Life Happens Podcast with Kim Hegwood

The Role of Coaching in Caregiving

Welcome to the latest episode of Life Happens with Kim Hegwood! In this episode, our guest Sarah Gorenstein joins us to discuss the important topic of caregiving for individuals with memory loss and dementia. Sarah, a representative from Lizzy Care, shares valuable insights on the role of coaching and caregiving, the significance of seeking early help, and practical tips for caregivers. From using technology like Alexa and internal cameras, to building a support team and addressing denial, Sarah provides expert advice to help caregivers navigate this challenging journey. Stay tuned for a wealth of knowledge and practical tips in our conversation and see what tips you’ll learn!

A Digital App to Help Seniors Stay at Home

In this week’s episode of Life Happens with Kim Hegwood, we had the pleasure of hosting Tomas Poska, the creator of a digital app designed to help seniors stay at home with remote care! Tomas detailed how the app can provide automatic information, video calls, and connected devices for added safety and convenience. We also discussed the different uses of the app for both home care companies and families. We explored the security measures in place and how individuals can easily access and benefit from the app. Tune in to learn more about this innovative solution for senior care and the impact it’s making in many lives today!

Caring For Dementia Until the End – Advice from A Physician

In this episode of “Life Happens with Kim Hegwood,” we are joined by Dr. Anne Kenny, a geriatrician and palliative care physician who shares her unique perspective on caring for a loved one with dementia. Dr. Kenny reflects on her experience caring for her own mother and offers valuable insights and practical advice for caregivers, especially when making tough decisions about end-of-life care. We discuss the challenges of caregiving, the importance of self-care, the role of medications in dementia care, and the decision to avoid hospitalization near the end of life.

Dr. Kenny also shares how her book, “Making Tough Decisions About End of Life Care and Dementia,” and her coaching services aim to support families facing similar situations. Join us as we gain a deeper understanding of navigating the complexities of dementia care with compassion and wisdom by tuning into this week’s episode!

Dementia Friendly Cruises – Should You Take One?

In the latest episode of Life Happens with Kim Hegwood, Kim talks to Kathy Shoaf, a registered nurse, and the mind behind dementia-friendly cruises at Elite Cruises and Vacation Travel. Kathy shares her passion for creating travel opportunities for people with cognitive and physical challenges, ensuring they can enjoy life with their families. This thought-provoking episode delves into the safety and logistics of dementia-friendly cruises, supporting not only the loved ones but also caregivers. We also touch on the unique programs offered for former caregivers, emphasizing the importance of self-care even after the primary caregiving role has ended. Tune-in to explore how Kathy’s empathetic approach brings joy to families and individuals facing challenging circumstances.

Tackling Dementia Challenges: Teepa Snow’s Insights on Managing Personality Changes

Join Kim Hegwood in this insightful episode of Life Happens as she engages in a candid conversation with Teepa Snow about a topic that touches the lives of countless families: dementia and the associated personality changes. Teepa delves into the harsh realities of witnessing loved ones transform into unfamiliar versions of themselves, offering invaluable insights into the diverse patterns of personality alterations seen in individuals grappling with dementia. Discover practical advice for effectively communicating with and caring for those affected by these changes, as Teepa provides a compassionate and knowledgeable perspective. Stay tuned as Kim and Teepa navigate the complexities of this challenging aspect of life, exploring strategies for support and understanding along the way.

Changing Your Brain Can Be as Simple as Child’s Play

Join us as we embark on a journey filled with stories, insights, and a sprinkle of humor, exploring the twists and turns of life’s adventure. Today, we are thrilled to welcome Denise Medved, the visionary behind Ageless Grace, a groundbreaking program revolutionizing our approach to brain health and physical vitality as we age. Denise shares a deeply personal narrative, reflecting on her mother’s battle with Alzheimer’s, which ignited her exploration into the profound link between body and brain wellness. Diving into the marvels of neuroplasticity, Denise illuminates how our brains are dynamic entities capable of reshaping through physical movement and diverse activities. It’s not just about Sudoku puzzles anymore! We’ll explore how strategic planning, memory, recall, and physical exercises converge to maintain peak cognitive function. Discover the essence of the Ageless Grace program, emphasizing the significance of brief, diverse, brain-stimulating exercises—conveniently performed while seated and accompanied by music, making them enjoyable for all ages. So, grab your headphones, perhaps a chair for some movement, and let’s awaken those neurons! Join Denise Medved as we uncover the simple yet profound methods to keep our minds sharp and resilient in the face of life’s challenges.

Should You Hire a Nurse to Navigate the Senior Care Industry?

Join Kim Hegwood in this episode of Life Happens as she dives into the complexities of the senior care industry with guest Jo Alch, a care manager from Joy Care Management. Discover the challenges families encounter when making decisions for their elderly loved ones, the significance of future planning, and the invaluable role of nurse navigators in delivering comprehensive care. Gain invaluable insights into crisis management and the prioritization of quality of life in decision-making processes. For expert advice on senior care and navigating healthcare systems, don’t miss this enlightening conversation between Kim Hegwood and Jo Alch.

Coping With Caregiver Grief When Caring for Someone With Dementia

In this episode of “Life Happens with Kim Hegwood,” Kim Hegwood explores the profound topic of caregivers grappling with grief while tending to individuals with dementia. Joined by our guest, Elaine Messarra, they offer invaluable insights and expertise on this poignant subject. Together, they examine the commonplace experience of caregivers encountering grief even prior to the loss of their loved ones, identifying telltale signs of grieving caregivers, and scrutinizing the role of guilt in the grieving process. Moreover, they provide practical strategies to assist caregivers in navigating their grief, interspersed with personal anecdotes and illustrative examples that shed light on this intricate and emotional journey. Tune in for a profound exploration of dementia caregiving and strategies for effectively supporting those undergoing this challenging experience!

Helping Aging Adults Cope with Life Changes

In this episode of “Life Happens with Kim Hegwood,” Kim sits down with the insightful Rachel Golfeiz to discuss how aging adults cope with life changes. They dive into the common occurrences of depression among the elderly and the impact of loss, loss of independence, and transitioning to new living arrangements. Rachel shares her expertise as a therapist, shedding light on the benefits of therapy and reminiscence therapy for older adults and individuals with dementia. They also explore narrative therapy and how it shapes the positive identity of seniors. Finally, they offer practical advice for children transitioning their parents into care facilities and navigating the hurdle of getting seniors to seek therapy. Tune in to gain valuable insights and wisdom on navigating the complexities of aging and transitions with grace and empathy.

The Challenges and Gratification of Being a Male Caregiver: A Son’s Journey with His Mom

In our latest podcast episode, your host Kim Hegwood is joined by Bill Cohen, the visionary behind Cohen Caregiving Support Consultants. Bill graciously shares his personal caregiving journey for his mother, providing profound insights into the challenges and responsibilities inherent in the role of a caregiver. The conversation jumps into the significance of support groups, explores the legal and financial considerations that caregivers face, and emphasizes the necessity of open communication within families navigating caregiving decisions. Listeners are in for valuable advice on proactive planning and finding support when taking on the role of a caregiver. Join Kim Hegwood and Bill Cohen as they expertly navigate the intricate landscape of caregiving in this enlightening and informative episode.