Dr. Lakelyn is joined by Carmen Bowman, consultant, educator, and founder of Edu-Catering, to discuss the Validation Method, a compassionate approach to dementia care. Caregivers often feel stuck when faced with repeated questions like “Where’s my mom?” or behaviors they don’t understand. Instead of arguing, redirecting, or dismissing, Carmen introduces simple yet powerful techniques—like rephrasing, entering into a loved one’s world, and asking “tell me more”—that reduce stress, build trust, and create space for authentic connection. Through real-life examples, Carmen shows how caregivers can shift their approach and bring more empathy and understanding into daily interactions.

Episode highlights include:

-What the Validation Method is and why it matters in dementia care

-Why “arguing” or “redirecting” often increases stress and distrust

-How to rephrase questions with empathy to build trust

-The power of presence, slowing down, and stepping into a loved one’s world

-Simple tools caregivers can use, like “tell me more” and emotion-matching

-Why tears and grief can be healing—not something to avoid

Helpful links from the episode:

- Carmen’s website: edu-catering.com

- Validation Training Institute: vfvalidation.org

- Book: Validation: The Feil Method by Naomi Feil

- Visit www.homeinstead.com/care-resources to explore more caregiving resources

To learn more about this podcast and to subscribe to our caregiving newsletters, visit www.homeinstead.com/caregiverchats. Share your thoughts, experiences and ideas by emailing Dr. Lakelyn at caregiverchats@homeinsteadinc.com.

Like, subscribe, rate and review this podcast on your favorite podcast platform.

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Dr. Lakelyn welcomes Dr. Kerry Burnight, a nationally recognized gerontologist and bestselling author of Joyspan, for a powerful and uplifting conversation about redefining what it means to grow older. In this episode, they explore how caregivers can cultivate “joyspan”—the quality of life in aging, not just the quantity—and help their loved ones do the same.

Together, they challenge ageist myths, highlight the importance of mindset and lifestyle over genetics, and explore four science-backed pillars that support joyful longevity: Give, Connect, Adapt, and Grow.

Episode highlights include:

-What is Joyspan—and why it matters as much as lifespan

-How caregivers can shift from a decline mindset to a growth mindset

-Practical ways to spark joy and purpose in your own aging journey

-How to support aging loved ones in building more joyful lives

-Reframing independence as interdependence

Helpful links from the episode:

-Dr. Kerry Burnight’s website: drkerryburnight.com

-Joyspan: The Book – Available at major retailers

To learn more about this podcast and to subscribe to our caregiving newsletters, visit www.homeinstead.com/caregiverchats. Share your thoughts, experiences and ideas by emailing Dr. Lakelyn at caregiverchats@homeinsteadinc.com.

Like, subscribe, rate and review this podcast on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow us on social media:

Facebook: @homeinsteadinc

Instagram: @homeinsteadinc

YouTube: @homeinsteadinc

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Dr. Lakelyn is joined by caregiving expert Pamela D. Wilson to explore one of the most emotionally complex and commonly misunderstood aspects of caregiving: navigating blended family dynamics and complex relationships.

As families evolve through remarriage, step-siblings, second spouses, or late-in-life partnerships, caregiving roles can become blurred. Tensions may arise around who makes decisions, how responsibilities are shared, and how to manage emotional boundaries and longstanding relationship dynamics.

With over two decades of experience, Pamela brings deep insight and practical strategies to help families navigate these situations with greater clarity, compassion, and cooperation.

Episode highlights include:

- Common sources of conflict in blended caregiving families

- Balancing loyalty, boundaries, and responsibility

- Tips for stepchildren, spouses, and siblings to work as a team

- Strategies for communication, planning, and managing expectations

- Tools to help families align around care goals

Helpful links from the episode:

- Website: https://www.pameladwilson.com

- Book: https://pameladwilson.com/caregiving-trap-book/

- Caring for Elderly Parents Online Program: https://pameladwilson.com/support-caring-for-elderly-parents-overwhelmed-caregiver-support-online-course/

- YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PamelaDWilsonCaregivingExpert

To learn more about this podcast and to subscribe to our caregiving newsletters, visit www.homeinstead.com/caregiverchats. Share your thoughts, experiences and ideas by emailing Dr. Lakelyn at caregiverchats@homeinsteadinc.com.

Like, subscribe, rate and review this podcast on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow us on social media:

Facebook: @homeinsteadinc

Instagram: @homeinsteadinc

YouTube: @homeinsteadinc

TikTok: @homeinstead.inc