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Dementia is not just an individual’s disease. In fact, it’s estimated that it requires two-and-a-half loved ones to care for someone with dementia. And Caregiving is a 24/7 job.Unfortunately, care…

Dementia is not just…

Dementia is not just an individual’s disease. In fact, it’s estimated that it requires two-and-a-half loved ones to care for someone with dementia. And caregiving is a 24/7 job.Unfortunately, caregivers often neglect their own needs to care for a loved one with dementia. They will delay their own appointments and engagements while enduring the mental, emotional and physical toll of caregiving – which can even leave them in a worse state than those with dementia!Strategies to manage Stress are pivotal. Megan Rowe, Senior Program Manager for the Alzheimer’s Association Dallas and Northea…

In the ever-changing landscape of senior living, I’ve found that choosing the right community for a loved one is both daunting and crucial. The process becomes even more challenging when the communi…

In the ever-changing…

In the ever-changing landscape of senior living, I’ve found that choosing the right community for a loved one is both daunting and crucial. The process becomes even more challenging when the community you carefully selected undergoes unexpected changes. Based on my recent experiences, I wanted to share some insights and tips on how to navigate these complexities effectively.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Team Efforts01:02 A Facebook Post That Inspired This Episode03:19 Five Practical Tips for Senior Living03:21 Tip 1: Trust Your Gut and Gather Facts05:32 Tip 2: Communicate with Communi…

Should I move an elderly family member in with me? Or should we look into senior living?This is a question I receive a lot. Before I dive in, it’s important to remember that every situation is diffe…

Should I move an eld…

Should I move an elderly family member in with me? Or should we look into senior living?This is a question I receive a lot. Before I dive in, it’s important to remember that every situation is different. Be sure to do what’s best for you and your family. But to gauge what’s right, I have a list of pros and cons for you to consider.Pros:· Living with your loved one can help connect the family. Some of my fondest memories are of my grandmother Emelita living with us. Multiple generations living together can create special memories, especially the kids and their grandparents.· If everyo…

As life throws inevitable challenges our way, caregiving for a loved one—especially during a medical crisis—can test our resilience and resourcefulness. In this episode, I share my personal experi…

As life throws inevi…

As life throws inevitable challenges our way, caregiving for a loved one—especially during a medical crisis—can test our resilience and resourcefulness. In this episode, I share my personal experiences as a caregiver and senior living expert. From unexpected medical emergencies to the necessity of being a strong advocate, I offer practical insights and compassionate advice for anyone navigating a similar journey.Chapters:00:00 Preparing for the ER: Essential Tips00:49 My Personal Journey: Navigating Senior Care02:33 The Importance of Advocacy in Healthcare06:49 Challenges in the ER and Hos…

So, you decided your loved one needs a caregiver…what’s next? Where do you find one? How do you choose the right fit?I'm not only a senior living expert with 17+ years of experience in the industr…

So, you decided your…

So, you decided your loved one needs a caregiver…what’s next? Where do you find one? How do you choose the right fit?I'm not only a senior living expert with 17+ years of experience in the industry, but I am also the primary caregiver for my husband who is a Stroke survivor. I have the perspective of helping others find the right resources while navigating this reality for my own family.  With this unique position, I have gathered 7 tips for choosing a caregiver:1. Understand the needs of your loved one. Do they have dementia? Find someone with relevant experience. Which tasks do you nee…

In life, as in everything else, preparation can be the key to gracefully overcoming challenges. Understanding and planning for our loved ones’ aging years not only mitigates stress but ensures decis…

In life, as in every…

In life, as in everything else, preparation can be the key to gracefully overcoming challenges. Understanding and planning for our loved ones’ aging years not only mitigates stress but ensures decisions reflect their wishes—before difficult moments arrive.As a senior living expert, author, educator, and caregiver, I know it's key to explore essential strategies to navigate your parents’ aging years with empathy and foresight. In this episode, we'll discuss the importance of open discussions, understanding family dynamics, and preparing for unexpected scenarios.The Importance of Open Conv…

After years of helping families, I've come across a myriad of myths about assisted living that are nothing short of fiction. Today, we’re setting the record straight and exploring why assisted livin…

After years of helpi…

After years of helping families, I've come across a myriad of myths about assisted living that are nothing short of fiction. Today, we’re setting the record straight and exploring why assisted living can be a fantastic choice for many.Busting Common Myths About Assisted LivingAssisted living often brings up images of sterile, institutional environments, stuck in a time warp of outdated care practices. But as Theresa Williams, a sales director at Rambling Oaks, and I discussed, the reality is far different.Myth #1: Assisted Living Is a Nursing HomeContrary to popular belief, assisted living i…

Different ways to pay for senior living:So you’ve decided you or your loved one needs senior living - how much is it going to cost? A 2020 study by Genworth determined that the U.S. average for assi…

