My Care Advisors
Listen in to inform, inspire and help older adults and caregivers navigate the wonderful, yet at many times, challenging journey of aging. You will hear from senior care advisors, aging specialists, and other leading experts as they shine a light on topics that are important to older adults and caregivers, and we’ll also provide resources, tips and tools that will help you make informed decisions along the way.
Episodes
7 days ago
What is Memory Care?
7 days ago
7 days ago
Did you know that approximately 55 million people worldwide are estimated to be living with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and other dementias? AD is a degenerative brain disease and the most common form of dementia. As the disease progresses, many individuals with AD or dementia may require additional care to ensure their safety. For instance, during the middle to late stages of AD, providing 24-hour supervision may become necessary. In certain cases, more specialized care may be required. It is crucial to be prepared and aware of care options to effectively meet the needs of a loved one.
Listen in as we explore the definition and purpose of memory care, highlighting the specialized care and support it offers for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.
Tune in to hear more about the following:
Learn what memory care is and the specialized services provided for individuals receiving this care
Differentiate why memory care services differ from those offered in assisted living communities
Hear about a few of the key benefits of memory care for residents and their families
Listen to an inspiring client story about the positive impact of memory care for a loved one
Discover different considerations that go into selecting a memory care facility for a loved one
To view resources, show notes and access more My Care Advisors episodes, visit mycareadvisors.com. We are grateful to be your guide.
Thursday Apr 18, 2024
Finding the Right Care Setting for Your Aging Loved One
Thursday Apr 18, 2024
Thursday Apr 18, 2024
With more than 30,000 assisted living communities in the U.S., navigating the right care setting or community can be overwhelming, especially for older adults and their family caregivers.
In this episode, we'll explore key considerations for choosing a care setting, common challenges faced by families, the supportive CarePatrol process, an inspiring client success story, and valuable resources.
Listen in as we uncover insights and strategies to help you make informed and compassionate decisions for your loved ones.
Tune in to hear more about the following:
Discover the key factors to consider when choosing a care setting for an aging loved one.
Learn about common challenges that families face when making these difficult decisions
Discover how the CarePatrol process and Senior Care Advisors support older adults and family caregivers during the process.
Listen to an inspirational client story of finding the right care setting.
Gain insight into resources and support networks available to families seeking guidance to navigate the process of finding the senior living setting.
To view resources, show notes and access more My Care Advisors episodes, visit mycareadvisors.com. We are grateful to be your guide.
Wednesday Mar 20, 2024
Safe Spaces: Navigating Fall Prevention for Aging Parents
Wednesday Mar 20, 2024
Wednesday Mar 20, 2024
Did you know? Each year more than one in four older adults, age 65 and older, experience a fall, resulting in about 3 million emergency department visits, 950,000 hospitalizations and 32,000 deaths. Many of these falls are preventable. (CDC)
According to a recent report from Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), falls are the leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries in this age group. About 20-30 percent of these falls result in moderate to severe injuries, leading to reduced mobility, independence, and an increased risk of premature death. Shockingly, in 2019, 88 percent of older adult hip fractures were caused by falls.
In this episode entitled "Safe Spaces: Navigating Fall Prevention for Aging Parents," we connect with Kisha Steineger, Certified Senior Advisor® and Senior Care Consultant of CarePatrol Northeast Kansas. Join us as she provides tips, insights, and ideas on the critical topic of fall prevention.
Listen in to hear about the following:
Discover common causes of falls among aging adults and how families can identify potential risks in the home
Learn how families can support their aging parents with maintaining mobility and independence while also ensuring their safety
Find out how to initiate conversations about fall prevention and how to make key points
Listen to real stories from past clients about the importance of fall prevention
Stay proactive in monitoring and adapting aging parents’ fall prevention strategies
Create fall prevention plans with the help of a healthcare professional
Gain insights on helpful resources and support networks available to you
To view resources, show notes and access more My Care Advisors episodes, visit mycareadvisors.com. We are grateful to be your guide.
Wednesday Feb 21, 2024
Informed Decisions: Benefits of Professional Senior Living Advice
Wednesday Feb 21, 2024
Wednesday Feb 21, 2024
Finding the right Assisted Living Community is more important than ever, and that's because there are more senior living options today than there ever have been. For instance, did you know that nearly 31,000 Assisted Living Communities span across the United States alone? Since that's the case, finding the perfect match for your loved one can prove difficult.
