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How do you prepare your home, or a parent’s home, so it’s safe for them to return to after a hospitalization or long-term rehab stay?  They might have recovered, but the last thing you want is for another issue or accident to happen.  In this episode, we provide a list of suggestions to help you, the family or professional caregiver, better ensure continued safety and sustained quality of life for those you care for, even if their physical or mental abilities are starting to decline.  Resource PDF download: Here's a link to the PDF mentioned in this episode, which will give you a list, and links to items that will be helpful to you and your parents. Host:  Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After!  is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com. Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success. Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be considered or used as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice of your own personal medical, legal or financial advisors as each person’s situation is different. (c) Copyright 2023 CareManity, LLC all rights reserved. CareManity is a trademark of CareManity, LLC. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

In this episode, we discuss how to learn if your doctor is the right one for your parents, or you. Sometimes we base our trust on a doctor’s “likeability,” or bedside manner.  But someone who seems good doesn’t mean they are good or even competent.  When it comes to your health, skills, competency ( a low "accidental" death rate), and experience usually trump attitude and charm. We also touch on some other points and questions to ask: What’s the prime age for a doctor,? When might you want to re-think using the doctor your parents have used for years? How do you know your doctor’s qualified to treat your parents’ specific conditions?  Note they will change over time and can change quickly. Should you trust a doctor’s online medical website ratings? Should you rely on a doctor’s referrals to other specialists?    When might it be dangerous to work with a general surgeon?  When you’re pressured to make decisions during a critical health scare, how do you take out the emotion and do what’s best for those you love?  Finally, how do you avoid signing away all your, or your parents’ rights before getting a procedure? If there's an issue that you are seriously concerned about, with your doctor, you can fire their doctor. There's a lot more to learn from this episode. Tune in and share with those you care about, and others caring for a parent too. This information could make everyone's life just a bit better. Here's an extra link/resource that may be helpful to you: The Federation of State Medical Boards. Guest: Dan Frith, JD has been practicing law in Virginia for over 35 years, and is with the law firm Frith& Ellerman, Law Firm, P.S. . He limits his practice to litigation of medical negligence cases, wrongful-death litigation, and business/employment claims. Dan has represented clients throughout Virginia in both state and federal courts, authored numerous publications, and is a frequent speaker for continuing legal education programs for other trial attorneys. Dan is a recognized member of the Million Dollar Advocate Forum due to the results of his diligent work for his clients. Dan has served as a chair of both the Litigation section of the Virginia State Bar and the Standing Committee on Professionalism. Dan currently is an active member of the American Association for Justice, Virginia Trial Lawyers Association, and previously served as the President of the Virginia Chapter of the American Board of Trial Advocates. Since March 13, 2003, Dan has received the highest rating by his peers (AV) from Martindale-Rubble. Dan, a married father of two boys, is a graduate of Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and Washington and Lee University School of Law. Host:  Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After!  is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles...

In this episode, I share some research done on the most challenging days of the week for those who care for an aging parent or spouse.  From this, I learned that there really is an official calendar day called Blue Monday. Also, there are specific days when it seems, the effort of caregiving is that much more stressful.  It’s good to know this and be better prepared. I also dive into some ways to make the tough winter months a bit easier for you and those you’re caring for.  Here's a link to my friends, Walter and Naiad Einsel, and their love story. This will lift anyone's mood. That's a promise. Quotes to help lift your mood on a bad day Transcript: Episode #51, Can you Predict Emergencies? Host:  Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After!  is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com. Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success. Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be considered or used as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice of your own personal medical, legal or financial advisors as each person’s situation is different. (c) Copyright 2023 CareManity, LLC all rights reserved. CareManity is a trademark of CareManity, LLC. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

