Sage Aging

Sound Advice: Navigating Hearing Loss and Hearing Aids

Liz Craven — Tue, 17 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Welcome to the Sage Aging Podcast! In this episode, host Liz Craven sits down with Dr. Tonya LaLonde, a Doctor of Audiology at Central Florida Speech and Hearing, to unravel the mysteries of hearing loss and hearing aids.

Did you know that approximately one in three people in the US between the ages of 65 and 74 has hearing loss? And that number jumps to nearly one in two for those older than 75? Untreated hearing loss can lead to a range of problems, including increased risk of cognitive decline.

In this informative discussion, you'll discover:

👂 The main types of hearing loss and how they differ from each other.

🔊 The most common type of hearing loss.

🤔 How to differentiate between hearing aids and other medical interventions.

🚩 The signs that someone might have hearing loss and need a hearing aid.

⏰ Why early intervention is crucial in treating hearing loss.

💰 The financial investment associated with hearing aids and what to be cautious of.

🎧 A comparison between over-the-counter hearing aids and professionally fitted ones.

👂👂 The difference between consulting an audiologist and a hearing aid dispenser, and why you might choose one over the other.

🧠 The link between untreated hearing loss and cognitive decline.

Join Liz and Dr. LaLonde on this journey to enhance your understanding of hearing health. If you or someone you care about is dealing with hearing loss or considering hearing aids, this episode is a must-listen!

Don't forget to hit that 'Subscribe' button, leave a comment to let us know your thoughts, and share this podcast with others who might benefit from this valuable information. Your engagement helps us shape future episodes and deliver content that matters most to you.

Thank you for tuning in to the Sage Aging Podcast. Let's dive into the world of hearing loss and hearing aids!

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If you enjoyed this episode of Sage Aging, please subscribe and share the podcast with a friend. If you have topic ideas you’d like to share, we’d love to hear from you. Drop us a line at info@eldercareguide.com.

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Chronic Disorganization

Liz Craven — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 03:00:00 -0400

In This Episode

Do you have a loved one whose home is filled to the brim with their belongings, making it hard to even navigate the rooms? It's not an uncommon scene, and you might be surprised to learn that a lot of people, especially older adults, struggle with this issue. In this episode, we're delving into the world of chronic disorganization and hoarding among older adults.

My Guest

Nicole Ramer is the founder and President of Organized Haven, a full-service moving, downsizing, and estate clearing company, Organized Haven employs a team of Professional Organizers, Senior Move Managers®, and Relocation Specialists/Movers.

Links & Resources We Mentioned

Thanks for Listening!

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For more great content and caregiving resources, visit us online at ElderCareGuide.com

5 Things I'd Tell My New Caregiver Self

Liz Craven — Tue, 21 Mar 2023 05:00:00 -0400

In This Episode

Hindsight is 20/20. If you could turn back time on a difficult time in your life, what advice would you give yourself? Tune in to learn 5 things I would tell my new caregiver self.

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For more great content and caregiving resources, visit us online at ElderCareGuide.com

Using a Senior Real Estate Specialist

Liz Craven — Tue, 07 Mar 2023 05:00:00 -0400

About This Episode

Transitioning from the family home to senior living can be a daunting task for older adults and their families. The process of downsizing, selling the family home, and finding the right senior living community can be overwhelming. However, using a senior real estate specialist (SRES) can make the transition easier. SRESs have expertise in assisting older clients with their unique needs and concerns. They can provide guidance and support throughout the entire process, helping older adults and their families navigate the complex real estate market and find the right living situation to fit their needs and lifestyle.

My Guest

Donna Kay Dinkins is YOUR Seniors Real Estate Specialist® at Focus Group Florida at Keller Williams Lakeland. As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist®, Donna received specialized education to help those age 50+ through lifestyle transitions involving relocation, refinancing, or selling the family home.

The Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®) is a designation by the National Association of Realtors that gives you the knowledge and expertise to guide homebuyers and sellers over the age of 50 through major financial and lifestyle transitions.

Links & Resources We Mentioned

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For more great content and caregiving resources, visit us online at ElderCareGuide.com

Money Management & Older Adults

Liz Craven — Tue, 21 Feb 2023 05:00:00 -0400

In This Episode

Daily money management can be a sore topic for some families of older adults. 90% of adults will tell you that they would prefer to age in place. That makes a lot of sense, doesn't it? Who wouldn't want to stay in their own home for as long as possible? But as we age, some of the everyday tasks we have always managed, like money management and paying bills, may become too much. We'd all like to think we will always be able to manage without assistance, but what happens when we can't? In this episode, we explore how a Daily Money manager can help.

My Guest

I was joined for this conversation by Heather Riner. Heather is the founder of Atlas Financial Consulting, which she established in 2021 after gaining ten years of experience in various financial sectors. These include wealth management, investments, trusts, and banking. She became a Daily Money Manager, helping clients by taking care of their day-to-day financial tasks and providing hands-on support to improve their financial lives. Heather is a member of the American Association of Daily Money Managers.

Thanks for Listening!

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For more great content and caregiving resources, visit us online at ElderCareGuide.com

Assisted Living Myths: Shedding Light on Common Misconceptions

Liz Craven — Tue, 07 Feb 2023 05:00:00 -0400

In This Episode

According to the American Health Care Association and the National Center for Assisted Living, more than 800k adults live in assisted living communities. But when it comes to considering a transition to assisted living, people often have reservations. Fear of a loss of independence, leaving the family home, and a myriad of misconceptions keep older adults from making a change that would bring a higher quality of life. In this episode, we will bust the most common myths about assisted living.

My Guest

Laura Tenpenny is the Director of Sales and Marketing for Lake Gibson Village in Lakeland, FL. Laura’s career began in the hospitality industry, later transitioning to senior living. With over 20 years of experience, Laura understands how the assisted living lifestyle can improve older adults' quality of life by offering meaningful personal care, nutritious meals, and vibrant social interaction and activities.

Connect with Laura: Laura@lakegibsonvillage.com, LinkedIn

Links & Resources We Mentioned

Thanks for Listening!

If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and share it with a friend or two.

For more great content and caregiving resources, visit us online at ElderCareGuide.com

Decoding Medicare

Liz Craven — Tue, 18 Oct 2022 00:00:00 -0400

In This Episode

Decoding Medicare isn't necessarily easy, but it's not as difficult as you may think when you understand the basics. With Open (annual) Enrollment upon us, Karen Dean, licensed Agent, joined me to break down the alphabet soup of Medicare to help you gain a better understanding the what is available to you.

My Guest

Karen Dean is a licensed agent at DFG & Associates in Lakeland, FL. She provides guidance and assistance in choosing the Medicare plan that is right for you. Learn more about DFG & Associates here.

Contact Karen: kdean3@gmail.com, 863-797-4102

Links & Resources We Mentioned

Medicare.gov - you can also call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227)
Medicare & You handbook - This is the official US government handbook. If you are Medicare-eligible you should have received it in the mail. If not you can call the Medicare number above.
State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP): SHIPs provide free, local, in-depth, and objective insurance counseling and assistance to Medicare-eligible individuals, their families, and caregivers. Use this link to locate your local program or call 1-877-839-2675. In Florida, visit floridashine.org/.
Connect with your local Area Agency on Aging to find local resources, check for benefits, and plan for long-term care.

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If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and share it with a friend or two.

For more great content and caregiving resources, visit us online at ElderCareGuide.com

Focus on Caregiver Wellness

Liz Craven — Tue, 20 Sep 2022 02:00:00 -0400

In This Episode

In this episode, I was joined by author Susanne White to discuss the four key areas of caregiver wellness and the importance of caregiver self-care. Susanne's approach is light-hearted and relatable.

My Guest

A former family caregiver herself, Susanne White is also known as the "Caregiver Warrior" and she actively works to empower family caregivers along their caregiving journey.

Connect with Susanne:

https://www.caregiverwarrior.com/
https://www.instagram.com/caregiverwarrior/
https://www.facebook.com/caregiverwarrior
https://twitter.com/CaregiveWarrior
https://www.pinterest.com/caregivewarrior/

Links & Resources We Mentioned

Episode 15: Suddenly a Caregiver, Now What?! with Susanne White
Self-Care for Caregivers by Susanne White

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If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and share it with a friend or two.

