Shows
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha050: Did You Know Maui Has a Specialized Wound Care Clinic With a Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber?We didn't! We were so interested to speak with Jessica Acop, Program Director for Wound Care at Maui Memorial Medical Center, about our very own wound care specialty clinic right here on Maui. Jessica talks about the prevalence of diabetes in Hawaii and the hidden danger of chronic wounds. She describes a patient with a 30-year-old wound that her clinic treated! Jessica breaks down how advanced wound care works, including weekly appointments, specialized treatments, and Maui's first hyperbaric oxygen chamber. She explains the warning signs people should never ignore and practical steps patients can take to protect t...
2026-01-2934 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha049: What is a Stroke, and Why You Need to Call 911 ImmediatelyWelcome to Season Two of the Taking Care of Tutu Podcast! We're happy to welcome Casi Saranillio, a registered nurse and Stroke Program Manager at Maui Memorial Medical Center. Stroke is one of the most time-sensitive medical emergencies, yet many people still don't recognize the warning signs soon enough! In this episode, Casi explains to us what a stroke is, how to spot it quickly, and why every minute matters! Do not let tutu talk you out of taking her to the ER because she just wants to lie down for a minute! Casi introduces the BE...
2026-01-2229 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha048: Season 1 Finale: The Best of Taking Care of Tutu!Mahalo for joining us for the Season 1 Finale of Taking Care of Tutu! This finale episode is a look back at the conversations that mattered most, from sharing legal insights and Medicaid guidance to caregiving support and tales of community heroes. We recount the Top Episodes of Season 1, revisiting the moments that resonated most deeply. As we wrap up this year, our Team remains committed to our mission: Season 2 of Taking Care of Tutu will build on the foundation we created by growing our legal and caregiving knowledge, along with our community partnerships that inform, empower, and...
2025-12-2325 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha047: What Does a Trustee Do, Exactly?This episode was requested by our front office team, because it's one of the most common questions we get at Obenauf Law Group. What is a Trustee supposed to do? In this episode, Meg walks listeners through what to do when you've been told you're the trustee of someone's trust and that person has passed away. We break down the first critical steps trustees must take, the documents needed, the responsibilities involved, and the overall process from start to finish. Whether you've been prepared for the role or blindsided by it, this episode provides a clear, compassionate...
2025-12-1120 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha046: The Mission of Civil Air Patrol on Maui – Cadets, Emergency Response & STEM for Local SchoolsGuest: Darryl Ng, Civil Air Patrol – Maui In this episode, Meg speaks with Darryl Ng of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) about the incredible programs CAP operates on Maui—from youth training to emergency response to STEM education for local teachers. They also discuss the upcoming Wreaths Across America event honoring veterans at Makawao Veterans Cemetery on December 13, 2025. In this episode, you will hear about: 1. STEM Programs for Cadets Maui cadets participate in hands-on STEM activities including building rockets, drone training, and monthly aerospace education sessions. 2. Adult Volunteer Emergency Services CAP's adul...
2025-11-2623 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha045: Supporting Loved Ones with Alzheimer's & Dementia — A Conversation with Cindy Fowler of the Alzheimer's AssociationThis week on the Taking Care of Tutu podcast, we team up with Cindy Fowler, Program Manager for Kauaʻi and Maui County with the Alzheimer's Association Aloha Chapter. With a background in physical therapy and years of working with kūpuna in home health, Cindy brings deep professional and personal experience to the conversation—including caring for her own mother and father-in-law through dementia. Cindy and her "Care Bears" offer individual consultations for caregivers to troubleshoot real caregiving challenges, such as refusing to shower, resistance to adult daycare, or insisting on attending medical appointments alone. The Alzh...