What happens when you’re both a caregiver and, at the same, disabled yourself?    In this episode my guest Daniel Hodges, JD, who is blind, was a caregiver for his parents and children while needing special care himself from the medical community.  We discuss how he was able to succeed at this, by being a non-stop advocate for himself and those around him to overcome surprising biases and other obstacles put in his way.  Our conversation includes: How to get doctors to treat you with respect How to get more time when needed. What happens when a doctor wants to “Fix” you or your loved one – and it goes wrong When the doctor goes outside the box to be a savior/hero How quality of care can decline if you’re perceived to have a disability. Bias and ignorance in the medical community and how to make things work in your favor In addition, we dive into how best to sharpen your own self-advocacy skills and get more from your doctor and healthcare providers, than the average person. Learn how to work the system before it works you over!  Special Note: I am fortunate to have Daniel as a friend and guest here on the Eldercare Success podcast. I am confident that his words and experiences will be lessons that you, the listener will learn from too. Nancy The TRANSCRIPT for this show is available by clicking here. Guest: Daniel Hodges, JD Social entrepreneur, connector, and servant leader. My unique approach to access, inclusion, and health equity facilitates real solutions. When each of us has a chance to succeed, all of us benefit. He is the cofounder of Pure Access and the President and Founder of The Peaces of Me Foundation. Daniel was born blind, and with a connective tissue disorder called Ehlers Danlos syndrome. His constellation of symptoms is so rare that they have never appeared together in any medical text that I have been able to find. He says "Sometimes I struggle to lead with this part of my story because my health struggles do not define me. EDS has taken a lot of things, but it will not take my identity. Nevertheless, my experiences provide me with a valuable lens through which I view the world. It inspires me to question the status quo on several levels, and it causes me to dream of what we can yet achieve." Host:  Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After!  is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com. Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success.

Caring for those we love is tough enough. When toxic people enter our lives wanting more of our time, attention, energy, and even money, offering nothing in return, they make caregiving even more difficult.  In this episode, I share some tips on identifying, assessing, and more easily separating yourself from those I refer to as time vampires, bloodsuckers, and jerks.  I also discuss how to turn things around and find more good souls to bring joy, kindness, and sharing into our lives and those we love and care for. This is a great way to end the year and start 2023 with a lighter heart. Note:  people who whistle or hum throughout the day are actually (unintentionally) toning their vagus nerves, which puts them into a more relaxed state.  That’s why people who whistle or hum frequently are usually happier than those who don’t.  Click her for other benefits of stimulating your vagus nerve.  Give it a try.  Happy New Year to all!  Lots of Love, Nancy Host:  Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After!  is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com. Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success. Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be considered or used as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice of your own personal medical, legal or financial advisors as each person’s situation is different. (c) Copyright 2022 CareManity, LLC all rights reserved. CareManity is a trademark of CareManity, LLC. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

In this episode, I share tips on how caregivers can overcome those holiday blues when you’re alone and away from those you love.  The show mentions how to make your days brighter when you start feeling a little dark. Below are several links to those tips and solutions discussed in this episode.  They’re fun and easy to do yourself or with your parents even if they have physical challenges: Holiday Cookie Houses: Option #1, Option #2, Option #3/Mansion Style, and no-bake Option #4 How to create your own private YouTube channel Create a Chinese Takeout Smorgasbord, with cake-top sparklers, no-mess tossing streamers, or

This show is in memory of James Degenheardt who was a gift that showed up on my dad's doorstep one New Year's Day. Finding that special, thoughtful gift for an aging parent, or loved one can be tough.  Even more so when you are short on time, or just can’t bear the thought of going shopping. In this episode, I share how I faced this same dilemma as my folks got older – after all, who really needs another bathrobe or pair of slippers?  One way to do this is to think outside the (gift) box: what stories did they tell you, what memories did they share, that was extra special to them? Build on those memories. Find things, or people they may have known, or places they loved to go that will bring those memories back, in a different format. A little creativity can go a long way: messages and songs from special people, photo storybooks, short trips to places they once knew and loved, etc. The stories I share may just spark your imagination and help you create a unique gift that could surprise even give you, a ton of joy too.   Host:  Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After!  is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com. Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success. Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be considered or used as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice of your own personal medical, legal or financial advisors as each person’s situation is different. (c) Copyright 2022 CareManity, LLC all rights reserved. CareManity is a trademark of CareManity, LLC. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

