The Care Table

When to have the “stop driving” conversation and how best to handle it. This episode provides a comprehensive guide for families on how to approach the difficult conversation of giving up driving for their loved ones. It covers recognizing warning signs, having compassionate discussions, and exploring alternative transportation options to ensure safety and independence. Takeaways: - Signs it'...

Best ways to communicate with staff when your parent lives in an assisted living or skilled nursing facility. In this episode, Heather Adcock shares her extensive experience in long-term care to provide valuable insights into facility communication, family engagement, and navigating regulatory processes. Perfect for families and caregivers, this conversation offers practical advice to improve inte...

What is a gerontologist? Dr. Lakelyn Eichenberger, a gerontologist, offers her wisdom on aging, early conversations, respite for caregivers and more. In this episode, Dr. Lakelyn Eichenberger shares her journey into gerontology, the evolution of home care, and practical advice for caregivers. Discover insights on aging, dementia, and how to navigate the caregiving journey with compassion and confi...

In this episode of The Care Table podcast, Dementia Coach Diane Chew shares her profound journey caring for her husband with Lewy body dementia, highlighting the potential benefits of hemp-based products and the importance of early detection, advocacy, and community support in dementia care.  Diane highlights the importance of hospice, self-care, faith, and community support. Her insights offer in...

In this episode of The Care Table podcast, Emma Tarai, a credentialed music therapist, explains what music therapy is, how it benefits older adults and those with cognitive impairments, and how caregivers can access these services. Discover how music can bring joy, reduce anxiety, and foster connections in challenging moments. Takeaways: - What is music therapy and how it works - Benefits of music...

Amy Huddleston, Elizabeth McAnally and Tammy Keans break down the biggest misconceptions about home health, including what it covers, who qualifies, how it differs from private duty, and why it can be such a strong bridge for older adults trying to stay safe at home. The conversation is especially useful for caregivers who are trying to understand what Medicare covers, how visits actually work, an...

In this episode, Amy Huddleston interviews Nancy Gillette, Chief Growth Officer at Pocket RN, about innovative virtual nursing solutions supporting families caring for loved ones with dementia. They explore how Pocket RN's model improves care, reduces hospitalizations, and empowers caregivers, shaping the future of home healthcare. Takeaways: - The gap between home and healthcare and how Pock...

In this episode of The Care Table podcast, Amy introduces Wellderly.ai, an unbiased, AI-powered, human-guided care planning platform that helps families navigate aging with confidence instead of chaos.  Wellderly.ai is currently available in the central Ohio area, and will soon be available in markets nationwide. This is the first unbiased care planning tool of its kind. Wellderly.ai does not take...

In this episode of The Care Table podcast, Amanda Schneider, a Medicare broker, shares essential insights on navigating Medicare options, understanding coverage, and making informed decisions for seniors. Learn about the differences between Medicare plans, how to choose the right coverage, and tips for avoiding common pitfalls. Takeaways: - Medicare plan options and differences - Initial questions...

In this heartfelt episode of The Care Table, Amy sits down with Chelsea Duckers, a compassionate social worker and trained death doula, to gently explore a topic many of us find difficult: death and the beautiful support available as we approach life’s final chapter. Chelsea shares how death doulas (also called end-of-life doulas) provide non-medical, holistic emotional and practical support to in...

In this episode of The Care Table podcast, Amy shares valuable insights on caregiving, elder care planning, and health management, offering practical tips for families navigating aging parents' needs. Takeaways: - Downsizing for seniors and professional help - Choosing the right hearing aids and audiologist - Assessing driving ability with specialists - Understanding diabetes and blood sugar...

In this episode of The Care Table podcast, elder law attorney Jerry Rothkoff shares insights on preparing financially for future care needs, the importance of early planning, and navigating the complexities of long-term care costs, Medicare, and Medicaid. Takeaways: - The evolution of elder law practice from asset-focused to holistic care advocacy - The importance of care advocacy and social worke...