2025-11-2154 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha044: REPLAY: Chelsea Fernandez and the Importance of Connection for Maui VeteransAloha and welcome back to Taking Care of Tutu. Today is Veteran's Day, and in recognition of that, we're replaying one of our favorite episodes — a conversation with Chelsea Fernandez, a U.S. Army veteran who's dedicated herself to supporting other veterans right here in Hawai'I, especially younger veterans from more recent conflicts who were not aware of the resources available to them through the VA. She's also the founder of Na Koa Kahiko Wahine, a women's veteran's group that she founded 11 years ago. She does a massive amount of volunteering, and those efforts are fo...
2025-11-1127 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha043: A Medicaid Detective Story: Unravelling a 23-Year-Old Deed MistakeIn this deeply personal episode, Meg sits down with Heritage Hall (name changed for privacy), a client who bravely agreed to share her family's story—an anonymous conversation from a small island community about love, caregiving, and a legal mystery decades in the making. When a 98-year-old family matriarch needed 24-hour care, her family faced the daunting $15,000-a-month cost of a nursing home and turned to Medicaid for help. But the application was denied because the State said she owned hundreds of thousands of dollars in assets—money the family knew didn't exist. What followed was...
2025-11-0724 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha042: When a Joint Trust Isn't the Best IdeaIn this episode of the Taking Care of Tutu podcast, we break down some of the frequently asked questions from last week at our law firm, which turned out to be different versions of a central question: Should married couples always have a joint trust? Spoiler alert — not always. Meg shares three common situations where a joint trust might actually create more problems than it solves. From blended family dynamics to costly income tax consequences and asset protection concerns, she explains how the right trust setup depends on more than just emotion — it's about strategy, clarity, and peace...
2025-10-2416 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha041: Tutu Makes a Funeral PlanIt's not something we really want to think about, but it is something we all need. Our guests this week, Renie Menor and Raji Gaskin of Nakamura Mortuary and Maui Memorial Park, teach us about stress-free funeral planning. With Renie's extensive 15-year background in pre-planning and sales, paired with Raji's expertise as a funeral home manager and licensed embalmer, this discussion offers a compassionate and informed exploration of pre-arranging funeral services. We cover veterans' benefits, unique requests for cremated remains, and the critical importance of being proactive about potential cost hikes. With Renie and Raji leading the...
2025-10-0824 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha040: How Nā Hoaloha Helps Tutu Live Independently with Care and ConnectionPicture this: a small act of kindness, a simple meal delivered to someone in need, evolving into a 29-year legacy of community service. That's the story behind Nā Hoaloha, a nonprofit organization on Maui dedicated to enriching the lives of older adults. In this episode, Meg is joined by King Van Nostrand to unravel the offerings of Nā Hoaloha. With services ranging from friendly visits and medical transportation to grocery deliveries and lawn care, this volunteer-driven group has tackled isolation among seniors by building bridges of friendship and independence, supported by over 400 dedicated volunteers. In this episode, yo...
2025-10-0134 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha039: Maui Food Bank's Pursuit of a Hunger-Free MauiFrom a post-wild fire Lahaina's market to mobile grocery trucks traveling into underserved areas, the Maui Food Bank is reimagining food assistance for Maui residents. In this episode, Meg welcomes Lisa Paulson, Executive Director of the Maui Food Bank, to explore how their programs are meeting urgent community needs. You'll hear how the Food Bank's unique distribution system — including being the only food bank in the United States to transport food by boat — has scaled rapidly since the fires, and how they've innovated with summer food programs, school partnerships, and direct support for seniors. Lisa also shares insi...
2025-09-2419 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha038: How a Cup of Cold Water's Mobile Outreach Delivers Essential Supplies to Maui's UnshelteredWhat if people need food, water, and supplies, but they can't get to where those items are distributed? Join us as we hear from Chuck Spence of A Cup of Cold Water to hear the impactful story of an outreach mission on Maui dedicated to supporting the unsheltered community by traveling to them. This organization brings essential supplies directly to those in need, operating out of a well-stocked van. Learn how the mission, initiated in 2012 by four Episcopal churches, navigates the logistical challenges of serving a dispersed population, and how its biblical ethos of service guides its actions even...
