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

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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/
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Our website: https://www.thecaretable.com/
Email us: info@thecaretable.com

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

In this episode of The Care Table podcast, Dr. Elliot Davidoff, an ophthalmologist, discusses various eye conditions prevalent among older adults, including cataracts, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. He explains the differences between ophthalmologists and optometrists, the importance of regular eye exams, and the latest treatments available for these conditions. The conversation also touches on the emotional impact of vision loss, lifestyle choices for maintaining eye health, and practical advice for caregivers supporting loved ones with vision impairments.

Takeaways:

- An ophthalmologist is a physician specializing in eye care.
- Cataracts and macular degeneration are the most common eye conditions in older adults.
- Macular degeneration has two forms: wet and dry, with different treatment options.
- Regular eye exams are crucial for early detection of eye conditions.
- Cataract surgery has advanced significantly, leading to better outcomes for patients.
- Glaucoma is often asymptomatic until significant damage has occurred, making screening essential.
- Lifestyle choices, such as diet and exercise, can impact eye health.
- Support groups can be beneficial for those experiencing vision loss.
- The AMSLER grid can be a useful tool for monitoring vision changes.

Sound bites:

"An ophthalmologist is a physician."
"It sucks to get older."

Products/Books/Resources:

ICaps Extra Lutein Tablets supplement: https://amzn.to/43sop7S
Amsler grid test: https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/facts-about-amsler-grid-daily-vision-test
American Board of Ophthalmology to confirm physician is board certified: https://abop.org/
The Ohio State University’s Low Vision Rehabilitation Clinic: https://greatvision.osu.edu/clinic/main-campus-clinic/low-vision-rehabilitation
Be My Eyes app: https://www.bemyeyes.com/

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 Ophthalmology and Eye Care
02:30 Common Eye Conditions in Older Adults
05:39 Treatments for Macular Degeneration
09:59 Coping with Vision Loss
13:17 Annual Eye Exams and Preventative Care
20:12 Cataracts: Symptoms and Treatments
22:02 Understanding Glaucoma
26:31 Maintaining Independence with Vision Loss
32:08 Lifestyle Choices for Eye Health
33:14 Mental Health Impact of Vision Loss
39:34 Finding a Reputable Ophthalmologist

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!

In this episode of The Care Table podcast, Dr. Diane Fleming shares her journey and expertise in physical therapy, particularly focusing on geriatrics. She discusses the importance of physical therapy in improving quality of life, the various roles physical therapists play, and how they can assist caregivers in providing better care for their loved ones. The conversation also covers signs that indicate a need for physical therapy, how to find the right therapist, and the different types of therapy available. Dr. Fleming emphasizes the significance of maintaining independence and dignity in older adults, as well as the importance of motivation and personal connection in therapy.

Takeaways:

- Dr. Diane Fleming has been a physical therapist since 2009, specializing in geriatrics.
- Physical therapy (PT) focuses on improving movement and quality of life for patients.
- Physical therapists can recommend assistive devices like canes and walkers.
- Geriatric patients often face challenges like incontinence and falls, which can be addressed through PT.
- Physical therapists can provide home visits and modifications for safety.
- Occupational therapy focuses on daily living activities and maintaining independence.
- Speech therapy includes not only communication, but also swallowing and cognitive skills.
- Caregivers should be present during therapy sessions to learn safe transfer techniques.
- Motivating patients by connecting therapy goals to personal desires can improve compliance.
- Age should not be seen as a barrier to activity: the spirit remains youthful.

Products/Books/Resources:

American Physical Therapy Association: https://www.apta.org/
To review common conditions and how physical therapy can help each condition and to find a local physical therapist: https://www.choosept.com/
Hemi cane for one-sided paralysis/weakness: https://amzn.to/4gVOuSo
Pivot disc: https://amzn.to/42JtYPd
To find a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) for home modifications: https://ageinplace.com/aging-in-place-professionals/how-to-find-a-certified-aging-in-place-specialist-caps/
National Council on Aging Caregiver Support: https://www.ncoa.org/caregivers/benefits/caregiver-support/

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 Physical Therapy and Geriatrics
05:03 Understanding Physical Therapy: The Role of Movement Experts
11:52 Quality of Life Improvements Through Physical Therapy
18:00 Recognizing Signs for Physical Therapy Referral
22:39 Advice for Caregivers: Encouraging Activity in Seniors
25:31 Home Visits and Modifications for Safety
27:58 Understanding Different Types of Therapy
33:22 Body Mechanics and Caregiver Safety
37:07 Motivating Loved Ones for Exercise Compliance
38:52 Fall Prevention and Recovery Techniques
45:38 Inspiring Stories of Aging and Activity

Support The Care Table Podcast:

Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheCareTable
Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaretable/
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Our website: https://www.thecaretable.com/
Email us: info@thecaretable.com

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

In this episode of The Care Table podcast, Kelley Griesmer shares her heartfelt journey navigating elder care for her father during his health decline, exacerbated by the pandemic. She discusses the challenges of securing suitable care facilities, the critical role of financial and legal planning, and the emotional weight of caregiving. Kelley emphasizes the importance of early, open conversations about finances and care preferences with aging parents. Her practical advice—such as leveraging professional guidance and managing family dynamics—offers a roadmap for others facing similar challenges, while stressing the need to accept one’s limitations as a caregiver.

Takeaways:

- The pandemic worsened health challenges for aging parents, particularly mobility issues.
- Rehabilitation facilities may fall short in meeting care needs.
- Early financial planning is essential for informed elder care decisions.
- Legal tools, like power of attorney and trusts, protect assets and streamline care.
- Family dynamics can complicate caregiving; open communication is key.
- Caregivers should seek professional help without guilt to manage responsibilities.
- Proactive planning reduces stress for both caregivers and their loved ones.