But help is here. In today's episode entitled "Informed Decisions: Benefits of Professional Senior Living Advice," we sit down with Tracy Toomer, Certified Senior Advisor and Owner at CarePatrol Collin County-Central, while she provides tips, insights, and more for choosing the best care.
Listen in to hear about the following:
Learn what the role of a Senior Living Advisor means and some of the services they offer
Discover how working with a Senior Living Advisor can help you navigate the complicated world of Assisted Living
Hear about the importance of working with a Senior Living Advisor to avoid potential dangers or hazards
Walk away with tips and sight from a Senior Living Advisor past experiences
Determine some of the resources available to you and where to find them
To view resources, show notes and access more My Care Advisors episodes, visit mycareadvisors.com. We are grateful to be your guide.
Tuesday Jan 23, 2024
Assisted Living - Knowing Your Options
Tuesday Jan 23, 2024
Tuesday Jan 23, 2024
Did you know that more than 800,000 older adults reside in 30,000 assisted living communities in the US and the majority of these residents are the "oldest old," or age 85 and older, female, and non-Hispanic white. Of those residents, 4 in 10 are living with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias. Services offered when residing in an Assisted Living Community can vary greatly. Understanding the differences is important when selecting the best setting to help live one’s best life.
In this episode, Mary Beth Visniski, Certified Senior Advisor®, Certified Placement and Referral Specialist, Certified Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia Care Trainer® and Certified Dementia Practitioner® will share her insight on what exactly is Assisted Living and need to know information as one considers this senior living option.
Listen in to hear about the following:
What is an Assisted Living Community, the range of services provided and who typically resides in this setting.
Benefits of residing in an Assisted Living community.
Tips for older adults and family caregivers when starting the search for Assisted Living community options.
Recommended resources for older adults and family caregivers to consider when selecting an Assisted Living Community.
To view resources, show notes and access more My Care Advisors episodes, visit mycareadvisors.com. We are grateful to be your guide.
Thursday Dec 14, 2023
Home for the Holidays: Recognizing When Extra Support May Be Needed
Thursday Dec 14, 2023
Thursday Dec 14, 2023
We all know just how special it is to gather with family and friends, near and far, share stories of the past, and simply be together once again. In addition to creating new memories, the holiday season also provides a unique opportunity to engage in a thoughtful "check-in" on the well-being of our older loved ones.
It's essential to watch out for signs and situations that may indicate a need for extra support, ensuring that the holidays remain not only merry but also safe for everyone involved.
If you’re not sure where to begin, this episode will guide you through ways to prepare your home for family visits, focusing on the care needs of your elderly loved one and recognizing when they might need assistance.
Regardless of whether you’ve been noticing some telltale signs for a while or are simply curious as to what they are, this episode promises to provide you with insights to ensure your loved one gets the exact kind of care they need.
Listen in and learn how to prevent avoidable issues from happening, learn how to spot the signs of needing support, and master the art of empathetic communication with your loved one. Learn about the following:
Considerations to keep in mind when hosting older adults who may have special care needs
Steps hosts can take to prepare their home for older adults who will be visiting during the holidays
Ways to keep older adults engaged in family activities during the holidays
Common signs and situations that might indicate that an older loved one needs extra support
Tips on starting the conversation about the next steps of care with an elderly loved one
To view resources, show notes and access more My Care Advisors episodes, visit mycareadvisors.com. We are grateful to be your guide.
Thursday Nov 30, 2023
Navigating the Family Caregiver Role in Assisted Living
Thursday Nov 30, 2023
Thursday Nov 30, 2023
Families navigating the transition of a loved one into an Assisted Living Community face the responsibility of deciding on the best care option for their loved one. Throughout the care transition journey, caregivers can experience a mix of emotions and doubts that may take time to disappear, which is why having a strong support system and helpful resources can make a great difference.
This episode delves into the heart of a matter that touches the lives of countless families—assisted living and the profound role of family caregivers. We will explore the intricate web of responsibilities, emotions, and decisions that family caregivers grapple with when their loved ones transition into an Assisted Living Community, and we will share stories, challenges, and solutions that form the tapestry of caring connections, no matter the location.
