Navigating the World with Your Aging Loved One
193 episodes - English - Latest episode: 7 days ago - ★★★★★ - 36 ratingswillGather is here to come alongside older adults, family members, caregivers, and professionals in the senior living community as we explore the world of aging and older adult care.
Nicole Will brings helpful resources, valuable information, and practical tools that will encourage and give hope to caregivers as they navigate the aging journey with their loved ones for a more meaningful and fulfilled life.
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 us for updates!
To learn more about our guests, podcast and sponsorship opportunities, visit our website at www.willgatherpodcast.com
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Episodes
Awe and Wonder: Navigating Life's Later Years with Lauren Henkin, Founder and CEO of The Humane Space
June 19, 2024 09:00 - 37 minutes - 49.8 MBHow 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 m...
Global Innovations in Aging: SilverEco Ageing Well International Festival with Jérôme Pigniez, Founder and President of On-Medio and SilverEco.org
June 17, 2024 15:06 - 20 minutes - 25.7 MBWhat 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 comp...
Elder Abuse Across Cultures: The Silent Crisis with Dr. Rose Joudi, Ph.D. in Psychology, Aging and Ethnic Diversity Consultant
June 12, 2024 09:00 - 56 minutes - 68.6 MBElder abuse is a topic that's not talked about enough, yet it's a reality for many, cutting across various cultures and families. It's a subject that demands our attention, compassion, and understanding. Today, we're honored to have Dr. Rose Joudi with us, an expert in the field of psychology, with a specialized focus on aging and ethnic diversity. With over 15 years of expertise, Dr. Joudi serves as the Research Lead for an ethnocultural elder abuse awareness project with Carya in Cal...
Transforming Dementia Care: Top Strategies for Positive Engagement with Dr. Natali Edmonds, Board-Certified Geropsychologist & Founder of Dementia Careblazers
June 05, 2024 09:00 - 46 minutes - 66.7 MBHow can a few key strategies transform your daily interactions with a loved one living with dementia into meaningful and positive experiences? Today, my guest is Dr. Natali Edmonds, a board-certified geropsychologist who has dedicated over 13 years to this field. Her journey is not just professional but deeply personal, driven by her own experiences and the countless caregivers she's supported along the way. Dr. Natali Edmonds is the founder of Dementia Careblazers, a company offering 24/7 ...
The Unseen: Spousal Caregiving with Allison Breininger, Founder of The Negative Space & Caregiver
May 29, 2024 09:00 - 45 minutes - 56.5 MBAllison Breininger became a caregiver for her husband, Sean, during his battle with a rare genetic disease. Through her experiences and the founding of The Negative Space, she has become a voice for those who often go unheard, providing a platform to discuss, support, and empower caregivers. Today, we talk about the unique challenges spousal caregivers face, the importance of community support, and how society can better acknowledge and assist these vital yet often invisible pillars of str...
Building Bonds: The Heart of Multi-Generational Living with Danniel Fuchs, Caregiver and Founder of Multi-Gen Homes
May 22, 2024 13:12 - 48 minutes - 64.5 MBWhat does it look like to bring generations together under one roof? Today, we are having a conversation around family, care, and compassion intertwining in the most unique way. We're exploring the concept of multi-generational living – a solution that's gaining traction in a world where the traditional boundaries of home and care are constantly evolving. It's not just about sharing a space; it's about reshaping the idea of what a home can be. My guest today is Danniel Fuchs, Car...
A Collaborative Effort to Support Caregivers: Caregiver Forum LIVE from ActivAge
May 20, 2024 14:19 - 59 minutes - 85.4 MBOn Saturday, April 6, 2024, caregivers gathered at ActivAge Sarasota and The Tribute at the Glen in Virgina for a supportive event, the Caregiving Forum. The forum offered a valuable opportunity for caregivers to connect, learn, and be encouraged. We podcasted LIVE from this event and my guests share about the work they are doing to uplift caregivers. This is a great episode highlighting all of the important initiatives that are taking place- you don't want to miss it! See all of my gue...