For more great content and caregiving resources, visit us online at ElderCareGuide.com

Managing Chronic Medical Conditions

Liz Craven — Tue, 06 Sep 2022 05:00:00 -0400

Managing chronic medical conditions is something most of us will have to do at one point or another. In this episode of the Sage Aging podcast, I was joined by David Chandler, Senior Director of Strategic Programs for Senior Helpers, to discuss. Click above to listen or view the conversation in its entirety.

What We Covered

The prevalence of chronic medical conditions
The importance of managing chronic medical conditions
The 5 key areas to assess for identifying the risk of hospitalization
Strategies for managing chronic conditions and successfully aging in place

Resources We Mentioned

Resources

Related Podcast Episodes

Episode 65: Older Adult Mental Health with Penny Williams
Episode 68 & 69: Ace Your Next Doctor Appointment with Sandra Washington
Episode 70: What is Normal Anyway? with Georgiana Goodson

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What is "Normal" anyway?

Liz Craven — Tue, 02 Aug 2022 04:00:00 -0400

In This Episode

A Caregiver's life is anything but normal. When we are caring for an aging loved one. It's very easy to let the chaos of the day take over. Ultimately, we let the things that bring us pleasure and joy fall by the wayside. The same is true for those receiving care. Sometimes this happens so gradually as needs increase that we don't even realize what has happened. What is "normal," anyway? "Normal" looks different for everyone. Every family dynamic is unique and so are the changes families experience while caregiving.

My Guest

Georgiana Goodson, Community Relations Manager for Senior Helpers Lakeland joined me to discuss maintaining a sense of normalcy in a caregiving situation. Georgiana dropped a lot of great insight during our conversation. Click the player to listen in or head over to our YouTube channel to watch the episode.

Links

Senior Connection Center

The Alzheimer's Association

Teepa Snow

Senior Helpers

Aging Life Care Association

Sage Aging Podcast Episode 6: Home Care Vs Home Health Care

Sage Aging Podcast Episode 8: Life Care Managers

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Ace Your Next Dr Appointment part 2

Liz Craven — Tue, 19 Jul 2022 03:00:00 -0400

In This Episode

A continuation of my conversation with Sandra Washington (see Episode 68) about preparing for and getting the most of your appointment with your doctor.

My Guest

Sandra Washington

Sandra's Website

Links & Resources We Mentioned

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If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and share it with a friend or two.

For more great content and caregiving resources, visit us online at ElderCareGuide.com

Ace Your Next Dr. Appointment (part 1)

Liz Craven — Tue, 05 Jul 2022 03:00:00 -0400

In This Episode

My Guest

Links & Resources We Mentioned

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If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and share it with a friend or two.

For more great content and caregiving resources, visit us online at ElderCareGuide.com

Do This When Your Loved One Passes

Liz Craven — Tue, 21 Jun 2022 04:00:00 -0400

In This Episode

My Guest

Barbara is the owner and lead care manager at All About Aging, an Aging Life Care practice in Central FL. Barbara and her team advocate for clients, honoring their dignity and choices as they age while collaborating with families to create and execute the best care plans possible to facilitate quality of care and preserve quality of life.

Barbara 's Website

Links & Resources We Mentioned

Thanks for Listening!

If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and share it with a friend or two.

For more great content and caregiving resources, visit us online at ElderCareGuide.com

End of Life Care Your Way: Five Wishes

Liz Craven — Tue, 07 Jun 2022 04:00:00 -0400

In This Episode

Advanced Care Planning. That's a phrase that you've likely heard before. And for many of you, it's something you've decided you'll just deal with later, but is it really something that you want to leave for later? It's not, but how do you start the uncomfortable end-of-life conversation with your loved ones? Nobody wants to talk about the end of life, right? It's hard. And it makes us confront emotions and feelings that we aren't quite ready for yet. But guess what? It's not as hard as you think it is. In this episode, we're going to introduce you to a tool that will guide you and your family through the process.

My Guest

Links & Resources We Mentioned

What is advance care planning?

What is the Five Wishes document and how did it come to be?

Why choose Five Wishes?

Is the Five Wishes advance directive a legal document?

How do I use the Five Wishes advance directive?

How can I get my own copy of Five Wishes?

What support is there for completing this document?

Thanks For Listening!

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Older Adult Mental Health

Liz Craven — Tue, 24 May 2022 03:00:00 -0400

In This Episode

My Guest

Penne Williams, LCSW, has been a social worker in the health care field for over 35 years. Currently, Penne works at Reliance Medical Centers as a Well-Being Advisor, providing supportive therapy to older adults and the disabled. Since 2003, she has served as an adjunct instructor at the University of South Florida, providing education and guidance to future social workers.

Links & Resources We Mentioned

Thanks for Listening!

If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and share it with a friend or two.

For more great content and caregiving resources, visit us online at ElderCareGuide.com

Aging in Place vs Downsizing

Liz Craven — Tue, 10 May 2022 04:00:00 -0400

In This Episode

Most older adults will tell you they want to age in place. I

think most of us envision enjoying our retirement years in the home we spent so

many years making just right. In the neighborhood and community where we built

friendships and relationships. It's the obvious choice to age in place, right?

Not so fast. Sometimes as we age, circumstances change, and

that requires us to reconsider how and where we choose to spend the later years

of our lives. Listen in as we explore Aging in Place vs downsizing.

My Guest

Jared Weggeland

Since 1995 Jared Weggeland has been involved in the home industry and since then he has become an expert in the real estate, new home construction, and remodeling industries. His companies are founded on the one-stop-shop experience, and his team, which includes senior real estate specialists, seeks to be your all comprehensive housing solution provider.

Jared 's Facebook page @jbweggeland on Instagram @NewHomesJared on Twitter Jared on YouTube

Links & Resources We Mentioned

Thanks for Listening!

If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and share it with a friend or two.

For more great content and caregiving resources, visit us online at ElderCareGuide.com

Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion in Alzheimer's Care

Liz Craven — Tue, 26 Apr 2022 04:00:00 -0400

In This Episode

Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion: In this episode, we'll explore the Alzheimer's Association's initiatives to ensure equitable access to information & services for all.

My Guest

Mr. Keith E. Gibson is the Director for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and Research Champion for the Alzheimer's Association Florida Chapter.

Links we mentioned

Thanks for Listening!

Thanks For Listening!

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Long-Term Care Ombudsman: Advocacy for Your Loved One

Liz Craven — Tue, 12 Apr 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Advocating for a loved one in Long Term Care can be difficult if you don't know how to go about it. You don't have to do it alone! Long-Term Care (LTC) Ombudsman programs work to resolve problems related to the health, safety, welfare, and rights of individuals who live in LTC facilities, such as nursing homes, assisted living, and other residential care communities.

My Guests

Terre Ann Lindstamer is the South Central District Ombudsman manager for Florida Ombudsman Program. She's worked for the Ombudsman Program for more than 12 years. Her favorite part of the job is meeting with residents, hearing their stories, and working to enhance their quality of life in any way that she can. Terre Anne's Website

Lee has been a valued volunteer for the Florida Long-term Care Ombudsman Program for more than seven years. He currently serves as the district council, chair. Lee 's Website

Links We Mentioned

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Senior Living options - An Overview

Liz Craven — Tue, 29 Mar 2022 04:00:00 -0400

In This Episode

When it's time to make the move from home to a senior living community, it's easy to become overwhelmed by the many senior living options. What type of community is best for your situation? What should you look for? And what questions should you ask? If you or a loved one, are considering making a move, this is the podcast episode for you.

My Guest

My guest for this episode of Sage Aging is Michael Gall. Michael is the Executive Director of Osprey Manor, Independent Living in Lakeland, FL. Well-versed in senior living options, Michael shared a wealth of information in an easy-to-understand way.