Imagine not being able to eat, swallow or enjoy your favorite foods.  Or feeling so tired you could fall headfirst into your soup bowl! Or, even worse, getting your tongue cut, and rebuilt due to cancer, and having to learn how to talk again! Would thinking about these things happening freak you out? Well, there’s lots to learn from my special guest in this episode, and some good things, too. Often when someone’s parent has a stroke, heart attack, early dementia, or other health issues requiring hospitalization, they’re typically referred to a rehab facility, or special nursing care facility. This can include different types of physical and occupational therapy.  Some of these therapists wind up saving lives, this even includes speech and language pathologists. In this episode, Phyllis Ayman and I dive into situations where hospitals, rehab facilities, skilled nursing homes, and even in-home care professionals don’t know how the simple act of swallowing works, and thus frequently ignore the condition.  When things like this are missed, they could result in early or sudden death. We dive into ways to: Prevent choking hazards Reduce the chance of aspiration pneumonia Understand the impact of a stroke or dementia on eating and swallowing Do “weightlifting” for your throat Know when a cough isn’t from a cold or allergy You’ll even learn how to make sure that the medical facility discharge nurse/doctor hasn’t missed critical information relevant to your parent’s quality of life. As an extra bonus, we discuss six top tips to determine when to call in a speech and language pathologist. GUEST: Phyllis Ayman is an expert Speech/Language Pathologist, Certified Dementia Practitioner, Trainer, and Manager and holds a Certification in Montessori for Dementia. She has worked in approximately 45 skilled nursing/short-term rehabilitation facilities and is the principal owner of Phyllis Ayman Associates and the author of Nursing Homes to Rehabilitation Centers, What every person needs to know, and Dignity & Respect. Phyllis is the host of the podcast Seniors Straight Talk, on the Voice America Empowerment Channel. She is also a board member of the Massachusetts Advocates for Nursing Home Reform. Host:  Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After!  is an expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com. Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success. Disclaimer: The views,...

In this short episode, we talk about how to protect your parent’s credit cards from getting skimmed while in their wallets. RFID chips are now embedded in almost all our credit cards. For those of us caring for aging parents who are out and about shopping on their own, or with the help of an aide, the idea that their cards can be charged without their knowledge just adds another layer of concern to our caregiving workload. There’s some controversy about whether these cards can be skimmed from a distance, yet this recently happened in my family. Although it wasn’t fraudulently skimmed, a purchase transaction was placed on their card, before they were able to take the card out of their wallet. Tune in for some simple researched tips you can do now to prevent some financial catastrophes from happening later. Host:  Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After!  is an acknowledged expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com. Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success. Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be considered or used as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice of your own personal medical, legal or financial advisors as each person’s situation is different. (c) Copyright 2022 CareManity, LLC all rights reserved. CareManity is a trademark of CareManity, LLC. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

The stress from caregiving can wreak havoc on one’s entire body.  Yet our brains and mental abilities often end up suffering the most.  While in caregiving mode, some of us end up with overload. We feel like our brains are in a total fog.  We question whether we’re the ones with dementia or suffering from early-stage Alzheimer’s.  Fortunately, that’s probably not the case.  In this episode, Matt DiMaio, the Memory Maestro, gives us some easy ways to reduce stress, have some fun, and remember anything and everything we want.  You won’t have to hunt through the 50 sticky notes you’ve posted on the fridge after learning how to use his techniques.  In this episode we discuss how to: Turn your brain into your BEST service tool Leverage the ways your brain works naturally Use the tone of your voice to remember things Create an easy mental remembering filing system Have fun and reduce stress too. You'll also learn about the three causes of what Matt calls “Forgetory.” Knowing this will help you in nearly every situation where you need to remember important things. That alone could make a huge difference in your life, the lives of your family, and those you care for. Guest: Matt DiMaio, The Memory Meister, is a .world renowned authority on how to increase your ability to remember nearly anything. He's known for teaching powerful mental strategies, tactics, and techniques to BE SMARTER-FASTER. Learn everything and anything faster and easier than you ever dreamed possible. You can learn more about Matt through his YouTube channel where he explains simple ways to double your brain power in half the time. You can reach Matt through his websites An Incredible Memory, and Start Remembering. He's the author of three incredibly useful memory books, which are also available on Amazon. Host:  Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After!  is an acknowledged expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com. Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success. Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be considered or used as medical,...