"Honest Aging: An Insider’s Guide to the Second Half of Life" with Dr. Rosanne Leipzig MD, PhD
May 15, 2024 09:00 - 52 minutes - 68.5 MBHave you stopped to think about what the later years of your life will look like? Today, we're diving into a conversation that touches each of us, directly or indirectly. Aging is a journey we all go on, but how often do we pause to really understand what it entails, not just for ourselves but also for those we love? This conversation aims to peel back the layers of aging, bringing not just insights but practical advice on navigating these years. Joining us is Dr. Rosanne Leipzig, an inter...
Understanding Lewy Body Dementia with Julia Wood, MOT, OTR/L, Director of Professional and Community Education for the Lewy Body Dementia Association
May 08, 2024 09:00 - 48 minutes - 65.6 MBWhat is it like living with a condition that affects both your mind and body, yet remains relatively unknown to many? Today, we are shedding light on Lewy Body Dementia, a complex condition that challenges individuals and families in unique ways. We're thrilled to have Julia Wood, a dedicated occupational therapist who specializes in neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Parkinson’s and related dementias. Julia's extensive experience, including her role as the director of Profession...
Curiosity in Care: Diversity and Dignity with Dr. Rose Joudi, Ph.D. in Psychology, Aging and Ethnic Diversity Consultant
May 01, 2024 09:00 - 48 minutes - 59.5 MBToday, we're going to explore how we communicate and interact with older adults and how cultural diversity shapes their experiences and quality of life. My guest today is Dr. Rose Joudi, who brings over 15 years of expertise as an Aging and Ethnic Diversity Consultant. She is currently the Research Lead on an ethnocultural elder abuse awareness project with Carya (Calgary, AB), she brings a rich academic and research background to her roles in esteemed organizations like the Canadian N...
A Holistic Approach to Caregiving with Mary Jo Saavedra, Nationally Recognized Author, Gerontologist, and Aging Life Care Professional
April 24, 2024 09:00 - 1 hour - 100 MBHow can we transform care into a holistic journey that not only addresses practical needs but also integrates well-being, resilience, and comprehensive support systems to empower caregivers and enhance the quality of aging life? Today, my guest is Mary Jo Saavedra, a nationally recognized gerontologist, author, and Aging Life Care Professional. With over a decade of experience in the aging and healthcare industry and walking alongside her mom who was living with Alzheimer's, Mary Jo fo...
The Age of Tech: Empowering Older Adults & Caregivers in a Digital World with Vida Roozen, COO of The Smarter Service
April 17, 2024 09:00 - 45 minutes - 57.8 MBHow does the rapid evolution of technology affects the lives of older adults? In a world where a new gadget appears every day, how do our seniors keep up, and why is it crucial that they do and have support? My guest for this fascinating and vital topic is Vida Roozen, Chief Operating Officer at The Smarter Service. With over two decades of experience in consumer technology and a personal journey that has deepened her understanding of the tech challenges faced by aging adults, Vida brings ...
Health in Every Language: Exploring Equity and Access with Mauricio Montes de Oca, Diversity Equity Inclusion and Belonging Practitioner
April 10, 2024 13:27 - 1 hour - 83 MBToday, we're exploring a topic close to our hearts: the indispensable role of diversity, equity, and inclusion in healthcare, with a special focus on language access and community empowerment. We are looking at the heart of healthcare, not just through the lens of medicine, but through the vital perspective of connection and understanding. My guest today is Mauricio Montes de Oca, a remarkable individual with over two decades of experience in the healthcare industry. He is not only a c...
Beyond Borders: The Arts and Global Caregiving with Ryan Reid, Founder of Bream
March 30, 2024 22:58 - 35 minutes - 45.6 MBHow does the experience of aging and caregiving differ across cultures and continents? How does creativity play into the aging process, and what can we learn from the wisdom and experiences of our elders? Today we talk all about the world of caregiving, creative aging, and the transformative power of participatory arts and wellness programs. Today my guest Ryan Reid, Founder of Bream. Ryan's journey began with experience in memory care as a teenager and life with her grandfather, which set...
The Linked Senior Journey to Purposeful Aging with Charles De Vilmorin, CEO & Co-Founder of Linked Senior
March 27, 2024 13:23 - 50 minutes - 74.1 MBWhat if I told you that there's a way to 'live long, die short'? What inspires someone to undertake this mission, and how does it transform the aging process? My guest today is Charles De Vilmorin, co-founder of Linked Senior, an organization dedicated to changing the experience of aging. Linked Senior supports person-centered care through life enrichment and dementia engagement, using technology and non-drug therapy. Together, we talk about a variety of topics including dementia care, ag...