2025-09-1024 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha037: Aloha on Every Plate: How Hale Kau Kau Serves Over 1000 Meals Each WeekLearn how Hale Kau Kau, located at St. Theresa's Church in Kihei, is tackling food insecurity by providing dinner seven days a week, as well as dinner deliveries to homebound individuals. We listen while Matt Andrews, head chef, and Barry Rosenfeld, advisory board president, describe a day at Hale Kau Kau, where volunteers navigate six delivery routes to ensure each meal reaches its intended destination with care and efficiency, followed by an in-house meal. Experience the lively dining environment at Hale Kau Kau, where dedicated volunteers create an atmosphere of warmth and community, with meals that mean much more t...
2025-08-2727 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha036: How Gammie Home Care Can Help Tutu Stay in Her HomeGammie Home Care has been a cornerstone of the Maui community since 1986, and we've got its founder, Paul Gammie, and his daughter and business partner, Dale Shimabuku, on the podcast! We'll hear how Paul transitioned from a family rental business to a pioneer in the home medical equipment industry. Paul shares how he served the growing needs of Maui's aging population with personal anecdotes that bring to life the essence of community care and support. Now having brought Dale on board and expanded to other islands, we learn about the unique hurdles of providing home care on...
2025-08-0733 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha035: Should Tutu title her real estate Tenants by the Entirety?How can Tutu safeguard her real estate in Hawaii? If she's married, she can hold title as Tenants by the Entirety, even if she has a trust. Join Meg as she breaks down this often misunderstood method of holding title, exclusively available to married couples and registered reciprocal beneficiaries. You'll gain insights into how this ownership structure not only simplifies the transfer of property upon a spouse's passing but also offers a layer of protection against creditors. If you've ever wondered how to protect your home from individual creditor claims while retaining the benefits of joint ownership, this episode...
2025-08-0109 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha034: What if Tutu Needs Help with A Family Disagreement?Bevanne Bowers and Stanley Majka join us from Maui Mediation Services to highlight the critical role of compassionate mediation in resolving family and community disputes, showcasing how it serves as a powerful alternative to the often adversarial nature of court proceedings. Explore the full spectrum of mediation services offered by Maui Mediation, from elder care to landlord-tenant conflicts. Stanley shares how structured family meetings can preemptively address caregiving and financial planning, while Bevanne emphasizes the breadth of their offerings that extend well beyond traditional family law. Their stories illustrate the flexibility of mediation, which adapts to a...
2025-06-2643 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha033: How Can Tutu Increase Her Bone Density?Tutu wants to protect her bones so if she falls, she can get right back up! Maui Physical Therapist Christie Newsom joins us to revolutionize our understanding of bone health through strength training. Inspired by renowned researcher Dr. Belinda Beck, Christie shares her study of the Onero system and why it is successful in managing osteoporosis. We uncover how engaging large muscle groups—like glutes and hips—transform not just rehabilitation but also daily life, especially for those with sedentary lifestyles. Christie tells us about her personal experiences and innovative practices that promise to redefine how we care for our...
2025-06-1833 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha032: Legal Tips for Tutu from the Obenauf Law Group TeamTutu has questions, and we are here for them! What if someone is the beneficiary of a trust, but the Trustee has not given them a copy of the trust or any idea what is happening? How can she protect her property in case her child gets divorced or sued? What if she already put that child on title? (sigh, tutu!!) Her child wants to build an ohana on her property and take out a mortgage on tutu's home. Should she say yes? What is the best way for...
