The Whole Care Network

We’re excited to feature a roundtable discussion with a group of amazing hospice nurses discussing what makes a “good death” and the rituals they’ve created for themselves and caregivers. Jean Ann Menna, Carrie Oram, and Shelley Henry have many years of end of life nursing experience. Along with Helen, they share the many facets of helping patients create good deaths for themselves. This conversation is a great inside look into how hospice nurses care for families when death occurs. Find Jean Anne Menna and her book “Go with Grace: A Simple Guide to Caring for Someone on Hospice” here. Connect with guest Carrie Oram at Angel Heart Holistics here. Find Shelley Henry and Amity Staffing at amitystaffing.com Podcast host Helen Bauer is a great addition to your event or conference! For speaking inquiries, send an email to [email protected]. Hospice Navigation Services understands that you need unbiased, expert support to have the best end of life experience possible. And we believe you deserve to get good hospice care. If you have questions about hospice care for yourself or someone you care about, Hospice Navigation Services can help. Whether you want to connect by phone or video, you can book a FREE 30-Minute Hospice Navigation Session, or a more in-depth 60-Minute Navigation Session for $95. If you need to troubleshoot the care you’re already receiving, we’re here to answer your questions. A 60-Minute Navigation Session by video call allows up to 3 family members to get the same expert information at the same time. Book a session with an expert Hospice Navigator at theheartofhospice.com. Connect with The Heart of Hospice Podcast and host Helen Bauer Website: theheartofhospice.com Social media: Facebook Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Email: [email protected] More podcast episodes: The Heart of Hospice Podcast

Are you feeling overwhelmed trying to care for aging parents while raising children? Do you find yourself stretched thin between different generations, each with their own unique needs? My name is Sue Ryan. As a caregiver for loved ones with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia, I understand the unique challenges faced by those in the sandwich generations. I recently spoke with Christy Byrne Yates, a licensed educational psychologist and author of “Building a Legacy of Love: Thriving in the Sandwich Generation.” Christy has personally navigated the challenges of caring for aging parents while raising her own children, and she brings both professional expertise and lived experience to help families thrive during this demanding season of life. Connect with us and share your tips: Website: https://thecaregiversjourney.org/Donate: https://give.cornerstone.cc/thecaregiversjourneyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaregiversjourney/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecaregiversjourneys/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suearmstrongryan/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancytreaster/Email: [email protected], [email protected] Full Show Notes Additional Resources Mentioned Chirstyyates.com - https://www.christyyates.com/Support the nonprofit The Caregiver's Journey: https://give.cornerstone.cc/thecaregiversjourney Takeaways Tip 1: C — Choose Your Role as a Caregiver The first step in successfully navigating the sandwich generation is making a conscious choice to embrace your caregiving role. Many people say “I didn’t choose this.” or “I had no choice.” We always have a choice. Even not making a choice is still a choice. Tip 2: A — Address the ‘Elephants’ in the Room Successful sandwich generation caregiving requires having difficult conversations early and often. These are the ‘elephants’ dancing in every family room that everyone sees — but no one wants to discuss. Tip 3: R — Recharge Through Ruthless Self-Care Recharging takes on critical importance when you’re caring for multiple generations. Self-care isn’t selfish — it’s essential for everyone you’re caring for. Tip 4: E — Enlist Your Support Team You’re not meant to journey alone, and this is especially true for sandwich generation caregivers who face multiple competing demands. Building a comprehensive support team is essential for sustainable caregiving. Tip 5: S — Surrender Control and Embrace Grace Perhaps the most challenging aspect of sandwich generation caregiving is accepting that you cannot control everything, even though you desperately want to. If everyone could just do things your way, life would be so much easier — but that’s not reality. Read More in This Blog here