What We Covered

Senior living encompasses a range of lifestyle and care options for older adults that accommodate their unique needs. Options can be categorized beginning with 55 plus apartment buildings with no amenities, to skilled nursing communities providing complete care. We discussed the following options:

55+ Communities
Independent Living Communities
Assisted Living Communities
Nursing Homes
Life Plan Communities

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Honoring Our Veterans: Flight to Honor

Liz Craven — Wed, 16 Mar 2022 05:00:00 -0400

In This Episode

This episode of the Sage Aging podcast is dedicated to the brave men and women who served our country. It looks a little different than most because it is the March episode of "Listen Lakeland." Listen Lakeland is a collaborative podcast of Lakeland Vision, the City of Lakeland, and Hall Communications. It was my honor to host this heartfelt conversation about Flight to Honor and I hope you will take the time to listen in.

My Guests

Retired Col Gary Clark of Polk Veterans Council

Tabitha Bradford of Cornerstone Hospice

Thanks For Listening!

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Caregiver Grief & Loss

Liz Craven — Wed, 02 Mar 2022 03:00:00 -0400

In This Episode

Caregiver grief and stress often manifest in ways that are mistaken for other things. What looks like a bad attitude, anger, or indifference could actually be unrecognized grief. We generally associate grief with death but any kind of loss, including the loss of life as you knew it and can trigger grief.

My Guest

My guest for this episode is Lisa Michelle Zega of LegitYou I invited her to join me for a conversation about grief because I relate to her unique perspective about it and I think you will too. I promise this conversation will make you think and it may even give you an "aha moment" or two.

Links & Resources We Mentioned

Thanks for Listening!

If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and share it with a friend or two. Visit us online at ElderCareGuide.com

Romance Scams: What you need to know

Liz Craven — Tue, 10 Aug 2021 05:00:00 -0400

This Week on Sage Aging

Online dating has been a staple for a really long time, but it's become even more popular since COVID has put us in a position where we needed to stay home more. A lot of people have turned to the internet to the internet looking to meet some new people. I think that's something we can all relate to.

The pandemic magnified loneliness and isolation, especially for older adults and caregivers. It's a situation ripe for bad actors to build relationships online with unsuspecting people. We're in a situation that is ideal for romance scammers who want to take advantage of us. We all think romance scams and other fraudulent acts happen to someone else, but unfortunately, nobody is immune and we should all be on guard.

If you want to know what to look for, how to protect yourself, and what to do if you are a victim, this episode is for you.

My Guest

My guest for this episode is Kim Casci-Palangio. Kim is the Program Managing Director for the Cyber Crime Support Network. You might remember we had Kim's colleague Mark Batchelor with us back in episode 28 of season one. Cybercrime Support Network is definitely something you'll want to learn more about. So go back to that episode, if you haven't heard it or see the blog post here.

What We Covered

We covered sooo much in this episode. What do scammers look for? How do they identify and befriend targets? What are the red flags to look for in your loved one and what should you do if you or your loved one are victimized? Where can you find support for recovery? This episode is worth listening to!

Thanks for Listening!

If you are finding value in the podcast, I’d really appreciate it if you would leave a positive review and share the Sage Aging podcast with a friend. If you have topic ideas you’d like to share, we’d love to hear from you. Drop us a line at info@Sageaging.com

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Let's Talk About Ageism

Liz Craven — Tue, 03 Aug 2021 05:00:00 -0400

This week on Sage Aging

Ageism exists for people of all ages and the best way to combat it is to talk about it. Have you ever walked into a room and forgotten what you went in there for? Maybe you chalked it up to a "senior moment." Have you ever been to a restaurant where the server, who is much younger than you, speaks to you as if you are a young child and calls you sweetie or pumpkin? Similarly, perhaps you've told someone "you look good for your age."

All of these scenarios have one thing in common. They're all examples of ageism. Ageism is something most people experience at one point or another. As a matter of fact, if you take a close look at your own life, you've likely experienced ageism. You may have been guilty of ageist behaviors yourself.

Join me and Dr. Kathy Black as we talk about Ageism and how we can help combat it.

My Guest

Dr. Kathy Black joined me for this discussion about ageism. If you've been listening to the podcast from the beginning, that name should sound familiar. Kathy was the second-ever guest on the Sage Aging podcast (Here is our conversation about social isolation). Not only is Dr. Black someone I'm honored to call my friend, but she's an accomplished expert in the field of aging. As a Professor of Aging Studies and Social Work at the University of South Florida, Sarasota-Manatee campus, Kathy has led many a discussion about ageism.

Learn more about Dr. Kathy Black.

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Taking Control of Chronic Pain

Liz Craven — Tue, 06 Jul 2021 05:00:00 -0400

This Week on Sage Aging

This week we dive into a topic that touches more people than you might realize. Chronic pain affects one in five American adults. Think about that for a second, 20% of the American adult population feels pain Every. Single. Day.

And by the way, advanced age is a key factor in experiencing chronic pain and 70% of the people affected by chronic pain syndrome are women. So chronic pain is a real issue for a lot of people and especially for caregivers. While chronic pain can be approached medically (and you should always consult with your physician!) in this conversation, we focus on the holistic approach; Things that you can do to take charge of your health and wellness. Listen to the conversation here or keep scrolling for the transcript.

My Guest

My guest today is Nancy Candea. Nancy is an educator, entrepreneur, yoga therapist, personal trainer, and podcast host. Her mission is to make wellness practices accessible so that people can feel more in control of their health and happiness. To learn more about Nancy, check out the links section below.

What We Covered

Disclaimer: Obviously I am not a doctor, and Nancy isn't either. As with anything health-related, it is always important to consult with your physician about any pain you are experiencing.

Chronic pain defined
The effects of aging on the body
Sources of chronic pain
Strategies to prevent chronic pain
Healing from or alleviating chronic pain
The five points of wellness - taking control of your health

Links & Resources

Thanks for Listening!

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Elder Abuse Awareness & Prevention

Liz Craven — Tue, 15 Jun 2021 05:00:00 -0400

xxx

Transitioning From Home to Assisted Living

Liz Craven — Tue, 08 Jun 2021 05:00:00 -0400

This week on sage aging

Transitioning to assisted living is a big undertaking. According to a 2020 survey by AARP, nearly 90% of people over the age of 65 say they want to stay in their homes for as long as possible. And 80% believe that their current residence is the place that they'll spend the rest of their life.

In this episode of Sage Aging we discussed the challenges of transitioning from home to an assisted living community and what you can do to lessen that stress.

my guest

For this episode, I was joined by Charisse Durham of Senior Living Management. As is the case for so many, Charisse found her way to the senior living industry after her family struggled to navigate the care of her grandfather. She is dedicated to helping other families avoid the same struggles by providing resources and education about their senior living options and how to best advocate for themselves and their loved ones. To learn more about Charisse see the links section below.

Links & Resources

Connect with Charisse
Alzheimer's Association
How to choose the right senior living community (Season 1 Episode 23)
Choosing an Assisted Living Community Questions to ask worksheet
Having tough conversations with aging parents (Season 1 Episode 27)

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The 411 on Hearing Loss

Liz Craven — Tue, 30 Mar 2021 05:00:00 -0400

This Week on Sage aging

Hearing loss can have far-reaching effects on individuals and their families. Signs of hearing loss are sometimes easy to miss, but it’s important to be aware of them and not ignore them when we notice they are there.

My Guest

Roxann Bonta, President, and CEO of Central FL Speech and Hearing Center. Roxann has spent the past 43 years helping people hear and communicate their best and in this episode, she gave us the 411 about hearing loss in older adults.

Links & Resources

Central Florida Speech and Hearing Center
Free Amplified Phones: Search locations in FL by zip code
Free or low-cost Amplified phones: Search locations outside of Florida by state

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Thanks for Listening!

If you are finding value in the podcast, I’d really appreciate it if you would leave a positive review and share the Sage Aging podcast with a friend. If you have topic ideas you’d like to share, we’d love to hear from you. Drop us a line at info@Sageaging.us

Estate Planning: It's Not Just For The Aging

Liz Craven — Tue, 16 Mar 2021 02:00:00 -0400

in this episode

Estate Planning. The last time we discussed Estate Planning, it was mostly from the perspective of older adults, but in this episode, we dig a little deeper and talk about why having an estate plan is something every adult of any age should be thinking about.