2025-06-1321 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha031: Living Aloha: How Hale Mahaolu Provides Housing, Personal Care, and Meals for TutuAnders Lyons, Executive Director of Hale Mahaolu, joins us this week on the podcast to teach us all about the origins, mission, and services provided by Hale Mahaolu. From housing and meals to personal care and housing counseling, Anders shares the organization's commitment to fostering independent living through affordable housing options across Maui County. Whether you're a senior considering applying for these services or just curious about the application process, we learn valuable insights on eligibility requirements and the application process. Anders also shares how Hale Mahaolu is innovating by implementing a respite care program for caregivers a...
2025-05-3036 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha030: A "Fancy Jewelry Store" Building Community Through Inclusion-The Depo Market Story, with Tiffany ChouMaui-raised entrepreneur Tiffany Chou tells us about the creation of Depo Market—a mission-driven retail space in Wailuku, Maui, and online, employing adults with disabilities. Our conversation explores Tiffany's journey as a caregiver, entrepreneur, and disability rights advocate. We follow Tiffany and her brother Chris's venture into the jewelry business, starting with their popup shop at the Kea Lani, and hear about the challenges and joys of pursuing a shared passion. From managing Chris's schedule to the serendipity of a viral TikTok video, their unconventional path led them to establishing a physical storefront. This development transformed their bus...
2025-05-0729 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha029: Lahaina is Not for Sale: The Lahaina Community Land TrustMeg Obenauf speaks with Autumn Ness, Executive Director of the Lahaina Community Land Trust, about what it takes to rebuild homes, community, culture, and long-term belonging after disaster. Listeners will learn the origin story of the Lahaina Community Land Trust after the Lahaina wildfire, how the Land Trust model keeps housing affordable in perpetuity, and the Land Trust's innovative housing allocation process that prioritizes long-time residents. Key Takeaways Permanent Affordability + Equity: Buyers pay less than market-rate mortgage payments, build equity, and avoid skyrocketing rents — all while homes remain affordable for future buyers. Simple, Fair Resale: Homes appreciate 1.5% annually. Wh...
2025-05-0237 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha028: How Heidi Ho and Pono Legal are Helping Displaced Maui Residents Following the Maui WildfiresMaui girl Heidi Ho, attorney and founder of Pono Legal, visits us to tell about growing up with her trailblazing mother, Diane Ho, and how it inspired her path in law and advocacy. Following the Maui Wildfires, Heidi swiftly formed Pono Legal, a community lawyering nonprofit that extended support to firefighters, police officers, teachers, and many displaced Maui residents. She and her team tackled insurance claims, FEMA appeals, and construction contracts by mobilizing resources for the Maui community and learning as they went. In this episode, you will hear: What is Pono Legal, and wh...
2025-04-1045 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha027: How Kalima O Maui Empowers People with Disabilities to Achieve IndependenceHear from Claudia Rosenbaum, service supervisor at Ka Lima O Maui, a local nonprofit providing job placements and day programs for adults with disabilities. Claudia describes how community members can get services from Ka Lima O Maui via the state Department of Health and the Medicaid waiver program, highlighting how these efforts facilitate personal growth and community integration. From maintaining academic skills to finding meaningful employment, participants are empowered to thrive in a supportive environment. In this episode, you will hear: How does Ka Lima O Maui empower individuals with disabilities through their day services a...
2025-04-0333 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha026: What if Tutu needs a Trustee?Not everyone is blessed with capable, responsible children willing to serve as Trustee :) What can tutu do if she loves those grandbabies but doesn't really trust any of them to serve in this very important role? This week's podcast features the expert guidance of Malia Alexander from Maximum Legal Services Corporation, a company that serves as a professional Trustee, Personal Representative, Power of Attorney, and Health Care Agent. Malia shares about MaxCorp and its evolution from the Legal Aid Society of Hawaii to its current status as a standalone nonprofit dedicated to offering professional fiduciary services.