How do you identify a problem doctor or facility before they become a problem for you? We all put more effort, time, and research into buying a car than into selecting medical care for our parents, and ourselves.  Why do that?   In this episode, I share easy ways to find out if the doctor, rehab, or care facility you select for your parents is competent, qualified, and honest about what they do. That “care home” may look like a luxury resort, but how do you research and dig out their hidden secrets?  The answers are in plain sight -- if you know where, and how to look. BONUS: Here's an extra tip sheet with details on how to dig deeper and investigate medical providers online before you make any decision to have them cut into you with a scalpel. Click here, for that bonus tip sheet. Host:  Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After!  is an acknowledged expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com. Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success. Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be considered or used as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice of your own personal medical, legal or financial advisors as each person’s situation is different. (c) Copyright 2022 CareManity, LLC all rights reserved. CareManity is a trademark of CareManity, LLC. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

Part two: Holding everyone at the facility(ies), including you, accountable (Part #2) Here, in part two, we dive into more ways to avoid falling into the traps that Long Term Care homes, nursing homes, rehab facilities, in-home aide agencies, and hospitals use to protect themselves from your or your parents’ outrage. Are your folks one of what they consider their “golden meal tickets,” or corporate profit “cash cows?”  This doesn’t mean they are going to get the best care.   Learn whether you’re getting the right care for your parents, and avoid those things these facilities often do that wind up shortening their lives or outright killing them (and your wallets) in the process.  Finally, we discuss ways to be a better advocate for your parent’s care.  It takes more than just walking in and loudly squawking.  There’s a lot more here. Tune in for more insider tips on how to raise the quality of care your parents can get in our health and aging care facilities.  Guest: Lauren Ellerman, JD, Partner, Frith & Ellerman, PC. Lauren's practice is focused on Medical Malpractice, Non-Compete litigation, and Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect. She helps clients in a range of civil litigation matters, including medical malpractice, and business litigation. She was recognized as one of the youngest Super Lawyers in Medical Malpractice for the Commonwealth of Virginia. In 2020 she was named the BEST Lawyer in America in Roanoke for Plaintiff’s Medical Malpractice, and the first female to receive the nomination. She is the co-author of  How to Beat Your Virginia Non-Compete. Lauren and her husband, Whit, are very active in the Roanoke Valley: opening a restaurant, The River and Rail; starting a non-profit Turn the Page, Inc., attending Second Presbyterian Church; spending time with their daughter, and dogs; and, camping as much as work will allow. Host:  Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After!  is an acknowledged expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com. Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success. Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be considered or used as...

