

19:27: Dr. Ferguson and Mike reflect on Marilyn's journey, emphasizing the importance of adapting, community, and finding joy in small things

Contact Our Host

Dr. Laurie Ferguson, Director of Education at the Global Healthy Living Foundation: [email protected]

A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Manager of Programs & Special Projects at GHLF.

We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to [email protected]

Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When you’re in pain, it can be harder to find joy in life. In this episode, we meet Paula Golladay, a double amputee who is a competitive runner and part of a supportive community. Her superpower: She uses humor as a way to appreciate life: “I can walk on hot coals, you can't,” says Paula, laughing. “I can walk on glass, you can't. My socks never ever, ever smell. I can wear one pair of socks for an entire year.”

Some highlights in this episode:

1:28: Paula got into athletics in mid-life

2:06: Becoming a double amputee, Paula shifted from cycling to running

2:17: Paula turned to running on a whim

3:35: Paula competed in 68 virtual races during the pandemic

3:50: Paula finally got her runner’s blades

4:06: Running is liberating for Paula

5:39: Paula describes what she does when she feels pain and working through discomfort

6:13: “If we are in pain, something is not right and we need to stop or modify what we are doing, because that's contributing to the pain,” says Kathleen

7:09: Paula gets motivation from her running training group

8:15: Have an inner script and a routine to encourage yourself to exercise

9:16: Paula’s advice to people struggling to find new passion in life

9:55: Paula finds the right balance of having quiet time and being around people

10:52: Paula is a “proud amputee”

11:23: Paula finds humor in describing the benefits of being a double amputee

11:47: Paula’s advice: Believe in yourself and find joy in your life

Contact Our Host

Dr. Laurie Ferguson, Director of Education at the Global Healthy Living Foundation: [email protected]

We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to [email protected]

Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When your identity is tied to how much you live life, being forced to limit exciting activities as you age can cause you to readjust. In this episode, we meet Joel Bown, who put worthy miles on his joints through rock climbing and skiing, but who today has found other ways to re-engage, be active, and thrive.

“The key is to do what you like, as long as you can,” says Joel. “Do activities that other people are doing and befriend them. Find out if you've got more in common than just the fact that you're sitting on the edge of the lake throwing food to the ducks.”

Some highlights in this episode:

1:12: For Joel, thriving means “to be able to do the things that I want to do reasonably comfortably.”

1:24: Joel had been very active as a rock climber and a backcountry skier, but it wore out his joints

2:46: How has Joel changed the definition of thriving

3:29: Joel’s identity was changed when he was forced to limit his activities

4:22: Joel works with a personal trainer weekly to maintain his strength and mobility

5:17: The benefits and side effects of different pain medications from Kathleen Cameron at the National Council on Aging

7:51: Joel’s wife is part of his support system who encourage him to move around and thrive

9:02: “I think the key is to do what you like, as long as you can,” believes Joel

9:38: Joel and his wife bike more and take canoe trips with friends

10:36: Joel, his wife, and friends have thrived during bike excursions in Europe

Contact Our Host

Dr. Laurie Ferguson, Director of Education at the Global Healthy Living Foundation: [email protected]

We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to [email protected]

Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For people living in pain, it could be difficult to find purpose and positivity in life. In this episode, we meet Beverly Rogers, a woman who grew up during the civil rights movement, was diagnosed with breast cancer, and who has used her experience to advocate for health care.

“When my mother got sick, when my child was diagnosed with diabetes, when my husband got Alzheimer's, there were pieces that I could grab from my history, from my experience,” says Beverly. “I think those experiences have brought me to where I am so that now I truly believe that I am thriving.”

We also learn from Beverly how she’s taking a step back and learning to thrive through an unlikely source – Dancing.

Some highlights in this episode:

:38: Beverly’s background as an advocate for healthcare in the Black community and a breast cancer survivor

1:21: “Aging means that I feel good, I can think well, I have a good appetite, and whatever chronic pain I have is minimal,” says Beverly

1:42: You’ll never guess Beverly’s age

2:31: Beverly has been a family caregiver for decades

3:22: The civil rights movement laid the foundation for Beverly’s activism in healthcare

4:32: How Beverly used her experience and history to help care for family members

5:25: Beverly learns her purpose to empower women to be their best

6:31: Beverly’s mom led by example to implement self-care techniques

7:55; Beverly’s love and joy is dancing, yoga, and exercise

9:08: Physical activities have a positive impact on our independence and quality of life, says Kathleen Cameron at the National Council on Aging

10:25: Beverly’s rituals to manage her pain

12:36: Napping is one way Beverly takes care of herself each day

13:43: The importance of mindfulness in managing pain

14:29: Faith plays a role in Beverly’s life

Contact Our Host

Dr. Laurie Ferguson, Director of Education at the Global Healthy Living Foundation: [email protected]

We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to [email protected]

Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As we get older, our bodies become havens for pain. But there are steps we can all take to keep thriving. In this episode, we meet Orvie Prewitt who was met initially with painful challenges as she aged, but has been able to find ways to manage her pain, lead an active life, and along the way came up with tips for all of us to thrive.

"I don't want to sit and watch life go by. I want to become part of life," says Orvie.

As an arthritis program coordinator and grandmother, Orvie shares with listeners how she’s adapted her old routine so she can continue to make lasting memories with her daughter and granddaughter.

Some highlights in this episode:

1:48: “Thriving is really having a quality of life and being able to do some of the things that I really want to do,” says Orvie

2:59: Orvie is challenged with pain everyday

3:13: Orvie shares her tips for thriving while aching

4:09: Being physically active is key to managing arthritis pain, says Kathleen Cameron at the National Council on Aging

4:51: How does Orvie motivate herself when feeling pain?

6:11: Physical activity and healthy eating helped Orvie lose almost 60 pounds

7:30: Orvie’s granddaughter served as motivation

8:19: How Orvie started setting realistic goals

9:22: Positive “self-talk” is important too

10:33: Some activities Orvie had to adjust to as she got older

12:46: It's important for patients managing pain to discover new ways to find enjoyment

13:09: One recommendation is to “create a diary of daily activities and include what works for pain management,” suggests Kathleen

To learn more about some of the resources that Orvie mentions, you can visit: https://www.moarthritis.org/

Contact Our Host

Dr. Laurie Ferguson, Director of Education at the Global Healthy Living Foundation: [email protected]

We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to [email protected]

Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to Thriving While Aching, a podcast that inspires and teaches you how to live a fuller life while safely managing pain. Our host, Dr. Laurie Ferguson, Director of Education at Global Healthy Living Foundation, leads conversation with a variety of people who all have one thing in common: they’re living proof of aging gracefully.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.