Wishes Well-Spoken: Navigating Healthcare Directives with Rachel Schromen, Estate Planning and Elder Law Attorney and Owner of Schromen Law, LLC
March 20, 2024 13:07 - 50 minutes - 74.6 MBWhat steps have you taken to ensure your healthcare wishes are honored, especially in times when you might not be able to express them? This question often pushed to the back of our minds, is crucial for our peace of mind and for those we love. We're honored to have Rachel Schromen with us today, an accomplished estate planning and elder law attorney, and the owner of Schromen Law, LLC. Recognized as one of the Top 3 Best Rated Estate Law firms in St. Paul, Rachel's professional work a...
Remember Me: Stories of Love, Hope, and FTD with Maria Kent Beers, Co-Founder and Co-Host of the Remember Me Podcast + Community
March 13, 2024 09:00 - 51 minutes - 70.2 MBThe most heartwarming connections can lead to impactful movements. Today is all about serendipity, strength, and solidarity. Joining me today is Maria Kent Beers, the co-founder of Remember Me and the Remember Me podcast, along with Rachel Martinez. These two incredible women's paths crossed in the most extraordinary way: Rachel, from Los Angeles, a trained marriage and family therapist, and Maria, living in Boston, found each other while caregiving for their parents, both diagnosed wi...
AgeTech Collaborative From AARP at CES: Behind the Scenes with Carrie Aalberts (aka Dementia Darling) & Nicole Will, Founder of willGather
March 11, 2024 09:00 - 2 hours - 203 MBWhat magic happens behind the scenes at one of the world's largest events, particularly those that shine a light on our aging population and the tech revolutionizing their lives? You're in the right spot! We're excited to take you with us as we re-cap the innovation, technology, and stories that are impacting the future of care. Carrie Aalberts and Nicole Will, are at the forefront of amplifying and exploring the people and companies that are transforming care through technology. Carri...
"The Problem of Alzheimer's: How Science, Culture, and Politics Turned a Rare Disease into a Crisis and What We Can Do About It" with Dr. Jason Karlawish, M.D.
March 06, 2024 10:00 - 51 minutes - 85.9 MBWhat does it mean to live a good life when the very essence of your memory and autonomy begins to fade? In a world where aging is inevitable, the challenges of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's pose profound questions about identity, care, and dignity. Today, I'm honored to have a conversation with Dr. Jason Karlawish. He is the author of The Problem of Alzheimer's: How Science, Culture, and Politics Turned a Rare Disease into a Crisis and What We Can Do About It. As a profes...
A Vision of Hope: The Magic of VR and Redefining Connection with Kyle Rand, CEO of Rendever
February 28, 2024 10:00 - 45 minutes - 72.3 MBHow do we harness modern technology to truly touch lives, especially when addressing the silent epidemic of social isolation in our aging population? Today, I am privileged to introduce to you my colleague and friend, Kyle Rand. He is the CEO of Rendever, a visionary who took personal inspiration from his grandparents' experiences and turned them into a revolutionary solution. Drawing from his extensive research at Duke University on neural prosthetics and the intricate workings of...
Shedding Light on Medication: Empowering Aging Well with Dr. Donna Bartlett, Board Certified Geriatric Pharmacist
February 21, 2024 10:00 - 45 minutes - 71.3 MBHave you considered the profound impact that medication can have on our well-being as we age? Over one-third of older adults take five or more medications, and at least one of them may be completely unnecessary. As a result, approximately 2 million adverse drug events requiring hospitalization occur every year. My guest today is Dr. Donna Bartlett, a board-certified geriatric pharmacist with over 17 years of clinical experience and 20 years in the retail pharmacy sector, she has made i...
Love, Loss and Lewy Body Dementia with Mary Lou Falcone, Caregiver, Author, and Internationally Renowned Classical Music Publicist & Strategist
February 14, 2024 12:31 - 45 minutes - 68.2 MBLove and loss can lead us to become champions for a cause we never expected to face. My guest today is Mary Lou Falcone, an internationally renowned classical music publicist and strategist, who has spent five decades shaping the careers of prominent artists and institutions. However, it's her personal story that brings an added layer of depth to her illustrious career. Faced with her partner's diagnosis of Lewy Body Dementia, Mary Lou found herself in the most challenging role of her ...