2025-03-0531 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha025: Scott Corderman Teaches Us How Tutu Can Stay Independent with In-Home Services Covered by Her Health InsuranceScott Corderman's vocation is working as a registered nurse with Kaiser Permanente serving patients in the community that are homebound. His avocation is…the same! Scott is the volunteer chair for the Maui Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association. In this tactical episode of Taking Care of Tutu, Scott walks us through how health insurance, specifically the Quest program, covers numerous essential services for eligible seniors, including home-delivered meals from Hale Mahaolu, Hale Kau Kau, or Mom's Meals. Quest can provide emergency response buttons, medication dispensers, transportation to medical appointments, adult daycare, and assistance with chores, potentially including pay...
2025-02-1944 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha024: Help Tutu Find an Adorable Companion with Assistance Dogs of HawaiiThis week on the podcast, we welcome Mo Maurer and Emily Stauffer from Assistance Dogs of Hawaii! Mo and Emily give us a peek into the meticulous process of training service dogs, starting from the selection of purpose-bred puppies throughout their placement with individuals in need. We learn how Assistance Dogs of Hawaii handles 28 puppies at different stages of training and how they collaborate with courthouses, schools and hospitals. In addition to placing dogs in private homes and facilities, this nonprofit also has participated in innovative research studies, such as the medical scent detection program. As Assistance...
2025-02-1330 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha023: Jessika Galvez and Ohana Care Maui on Creating a Company that Supports Caregivers and Those They Care ForJessika Galvez, the heart and soul behind Ohana Care Maui, joins us to share her journey from a Certified Nursing Assistant to the founder of a thriving in-home care agency. Motivated by working in the industry and a client's encouragement, Jessika launched her company in 2014, focusing on compassionate, high-quality care for Maui's seniors. She discusses her passion for caregiving as well as the challenges and triumphs of filling service gaps she observed within the industry. Jessika describes what makes Ohana Care Maui unique, emphasizing their commitment to personalized and patient-centered care. Jessika explains how new caregivers are...
2025-01-2239 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha022: How Can Tutu Take Care of Her Brain?Join us as we sit down with neuropsychologist Dr. Thomas Harding, Clinical Director of the Maui Memory Clinic. Dr. Harding offers insights into the range of cognitive issues that can arise with age, from subjective cognitive impairment (SCI) to mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia, emphasizing the critical nature of early identification. Discover the strategies for managing MCI, whether vascular or Alzheimer's-related, as Dr. Harding explains how neuropsychologists assess brain function and collaborate with other professionals to deliver comprehensive care. Our conversation takes a closer look at the comprehensive services offered by the Maui Memory Clinic. Dr...
2025-01-1553 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha021: What if Tutu Only Needs a Couple Hours of Home Care?Mary Lester, our guest and the vice president of Ho'okele Home Care, tells us about the Vivia program, in which clients receive task-based services without the traditional four-hour daily minimum. Mary explains how such task-based services can revolutionize home care by catering to specific needs like medication management or shower assistance, making it a cost-effective solution for families.. We explore the impact caregiving services have on maintaining independence for clients facing challenges such as memory issues or mobility difficulties. Mary notes the peace of mind families gain when professionals manage caregiving responsibilities, ensuring a seamless support system...
2025-01-0836 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha020: The Heart of Hospice Maui: Supporting Families Through End-of-Life Care with Tanya BarberoTanya Barbero, outreach coordinator at Hospice Maui, joins us to share her profound journey of over four decades in healthcare. Following her own rare bone cancer diagnosis, Tanya found her true calling in hospice care, where she advocates for embracing a "good death." Her story offers a touching perspective on how personal experiences can transform our approach to life and death, shedding light on the importance of community and support in end-of-life care. Her narrative is a call to re-examine how we perceive mortality and the dignity that can be found in the final stages of life. ...
2024-12-2540 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha019: The Importance of having Independent Living Plans for Returning VeteransRichard McDonald, a formidable advocate for veterans on Maui, joins us to share the work he has done as a rehabilitation counselor for returning veterans. Richard documented their needs and advocated for the creation of a Community-Based Outpatient Clinic. The CBOC was built in 1988, transforming the landscape of veteran care on Maui. Richard passionately discusses the power of group counseling in combating isolation among veterans, the necessity of understanding their unique transition challenges back to civilian life, and the importance of Independent Living Plans for returning vets. Resources from this Episode Community Based Outreach Clinic...