In this episode of The Care Table podcast, Maggie Sutton, an elder law expert with 15 years of experience, shares essential insights on Medicaid planning, asset protection, and legal preparations for aging. Learn how to start planning early, what documents are crucial, and how to navigate complex regulations to secure your future and protect your assets. Takeaways: - Medicaid qualification and ass...

In this episode of The Care Table podcast, Amy Huddleston and Jennifer Bassett explore the ins and outs of home care, including the differences between home health and home care, how to choose the right agency, and the importance of early planning and emotional connection in caregiving. Takeaways: - Differences between home care and home health - Importance of emotional connection and companionshi...

In this episode of The Care Table podcast, Deborah shares her heartfelt caregiving journey caring for her husband Bernie, from their love story to navigating dementia and Parkinson's. This episode offers invaluable insights on caregiving challenges, resource gaps, and compassionate advice for families facing similar situations. Takeaways: - Resource gaps and need for caregiver education - Cre...

This episode of The Care Table podcast provides a comprehensive overview of VA veteran services, focusing on geriatrics and extended care programs. Melissa Rumer, a VA expert, explains enrollment processes, available home and facility services, and how veterans and caregivers can access vital resources to support aging in place. Takeaways: - VA healthcare enrollment process - Extended care program...

In this episode of The Care Table podcast, expert David Zid shares his journey from personal trainer to creator of a specialized Parkinson's exercise program. Discover how tailored physical activity can slow disease progression, improve mental health, and empower patients and caregivers alike. Takeaways: - Start with 2-5 minutes of activity twice a week - The impact of exercise on Parkinson&a...

In this comprehensive interview, Dr. Jen Richardson, a rheumatologist with 23 years of experience, shares expert insights on arthritis, including types, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments. Perfect for family caregivers and anyone interested in understanding and managing arthritis effectively. Takeaways: - Types of arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid, gout, psoriatic) - Symptoms and diagnosis of...

In this episode of The Care Table podcast, Tim Mitchell reflects on his experiences with family, particularly focusing on feelings of regret and the emotional complexities of caregiving for his mother and his in-laws. He shares personal anecdotes that highlight the challenges of maintaining empathy and connection, especially during difficult times. The discussion delves into youthful perspectives...

In this episode of The Care Table podcast, Amy Huddleston shares her top lessons from 25 episodes of The Care Table podcast, focusing on caregiving, health, legal planning, and safety tips for older adults and their caregivers. Takeaways: - Caregiving tips and resources - Health and recovery insights for older adults - Legal and financial planning for aging Sound Bites: "Diet has a huge role...

This episode of The Care Table podcast features Megan Cockrell, an expert in public health and kidney disease, who explains the vital functions of kidneys, stages of kidney disease, treatment options like dialysis and transplants, and how caregivers can support loved ones through this challenging journey. Takeaways: - Kidney function and importance - Stages of chronic kidney disease - Treatment op...

This episode features siblings Kelly and Chris Mooney sharing their heartfelt caregiving journey for their father, highlighting the importance of family involvement, communication, and planning in dementia care. Takeaways: - Sibling involvement in caregiving - Signs and diagnosis of Alzheimer's - Home care vs. facility care costs and decisions - Communication strategies with dementia patients...

In this episode of The Care Table podcast, expert Anne Farley shares invaluable insights on managing dementia-related behaviors, from agitation and wandering to communication strategies and safety measures. Perfect for caregivers and families, learn practical tips to improve quality of life and maintain dignity. Takeaways: - Common dementia behaviors and their causes - Managing agitation, aggressi...

In this episode of The Care Table podcast, expert Teri Ruslander shares vital insights on scams targeting older adults, including common schemes, prevention strategies, and resources for families to protect their loved ones. Learn how to recognize, prevent, and respond to elder financial exploitation effectively. Takeaways: - Common scams targeting seniors - Creating safety plans for elder protect...

In this episode of The Care Table podcast, Judge Deborah Lang shares expert insights on adult guardianships, including when and how to apply, common scenarios, legal processes, and the emotional aspects involved. Perfect for caregivers and families navigating these challenging decisions. Takeaways: - Types of guardianships: person vs estate - Common scenarios leading to guardianship applications -...