A Touch of Independence: Live at Teepa Snow's Positive Approach to Care Conference with Carolyn Barnes, Scrunch Cloth
February 12, 2024 16:23 - 17 minutes - 27.5 MBAt the 2023 Positive Approach to Care conference, I had the opportunity to interview Carolyn Barnes, with Scrunch Cloth. Have you wondered how a simple change in our daily routine items can significantly enhance the quality of life for many? Today we explore an innovation that makes the seemingly mundane tasks of daily living safer, easier, and more inclusive. We're diving into a product that's redefining personal care for individuals across a spectrum of needs. My guest today is C...
Beyond Memory Loss: The Hidden Costs of Alzheimer's with the Alzheimer's Association & RBC Wealth Management
February 07, 2024 13:28 - 43 minutes - 54.3 MBThere is a critical aspect of Alzheimer's that often goes under-discussed: the financial implications. What should families know about the economic burden of this disease and how can they prepare for it? Today's guests share all about Alzheimer's care, advocacy, and awareness, a journey both heart-wrenching and hopeful. We're peeling back the layers of this complex issue to uncover the impact, challenges, and strides being made in the fight against this condition. Joining us are th...
Stronger Memories & Brighter Futures with Rob Liebreich, President & CEO of Goodwin Living
January 31, 2024 13:03 - 54 minutes - 69.7 MBThe choices we make each day shape our overall well-being and our brain health as we age. Today my guest is Rob Liebreich, President and CEO of Goodwin Living, a name synonymous with excellence in senior living and healthcare. Rob is a dynamic leader with over two decades of experience in aging services. Today, Rob shares the initiatives that drive Goodwin Living, the significant challenges and opportunities in healthcare, how to better serve our family caregivers and our older adults, t...
Pages of Compassion: Live at Teepa Snow's Positive Approach to Care Conference with Nikki Jardin & Tavé Fascé, Founders of Mirador Magazine
January 28, 2024 23:01 - 39 minutes - 65.2 MBAt the 2023 Positive Approach to Care conference, I had the opportunity to interview Nikki Jardin and Tave Fasce, Founders of Mirador Magazine. Today we explore how a simple act, like reading a magazine, can become a cherished lifeline. A few years ago, Nikki's life took a poignant turn when her aunt was diagnosed with Young-Onset Alzheimer's at 63. Stepping up as her primary guardian, Nikki navigated the complexities of care with love and dedication. Her aunt, a curious soul with ...
Insights and Strategies for Sustainable Caregiving with Theresa Wilbanks, Founder of Sustainable Caregiving, Author, Speaker & Podcast Host
January 24, 2024 10:00 - 49 minutes - 68 MBEver felt like you're adrift in the overwhelming rapids of caregiving? My guest today is Theresa Wilbanks, a beacon of hope and wisdom for those caring for a loved one. Theresa is an accomplished author, a passionate speaker, and the compassionate host of the Self-Caregiving Strategies Podcast. She founded Sustainable Caregiving after experiencing firsthand the turbulent emotions of looking after her father until his final days at 99. During that intense period, Theresa found herself w...
The Audible Difference: Hearing Loss, Tinnitus, and Beyond with Dr. Rachel Allgor, Audiologist
January 17, 2024 14:23 - 47 minutes - 64.3 MBHave you thought about the intricate connection between hearing loss, dementia, and the various challenges that older adults face in their journey with audiology? Today, we have a special guest who is uniquely positioned to answer all these questions and more. Dr. Rachel Allgor, a Minnesota-based audiologist, started her venture, Journey Audiology and Hearing Care, with the mission to make quality audiology services more accessible. Whether at her Hastings, MN clinic or directly at a patie...
From Caregiver to Innovator: Allyson Schrier, Founder of Zinnia Live at Teepa Snow's Positive Approach to Care Conference
January 15, 2024 17:51 - 15 minutes - 25.3 MBAt the 2023 Positive Approach to Care conference, I had the opportunity to interview Allyson Schrier, co-founder of Zinnia Technologies. This company was established in 2019, inspired by Allyson's experiences as a dementia family caregiver. Addressing the lack of engaging and digestible TV programming for people living with dementia, Allyson collaborated with a former Apple designer, known for the 'Memories' product. Together, they developed an app for connected TVs and a mobile app, p...