2024-12-1924 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha018: Margie Albete and Zaira Katsuda Teach Us How to Apply for MedicaidWe're delighted to chat with Margie Albete and Zaira Katsuda from Hale Makua Health Services. With Margie's amazing 41 years of experience in financial counseling and admissions, paired with Zaira's expertise on the nursing side, we explore the meticulous process of ensuring potential residents meet both clinical and financial qualifications. Their guidance will equip you to confidently manage the admissions process and secure the best care for your loved ones. Join us as we unravel the emotional and logistical challenges that families face when dealing with Medicaid eligibility. From understanding the state's intricate asset criteria and five-year look-back...
2024-12-0647 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha017: Linden Joesting and Bo Mahoe are Here for Maui County VeteransLinden Joesting and Bo Mahoe join us this week to tell us about the legacy of the Nisei Veterans, whose valor during World War II influenced Hawaii and continues to inspire today. Bo, a Vietnam veteran, shares his personal journey from draftee to dedicated advocate for veterans' rights across Hawaii. Linden became an attorney in private practice and then served with the United States Coast Guard for seven years. She has focused her legal practice on advocating for veterans. We take a look at the intricate world of veterans' benefits law, highlighting the challenges of navigating a s...
2024-11-2959 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha016: What Was it Like to be on Maui During WWII? Scott Fisher Reflects on His Service as a U.S. Marine and His Project to Preserve Maui's WWII HistoryWe're keeping our November Veteran's Month going by welcoming Scott Fisher, a Marine Corps veteran, historian, and dedicated Maui community member to the podcast! Scott shares his personal experiences as a marine deployed at Guantanamo Bay, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Okinawa, then describes his oral history project collecting stories from Maui WWII veterans and their families. Scott provides a deep and multifaceted perspective on service and the importance of both community and preserving our history. In this episode, you will hear: Scott's Early Life and Military Service: Growing up in Kula, Maui and...
2024-11-2243 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha015: Chelsea Fernandez and the Importance of Connection for Maui VeteransThis week on the Taking Care of Tutu Podcast, we are delighted to welcome Chelsea Fernandez, U.S. Army Veteran and tireless volunteer for veterans. Born on the Big Island, Chelsea moved to Maui after she returned from Iraq in 2005. Recognizing that many younger veterans—especially those from recent conflicts—weren't aware of the resources available to them through the VA and other community organizations, Chelsea felt it was crucial to bridge this gap and provide support to veterans returning home. Chelsea noted that younger veterans often don't identify as veterans because they don't fit the traditional image of olde...
2024-11-1527 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha014: Pastor Bill Staton Advocates for Maui VetsThis week we welcome Pastor Bill Staton, a retired veteran and veterans' services counselor on Maui, to the podcast. Originally, Bill's job was helping veterans navigate the complex systems of veterans' financial benefits. However, Bill quickly realized the need to advocate for the holistic needs of veterans returning from conflicts and their families. Bill talks about challenges faced by veterans, including an ingrained military culture of not complaining, which can make it difficult for many veterans to ask for help. We discuss how the perseverance of the Nisei veterans and their families reshaped perceptions of Post Traumatic S...
2024-11-0659 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha013: Does Tutu Need a Conservatorship & Guardianship?What happens if tutu loses the capacity to make her own decisions? Who can make those decisions for her? In this solo episode of the Taking Care of Tutu podcast, we review what happens if tutu has not made prior legal arrangements, such as a power of attorney or an advance health-care directive. Specifically, we'll discuss the process of filing a court case to establish a Conservatorship and/or Guardianship in Hawaii. Like always, we'll remind you of why it's better to have legal arrangements in place before you need them to avoid court proceedings. I...
