In this episode of The Care Table podcast, Dr. Jenny Silvestain, an audiologist, discusses the complexities of hearing loss, the importance of regular hearing tests, and the various options available for treatment, including hearing aids. She emphasizes the psychological barriers many face when considering treatment and the significant connection between untreated hearing loss and cognitive decline. The conversation also covers caregiver strategies for supporting individuals with hearing loss and the financial aspects of obtaining hearing aids.

Takeaways:

- An audiologist specializes in diagnosing and treating hearing loss.
- Most adults over 50 should get a baseline hearing test.
- Hearing loss can be gradual or sudden, influenced by various factors.
- Hearing aids come in different styles and features, tailored to individual needs.
- Many patients delay treatment for hearing loss, impacting their quality of life.
- Hearing loss can be confused with dementia, leading to misdiagnosis.
- Regular hearing tests are crucial for tracking changes in hearing ability.
- Caregivers play a vital role in supporting individuals with hearing loss.
- Financial assistance for hearing aids is limited, but options exist.
- Communication strategies can significantly improve interactions with those who have hearing loss.

Sound Bites:

"An audiologist is essentially a doctor of hearing."
"Most adults over 50 have some degree of hearing loss."
"Hearing loss can happen to anyone at any age."

Products/Books/Resources:

Wireless Headphones for TV with LED display: https://amzn.to/4qeqwpf
TV Ears Digital Wireless Headset System: https://amzn.to/4pAFeWl
American Academy or Audiology to find a local audiologist:
https://members.audiology.org/cvweb/cgi-bin/memberdll.dll/info?wrp=find-an-audiologist.htm

Some of the links provided are affiliate links. I may receive a commission if you purchase through these links. Thank you for your support.

Chapters:

00:00 Understanding Audiology and Hearing Loss
02:37 The Importance of Hearing Tests
05:15 Types and Degrees of Hearing Loss
08:38 Earwax and Hearing Health
09:44 Hearing Aids: When to Consider Them
10:56 The Psychological Barriers to Hearing Aid Acceptance
14:06 The Consequences of Untreated Hearing Loss
16:56 Hearing Loss vs. Dementia: Understanding the Confusion
20:36 Choosing the Right Hearing Aid
24:15 Understanding Online Hearing Tests
26:48 The Role of Audiologists in Hearing Care
30:02 Navigating Hearing Aid Options
32:47 Communication Strategies for Caregivers
35:57 Financial Aspects of Hearing Aids
38:51 Resources for Hearing Aid Assistance
42:50 The Importance of Regular Hearing Tests

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In this episode of The Care Table podcast, Amy Huddleston interviews Helen Bauer, a seasoned hospice and palliative care nurse, to demystify hospice care and its benefits. They discuss the philosophy of hospice, the interdisciplinary team involved, and the importance of early engagement with hospice services. Helen shares insights on palliative care, the role of spiritual support, and the common myths surrounding hospice. The conversation emphasizes the need for open communication and planning in end-of-life care, encouraging families to seek help sooner rather than later.

Takeaways:

- Hospice is a philosophy of care, not a place.
- Over 90% of patients prefer to die at home.
- Hospice care is for those with a life expectancy of six months or less.
- The hospice team includes doctors, nurses, social workers, and chaplains.
- Patients can still receive therapies like physical therapy in hospice.
- Hospice does not provide 24/7 care; family involvement is crucial.
- Palliative care is available for those still seeking curative treatment.
- Hospice services are typically covered by Medicare and Medicaid.
- Patients can leave hospice care if they choose to pursue curative treatment.
- Early engagement with hospice can significantly improve quality of life.

Sound bites:

"Don't fear the word hospice."
"Hospice is a philosophy of care."
"Over 90% prefer to die at home."

Products/Books/Resources:

Medicare (.gov) Care Compare: https://www.medicare.gov/care-compare/?providerType=Hospice
Hospice Navigation Services: https://www.theheartofhospice.com/
The Heart of Hospice podcast: https://www.theheartofhospice.com/podcast
Being Mortal by Dr. Atul Gawande: https://amzn.to/4mJjMxy

Some of the links provided are affiliate links. I may receive a commission if you purchase through these links. Thank you for your support!

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Hospice Care
02:14 Understanding Hospice: A Philosophy of Care
05:05 Who is Hospice For?
07:11 Criteria for Hospice Admission
08:44 The Benefits of Early Hospice Care
10:49 The Hospice Care Team Explained
15:44 Legacy Projects and Spiritual Counseling
17:42 The Role of Chaplains in Hospice Care
21:11 Therapies Offered in Hospice Care
23:59 Understanding the Schedule of Hospice Services
28:05 Supplementing Hospice with Home Care
33:41 Medication Management in Hospice Care
34:36 Understanding Medication Administration in Hospice Care
38:11 Navigating Hospice Payment Options
39:48 Finding the Right Hospice Agency
44:07 Supplemental Services for Hospice Patients
47:52 Defining Palliative Care
53:37 Distinguishing Between Hospice and Palliative Care
58:14 The Personal Journey into Hospice Nursing
01:05:11 The Process of Hospice Admission
01:07:32 The Importance of Early Hospice Engagement
01:09:47 A Case Study: Late Hospice Referral
01:15:38 Debunking Myths About Hospice Care
01:19:30 Empowering Conversations About Hospice
01:24:02 Navigating Hospice Services

Support The Care Table Podcast:

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In this episode of The Care Table podcast, Amy Huddleston speaks with Rachel about her long-distance caregiving journey with her parents, discussing the challenges and lessons learned while navigating their illnesses. Rachel shares her experiences with hospice care, the importance of having long-term care insurance, and the emotional and logistical challenges of downsizing and transitioning her father to assisted living. The conversation emphasizes the need for open discussions about end-of-life wishes and the value of hiring professionals to assist in caregiving.

Takeaways:

- Rachel's parents had long-term care insurance, which was invaluable during their illnesses.
- Hospice care provided essential support and dignity at the end of life.
- Having a geriatric care manager can alleviate the burden on family caregivers.
- Conversations about end-of-life wishes should happen early and openly.
- Downsizing can be an emotional and challenging process for families.
- Dementia can complicate medical decisions and requires careful management.
- It's important to know where financial assets are located and how to access them.
- Transfer on death designations can simplify the inheritance process.
- Life is unpredictable, and planning ahead is crucial for families.
- Rachel emphasizes the importance of self-care for caregivers.

Sound bites:

"Life is too short."

Products/Books/Resources:

Aging Care Life Association to search for geriatric care managers: https://www.aginglifecare.org/
American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance: https://www.aaltci.org
Mama Bear Legal Forms: https://www.mamabearlegalforms.com/

CapTel phone: https://www.captel.com

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Caregiving Journeys
00:54 Navigating Parental Illnesses
05:53 The Importance of Hospice Care
10:47 Transitioning to Assisted Living
16:23 The Downsizing Dilemma
23:13 Managing Dementia and Medical Decisions
30:55 Finding the Right Care
37:40 Lessons Learned from Caregiving
47:09 Final Thoughts and Advice

Support The Care Table Podcast:

Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheCareTable
Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaretable/
Visit us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Care-Table/61580615603797/
Our website: https://www.thecaretable.com/
Email us: info@thecaretable.com

Please rate and review us so we know if we’re helping you!