My guest

My guest today is Denise Tessier, Esq. of The Tessier Law Firm. Denise has been a lawyer for over 25 years and currently, she focuses primarily on Elder Law, including estate planning, wills, and trusts, long-term care, Medicaid planning, probate, and administration of estates. Denise is a member of several local and national Elder Law and Estate Planning organizations. And notably, her firm was invited to become an affiliated member of the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys, which is a national organization committed to providing the highest quality of estate and Medicaid planning services. Learn more about Denise by clicking the link in the links section below.

Links we mentioned

The Tessier Law Firm
American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys
National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys - Find a lawyer in your area
Florida Bar Association - Consumer info and locate a FL attorney

Let's Get social

Connect with us on social media for daily updates, videos, tips, and more. Look for us on Instagram, facebook, TikTok, and twitter.

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When Your Loved One is Admitted to the Hospital

Liz Craven — Tue, 23 Feb 2021 02:00:00 -0400

This week on Sage Aging

For most caregivers, going through the experience of having a loved one admitted to the hospital is an inevitability. It's just one of those things that come along with the territory when you're caring for an aging loved one. So knowing that's the case, are you prepared for when that happens? Being prepared and knowing what to do will make a hospitalization far less stressful for all involved. You'll learn a lot in Episode 44!

my guest

My guest for this episode was Maggie Lazarre. With 36 years in the healthcare industry under her belt, Maggie knows a thing or two about what happens when a hospitalization occurs. An advanced practice registered nurse, Maggie has experienced all types of medical environments and in this episode, she shared valuable insights and practical advice for older adults, caregivers, and families.

Thanks for listening!

If you are finding value in the podcast, I’d really appreciate it if you would leave a positive review and share the Sage Aging podcast with a friend.

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Get weekly Sage Aging episodes sent straight to your inbox when you register for our weekly newsletter. In addition to the latest episode of Sage Aging, you'll also get bonus content, tips, suggested reading, and more.

Looking for senior resources?

Visit us online at PolkElderCare.com

Caregiver Spotlight: From Caregiver to Care Recipient - Melody Vachal

Liz Craven — Tue, 16 Feb 2021 02:00:00 -0400

This week on sage aging

This week I have a caregiver spotlight for you. I absolutely love shining a light on caregivers and their amazing stories and am always so inspired by how they just step up to the plate for those they care for. This spotlight is a bit different than normal though because my guest has experienced caregiving from both sides of the coin. It's also different because my guest is a caregiver of a special needs adult child and not an aging adult, but I know you'll agree that her message will resonate with anyone...caregiver or not!

Links & Resources we mentioned

Thanks for listening

Are you enjoying the Sage Aging podcast and blog? Tell us about it! I’d appreciate it if you would leave a positive review and share the Sage Aging podcast with a friend. If you have topic ideas you’d like to share, we’d love to hear from you. Drop us a line at info@Sageaging.us.

Expressive Arts Therapy

Liz Craven — Tue, 09 Feb 2021 02:00:00 -0400

This week on Sage Aging

The expressive arts, in general, are a great escape for so many people. So it's no wonder that they're considered a really effective therapy to allow older adults to experience a more satisfying and engaging life. This week in Episode 42 of Sage Aging we explored the use of Expressive Arts Therapy with older adults.

My Guest

Caitlin Pilette is the Expressive Arts Coordinator at an assisted living and memory care facility in Cambridge, Massachusetts, as well as a per diem clinician for a family bereavement nonprofit organization in Arlington. She holds a BS in psychology, a BA in dance, a certification in dance medicine, and an MA in clinical mental health counseling with a specialization in dance movement therapy. She first started working in elder care running dance groups with individuals with Parkinson's disease. And through that and other programs discovered her love for working with older adults. Caitlin has the arts in her blood and is happy to have a career that allows her to benefit others using her passion.

Links and resources

Links And Resources We Mentioned

Thanks for listening!

Finding Balance While Caregiving

Liz Craven — Tue, 02 Feb 2021 02:00:00 -0400

This week on Sage Aging

Balancing caregiving, work, kids, and other responsibilities can be really weighty, and often it creates a level of stress that's difficult to shoulder. Listen in to learn what steps can you take to make coping with your current life easier.

My Guest

Dr. Karmen Sears, a Consulting Psychologist at Bradenton Counseling in Sarasota, Florida is a licensed psychologist with a doctorate in clinical psychology and a master's in clinical social work. Dr. Sears employs multiple modalities to support the health and well-being of our clients serving each client's needs individually.

Links & Resources

About Dr. Karmen Sears - find all of her connection points here
211 - Find your local 211 here.
Alzheimer's Association
AARP Community Connections
Area Agency on Aging
Discover Emotional Detox (episode 30)
Florida Psychological Association
The 36-Hour Day (book)

Thanks for listening!

Connect with us on social media? Look for Sage aging on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.

Declutter Your Space and Your Life

Liz Craven — Tue, 26 Jan 2021 02:00:00 -0400

This Week on sage aging

The Greek philosopher Democritus once said "Happiness resides not in possessions and not in gold. Happiness dwells in the soul." I couldn't agree more! This week, in episode 40 of Sage Aging, I'm joined by Dierdre Dolan Nesline of Declutter to set us on the path to a decluttered life. If reading is more your style you'll find the full transcript in the blog post for episode 40 at SageAging.com.

My guest

Deirdre Dolan Nesline, owner of Declutter by Deirdre and host of the Magnificent Aging podcast. Deirdre is also a senior move manager and helps people who are ready to take control of their lives develop solid systems that allow them to step away from the things and the stresses that no longer serve them. To learn more about Deirdre, check the Links section below.

links & resources we mentioned

Thanks for listening!

Caregiver Spotlight - Laura Fraker

Liz Craven — Tue, 19 Jan 2021 02:00:00 -0400

This week on sage aging

Caring for an aging loved one is hard work and sometimes it is helpful to hear about another caregiver's experiences. This week, Laura Fraker joined me to chat about her family's transition as her parents age and need more assistance.

My Guest

My guest for this episode is Laura Fraker. She’s my best friend and soul sister 💕 and I’m so excited to share her with you today! Laura and her husband Ed, both retired, are caring for their parents and are experiencing first-hand the challenges that caregiving brings. Anyone who is a caregiver themselves will relate to this conversation!

Links we mentioned

AARP
Sage Aging Episode 29 - Being a great advocate for your aging loved one

Thanks for listening!

Staying Active...And Adventurous...In Retirement

Liz Craven — Tue, 12 Jan 2021 02:00:00 -0400

This week on sage aging

If you listened to episode 37 last week, you know that we talked about how using self-reflection will set the stage for a fantastic year. (How's that going? I would love to hear your thoughts!). Learning to focus on ourselves without guilt is a great segway into this week's conversation in episode 38 about staying active...and adventurous...in retirement.

My Guest

I was happy to welcome Heidi Herman, author of On With the Butter! Spread More Living Onto Everyday Life to the show to talk about living life to the fullest. Especially after retirement.

Links we mentioned

HeidiHermanAuthor.com - find all of her books and bio here
Connect with Heidi on facebook
Connect with Heidi on Instagram
Episode 37

Thanks for listening!

Creating a Positively Memorable 2021 Through Self-Reflection

Liz Craven — Tue, 05 Jan 2021 02:00:00 -0400

This Week on Sage Aging

In this episode, we talked about self-reflection and how to use it to find your best self all year long.

Get a copy of my free self-reflection worksheet

Thanks for listening!

**The Sage Aging podcast is brought to you by Polk ElderCare Guide. A comprehensive senior resource guide empowering you to navigate the aging and caregiving journey successfully.

The Benefits of a Daily Money Manager

Liz Craven — Tue, 08 Dec 2020 02:00:00 -0400

This Week on Sage Aging

According to a 2018 AARP survey, 76% of older adults in America say they want to age in place. While aging in place is what most prefer, there are lots of things that can get in the way of that. One of the most important aspects of maintaining independence is the management of a person’s day to day financial affairs. Join us as we discuss the benefits of using a daily money manager.

