In this episode of Global Desi Women, host Arti Solanki and co-host Bhavana Shelley engage in a heartfelt conversation with Sandhya Sabhnani, a math educator and marketing professional. The discussion centers around the challenges and emotional weight of caring for aging parents within the Indian community. Sandhya shares her personal experiences with her mother-in-law, who faced the transition to assisted living after the passing of her husband. The conversation highlights the cultural taboos surrounding discussions of aging and death, emphasizing the importance of having these conversations early to ensure that the wishes of elderly family members are respected and understood.
As Sandhya recounts her journey, she discusses the various options available for elderly care, including independent and assisted living facilities. She emphasizes the need for open communication and the importance of considering the emotional and social well-being of aging parents. The episode also touches on the misconceptions surrounding assisted living, the significance of cultural food and community, and the evolving dynamics of family responsibilities across generations. Ultimately, the conversation serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion, understanding, and proactive planning in caring for our loved ones as they age.
Takeaways
"Have these conversations early and not when you need them."
"It's not about neglecting our parents; it's about ensuring their independence."
"Being around people is more important than being home alone all day."
"You have to be mentally strong as a caregiver."
"Food is a big part of our culture; it can be a challenge in assisted living."
"We need to model for our children how to care for the elderly."
"The caregivers often know better than we do about our loved ones' needs."
"It's important to negotiate and advocate for your loved ones in care facilities."
"Community and socialization are crucial for the elderly's happiness."
"We need to plan for our future and have those difficult conversations with our kids."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
02:06 Cultural Expectations in Caregiving
04:35 The Importance of Early Conversations
07:29 Navigating Assisted Living Decisions
09:43 Misconceptions About Assisted Living
17:02 Negotiating Care Options and Costs
21:03 Understanding Assisted Living Costs
22:13 Private vs. Government-Funded Care
23:03 The Shift Towards Community Living
25:30 Cultural Considerations in Senior Care
28:04 Creative Solutions for Senior Living
30:10 The Role of Family in Senior Care
31:52 Modeling Care for Future Generations
35:52 Closing Thoughts on Aging and Community
Arti Solanki
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