Whether you're a seasoned family caregiver or just beginning to navigate this path, this episode promises to provide valuable insights and guidance to help you thrive in this essential role. Tune in to learn about the following:
Insights into the vital role of family caregivers and the unique challenges they face when supporting their older adult family members when residing in an assisted living community
The multifaceted roles that family caregivers assume when it comes to fulfilling the care needs of their loved ones residing in an assisted living community
Key factors that influence the family caregiving roles and the level of demand, especially when older adults are transitioning to an assisted living community
Practical tips and strategies that family caregivers can employ to effectively manage their adjusted roles, nurture relationships, and support their loved ones during the care transition
A client's inspiring journey of successfully navigating the transition to an assisted living community, highlighting the strategies and support that led to a positive outcome
Valuable resources and tools for both older adults and family caregivers to help them navigate the challenges and uncertainties of aging and assisted living
To view resources, show notes and access more My Care Advisors episodes, visit mycareadvisors.com. We are grateful to be your guide.
Thursday Nov 16, 2023
The Time is Now: Preparing for the Costs of Aging
Thursday Nov 16, 2023
Thursday Nov 16, 2023
Did you know? The cost of care tends to increase as one ages due to a variety of factors, including the potential for declining health, increased medical needs, and a greater reliance on assistance for daily activities.
There is a prevailing misunderstanding that older adults possess significant assets and are thus prepared to cover the costs of their care needs. However, the truth is that a substantial majority, a staggering 80%, currently face financial challenges or are at risk of encountering economic instability as they age.
Listen in for insights on how to prepare for the costs of aging, including potential care expenses, funding strategies and resources. Learn about the following:
Myths about paying for care as one ages
Potential expenses associated with aging that many may not consider
A client story that underscores the importance of preparing for the costs of aging
Funding strategies and options to consider to ensure older adults and the family caregivers are in the best position to meet care needs (e.g., Long-term care insurance, retirement savings, government assistance programs, and family support, etc.)
Tips to start the conversation with older loved ones about their care wishes and paying for care
Helpful resources for older adults and their family caregivers
To view resources, show notes and access more My Care Advisors episodes, visit mycareadvisors.com. We are grateful to be your guide.
Thursday Nov 02, 2023
What to Look for When Visiting an Aging Parent
Thursday Nov 02, 2023
Thursday Nov 02, 2023
Visiting loved ones as they age can be a deeply meaningful experience, but it also comes with a responsibility to ensure their well-being. During these visits, it's essential to be observant and proactive in assessing their physical, emotional, and cognitive health.
Listen to this episode as we explore care needs indicators to pay attention to, share valuable insights, and offer practical tips to help you make the most out of your visits while providing the best care for your aging loved ones. Learn about the following:
Misconceptions or common mistakes made when visiting aging parents
Key change indicators to consider during visits, such as physical, behavioral, cognitive and mental health
Steps to take if one identifies that the current living environment is not meeting care needs
Tips for initiating conversations regarding overall well-being, especially if care needs have changed since the last visit
Practical tips for making the most out of visits with aging parents and ensuring that their needs are met effectively
Available resources or tools to help adult children keep track of their aging parents' health and well-being between visits
To view resources, show notes and access more My Care Advisors episodes, visit mycareadvisors.com. We are grateful to be your guide.
Thursday Oct 19, 2023
Healthy Aging: When Is it Time to Hang Up the Keys?
Thursday Oct 19, 2023
Thursday Oct 19, 2023
Did you know? People aged 70 and older are more likely to crash than any other age group besides drivers age 25 and younger.
As a loved one ages, concerns about their ability to continue driving safely may arise. For many of us, driving symbolizes freedom and independence. However, it's essential to acknowledge promptly that the abilities of an aging adult can change, affecting their overall safety on the road.
Research indicates that the age at which people typically stop driving varies widely due to factors such as health, mobility, and access to alternative transportation options. Some individuals can drive competently well into their 80s and beyond, while others may face difficulties in their 60s or even earlier. Most, however, drive 7 to 10 years longer than they should.
Having a conversation with an older adult about when it might be time to stop driving can be challenging but is crucial for their safety and the safety of others on the road.
Tune in for tips and resources to help you navigate these conversations and better support the safety of your loved one. Learn about the following:
Signs that it may be time for an older adult to stop driving
The impact of age on safe driving
A client story of an older adult and their family highlighting a time when driving safety was impacted
Tips to start the conversation with a parent or older adult about driving safety and when it may be time to hang up the keys
Professionals who may help navigate challenging discussions and decisions
Helpful resources for older adults and their family caregivers
To view resources, show notes and access more My Care Advisors episodes, visit mycareadvisors.com. We are grateful to be your guide.
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Whether you are an aging adult or a caregiver, you should never feel alone in this journey. We are here for you.