My Guest

Heather Riner is a Daily Money Manager (DMM) at All About Aging. Crossing her love of numbers with a passion for people, she has found a career that allows her to spend her days using her expertise to help older adults realize their dreams of aging in place. To connect with Heather, check the Links section below.

Links & Resources

Related episodes

thanks for listening!

**The Sage Aging podcast is brought to you by Polk ElderCare Guide. A comprehensive senior resource guide empowering you to navigate the aging and caregiving journey successfully.

Caregiver Spotlight - Wes Craven

Liz Craven — Tue, 01 Dec 2020 02:00:00 -0400

This week on sage aging

Connecting with other caregivers is important. Knowing that you're not alone in the things that you're experiencing, and hearing how other caregivers navigate their caregiving journey can go a long way in helping you to navigate yours. This week, my guest (and hubby!), Wes Craven, shares his caregiving experience with us. It was Wes who conceived of and wrote Polk ElderCare Guide almost 27 years ago, inspired by his grandmother's journey with Alzheimer's disease and his mother's struggle to care for her. Together, we have spent the last decade or so caring for our parents. It has been quite a journey and in this episode, you will hear about it from his perspective.

Links & Resources

Thanks for Listening!

Are you enjoying the Sage Aging podcast and blog? Tell us about it! I’d really appreciate it if you would leave a positive review and share the sage aging podcast with a friend. If you have topic ideas you’d like to share, we’d love to hear from you. Drop us a line at info@Sageaging.us

Brain Health Basics

Liz Craven — Tue, 10 Nov 2020 02:00:00 -0400

About this episode

Cognitive health is something we should be thinking about long before concerns of dementia and cognitive impairment crop up. Join me this week as I chat with Dr. Andrea Wilkinson all about brain health.

This episode is jam-packed with great information and is definitely one you'll want to listen to and share with others. Though Sage Aging focuses on older adults, the information in this episode will benefit people of any age, and any stage of life!

My Guest

Dr. Andrea Wilkinson. Andrea has a Ph.D. in psychology with a specialization in cognitive aging. She's the co-founder of BrainShape and host of the BrainShape podcast.

Links & resources we mentioned

Thanks for listening!

Discover Emotional Detox

Liz Craven — Tue, 27 Oct 2020 02:00:00 -0400

This Week on Sage Aging

Being a caregiver is a really stressful job. Regardless of the type of caregiver you are, whether you handle hands-on caregiving and taking care of the day to day needs of your loved one, or you're a long-distance caregiver managing care from afar, the sheer responsibility of providing for the well-being of another can be suffocating and it's easy for resentment, anger, and other negative emotions to set in. Does that sound familiar to you? Well, you're in luck because, in Episode 30 of Sage Aging, we will discover Emotional Detox.

My Guest

Sherianna Boyle is an international Emotional Detox Coach, author of eight books, including her most recent Emotional Detox and Emotional Detox for Anxiety. She has a master's in education and a certificate of advanced graduate study in the School of Psychology from the University of Massachusetts, Boston. An adjunct psychology professor, Sherianna is no stranger to teaching and has been featured in over 85 articles and as a presenter for many organizations. For Sherianna's complete bio and connection points, check the links section below.

Links & resources we mentioned

thanks for listening!

Being a Great Advocate For Your Aging Loved One

Liz Craven — Tue, 20 Oct 2020 02:00:00 -0400

About this Episode

When you are a caregiver, whether you like it or not, you become responsible for the health and well-being of another. One who may need assistance, not just with day to day life things, but with advocating for themselves as well. One of the most significant roles a caregiver plays is that of an advocate for their loved one. Listen to learn more about being a great advocate for your aging loved one.

Links and Resources Mentioned

AARP’s report Caregiving in the US 2020
Sage Aging Elder Law Series - five episodes covering Elder Law topics

Thanks for listening!

To learn more about Sage Aging visit us online at SageAging.us

Cybercrime – What is it and How Do I Protect Myself

Liz Craven — Tue, 06 Oct 2020 02:00:00 -0400

About this episode

The world seems to get smaller every day as technology advances at breakneck speed. While this enhances our ability to stay connected and take advantage of lots of conveniences, it can also put us at risk too. How do you protect yourself from cybercrime? How can you tell if someone is trying to take advantage of you? And how can you help your aging loved ones protect themselves? If you're concerned about cybercrime and how it affects all of us, then this is the podcast episode for you.

My Guest

My guest on this episode is Mark Batchelor, Vice President of Victim Services Programs at Cybercrime Support Network, a public-private, nonprofit collaboration created to meet the challenges facing millions of individuals and businesses affected every day by cybercrime. A passionate advocate of online safety issues and privacy issues, Mark is dedicated to assisting people to find the help they need.

Links & Resources We Mentioned

Thanks for listening!

Are you enjoying the Sage Aging podcast? Tell us about it! I’d really appreciate it if you would leave a positive review and share the sage aging podcast with a friend. If you have topic ideas you’d like to share, we’d love to hear from you. Drop us a line at info@Sageaging.us

Having Tough Conversations With Aging Parents

Liz Craven — Tue, 29 Sep 2020 02:00:00 -0400

This Episode

Broaching topics like driving, finances, and living situations with an aging loved one is never easy. You know that it's time to have a conversation. But where do you begin? And how do you start the conversation without being too assertive? If you're concerned about an aging loved one, and think it's time for some real talk, then you're in luck and this is the podcast episode for you!

My Guest

My guest this week is Catherine Hodder. Catherine is an estate planning attorney turned author whose book estate planning for the sandwich generation how to help your parents and protect your kids debuted as a number one Amazon bestseller in new releases for wills. Perhaps more importantly, Catherine has held the title of caregiver as well. So she knows about these conversations and knows where all of you are coming from having had the benefit of seeing caregiving from both sides. Catherine has a lot to offer as we talk about approaching difficult conversations with our aging loved ones.

Links we mentioned

Next Week

Thanks for listening!

Are you enjoying the Sage Aging podcast? Tell us about it! I’d really appreciate it if you would leave a positive review and share the Sage Aging podcast with a friend. If you have topic ideas you’d like to share, we’d love to hear from you. Drop us a line at info@Sageaging.us

The Beautiful Truth About Hospice

Liz Craven — Tue, 22 Sep 2020 02:00:00 -0400

About this episdoe

For lots of people, Hospice is a scary word because it's associated with the end of life, confronting our own mortality or that of someone we hold dear is tough. And the final journey we take in this lifetime can be a challenge for the whole family. But what most people don't realize is that not only does hospice provide the patient the ability to live well, right up to the final moment, but it also provides comprehensive support to the family as well. The myths surrounding hospice lead to a really unfortunate under-utilization of it, so in this episode, we spent some time talking about a few of those myths and revealing the beautiful truth about hospice.

My Guests

I was happy to host Andrew Molosky and Dean Forman of Chapters Health System to help me wade through some of the common misconceptions about hospice. Both Andrew and Dean found their careers in hospice through personal experiences that identified a calling and a desire to support families and empower patients during a difficult time. That's pretty common among people who work in Hospice. They are a very special bunch!

Links and resources we mentioned

Andrew Molosky bio
Dean Forman bio
Chapters Health System
Good Shepherd Hospice
Bethany Center
National Partnership for Hospice Innovation
National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization
National Association for home care and hospice
Hospice Foundation of America - we didn't mention this one in the episode, but lots of good information there for caregivers.
Medicare.gov - Find and compare hospice options local to you by entering your zip code

Thanks for listening!

How to tell real news from misinformation

Liz Craven — Tue, 15 Sep 2020 02:00:00 -0400

About This Episode

In today's world being able to tell the difference between real news and misinformation is difficult at best. The words 'media' and 'news' are used interchangeably and widely misunderstood in America today. What do the words media and news really refer to? How can the average person tell the difference between good information and misinformation? If these are questions you'd like answers to you'll definitely want to listen to episode 25!