Elder Law and Care Home Mishaps. Who’s on your side to help, are they able, and will they help?  You might be surprised by the answers.  After listening to these next two episodes (part 1 and part 2), you will gain a new, more empowered understanding of your parent’s care facility and what they’re legally allowed to do, or not do for them.  In addition, you’ll learn how to get better care for them and understand where you have the power to make a difference.  First off, here is where most of us get caught off guard when we think our folks are safer in these facilities: You visit your parents in their new care home residents and notice things aren’t what you thought they’d be or were at first.  Everything was great early on and the staff seemed friendly and welcomed you with each visit. Then… little things started to happen or pile up: Their room smells bad like a used urinal. Their bed is soiled, even though the sheets and bathroom towels should have been changed on Monday (it’s now Wednesday) – per the marketing and agreement documents. Mom appears depressed, sits in her darkened room, and rarely ventures out to walk and visit other residents.  You notice she’s being charged meals to be delivered to her room, but they’re only piling up in the mini-fridge. Dad’s not eating like he used to and is rapidly dropping weight.  The staff doesn’t notice or tell you. One of them took a fall and it took hours (or longer) for someone to discover they’d been on the floor trying to get help. Mom enjoys bantering with a tablemate during mealtimes. Staff misinterprets this and now wants to move her to a memory wing.  You refuse to approve. Her tablemate is swept off to memory care instead. Dad’s has an unexplained gash on his leg, which is now infected. The staff nurse has no record of the incident or gash, so it’s not her concern, so you’re told. You take a firm stance and it’s time for a “serious” conversation with the facility’s management.  Nothing changes (a laughable moment for those who know better about the industry).  Trips to the ER increase because Management says their needed. The monthly bill increases by another $5k because management says mom needs more oversight. The quality of that oversight is ultimately a lot less than what you expected, based on cost, and the list goes on.  This is when you decide it’s time to get legal counsel.  This is where you learn exactly what happens in many care facilities, and the difference between a care home/facility, Rehab Facility, Nursing Home, and in-home care agency. Tune into Part One and learn how to take more control where you can. Guest: Lauren Ellerman, JD, Partner, Frith & Ellerman, PC. Lauren's practice is focused on Medical Malpractice, Non-Compete litigation, and Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect. She helps clients in a range of civil litigation matters, including medical malpractice, and business litigation. She was recognized as one of the youngest Super Lawyers in Medical Malpractice for the Commonwealth of Virginia., and in 2020 she was named the BEST Lawyer in America in Roanoke for Plaintiff’s Medical Malpractice, and the first female to receive the nomination. She is the co-author of  How to Beat Your Virginia Non-Compete. Lauren and her husband, Whit, are very active in the Roanoke Valley: opening a restaurant, The River and Rail; starting a non-profit

When caring for your parents, how do you make the right decisions for them when they can’t?  Some of us go into paralysis mode, some panic, and others decide based on what choices they feel are best for their folks.  But what’s a good way to weigh the options available? Do you use facts, desires, and what seems right, or face the realities of life – yours and theirs? A lot of factors come into play. In this episode, you'll learn a “how to” exercise that will help you tackle these big decisions a little easier. This method can also be a tool to balance out the needs of everyone involved in the outcome: yours, your family’s, and your parents' too.  If you want to reach out, you can contact me on Instagram, or on FaceBook at CareManity. Host:  Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After!  is an acknowledged expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a free, fillable File-of-Life go to www.howtosurvive911.com. Nancy is also the Co-Founder of CareManity LLC, and the private FaceBook group, Eldercare Success. Disclaimer: The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show guests and not directly those of the companies they serve or that of the host or the producer CareManity, LLC. The information discussed should not be considered or used as medical, legal, or financial advice. Please seek the advice of your own personal medical, legal or financial advisors as each person’s situation is different. (c) Copyright 2022 CareManity, LLC all rights reserved. CareManity is a trademark of CareManity, LLC. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