Next Chapter Care: Supporting Parents After Losing a Partner with Annalee Kruger, Founder of Care Right Inc.
January 10, 2024 10:00 - 50 minutes - 70.1 MBToday, we're going to explore a deeply personal and often challenging journey many of us face: supporting an aging parent after the loss of a spouse or partner. My guest today is Annalee Kruger, the founder of Care Right Inc. With over 28 years of experience navigating the complex terrain of family caregiving and dementia progression, Annalee brings a wealth of knowledge, compassion, and practical solutions. From her early days as a Social Worker to spearheading innovative platforms li...
Empathy and Innovation in Dementia Care: Carrie Aalberts Live at Teepa Snow's Positive Approach to Care Conference
January 08, 2024 16:27 - 23 minutes - 38.8 MBRecording this bonus episode with the amazing Carrie Aalberts (aka the Dementia Darling) was so much fun! We recorded it live from the 2023 Positive Approach to Care conference, which was led by Teepa Snow. Her Positive Approach to Care is tackling dementia collectively. Carrie is not only a dear friend of mine but also a valued colleague. She brings immense help, encouragement, and knowledge to the world of caregiving and senior care. With a decade of experience and a master's in gero...
"Successfully Navigating Your Parents’ Senior Years" with Star Bradbury, Author, Aging Life Care Specialist® and CEO of Senior Living Strategies
January 03, 2024 13:51 - 59 minutes - 70.7 MBHow do we adequately prepare for the unexpected responsibilities that come with caring for an aging loved one? As life expectancy continues to increase, an overwhelming number of us find ourselves thrust into the caregiver role, often unequipped and unsure about the complexities ahead. To guide us, we're joined today by Star Bradbury, an esteemed Aging Life Care Specialist®, CEO of Senior Living Strategies, and the insightful author of "Successfully Navigating Your Parents’ Senior Year...
GUIDE-ing Change: Unveiling a New Way to Deliver Dementia Care with James Lee, Jonathan Bryant, Dominique Kim & Nicole Will
December 21, 2023 11:00 - 27 minutes - 46.9 MBThis podcast episode is a behind-the-scenes conversation about how dementia has personally touched our lives. We share our thoughts, impressions, and insights into Guide on Improving Dementia Experience, or GUIDE Model, a program created by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services with the goal to support individuals living with dementia and their families and allowing them to stay in their homes and communities for as long as possible. This podcast is a special conversation fr...
Building Trust: Nurturing Family & Senior Care Relationships with Erin Thompson, Founder, Speaker & Podcaster ~ Aspire for More with Erin
December 20, 2023 10:00 - 36 minutes - 50.5 MBNavigating the delicate balance of enhancing family and caregiver interactions within senior living communities is a multifaceted challenge. My guest today, Erin Thompson, is a passionate leader in the senior living industry, with over two decades of dedicated experience. Erin has led four dynamic teams within assisted living memory care communities, her commitment to changing lives within these communities extends not only to the staff and residents but also to their families. Erin br...
Turning Loss into Legacy: A Parkinson’s Awareness Journey with Dr. George Ackerman, Founder of TogetherForSharon®
December 18, 2023 10:00 - 48 minutes - 65.2 MBIn 2020, George faced a profound loss when his mother, Sharon Riff Ackerman, passed away due to Parkinson’s Disease. Determined to honor her memory and make a meaningful impact, George, along with his family, founded TogetherForSharon®. This initiative is not just a tribute to his mother but a robust platform dedicated to spreading Parkinson’s awareness and fostering hope for a cure. Throughout our conversation today, we'll explore various facets of this journey. Dr. Ackerman will shar...
Writing a New Life Narrative: A Caregiver's Story with Debbie Weiss, Best-Selling Author of "On Second Thought...Maybe I Can!"
December 13, 2023 10:00 - 40 minutes - 57.8 MBHow does one transform life's toughest challenges into a journey of self-discovery and empowerment? My guest today, Debbie Weiss, embodies the answer to this profound question. Debbie is a best-selling author, coach, speaker and podcaster. She authored the anticipated memoir "On Second Thought...Maybe I Can!", Debbie's words uplift and motivate as she shares her transformational story of overcoming obstacles and living out dreams. As a seasoned life strategist with over five decades o...