There isn’t a greeting card for every type of grief. Dr. Ken Doka joins the podcast in this episode to talk about anticipatory and disenfranchised grief. Before death even occurs, people are grieving - anticipating the loss of identity, functional ability, roles, and relationships as well as the actual loss that comes with death itself. This kind of grief is felt by both the person who’s dying and the caregivers and family. Disenfranchised grief occurs when the relationship with the deceased person wasn’t one that’s recognized by society, and can't be publically mourned. Ex-spouses, abusive and estranged relationships can all be situations of disenfranchised grief. It can be difficult to find support for grief like this, making the griever feel isolated. Disenfranchised grief can be more complicated than grief related to healthy and close relationships. If you need information about grief, check out the Hospice and Grief Info section of the Hospice Foundation of America’s website. Website: hospicefoundation.org Research on grieving: hospicefoundation.org/research-on-grief-and-grieving Grief and other types of loss: hospicefoundation.org/grief-and-other-types-of-loss Facebook: www.facebook.com/hospicefoundation Instagram: www.instagram.com/hfahospice X: x.com/hfahospice Hospice Navigation Services understands that you need unbiased, expert support to have the best end of life experience possible. And we believe you deserve to get good hospice care. If you have questions about hospice care for yourself or someone you care about, Hospice Navigation Services can help. Whether you want to connect by phone or video, you can book a FREE 30-Minute Hospice Navigation Session, or a more in-depth 60-Minute Navigation Session for $95. If you need to troubleshoot the care you’re already receiving, we’re here to answer your questions. A 60-Minute Navigation Session by video call allows up to 3 family members to get the same expert information at the same time. Book a session with an expert Hospice Navigator at theheartofhospice.com. Connect with The Heart of Hospice Podcast and host Helen Bauer Website: theheartofhospice.com Social media: Facebook Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Email: [email protected] More podcast episodes: The Heart of Hospice Podcast Podcast host Helen Bauer is a great addition to your event or conference! For speaking inquiries, send an email to [email protected].

In this episode of AgingGayfully®, hosts Chris MacLellan and Josh Wilson discuss the desire for change and new beginnings, particularly in light of recent events affecting the LGBTQ community. They reflect on the importance of community and belonging, navigating the current political climate, and the challenges of personal safety. The conversation also touches on the implications of relocation and the significance of personal connections in times of uncertainty. Takeaways Greg Louganis is moving to Panama for a fresh start.The desire to relocate is influenced by the current political climate.Community plays a crucial role in supporting individuals during tough times.Many LGBTQ individuals are considering moving to more accepting environments. The importance of personal connections and family when considering relocation.Navigating the noise of social media and AI-generated content is challenging.Historical patterns can inform current societal issues.The fear of leaving behind those who cannot move is significant. Engaging with the community is essential for support and understanding. TThe hosts encourage listeners to share their thoughts on relocation. Let’s AgeGayfully® together, with intention, humor, and each other. A gay senior, Christopher MacLellan, and an ally, Josh Wilson, podcasting about life, love, liberty and travel. Don’t Say Gay?… Say AgingGayfully®! AgingGayfully® is about living life with dignity in an age-friendly society regardless of orientation or economic status because longevity is a justice issue. AgingGayfully® is about finding your voice as we age. We are all part of the aging process and have real connections in diversity. AgingGayfully® is a modern type of activism that supports the concept of belonging. AgingGayfully® is about Adventure, Leisure, Travel, being a citizen of the world, traveling to destinations, and being part of the global community as we age and prosper in body, mind, and spirit.

In this episode, host Marianne Sciucco and acquisitions editor Sheila Luna sit down with Shari Ross, a senior healthcare professional and author of “Senior Living Made S.I.M.P.L.E.: A Real World Guide for Navigating Senior Care for Your Loved One.” Shari’s expertise spans her professional experience in senior living communities and her personal connection to dementia through family. This conversation explores the emotional, practical, and logistical challenges families face when transitioning loved ones to senior living, with a focus on memory care, language barriers, and advocacy. In this episode: Shari discusses her background as a senior healthcare specialist, working in senior living communities, and her personal caregiving experience with her grandmother.She provides an overview of her new guide, “Senior Living Made S.I.M.P.L.E.,” and how it can help make senior living transitions easier for all.The book’s conversational, relatable, and honest approach to guiding families through the overwhelming senior care landscape is discussedShari’s “S.I.M.P.L.E.” framework is explained: Support, Information, Matching, Preparation, Letting Go, Engagement.In addition, Shari reframes the “new” memory Care CommunitiesThe importance of language—using terms like “community” and “neighborhood” to foster warmth and reduce stigma.Shari provides pointers on transitioning to Community LivingWhy adult children and spouses often find themselves overwhelmed and unsure where to start, and how to approach those milestones.The need to tour and “feel the vibe,” prioritize care and community over aesthetics.The power of social engagement, good nutrition, and routine in enhancing quality of life. Aging in Place vs. Senior Living The hidden burdens and risks of managing aging at home—care coordination, safety concerns, and social isolation.Shari’s research: Most homes aren’t designed for aging adults; successful “aging in place” requires massive support.Community living can provide more safety, social interaction, and peace of mind for both loved ones and families. Buy Shari’s book here Learn more about Shari Ross and her resources and services at seniorlivingmadesimple.com. Key Quotes: “Memory care is not a punishment; it’s a lifeline.”“Independence without a support net is just a slow-motion disaster.”“Be observant, be vocal, and trust your gut.” Connect with AlzAuthors: Subscribe to the PodcastJoin the NewsletterFollow on YouTube About the Moderator Marianne Sciucco About the Podcast AlzAuthors is the global community of authors writing about Alzheimer’s and dementia from personal experience to light the way for others. Our podcast introduces you to our authors who share their stories and insights to provide knowledge, comfort, and support. Please subscribe so you don’t miss a word. If our authors’ stories move you, please leave a review. And don’t forget to share our podcast with family and friends on their own dementia journeys. We are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Our ongoing work supports our mission to lift the silence and stigma of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Ideas and opinions expressed in this podcast belong to the speakers and not AlzAuthors. Always consult your healthcare provider and legal and financial consultants for advice on any of the topics covered here. Thanks for listening. We are a Whole Care Network Featured Podcast Proud to be on The Health Podcast Network Find us on The World Podcast Network and babyboomer.org Want to be on the podcast? Here’s what you need to know We've got merch! Shop our Store

