My Care Advisors

Home for the Holidays: Recognizing When Extra Support May Be Needed

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.

Navigating the Family Caregiver Role in Assisted Living

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.

The Time is Now: Preparing for the Costs of Aging

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.

What to Look for When Visiting an Aging Parent

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.

Healthy Aging: When Is it Time to Hang Up the Keys?

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.

When Returning Home Isn’t an Immediate Option

Post-hospitalization care for older adults, especially after a serious medical event, does not always include going back home. In fact, research shows that older adults who are not able to recover their cognitive and physical function after hospitalization for an acute illness face a higher chance of rehospitalization, disability, mortality, and placement in a long-term care facility.
To better help individuals improve function for post-hospitalization recovery, including cardiac, stroke and pulmonary rehab, strengthening, hip and knee replacements, and pain management, there are post-acute care options available for different care needs.
For families and caregivers navigating care transitions with a loved one, understanding the benefits of post-acute care, as well as the different options available, will make a positive difference in the care outcomes of the older adult. 
 
Tune in for resources to better understand post-hospitalization care and obtain practical tips on initiating these essential conversations with a loved one. Learn about the following:
Misconceptions about returning directly to home after a hospital stay due to injury or surgery, especially for older adults
What if a stroke, fall or accident leads a loved one to have a short-term stay in post-acute rehab where they learn they cannot go home due to extra support that is needed? What are considerations older adults and their family caregivers should plan for?  
A client story that underscores the importance of preparing for care needs and steps to consider when navigating discharge from a hospital or rehab facility
Tips to start the conversation with older loved ones about their care wishes
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.

Mindful Aging: Keeping Your Brain Sharp

Did you know? Our brains get much of their power from 100 billion nerve cells, or neurons, that control reading, remembering, deciding, moving and other activities that involve thinking and planning. 
Cognitive health, or the ability to think clearly, learn, and remember, is essential to performing everyday activities. It is crucial to keep one’s brain sharp to live fully, especially as one ages. 
Brain health is of utmost importance for older adults because it directly affects one’s overall well-being, quality of life, and independence. With age, the brain undergoes changes that can impact cognitive functions, memory, and emotional well-being. Taking steps to improve brain or cognitive function can greatly increase quality of life and significantly impact an individual’s ability to engage in activities. 
 
Tune in for insights about brain health, how it is impacted by age, and tips for supporting it. Learn about the following:
What is meant by brain health
How can brain health be impacted, especially as one ages (e.g., age-related, injury, dementia, etc.)
A brief overview of recent Alzheimer’s disease prevention studies and the brain health connection (e.g., heart-head connection, etc.)
Tips to help keep one’s brain sharp at any age
Helpful resources for older adults to help maintain and improve brain health
To view resources, show notes and access more My Care Advisors episodes, visit mycareadvisors.com. We are grateful to be your guide.

Having ‘The Talk’: How Siblings Can Navigate Assisted Living Conversations

In the journey of discussing assisted living options with aging parents or loved ones, the involvement of siblings or family caregivers can significantly influence the process. 
These conversations are often marked by complex emotions, differing viewpoints, and the challenge of making decisions that prioritize the well-being and wishes of the aging loved one.
Being proactive about understanding how additional support will significantly improve a loved one’s quality of life can help establish a path to decisions that are focused on the success of the aging adult.
 
Gain insights about assisted living conversations, including ways to approach care options with siblings, caregivers and older adults. Tune in to learn about the following:
Navigating sibling or family caregiver conversations if an aging parent or loved one needs extra support
Suggested “Dos and Don'ts” when discussing senior care options
Helpful resources to help navigate care options
To view resources, show notes and access more My Care Advisors episodes, visit mycareadvisors.com. We are grateful to be your guide.

Dispelling Assisted Living Myths

Assisted living is part of a continuum of long-term care services that provides a combination of housing, personal care services, and health care support services. 
If you or a family member are experiencing mixed feelings about the concept of assisted living, take comfort in knowing that you are not alone. Numerous myths and misunderstandings surround the idea of life in an assisted living community.
When selecting the right community to meet one’s needs, it's crucial to distinguish between reality and fiction. Listen in to this episode as we explore: 
Common misconceptions and frequently asked questions regarding assisted living
Typical services offered to older adults residing in an assisted living community
Tips for determining the right assisted living community to meet the needs of the older adult
Questions to ask a Senior Care Advisor or healthcare professional to help make informed decisions about available care options
Helpful resources for older adults and caregivers to access 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.

Therapy Solutions No Matter the Location

For older adults recovering from an injury, surgery or illness, there are various therapy services that can support them throughout the process in order to ensure the best health outcomes.
Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists and Speech/Language Pathology professionals provide services that can help older adults feel better, achieve their health goals and improve their quality of life. 
 
Learn about the differences between each therapy service and how they can support the health goals of older adults and the overall caregiving journey, through the following insights:
The differences between Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Speech/Language Pathology services
Typical reasons or conditions for why therapy services are prescribed
Frequently asked questions about therapy services
Questions to ask when selecting a provider or contracted therapy services at an assisted living community
Helpful resources for older adults and caregivers to learn more about therapy services
To view resources, show notes and access more My Care Advisors episodes, visit mycareadvisors.com. We are grateful to be your guide.