Navigating Anticipatory Grief and Caregiver Support with Dr. Julie Norstrand, PhD, MSW, MSc
December 06, 2023 22:39 - 50 minutes - 61.7 MBHave you ever experienced the often unspoken journey of anticipatory grief, the emotional rollercoaster that caregivers go through even before a loss occurs? Today, my guest is Dr. Julie Norstrand, who offers knowledge and experience in aging, mental health, and caregiving. Dr. Norstrand, with her rich educational background in social work, clinical psychology, and a Ph.D. focusing on age-friendly communities, brings a unique perspective to these crucial topics. Dr. Norstrand's journey i...
Beyond the Checkbox: A Heartfelt Approach to Caregiving with Malika Moore, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C Founder of Aging & Amazing
November 29, 2023 10:00 - 48 minutes - 69.2 MBHave you found yourself overwhelmed with the endless tasks of caring for a loved one, wondering if there's more to it than just ticking off boxes? Today, talk about what it means to go beyond these checkboxes in caregiving – a journey that's not just about tasks, but about heart, understanding, and true connection. Joining us is Malika Moore, founder of Aging & Amazing, an organization dedicated to supporting older adults, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. With a Master's of Soc...
Legacy and Innovation: Bridging the Generations with Sasha Dawn, Founder of Utopia Experiences & Jack York, Founder of TaleGate
November 20, 2023 10:00 - 38 minutes - 35 MBSasha Dawn and Jack York share with us the heartwarming and inspiring lessons learned from transforming challenges into opportunities for connection and joy, through the innovative use of technology and storytelling. Amid the global isolation of the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, Sasha faced a personal crisis: her father, a once vibrant Vietnam war hero, fell and had to be placed in a skilled nursing community far away. Confronted with seeing the loneliness her father experienced, she embarked o...
Caring for Them, Caring for You with Susanne White, Founder of Caregiver Warrior & Author of "Self-Care for Caregivers: A Practical Guide to Caring for You While You Care for Your Loved One"
November 15, 2023 09:00 - 45 minutes - 41.7 MBHow often do you find yourself putting others' needs above your own, especially when it comes to caregiving? My guest today is Susanne White, the founder of Caregiver Warrior. Life took Susanne on a unique journey when she became the caregiver for her parents. That role in her life inspired her to chronicle her experiences and wisdom on caregiverwarrior.com, offering support to others on a similar path. Her dedication to this cause is beautifully penned in her recent book, "Self-Care for Ca...
Bringing Light to Families Touched by Younger-Onset Dementia with Lorenzo's House
November 08, 2023 11:00 - 49 minutes - 45.5 MBImagine, for a moment, your world is turned upside down—how do you find the light? In 2017, the life of Diana Shulla Cose and that of her family took an unforeseen turn when her husband was diagnosed with younger-onset dementia. The roles within their house transformed rapidly; her young sons, just 11 and 14 at the time, became caregivers, and Diana, balancing being a primary care partner and the family's sole provider. They faced a journey with many challenges, yet, in adversity, they were...
Innovating Care & Connection: Solutions for the Dementia Journey with Ben Atkinson-Willes, CEO of Relish
November 01, 2023 09:00 - 27 minutes - 25.6 MBFaced with the challenge of finding suitable activities for his grandfather living with Alzheimer’s, my guest Ben Atkinson-Wallis set out on a mission: to improve the well-being of individuals living with dementia and, in doing so, enhance their quality of life. Today, he is the CEO of Relish, an online retailer that offers dementia-friendly products and serves as a vital source of information and advice for managing all stages of dementia. Their mission is not just to sell products, but to...
Medicare: Navigating Plans with Dr. Ara Sayabalian, Chief Clinical Officer of TIM
October 30, 2023 15:49 - 33 minutes - 30.7 MBHave you found yourself overwhelmed by the Medicare plans and choices, wondering which path to take for yourself or a loved one? Today we are diving into the world of Medicare with our expert guest Dr. Ara Sayabalian, who not only brings his Harvard Medical School background but also spearheads programs in the senior living industry. In today’s episode, we’re here to help you navigate all the information about Medicare plans, translating healthcare terminology into everyday language that ...