Sound Bites:

"The pandemic made everything harder for my father’s care."
"You can’t fix every problem, and that’s okay."
"Give yourself grace as a caregiver—it’s a tough journey."

Products/Books/Resources:

AARP Caregiving Resources - Practical guides for caregivers: https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/landing/
National Institute on Aging: Legal and Financial Planning - Tips on power of attorney and trusts:
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/advance-care-planning/getting-your-affairs-order-checklist-documents-prepare-future

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction to Elder Care Challenges
03:04 - Impact of Inactivity on Aging Parents
06:07 - Healthcare Struggles During the Pandemic
08:58 - Finding the Right Care Facility
11:51 - Financial Planning for Elder Care
14:51 - Legal Tools: Power of Attorney and Trusts
18:11 - Navigating Family Dynamics in Caregiving
20:46 - Reflecting on the Caregiving Journey
24:25 - Overcoming Hospital Care Obstacles
27:27 - Preparing Financially for Care Needs
30:36 - Using Trusts to Secure Assets
35:47 - Managing Caregiver Guilt and Expectations
41:40 - Planning Ahead for Peace of Mind

Support The Care Table Podcast:

Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheCareTable
Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaretable/
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Our website: https://www.thecaretable.com/
Email us: info@thecaretable.com

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

In this episode of The Care Table podcast, Amy Huddleston speaks with Samantha Stearns from Songbird Transitions, a full-service moving and downsizing company. They discuss the emotional complexities of moving elderly family members, the importance of early planning, and how to initiate conversations about transitions. Samantha shares insights on the services offered by her company, including managing the downsizing process, addressing hoarding situations, and creating positive experiences for families. The conversation emphasizes the need for empathy and understanding in these transitions, as well as the resources available for families navigating this challenging time.

Takeaways:

- It's never too early to start planning a move.
- Downsizing is not just about moving; it's a life transition.
- Conversations about moving should focus on living, not dying.
- Every family has unique needs during the downsizing process.
- Emotional support is crucial in helping families transition.
- Creating a positive experience can alleviate stress for families.
- It's important to understand the psychological aspects of downsizing.
- Families should be involved in the process to maintain relationships.
- Resources like 'Downsizing Done Right' can help families manage transitions.
- Hiring professionals can ease the burden on families during moves.

Sound Bites:

"We try and rehome what we can."
"Every problem is solvable."
"You can't call too early."

Products/Books/Resources:

Downsizing Done Right (personal resource to manage the downsizing and move on your own): https://www.songbirdtransitions.com/downsizing
Information and Resources to Support a Downsizing Journey: https://www.songbirdtransitions.com/downsizing-resources
Suggested web searches to find a moving and downsizing company to hire: “senior move management” or “downsizing for seniors”

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Songbird Transitions
01:02 Understanding Full-Service Moving and Downsizing
05:35 The Emotional Side of Downsizing
08:25 Timeline for Downsizing and Moving
12:22 Initiating Conversations About Moving
16:27 The Importance of Planning Ahead
18:24 The Process of Downsizing
21:14 Family Dynamics in Downsizing
27:47 Resources for Self-Managed Downsizing
31:08 Understanding the Cost of Downsizing
40:37 Navigating Hoarding Situations
50:39 Emotional Aspects of Moving
56:34 Finding the Right Help for Transitions

Support The Care Table Podcast:

Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheCareTable
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In this episode of The Care Table podcast, Amy Huddleston speaks with Anne Farley, an expert in dementia care, about the complexities of navigating a dementia diagnosis. They discuss the importance of understanding what dementia is, the initial steps families should take after a diagnosis, and the critical role of building a supportive care team. The conversation also covers financial and legal considerations, the costs associated with care, safety measures for early-stage dementia, and the value of support groups. Anne emphasizes the need for caregivers to ask for help and the importance of community support in managing the challenges of dementia care.

Takeaways:

- Dementia is a group of syndromes marked by memory loss and cognitive decline.
- Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment options.
- Building a care team is essential for managing dementia.
- Financial and legal planning should be prioritized after diagnosis.
- Costs for memory care can range from $7,000 to $12,000 a month.
- Safety measures and tools can help maintain independence in early stages.
- Support groups provide valuable resources and emotional support for caregivers.
- Asking for help is vital for caregivers to avoid burnout.
- Understanding the specific type of dementia is key to providing appropriate care.
- Community resources can offer additional support and information.

Sound bites:

"It is very expensive."
"People want to help."
"You are not alone."

Products/Books/Resources:

Teepa Snow’s Positive Approach to Care: https://teepasnow.com/
Teresa Youngstrom’s Website and Podcast: https://www.teresayoungstrom.com/
Dementia Care Products: https://www.alzstore.com/
Locked Medication Dispenser: https://herohealth.com/
Aging Care or Geriatric Care Manager Resource: https://www.aginglifecare.org/
The Ganzhorn Suites: https://www.ganzhorn.com/
CapTel Phone: https://captel.com/

Chapters:

00:00 Understanding Dementia: An Overview
11:58 Navigating the Diagnosis
24:07 Building Your Support Team
35:42 Financial and Legal Considerations
40:58 Understanding the Financial Aspects of Caregiving
44:50 Navigating Resources and Support for Families
48:18 Safety and Technology for Dementia Care
50:53 The Importance of Teamwork in Caregiving
54:33 Emotional Challenges and Grief in Caregiving
01:00:41 Asking for Help and Building a Support Network

Support The Care Table Podcast:

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