Do you know what you need to do immediately after your loved one passes? Many caregivers don't. Are you worried about missing important tasks or feeling overwhelmed by the sheer volume of administrative, financial, and legal responsibilities? We are Sue Ryan and Nancy Treaster. As caregivers for our loved ones with Alzheimer's and other types of dementia, we've navigated the challenging process of handling death-related responsibilities firsthand. Between us, we've experienced the loss of multiple loved ones and learned valuable lessons about what needs to be done and when. Connect with us and share your tips: Website: https://thecaregiversjourney.org/ Donate: https://give.cornerstone.cc/thecaregiversjourney Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaregiversjourney/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecaregiversjourneys/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suearmstrongryan/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancytreaster/ Email: [email protected], [email protected] Full Show Notes If you are following along with our 20 step Navigating Dementia Caregiving Roadmap guide this is part of Step 20. This is the first guide listed on our guides page. There are many things that can be done ahead of time. We covered these in podcast episode 30 - End of life preplanning and blog as well as in the matching worksheet you can find on our website in the guides section called ‘End of Life Service Worksheet’. Click here to get to the Guides page, scroll down to find the sheet. Tip 1: Prioritize these things immediately after death1. Tip 2: Move to this list within the first few days and weeks Tip 3: Over the next few weeks and months - manage their estate Tip 4: Focus on the things to prioritize once the estate has been closed

Chris and Josh explore those things that help us reclaim our calm in the midst of chaos and disruption. A gay senior, Christopher MacLellan, and an ally, Josh Wilson, podcasting about life, love, liberty and travel. Don’t Say Gay?… Say AgingGayfully®! AgingGayfully® is about living life with dignity in an age-friendly society regardless of orientation or economic status because longevity is a justice issue. AgingGayfully® is about finding your voice as we age. We are all part of the aging process and have real connections in diversity. AgingGayfully® is a modern type of activism that supports the concept of belonging. AgingGayfully® is about Adventure, Leisure, Travel, being a citizen of the world, traveling to destinations, and being part of the global community as we age and prosper in body, mind, and spirit.

In this episode of Time to Care Like Caregivers, Isabel Melgarejo sits down with psychologist, author, and podcast host Dr. Mara Karpel to explore the hidden impact of ageism in healthcare and caregiving. From her personal journey advocating for her mother to her upcoming book on navigating an ageist system, Dr. Karpel shares insights, tools, and hope for caregivers who often feel unheard. A powerful conversation about dignity, advocacy, and finding passion at any age

Nancy Treaster, a retired software industry executive turned Certified Caregiving Consultant, co-founded The Caregiver’s Journey with longtime friend Sue Ryan after both personally faced the challenges of dementia caregiving for multiple family members. Nancy has supported her father through Parkinson’s, her father-in-law through Alzheimer’s, and her husband through Frontotemporal Dementia. Drawing on her professional background and personal experience, Nancy offers a compassionate yet practical approach that empowers family caregivers to face their caregiving journey with confidence, fewer surprises, and more effective solutions. In this episode, we talk about the difference between palliative care and hospice care—and why both are often underutilized. Nancy also shares insights on the stages of grief (including a unique concept called “drip grief”), her love of travel, the power of podcasting, and how caregivers can access an interactive roadmap filled with practical tools and resources to guide them on their caregiving journey. Show notes with product and resource links: http://bit.ly/HHCPod218 Receive the podcast in your email here: http://bit.ly/2G4qvBv Order a copy of Elizabeth's book Just for You: a Daily Self Care Journal: http://bit.ly/HHCjournal For podcast sponsorship opportunities contact Elizabeth: https://happyhealthycaregiver.com/contact-us/ The Happy Healthy Caregiver podcast is part of the Whole Care Network. Rate and Review the podcast: https://bit.ly/HHCPODREVIEW