Incorporating Music into Caregiving with Alexis Baker, MT-BC, Founder of Bridgetown Music Therapy
October 25, 2023 10:00 - 34 minutes - 31.9 MBMusic has the power to evoke emotions and memories. It can be used to improve our mood, reduce anxiety, and enhance communication. As we care for our loved ones, we are always in search of tools and resources that foster meaningful connections. Today, my guest is Alexis Baker. Alexis is the founder, owner, and board-certified music therapist for Bridgetown Music Therapy. She has a profound love for music, and her passion has largely been centered on working with older adults, specifically t...
Decoding Dementia: Futureproof Your Brain with Mitchell Clionsky, PhD Neuropsychologist & Author of “Dementia Prevention: Using Your Head to Save Your Brain”
October 18, 2023 09:01 - 1 hour - 58 MBResearch suggests one in every two dementia cases can be prevented. Today, my guest is Mitchell Clionsky PhD, a board-certified clinical neuropsychologist with 45 years of experience evaluating and treating patients with MCI, dementia, ADHD, and brain injury. In their book, “Dementia Prevention: Using Your Head to Save Your Brain”, Emily Clionsky MD and Mitchell Clionsky PhD, renowned "braindocs", guide you on a path to brain health through their unique, evidence-backed approach combi...
Restoring Rest: A Look at Sleep and Incontinence with Deanna Vigliotta, National Manager for Seni
October 15, 2023 15:38 - 47 minutes - 43.8 MBDo you know that simple changes in our understanding of sleep and addressing incontinence can drastically improve the quality of life for both caregivers and their loved ones? Today, we're diving into the intricate dance between sleep, incontinence, and how it impacts the quality of life for both caregivers and those they care for. My guest today is Deanna Vigliotta, with a vast 30-year background in healthcare sales and sales management, now with Seni. Their mission is to support, pro...
The Transformative Power of Music in Dementia Care with Stephen Hunt, CEO & Co-Founder at Music Health
October 11, 2023 09:00 - 50 minutes - 46.2 MBHave you ever felt the transformative power of a familiar melody transporting you back to a cherished memory? My guest today is Stephen Hunt, he is the CEO and co-founder of Music Health, a company that brilliantly interweaves technology with music. Stephen shares how music can be a beacon of hope and connection, especially for those living with dementia. Stephen's journey into this mission began with a personal passion for music. From childhood aspirations of becoming a musician to the altr...
Caring From Within: Exploring Caregiver Anxiety and Self-Love with Carrie Aalberts BS, MS, CDP, CMDCP, @DementiaDarling
October 09, 2023 13:22 - 48 minutes - 44.6 MBHave you considered the silent strain and emotional journey that family caregivers of older adults navigate daily, especially when it comes to mental health and anxiety? Today, I'm honored to have Carrie Aalberts, known as the "Dementia Darling," join our conversation. With a Master of Science in Gerontology and a decade immersed in senior care, Carrie created 'Dementia Darling' to offer a sanctuary for dementia caregivers. A place where community is built, support is unconditional, and reso...
Connective Moments: Dementia Care & Beyond with Mandy Shoemaker, Co-Founder of Connectivities
October 04, 2023 14:14 - 46 minutes - 42.2 MBHow do we engage with our older adults in ways that bring genuine connection, joy, and therapeutic benefits? Co-founders of Mandy Shoemaker and Michala Gibson have been on a mission to answer that question. Through the establishment of group homes for people living with dementia, to the publication of their book "Now is Found" in 2021, they have consistently sought to foster community, connection, and control for those in the dementia community. Their latest endeavor, Connectivities, is a mo...
Breaking the Silence: Building a Trauma-Informed Community with Jean Hartnett, MHSA, NNA, CDP, YTT, CNA & Founder of Radical Sabbatical
September 27, 2023 09:00 - 52 minutes - 48.3 MBHow does having an understanding of childhood adversity and trauma shape the way we care for and support our older adults today? My guest today is Jean Hartnett. Jean Hartnett is a visionary healthcare leader with over 25 years of executive experience serving the older adult population. She has not only worked hands-on with older adults but also collaborated extensively with professionals in the field. Beyond her direct experience, Jean possesses a profound understanding of public health pol...