My Guest

My guest for this episode is Trinity Laurino of Lkldnow. LkldNow is a nonprofit, locally driven news organization whose mission is to educate community members and cultivates civic engagement by reporting and curating local news and community information in an accessible user-friendly digital format. Trinity's resume includes work at PBS, National Geographic, the BBC’s Motion Gallery, CNN, and currently LkldNow. She serves as LkldNow’s Community Engagement Director charged with growing awareness of the critical role local journalism plays in the civic health of a community and the urgent need to ensure the future of local news and its accessibility.

Resources & Links we mentioned

Contact Trinity - Trinity@lkldnow.com
LkldNow.com
Article: 'Misinformation has created a new world disorder' by Claire Wardle
Associated Press: 'Not Real News - A look at what didn't happen this week'
Article: 'Who Should Judge What's True - Tracking Social Media's Global Impact' by Lenora Chu
Snopes

Thanks for listening

Ten Tips For Caregivers

Liz Craven — Tue, 08 Sep 2020 02:00:00 -0400

About this episode

According to a recent AARP report, close to 17% of American adults are caring for at least one family member. Being a family caregiver is an overwhelming undertaking that many feel unprepared for. Have you ever felt that way? Well, you're in luck because today's guest will be giving you her top 10 tips for successful caregiving. If you're caring for an aging loved one and want the inside scoop on caregiving from an industry pro, then this is the podcast episode for you.

Links & Resources Mentioned

Next Week

Episode 25 brings a conversation about media and news. That's a hot topic! What is the difference between media and news and how can you tell if what you are reading or seeing is true? It's a conversation you don't want to miss!

Thanks for Listening!

How to choose the right Senior Living Community

Liz Craven — Tue, 01 Sep 2020 02:00:00 -0400

About this episode

About 90% of older Americans say they'd like to age in place and stay in their current home as long as possible, but sometimes health and mobility concerns require a different type of living arrangement. What are the choices when it comes to senior living? How do you know which type is right for you? What should you look for in a senior living community and what should you ask when you visit? If you have questions about Senior Living options, you'll get a lot out of my conversation with Lori LeGrand of Oasis SeniorAdvisors of Central Florida.

Resources and Links Mentioned

Lori LeGrand's bio, website, contact info
Alzheimer's Association
Teepa Snow
Sage Aging Elder Law Series

Thanks for Listening

Five websites every caregiver should know about

Liz Craven — Tue, 25 Aug 2020 02:00:00 -0400

In This Episode

My top five websites every caregiver should know about are a great place for new caregivers to begin when they embark on their caregiving journey. There are so many great resources to share that I could go on for days, but in this episode, we'll just focus on five. You'll also hear a little bit about my caregiving journey and why I do what I do.

Links and Resources Mentioned

Related Episodes

Caring for Caregivers - Alzheimer's Association - 3
Finding Eldercare and Disability Resources - 21

Thanks for Listening!

If you found value in today’s conversation, I’d really appreciate it if you would leave a positive review and share the sage aging podcast with a friend. If you have topic ideas you’d like to share, we’d love to hear from you. Drop us a line at info@Sageaging.us

Finding Eldercare and Disability Resources

Liz Craven — Tue, 18 Aug 2020 02:00:00 -0400

In This Episode

Finding eldercare and disability resources can sometimes seem impossible. The needs are usually urgent, but where do you begin to look? If you are seeking assistance for seniors living at home and have ever wondered where to find a source for community senior and disability resources and services near you, this is the podcast episode for you!

My Guest

My guest for this episode is Charlotte McHenry, President and CEO of Senor Connection Center, which is the Area Agency on Aging for Hillsborough, Polk, Manatee Highlands, and Hardy counties in Florida. Charlotte is very well versed in the aging and disability services space and shared a wealth of information in this episode!

If Reading is more your speed, you can find the transcript for this interview in the Episode 21 blog post at SageAging.us

Links & Resources Mentioned

About/Contact Charlotte McHenry
Older American's Act Overview
Eldercare Locator - Find your Area Agency on Aging
Florida Department of Elder Affairs
Senior Connection Center Elder Helpline - 1-800-96-Elder
Florida Shine program - Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders
National SHIP program - find free local Medicare help
Sage Aging Episode 2 - Social Isolation (Dr. Kathy Black - USF)
National Council on Aging

Thanks for Listening!

The Sage Aging podcast is brought to you by Polk ElderCare Guide. A comprehensive senior resource guide empowering you to navigate the aging and caregiving journey successfully.

Living With Parkinson's

Liz Craven — Tue, 11 Aug 2020 02:00:00 -0400

Show Notes

Receiving a diagnosis of any kind can take an emotional toll on both the person receiving the diagnosis and their care partner and family. Knowing what to expect is key in coping with a new diagnosis. But it's not just the physical symptoms that need attention. In this episode, we dig a little deeper into the conversation we had in episode 19 and explore some ways to not only cope with Parkinson's but to continue to live a long active life full of purpose as you live with the disorder.

Links & Resources We Mentioned

Connect with Bob Harmon Bobharmon49@gmail.com
Michael J. Fox Foundation
Fox Trial Finder
Parkinson's Foundation
David Spinney Foundation

Related Episodes

Episode 19 - An Introduction to Parkinson's

Thanks for listening

**The Sage Aging podcast is brought to you by Polk ElderCare Guide. A comprehensive senior resource guide empowering you to navigate the aging and caregiving journey successfully.

An Introduction to Parkinson's

Liz Craven — Tue, 04 Aug 2020 02:00:00 -0400

Show Notes

Receiving a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease can be devastating. It's not a disease the average person knows very much about so the initial emotions coupled with the lack of knowledge about what comes next can be really overwhelming. In this episode Ginny Wolfe, a Parkinson's and Alzheimer's Educator, gives us a good overview of what Parkinson's is and shares great resources as well.

Links & Resources We Mentioned

Thank you!

Thanks for listening. If you found value in today’s conversation, I’d really appreciate it if you would leave a positive review and share the sage aging podcast with a friend. If you have topic ideas you’d like to share, we’d love to hear from you. Drop us a line at info@Sageaging.us

8 Simple Steps to a Secure Future

Liz Craven — Tue, 28 Jul 2020 02:00:00 -0400

This Week

There is much to consider when planning for the later years of life and it feels overwhelming to some, but it doesn't have to be! In this episode, TL Johnson shares his 8 step plan. Bookmark this episode - there are a lot of easy and practical steps you will want to apply to your own life plan! (Full Blog Post)

Links and Resources We Mentioned

Related Episodes

TL's 8 Steps

TL’s 8 Steps to a Secure Retirement

Make a commitment to successful aging
Have a conversation with your spouse/partner – being on the same page is an important component of your life plan
Define Your Passions – both as individuals and as a couple
Do A Financial Assessment – where are you and where do you need to be
Plan for Good Health – adopt a healthy lifestyle and make decisions now possible needs in your later years
Develop Your Plan – consider what you want each stage of your life to look like and who will help you make that a reality
Take Action and Get Started – Set specific goals and tell the important people in your life
Remain Flexible – be open to growth and development in new areas and change lanes when needed

Thank you!

Medicare 101 - What you need to know

Liz Craven — Tue, 14 Jul 2020 02:00:00 -0400

To say that Medicare is confusing would be an understatement. The options are many, and it can be difficult to navigate the maze and choose the plan that's right for you. The good news is you don't have to navigate Medicare on your own. In this episode we cover the basics of Medicare with guest Jennifer Mullins, a licensed insurance agent with Humana.

Links & Resources

About Jennifer Mullins
Medicare.gov
Medicare and you Handbook
State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) - find local medicare help
SHINE (FL SHIP program)
Medicaid
Social Security Administration
Area Agency on Aging - Find your local office

Thanks for listening. If you found value in today’s conversation, I’d really appreciate it if you would leave a positive review and share the sage aging podcast with a friend. If you have topic ideas you’d like to share, we’d love to hear from you. Drop us a line at info@Sageaging.us

Suddenly a caregiver. Now what?!