Let’s AgeGayfully® together, with intention, humor, and each other. Aging Gayfully hits the jukebox! Josh and Chris time-travel through the soundtrack of their lives—from 60s Motown and The Big Chill memories, to 70s Elton John and eight-tracks, to MTV-fueled 80s anthems like “Take On Me,” and finally a 90s detour to the Three Tenors that sparked a love of classical music. Along the way: why everyone needs “their pub,” the $20 bartender tip rule, TV shows that made us music fans, and how orchestral soundtracks and symphonies still soothe the brain as we age. It’s nostalgia, community, and the science-backed wellness of music—served with bartender-level hospitality. Keywords: LGBTQ+ aging, music and memory, Motown, Elton John, MTV, 80s pop, classical music, wellbeing, community, travel & leisure. A gay senior, Christopher MacLellan, and an ally, Josh Wilson, podcasting about life, love, liberty and travel. Don’t Say Gay?… Say AgingGayfully®! AgingGayfully® is about living life with dignity in an age-friendly society regardless of orientation or economic status because longevity is a justice issue. AgingGayfully® is about finding your voice as we age. We are all part of the aging process and have real connections in diversity. AgingGayfully® is a modern type of activism that supports the concept of belonging. AgingGayfully® is about Adventure, Leisure, Travel, being a citizen of the world, traveling to destinations, and being part of the global community as we age and prosper in body, mind, and spirit.

Are you struggling to pull your family together to create a working support system for someone living with dementia? Do you find family members disagreeing on what needs to be done or how to help? You're not alone, and there's a path forward. We are Sue Ryan and Nancy Treaster. As caregivers for our loved ones with Alzheimer's and other types of dementia, we've learned that transforming family dynamics into effective teamwork is one of the most challenging—yet most rewarding—aspects of the caregiving journey. In this episode, we spoke with Dr. Barry Jacobs, a clinical psychologist and family therapist who brings both professional expertise and personal caregiving experience to this conversation. Barry cared for his mother with vascular dementia and his stepfather with Alzheimer's disease for seven years, and he co-authored the AARP Caregiver Answer Book with his wife, psychologist Julia Mayer. This content aligns with Step 8 of our Navigating Dementia Caregiving Roadmap: Start Planning for the Next Stage of Care, particularly when building your personal support network of family and friends. Connect with us and share your tips: Website: https://thecaregiversjourney.org/Donate: https://give.cornerstone.cc/thecaregiversjourneyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaregiversjourney/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecaregiversjourneys/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suearmstrongryan/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancytreaster/Email: [email protected], [email protected] Full Show Notes https://thecaregiversjourney.org/50-family-dynamics-in-caregiving-four-essential-tips-alzheimers-and-other-dementias/ Additional Resources Mentioned Barry’s website www.caregiveranswerbook.comBuy the Caregiver Answer Book on Amazon https://amzn.to/4i9V9ZLNavigating Dementia Caregiving Roadmap guide https://thecaregiversjourney.org/guides/#guidesSupport the nonprofit The Caregiver's Journey: https://give.cornerstone.cc/thecaregiversjourney Takeaways Transforming your family into an effective caregiving team isn’t easy. It’s worth the effort — not just for your loved one with dementia — but for every member of your family. These four tips provide a framework: Create consensus (everyone on the same page).Define an ongoing format for decision making (regular meetings with clear rhythm).Build a family caregiving plan (who does what and when).Plan to deal with conflict (don’t let disagreements become disrespectful).

My guest today is world-renowned dementia expert Teepa Snow, occupational therapist and founder of the Positive Approach to Care, which offers training, services, and resources to families and professionals worldwide. Teepa has spent decades helping people understand the brain changes behind dementia and, just as importantly, how to support both the person living with dementia and the caregiver. In our conversation, we discuss strategies for interacting with your care partner from mild cognitive impairment on, what changes and what stays the same, accepting help from others, why knowing your person and knowing yourself are equally essential while providing care and so much more. TeepaSnow.com Daughterhood.org TRANSCRIPT