Caregiver Crossing

Holly Hess from CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions joins us for a helpful conversation about dementia support, Memory Cafés, Dementia Friends Indiana, and how families can take the first step when they are not sure where to turn. We talk about what a dementia friendly community looks like in everyday life and how CICOA helps older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers find resources that fit their needs. We also look at Indianapolis’ clinician led response teams and the Hoosier Heroes preparing for the National Veterans Golden Age Games.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Caregiving by nature is an incredibly lonely job. Realizing there are other caregivers out there can change everything. Amanda and Emmalee share how Cocktails & Caregivers shows up in real ways, from care packages and travel support to gatherings where no one has to explain what they are carrying. We also touch on Mythical Kitchen’s Last Meals and how simple questions can open the door to stories caregivers rarely get to tell.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How can talking about death bring more meaning to life? Richard Brendan, a speaker, mentor, and advocate for authentic living, joins Caregiver Crossing to share how open conversations about mortality can shift our perspective, deepen connections, and inspire a more intentional way of living. Richard played a key role in helping Joy’s House host our first Death Café, creating space for Guests and caregivers to reflect on what truly mattersSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Doug joins us to share how chaplain work shows up far beyond hospitals or end of life settings. From workplaces to community spaces, he explains how being present and listening without judgment can change the direction of a hard conversation. We talk about what caregivers often keep to themselves, how to sit with someone who feels overwhelmed, and why simply knowing someone is available can make a difference even if you never reach out.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dave Holder has walked alongside countless families facing some of the hardest decisions they'll ever make. In this episode, he shares what it really looks like to find the right care setting, what families need in those first conversations, and how to build trust when emotions are running high. Dave also reflects on his personal experience as a caregiver, why he believes in the power of community, and what made him say yes to joining the Joy’s House board.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Shelly and Mark share how Pure Memory Water grew out of their years caring for Shelly’s mom as she lived with Alzheimer’s. They talk about what pushed them to start thinking about brain health earlier, why hydration became their entry point, and how small daily habits can fit into real caregiving life. Somewhere along the way, you may also decide it is time to try the pomegranate flavor.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Todd Wagoner and Sydney Wormgoor from Community Health Network’s Healthy Aging Transition Services join Caregiver Crossing to talk about how trauma and dementia shape care decisions and caregiver experiences. They explain how HATS supports families during transitions and how the Vital Minds grant is strengthening brain health education across Marion County. The episode also includes a spotlight on Josh Speidel and a conversation around Shake and Freeze Day and Parkinson’s awareness.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Special Agent Victoria Madtson joins us for a look at the scams targeting families today. She explains why certain calls sound believable, how scammers use pressure to gain control, and the quick steps that help people stay safe in the moment. We also touch on World AIDS Day and Fanconi Anemia as reminders of the many challenges families navigate each year.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.