What is a Long-Term Care or Nursing Home Care Resident Ombudsman? Who do they serve?  How can they help you, if your mom or dad reside in a facility where they’re NOT getting the proper care needed?  Knowing how to get help from an independent outside authority can give you the support you may need or help with deciding what to do if you’re concerned about their safety. With over 15,000 nursing homes in the US and nearly 66,000 long-term care facilities, the demand for care workers in these places is huge. However, at times, many lack the support they need to care for your patients properly and safely.  Each state has an ombudsman program that works to help those of us who have aging parents residing in some type of care or nursing home.  Why we try our best to help our parents, sometimes an Ombudsman can be the key to making the necessary changes so that your parents, and others, stay safe and keep their care assured.    Why?  Because Ombudsmen: Often know the facilities and management better than you Have a higher level of clout with state and local legislators Know the state licensing guidelines for nursing homes Can help you know who to contact and what to say to get your voice heard at a higher level Information about The National Ombudsman Resource Center: Here you can also learn how to become a volunteer ombudsman in your state through the organization.  The National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care is the overseeing body for the National Ombudsman Resource Center.  Your parents, as residents of a care facility, can join The National Consumer Voice membership for free. You as a family member are also encouraged to join.  The National Consumer Voice’s primary role is recommending policy and procedures for care facilities through government legislation and leading organizations like the Center for Medicare and Medicaid, among others.  Every family should know about this organization. An Ombudsman can be a powerful tool to help you make sure your parents are well cared for, happy, healthy, and remain safe.  Guest: Carol Scott, Manager, LTC Ombudsman Program & Policy for the National Ombudsman Resource Center. Carol is a healthcare leader with more than 32 years of advocacy experience at both the national and state levels. She provides technical assistance to state and local ombudsmen across the country; analyzes Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program (LTCOP) program and policy information; conducts training for new State Ombudsmen; hosts webinars for local representatives; shares information/resources related to volunteer management; and works on special projects related to NORC program and operations. In her previous position, she served as the Field Operations Manager for the Advancing Excellence in America’s Nursing Homes Campaign, where she was responsible for guiding and supporting stakeholder coalitions in all 50 states for the purpose of making nursing homes better places to live, work and visit. For 23 years, Carol was the Ombudsman for the state of Missouri and was responsible for protecting vulnerable elders in nursing homes and assisted living. In addition, she has served as the legislative liaison for the Division of Aging and a budget analyst for the Medicaid Program for the state of Missouri. Host:  Nancy May, Author of

Top 10 Ways To Reduce The Burden Of Being Cared For: It can be tough to avoid becoming emotionally involved in and impacted by an aging parent’s needs. But, what about when YOU become that aging parent? Well, there are things you can do, now, to reduce the likelihood of becoming that caregiving ball-and-chain around your kids’ necks. Here are 10 ways to start setting things up so that you and those who may help care for you, get on the right path from the start. Identify who can and will take responsibility:  Among all the details mentioned in the show, this means determining which child(ren) can take responsibility to lead oversight of your personal, financial, legal, and healthcare decisions when needed. Create a contingency plan: Who will take over if something happens to your medical and financial POA, Executor, or Trustee.  Your life and that of your children may change – for the better or worse – after they’ve agreed to accept responsibility to oversee your care.  Keep aware of their situations and keep conversations open should you have any concerns.  If a spouse will be involved in helping them, consider bringing them into the discussion as well.  The life of a spouse or partner is also impacted, in some way, when it’s time for your child to step into the role they’ve agreed to accept. Have all legal, financial, and military documents complete, secured, available, and reviewed every few years.  If you haven’t already established a Will or Trust and all the other necessary fiduciary and care oversight legal documents, do so now.  Keep them where they will be safe and available when needed. Know if, when, and who to hire to support your adult children who will care for you. Overseeing your care will likely have an impact on their career, personal time, relationships, emotional strength, and even financial standing.  Write out and share your end-of-life extension care wishes. Let those in charge of your care know what you want as far as life-extending care. This will help your family make the right decisions for you when you can’t. This may wind up being a huge gift to them, if and when that time comes. If that’s your desire, start setting up your home/living environment so that it will be safe for you to stay there later on.  Look about for what will get in the way, and what you don’t really need anymore. Steps now can become mountains later. Slippery areas need handrails. Reduce clutter: things you were planning to give away when you pass, could be given to them now to enjoy. If something doesn’t give you joy every time you look at it, why hold onto it? Establish a contingency plan should you not have the financial means to care for yourself later. You’ll need to discuss this issue with trusted family members and those who can advise you on financial and legal matters. This will include how to convert what you have, into assets that can cover care costs, to extend how long you can remain in your home (or a care facility), safely. If you plan to move into a long-term care facility, research and know exactly how they work. Do extensive research, now, on what’s out there. You’ll need to understand who can care for you so that you’re safe and happy for the rest of your days.  This includes the cost of care should you need to move into any of their more advanced care units including assisted living, memory care, nursing care, or rehabilitation care.  What are the associated costs and how will you be cared for?  Ask what happens should they exhaust your financial capability. Plan and pay for your funeral and celebration of life now. You can shop and pay for your funeral and memorial on a payment plan, if...