Liz Craven — Tue, 07 Jul 2020 02:00:00 -0400

About This Episode

Caring for an aging loved one is not for the faint of heart. Having said that, it is one of the greatest honors and privileges to show that kind of love and compassion to one that you hold dear. Susanne White, Caregiver Warrior, shares her caregiving story and gives us some practical, sage caregiver advice. She was a lovely guest and I know you will enjoy her light spirit and witty demeanor.

Links & Resources We Mentioned

Thanks for listening! If you found value in today’s conversation, I’d really appreciate it if you would leave a positive review and share the sage aging podcast with a friend. If you have topic ideas you’d like to share, we’d love to hear from you. Drop us a line at info@Sageaging.us

Elder Law Explained: Probate

Liz Craven — Tue, 30 Jun 2020 02:00:00 -0400

Probate. Now there’s a term that affects many, but is understood by few. What is probate? Is it a good thing or a bad thing? Should I try to avoid it or can it be a good tool? If you are looking for an understanding of what probate is and what it does, then you'll want to listen to this episode!

Here's What We Cover

What is Estate Administration
What is probate
Does every estate go through probate
Are there times when probate should not be avoided/not avoided
Should I use a trust to avoid probate
Should one with limited assets have an estate plan
Specific scenarios to help you understand probate

Links & Resources

Related Episodes

Thanks for listening!

If you found value in this conversation, I’d really appreciate it if you would click Subscribe now and share the sage aging podcast with a friend. If you have topic ideas you’d like to share, we’d love to hear from you. Drop us a line at info@sageaging.us

Elder Law Explained: Medicaid Planning & Veteran's Benefits

Liz Craven — Tue, 23 Jun 2020 02:00:00 -0400

70% of people over the age of 65 will need long term care and support in their lifetime. With the high cost of care, how can you prepare in advance? Will Medicaid cover the cost of care? What benefits do you have access to as a veteran or spouse of a veteran? If you need answers about Medicaid planning and Veteran’s benefits then this is the podcast episode for you.

This is episode 13 and the fourth episode of a five part series addressing the legal side of the aging process. In episode 12 we talked about Long Term Care Planning and asset protection. If you missed that, you’ll want to circle back and listen to/read that and the other episodes in this series because they all overlap each other and you need all of the pieces of the puzzle to get a clear picture. In this episode we are going to dig a little deeper into Long Term Care Planning and talk about Medicaid Planning.

Here is What We Cover

What is Medicaid
Why should someone engage in Medicaid Planning
Who can assist with Medicaid Planning
Does Medicaid Planning vary state to state
When should one begin planning
Planning for Long Term Care when assets are limited
Planning for long term care when you have assets/asset protection
Why is long term care planning important/What happens if I don’t have a plan
Veteran’s Benefits overview - what is available
Who qualifies

Links & Resources

Related Episodes

Thanks for listening!

If you found value in today’s conversation, I’d really appreciate it if you would click here to leave us a review and share the sage aging podcast with a friend. If you have topic ideas you’d like to share, we’d love to hear from you. Drop us a line at info@sageaging.us

Elder Law Explained: Guardianship

Liz Craven — Tue, 09 Jun 2020 02:00:00 -0400

About This Episode

This is the second episode in a five-part series on Elder Law. In episode 10 we discussed the basic elements of estate planning and why it's important. If you missed that, be sure to double back and give it a listen because it was packed with a lot of great unnecessary information. In this episode we discussed guardianship. Planning ahead legally for the later years of life with an estate plan is ideal, but what happens when someone fails to get their affairs in order and becomes incapacitated due to advancing age and illness or a disability? Who decides who will make the decisions for the individual And what protections are in place to safeguard their well-being?

Here is what we discussed

What is Guardianship
Who can become a Guardian
Why would someone need a Guardian
Are Guardians certified and/or monitored
The process to establish a guardian
The pros and cons of Guardianship

Links and Resources

Thank you!

Thanks for tuning in! If you found value in today's conversation, I'd really appreciate it if you would click Subscribe now and share the sage aging podcast with a friend. If you have topic ideas you'd like to share, we'd love to hear from you. Drop us a line at info@sageaging.us

Elder Law Explained: Estate Planning

Liz Craven — Tue, 02 Jun 2020 02:00:00 -0400

Elder Law Explained: Estate Planning, is the first episode of a five-part series addressing the legal side of the aging process. We've all heard that saying "Nothing is sure but death and taxes", but I'd argue that confusion surrounding legal matters as we age is a pretty sure thing. Did you know that less than 40% of adults aged 50 and older have an estate plan in place? Are you aware that an estate plan isn't just for wealthy people? Are you familiar with the terms will, living will, power of attorney and trust and do you know what they mean? Or if you even need them? We answer all these questions and more on this episode of sage aging.

Here is what we cover

Who needs to be concerned with estate planning?
The word "estate" is often misunderstood for wealth. What is an estate?
What is estate planning?
When should one create an estate plan?
What Happens if I don’t have a plan?
Key Components of an estate plan: Will, Living Will, Power of Attorney, Trust
Can someone DIY an Estate Plan?

Resources & Links

Read the full transcript in the episode 10 blog post at SageAging.us

Thanks for listening! I appreciate your support so very much. If you are finding value in the Sage Aging podcast I would really appreciate it if you would leave us a review. If you have topics you'd liek for me to cover, let me know that too. Drop me a line at info@SageAging.us

Baby Boomer Retirement - Is Senior Cohousing a Good Option?

Liz Craven — Tue, 26 May 2020 02:00:00 -0400

The Baby Boomer generation, 73 million strong, are entering the 65+ age group at a rate of 10,000 per day in the United States. By the year 2030, all Baby Boomers will have joined the 65+ club placing a lot of stress on the senior housing industry. So what does senior housing of the future look like and what changes are coming to accommodate the rapidly growing need? A 30 minute podcast episode isn’t nearly enough time to tackle that question entirely, but today we are going to talk about a lesser known option called Cohousing. Cohousing communities bring together the value of private homes and the advantages of shared public space. Is senior Cohousing a good option?

My guest on this episode is Gail Bagley. A retiree living in Lakeland, FL Gail has dreamed of living in a cooperative, communal-type arrangement for decades and is the founding member of Friends and Neighbors Cohousing LLC, a cohousing community in the planning stages in Lakeland, FL.

Here is what we talked about:

What is cohousing? Description and brief history
Why is senior cohousing relevant now?
What cohousing is not
Why Senior Cohousing/Who is a good candidate
The process: how is a cohousing community created?
Examples of existing senior cohousing communities
Benefits of senior cohousing (to the individual and to the wider community)
Where to get more info and learn about cohousing in my area

About Gail Bagley

"I am a senior citizen! Also a Florida resident since 1970 (before Disney World opened😉); Lakeland resident since 2002. 34 year career in high tech industrial distribution management, followed by 10 years in marketing, education and consulting for local organizations serving seniors.

I have dreamed of living in a cooperative, communal-type arrangement for decades. I am the founding member Friends and Neighbors Cohousing LLC, president of non-profit SAGE Senior Coho Advocates, Executive board member of non-profit Rath Senior ConNEXTions. Also involved in the SAGEing Wisdom Circle in Winter Haven."

Resources & Links

Friends and Neighbors Cohousing website: https://www.cohousinglkld.com/
Friends and Neighbors Senior Cohousing Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/friendsandneighborsco/
Cohousing Association of the U.S. website: https://www.cohousing.org/
SAGE Senior Cohousing Advocates website: https://sagecohoadvocates.org
"Best of Both Worlds: Cohousing's Promise" DVD http://www.cohousingco.com/film
"State-of-the-Art Cohousing" book: https://www.amazon.com/State-Art-Cohousing-Lessons-Learned/dp/0945929056/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=state+of+the+art+cohousing
The Senior Cohousing Handbook: http://www.cohousingco.com/products/senior-cohousing-a-community-approach-to-independent-living-the-handbook-second-edition
AARP Age Friendly Communities: https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/network-age-friendly-communities/

Thanks for listening! If you found value in this podcast, please subscribe now and share it with a friend. We'd also be very grateful if you would leave us a review!