Different ways to pa…

Different ways to pay for senior living:So you’ve decided you or your loved one needs senior living - how much is it going to cost? A 2020 study by Genworth determined that the U.S. average for assisted living is $4,429 a month, though it could be less (or even more) depending on where you live! Budget is a huge factor in determining what’s available to you. Unfortunately, there’s also a huge misconception that Medicare will cover the cost. That is simply not the case.With that in mind, as a Senior Living Expert, I'll be sharing 10 ways to pay for senior living. Depending on how you’ve…

Life is a journey, and as we move forward, our needs and desires evolve. When it comes to senior living, many people are daunted by the myths and misconceptions that surround it. But I believe it’s …

Life is a journey, a…

Life is a journey, and as we move forward, our needs and desires evolve. When it comes to senior living, many people are daunted by the myths and misconceptions that surround it. But I believe it’s time to look at senior living communities with an open mind. These communities aren’t just about change—they’re about enhancing one’s quality of life with confidence.Understanding Senior Living OptionsWhen it comes to senior housing, it's essential to choose options that foster independence and enrich your Lifestyle. I’ve narrowed it down to two main types of communities: active aging se…

As someone who has been deeply immersed in the world of aging and senior care, I've noticed that there’s a significant aspect of aging that often goes unspoken: Menopause and perimenopause. Despite …

As someone who has b…

As someone who has been deeply immersed in the world of aging and senior care, I've noticed that there’s a significant aspect of aging that often goes unspoken: menopause and perimenopause. Despite the numerous conversations about other transitional stages in life, this particular journey at the end of our reproductive cycles is seldom discussed openly. What is even more puzzling is that so many of us experience it, yet it remains a taboo subject.Menopause and Perimenopause: The Unspoken Journey Have you ever found yourself wondering why menopause isn’t ever talked about? I certainly have.…

The Everyday ChallengesLast night was a typical scene in my life, one almost like running a residential care home. Between managing the needs of my husband, Mark, who requires constant care after suff…

The Everyday Challen…

The Everyday ChallengesLast night was a typical scene in my life, one almost like running a residential care home. Between managing the needs of my husband, Mark, who requires constant care after suffering multiple strokes, and my son, Chris, who recently injured his ankle, it felt as though I couldn’t catch a break. Even our dog joined in the drama with a limp, compounding the chaos!Understanding Caregiver StressBeing a caregiver is far from easy. Stress manifests in numerous ways, from physical symptoms like fatigue and headaches to emotional signs such as irritability and Anxiety. Statist…

Have you ever felt too old to chase a dream or explore a new path? As someone who's walked alongside many seniors through their journeys of transitioning into new phases of life, I've heard countless …

Have you ever felt t…

Have you ever felt too old to chase a dream or explore a new path? As someone who's walked alongside many seniors through their journeys of transitioning into new phases of life, I've heard countless people second-guess themselves, thinking they’ve missed their chance to pursue something different simply because of their age. Yet, time and time again, I've witnessed the magic that unfolds when they let go of these fears and embrace new opportunities.In this week's episode of "Aging in Style," I had the pleasure of chatting with Karyl Thomas, a dear friend and colleague who’s embarked on a …

Today, the rise of online dating apps is something that has been both amusing and bewildering to navigate, especially for the younger generation like my daughter, Abby. Remember those stories of endle…

Today, the rise of o…

Today, the rise of online dating apps is something that has been both amusing and bewildering to navigate, especially for the younger generation like my daughter, Abby. Remember those stories of endless swiping on apps like Bumble? Each generation finds its own unique—and sometimes hilarious—path to love.Redefining Love in Later YearsAs I reflect on the Netflix show "Later Daters," it's evident that finding love at an older age requires a deep understanding of oneself and a redefinition of relationship goals. My friend Teresa, at 57, is considering re-entering the dating scene with new asp…

As the clock ticks into 2025, it's hard to believe how quickly time flies. Reflecting on the past few years, I realize that 2022, 2023, and 2024 have been challenging and transformative. As I look ahe…

As the clock ticks i…

As the clock ticks into 2025, it's hard to believe how quickly time flies. Reflecting on the past few years, I realize that 2022, 2023, and 2024 have been challenging and transformative. As I look ahead, like many of you, I find myself setting goals—some ambitious, some simple—but all important for leading a rewarding life as we age. I’ve come to understand that the key isn't merely surviving but thriving, and much of that involves staying active and involved.This topic struck me profoundly during a holiday outing with a group from my community, the self-proclaimed "Quirky Crew." Our mis…

After 17 years in senior living, I've witnessed thousands of families navigating the emotional rollercoaster of finding the right care for their loved ones. Through it all, I’ve come to identify the…

After 17 years in se…

After 17 years in senior living, I've witnessed thousands of families navigating the emotional rollercoaster of finding the right care for their loved ones. Through it all, I’ve come to identify the 4 types of families: the deniers, the always-yes, the dysfunctional family, and the guilt-ridden family. And believe me, just about everybody fits into one category!· The family in denial: This family doesn’t want to admit their loved one needs help or makes excuses for their behavior. They’ll often say they’re fine (when they’re not) and delay making a decision. Maybe they shut down wh…