Listen in to this important show. If you’re a Veteran or caring for one, the US government has a ton of benefits available to help you.  Listen in as my guests from the US Veteran’s Administration share information on some incredibly valuable benefits, that you may not know of, that are available to you, your mom, dad, or spouse.  Here are a few examples: Additional pension and financial support (based on need and service) Respite care for caregivers of a veteran for up to 20 days per year Free burial in a Federal Military cemetery and financial support if buried in a private cemetery In-home care services Nursing home and rehab care Some financial support for private care facility living Special veteran-directed care Medical care equipment including incontinent supplies, medical beds, walkers, hearing aids, and more! Prescription medications Special hospice care program Home health aides and a homemaker support program A fiduciary program if your family member is unable to manage their own bills and financial situation And much more! Links and phone numbers: Veteran Benefits Administration VA Pension Benefits and how to apply for them Elderly benefits for Veterans Geriatric and Extended Care support for Veterans Support for caregivers of Veterans Free help filling out VA Claim Forms: call 1-800-827-1000 Veteran Crisis Hotline: Dial 988 then press the number 1 when the phone is answered. Guests: Kevin J. Friel: Kevin was appointed as Deputy Director of the Pension and Fiduciary Service on June 24, 2018. The Pension and Fiduciary Service Staff is responsible for oversite and administering the pension, dependency and indemnity compensation, and fiduciary programs to include the development of policy and procedures, performance of quality reviews, creation of required training, and development of processing system functional requirements. In 2021, the pension program paid over $3.7B to over 334,000 beneficiaries composed of both Veterans and their survivors, and the fiduciary program provided benefit protection to over 121,000 beneficiaries whose disabilities limited their ability to manage their VA benefits, which exceeded $2.9B. Additionally, Pension and Fiduciary Service provides oversight and administration of Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) benefits, providing over $7.7B in DIC benefits to over 460,000 eligible survivors. Dr. Scotte R. Hartronft, MD, MBA, CPE, FACP, FACHE: Dr. Hartronft is a Board Certified Senior Physician Executive with experience in large, complex integrated health systems and has had a professional presence...

How do you prepare for a natural disaster emergency if you’re caring for an older person? Natural, weather-related, and other disasters happen -- they're often difficult to avoid.  Yet, you can prepare, in advance, so that you and your loved ones stay safer.  In this episode, I review how you can make sure that your parents are safe in their own home, in a care facility, and even in a hospital, during a weather-related disaster. First, and foremost, if you’re told to evacuate, listen carefully to what local authorities advise.  Evacuate to where they recommend you go based on the needs of the person you’re caring for.  It’s important to note that first responders may not be able to get to you, when and after a disaster strikes, especially if conditions would place their own lives in danger, or if roads are blocked. Below is a list of points to review in each living environment: In a care facility:  Questions to ask and confirm: Does the facility have adequate generator backup equipment, and when was it last serviced and tested? If it needed repair, how were the issues addressed?  When? How many staff members and hands-on aides, and medical staff will be on-site during a weather event? What are the facility’s evacuation plans? Know where the facility is in an evacuation map zone.  You can check this on the town, county, or state maps.  Each should have an emergency update page during times of natural disaster.   Where will your loved one be evacuated?  Know the location yourself, even if you're not physically there with them. Is there enough support to do this safely for everyone?                                  Although staff members may be required to work through a storm, many will want to go home to care for their own families. Who can blame them? Ask if you can volunteer to help if they’re short-staffed. If evacuated, what medical support will they have on hand at the evacuation location? Consider: Spending the night at the facility with your loved one, in their room. Sleeping in their room on a couch, chair, or floor if necessary.  Bring extra blankets, pillows, and a sleeping bag, and hunker down for the duration of the storm. Bringing your own kids along for the adventure if they’re able to stay calm. Staying if needed, until you are confident that things are back as they were before the emergency. In Hospitals: Ask who are the key people in charge of the floor where your parent is located. Ask about their emergency backup system.  The floor staff may not know the answer, yet it’s worth asking who does know.  Book to read: 