Life Care Managers - All You Need to Know

Liz Craven — Tue, 19 May 2020 07:00:00 -0400

Navigating the aging journey for yourself or a loved one can be overwhelming. It’s difficult to know where to begin and the fear that you are missing something very important always lingers. You are not alone. In episode 6 we discussed Home Care options (if you missed that you can find episode 6 at SageAging.us along with our whole catalog of shows). The option we will discuss in this episode Is a Life Care Manager, also known as a Geriatric Care Manager. Guest Barbara Herrington of All About Aging provides a wealth of information and sheds some light on this topic.

Here is what we covered:

What is an Aging Life Care Practice
About Barbara and what brought her to found All About Aging
Who is a good candidate for a Life Care Manager?
When is the right time to engage a Life Care Manager?
What types of things can a Life Care Manager assist with?
Types of caregivers. (physical caregiver, long distance caregiver, local but living separately)
Is using a Life Care Manager a cost effective option for families/How services are paid for
Questions to ask when choosing a Life Care Manager
Book/web site recommendations

Links & Resources Mentioned (so much great info!)

PolkElderCare.com - senior resource guide
About Barbara Herrington
All About Aging
Aging Life Care Association
Selecting a Life Care Manager (Questions to Ask)
Mayo Clnic
Johns Hopkins Medicine
The Alzheimer's Association
The Alzheimer's Foundation
Book: The Caregivers Path to Compassionate Decision Making by Viki Kind
Book: How to Say it to Seniors

Home Care vs Home Health Care - There is a Difference

Liz Craven — Tue, 05 May 2020 07:00:00 -0400

If you’re a family caregiver or anyone engaged in senior care for that matter, chances are you’ve had some confusion about the types of in-home care available at one point or another. And that is totally understandable. You’ve probably heard terms like, homemaker companion, personal care aide, home health aide, in-home care, nurse registry, and the list goes on. Confusing right? You’re wondering, What’s the difference and what is right for me? In this episode, with the help of my guest Jorge Giraldo, we clear all of that up for you.

Here is what we cover:

Home Care vs Home Health (non-medical vs medical)
Do the two ever mix
Where a Home Care Agency provide services
When should a family consider getting extra help
How services are paid for
Is it a cost effective option
The future of Home Care
Key questions one should ask when considering a care provider

Links and Resources

If you enjoyed this episode and the Sage Aging podcast, I have a favor to ask. Please take two minutes to subscribe, and to write a review. You can do that on Apple Podcasts right now by clicking here. If you are an Android user, you can follow the podcast on Spotify here. Those actions will help the podcast reach more people, and I would be truly grateful. Thank you so much!

Sage-ing vs Aging

Liz Craven — Tue, 28 Apr 2020 07:00:00 -0400

About This Episode

What is Sage-ing? Simply put, Sage-ing is a different, more positive approach to growing older. It’s about walking in mindfulness and looking at the things in your life and trying to harvest our life's wisdom. Chuck Warren shares the history of Sage-ing and the positivity it has brought to his life.

About Chuck Warren

Chuck grew up in north Florida and spent most of his working life as a social worker in a variety of locations including New York City working with street youth and later with addiction services, in Central Florida with the Job Corps, the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches Program, with a residential brain injury program, and finally with Winter Haven Hospital in their ESTEEM Program for brain injury. He has been facilitating the Sage-ing program in Winter Haven, FL for 20 years.

He lives in Central Florida with his wife, Bernie, still facilitating a weekly Sage-ing meeting, writing books (usually fiction), and biking. He loves music and is trying to learn to play the harmonica!

If you are interested in starting a Sage-ing wisdom circle in your community, email Chuck directly for more information: charles.warren13@verizon.net

Resources Mentioned

From Aging to Sage-ing: A Profound New Vision for Growing Older by Zalman Schachter-Shalomi and Ronald S Miller https://www.amazon.com/Age-ing-Sage-ing-Revolutionary-Approach-Growing/dp/0446671770

Sage-ing International – Visit this site for information and resources about Sage-ing https://www.sage-ing.org/

About Featured Sage Ager Bob Doyel

Bob, a retired Circuit Court Judge of 16 years is married and a father of two grown children. He's also a former Naval officer who served in the Vietnam War. During his accomplished career, Bob has championed causes living his life’s mission to be a part of the solution for the good of all. His most notable contributions in this respect come in the area of domestic violence. We suspect there is much more to come in the area of community service for Bob Doyel!

Visit us online https://sageaging.us

Downsizing Without the Stress

Liz Craven — Tue, 21 Apr 2020 06:00:00 -0400

About Nicole Ramer

Nicole, a Professional Organizer and Certified Senior Move Manager® is the owner of Organized Haven. She and her team have been serving the Central Florida area since 2013, assisting seniors and their families with the emotional and physical challenges of decluttering, downsizing, and moving, or aging-in-place.

Nicole has been a member of Better Living for Seniors Polk since 2015 and is currently President of the Board. She is a member of the National Association of Productivity and Organizing Professionals (NAPO) and the National Association of Senior Move Managers® (NASMM). It is with NASMM that Nicole earned her certification in Senior Move Management, just one year after joining NASMM in 2016. She and her team utilize continuing education with both NAPO and NASMM to advance their knowledge in working with older adults as it relates to moving, aging-in-place, helping those with hoarding tendencies, dementia and cognitive decline, memory and forgettery, and communication matters.

Contact Nicole:

https://www.organizedhaven.com/

Help@OrganizedHaven.com

863.268.4041

About This Episode:

In this episode we discuss the task of downsizing and moving the contents of a home when it becomes necessary to move. That can be an overwhelming task, both physically and emotionally. Find out how a Senior Move Manager can help.

Resources mentioned:

Book: Let It Go: Downsizing Your Way to a Richer, Happier Life- Peter Walsh https://www.amazon.com/Let-Go-Downsizing-Richer-Happier/dp/1623367794

Book: The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up - Marie Kondo https://www.amazon.com/Life-Changing-Magic-Tidying-Decluttering-Organizing-ebook/dp/B00KK0PICK/ref=sr_1_3?crid=I34YP8D25WU6&dchild=1&keywords=marie+kondo&qid=1587395025&s=books&sprefix=marie+%2Cstripbooks%2C173&sr=1-3

Book: Downsizing the Family Home by Marnie Jamison https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Downsizing+the+Family+Home+by+Marnie+Jamison&ref=nb_sb_noss

National Association of Senior Move Managers – NASMM.org

National Association of Productivity and Organizing Professionals – NAPO.net

Understanding Social Isolation

Liz Craven — Tue, 07 Apr 2020 01:00:00 -0400

Building on last week's discussion, Coping With Stress and Anxiety in Uncertain times (listen here: Bit.ly/SageEp1)Kathy Black, PhD, professor of Social Work and Aging Studies at the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee discusses social isolation and the effect it can have on both our physical and mental well-being. Listen to this episode to get a better understanding of what social isolation is and what causes it. You’ll also learn about strategies and resources to help people stay engaged and healthy at any age.

Visit our web site for a blog post and transcript of this episode: ElderCareGuide.com

Connect with us on social media:

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Resources Mentioned

AARP CommunityConnections: https://aarpcommunityconnections.org/

AARP Coronavirus Facts & Updates: https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2020/coronavirus-facts.html

AARP Crisis Textline - Connect immediately to support:https://www.crisistextline.org/

Grocery Delivery/Instacart: https://www.instacart.com/

Prepared Food Delivery/Uber Eats: https://www.ubereats.com/

Next Door App: https://nextdoor.com/

Additional Resources from Kathy Black:

How can we learn more about COVID 19 and older adults?

For expert information and the opportunity to ask questions, please consider participating in AARP’s Tele-Town Hall on Coronavirus Information on Thursdays at 1 PM.
To learn about national guidelines specific to older adults, view the Centers for Disease Control Checklist for Older Persons.

What can my community do now to help others?

For helpful ideas on staying connected while intentionally isolating oneself at home, see the Coalition to End Social Isolation and Loneliness.
For healthcare questions, contact Medicare for information on COVID 19 including Telephone and Video health consultations with a doctor through Telehealth

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