Watching one’s spouse or other loved one suffer from dementia may be one of the toughest things ever. In this episode, we listen to how a social worker and home health aides recommended that their client's husband move out of their primary home in order to ease the anxiety and anger of his afflicted wife. While this was emotionally difficult, he wanted to be supportive and make sure his wife received the best possible care.  So, he moved out and into their country home.  Now he misses the love of his life and wonders if he’s made a big mistake.  Listen in to an alternative solution that was created and offered to him to make things better for everyone.  Such a move might work for someone you love, too. Resource links to help you and others are: GlobalRose Bouquet Subscription 3D Cards: FreshCut Paper, and LovePop A blanket with your personal photos printed on the front A custom love song, created just for her or him Send a Love Note in a Bottle or a What I Love About You book Or, create your own Love Story book Host:  Nancy May, Author of How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies, Step-by-Step Before, During, After!  is an acknowledged expert in managing the path of step-by-step caring for aging parents, even from over 1200 miles away. For a

Did you know that as many as 1 in 4 people who have Parkinson’s Disease are misdiagnosed?  Even worse, those with the disease may have seen a doctor three or more times before receiving an accurate diagnosis.  Too often it’s diagnosed as Alzheimer’s in older patients.  We all need to be aware of this, for ourselves and those around us.  In this episode, our guest expert, Dr. Michael Okun, is a leading expert in the research and treatment of Parkinson’s disease (bio details at the end of these show notes). Dr. Okun has a unique way of working with patients and lives by the mantra that “the medical profession should look at the patient as the sun: everything done to help patients should revolve around their needs, just like our entire solar system revolved around our sun.”  This goes for doctors, hospitals, caregivers, therapists, families, and all their entire teams.  He further states: “if we all work this way with each and every patient, then our abilities to work towards a cure and build a better quality of life for that person will prevail.”  He believes that the greatest indicator of success is not how much money one raises for a cure, but how many lives can we all save!  You’ll find this discussion is rich with words of wisdom and advice for patients, families, caregivers, and everyone in the medical and healthcare community.  Some (maybe) startling points worth noting include: What chemical is directly linked to Parkinson’s and why is it banned in Europe but not here in the US.  Why Alzheimer’s is the most common neurological disease, yet Parkinson’s is the fastest growing. How diet is now one of the “hottest” areas of research and how microbiomes may impact our potential to acquire Parkinson’s. He shares the difference between the early symptoms of Parkinson’s vs. Alzheimer’s and why it’s more frequently misdiagnosed and mistreated.  Including: How to better identify symptoms What type of doctors often misdiagnose Parkinson’s vs others How medical professionals lose their ability to be more observant Why it’s misdiagnosed Some other points we discuss include : Different symptoms of Parkinson’s vs Alzheimer’s. Why it could be a blessing to be diagnosed with Parkinson’s over Alzheimer’s or other diseases. How to help with the emotional response when first diagnosed. What happens when doctors don’t listen and respond instead to time pressures placed on them when seeing patients. Some key failure points in our healthcare system and what we might do to respond. The importance of finding the right doctor and when to move on to the next. Do listen to the full episode as this one is rich beyond expectations! Tune in and share with your family and friends. Additional links of value: Dr Michael Okun Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases UF Health, Movement Disorders & Neruorestoration Program Book: 10 Secrets to a Happier Life: Parkinson's Treatment Book: Ask the Doctor about Parkinson's Disease