2024-10-3017 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha012: But Who's Caring for the Caregivers? Kathleen Couch and her team at Maui Adult Day Care Centers!This week on the Taking Care of Tutu podcast we're happy to have Kathleen Couch, program coordinator & caregiver at Maui Adult Day Care Centers. We'll learn about the four locations for Maui Adult Day Care Centers, how they differ, and the services provided. Kathleen shares her 20 years of experience working with seniors to teach us how to enhance communication with loved ones experiencing Alzheimer's or dementia, and how embracing their perceptions can maintain their dignity and comfort. We hear about how the centers not only support clients but also serve as a reprieve for caregivers, which ultimately...
2024-10-1649 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha011: Teana Kahoohanohano & Alohi Gomes Serve Tutu with Aloha at Hale Makua Health ServicesJoin us this week on the Taking Care of Tutu Podcast as we sit down with Teana Kahoohanohano and Alohi Gomes from Hale Makua Health Services. Teana and Alohi share what motivated them to work at Hale Makua and their commitment to giving back to our local kūpuna. We think you'll be surprised by the variety of services Hale Makua offers–from skilled nursing to the Kalele program, designed to ease residents' transition from residential care to the comfort of their homes. We learn about the complexities of navigating care transitions and the vital role that soc...
2024-10-1057 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha011: Teana Kahoohanohano & Alohi Gomes serve Tutu with Aloha at Hale Makua Health ServicesUnlock the secrets to compassionate elder care and discover how Hale Makua Health Services stands out as a beacon of support for Maui's aging community. Join us as we sit down with Teana Kahoohanohano and Alohi Gomes to explore their dedication to personalized care. Teana shares her journey back to Maui and her mission to nurture the local kūpuna, while Alohi discusses her transition from child to elder support, driven by a commitment to giving back. Together, we unpack the diverse services at Hale Makua, from skilled nursing to the Kalele program, designed to ease residents' transition from f...
2024-10-0957 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha010: Debbie Priest and Clint Langham Welcome You to Roselani PlaceWe're thrilled to welcome Debbie Priest and Clint Langham from Roselani Place to the podcast! Roselani Place, located in Kahului, is Maui's only licensed assisted living and memory care community. Debbie and Clint guide us through the comprehensive services offered at Roselani Place, which spans independent living to enhanced memory care. Debbie and Clint explain the differences between independent and assisted living, highlighting their state certification and the support Roselani provides for daily activities and medication management. They also describe the engaging community environment and the array of daily activities designed to keep residents active and secure...
2024-10-0237 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha009: A Glance into Life at Kalama Heights with Tim JohnstonMany of our clients express their wish to age in place. But what if home is no longer the best place for them? Can a senior with reclusive tendencies transform into a vibrant, active community member? Now that we have an understanding of Medicaid in Hawaii, let's take a look at the senior living facilities we have here on Maui. Starting us off, we'll hear from Tim Johnston, sales representative at Kalama Heights in Kihei. Tim describes the persistent efforts of the Kalama Heights activity coordinator, illustrating the profound benefits of engaging seniors in communal activities.
2024-09-2531 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha008: What if Tutu has Too Much to Qualify for Medicaid?In our last episode of Taking Care of Tutu, we learned what tutu is allowed to own and still qualify for Medicaid in Hawaii. But what if tutu has more than that? What if she has a house, or more than $2000? Does she have any options? On this episode of "Taking Care of Tutu," we'll discuss tutu's options to qualify for Medicaid while still preserving her hard-earned savings. From investing in a prepaid funeral plan to making crucial home improvements and even acquiring a new vehicle, we will explore practical methods to convert assets that Medicaid counts...
2024-09-1818 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha007: Does Tutu Qualify for Medicaid?If you've ever tried to google how to qualify for Medicaid, you know it's SO confusing. Even though Medicaid is a federal program, it's a little bit different in every state. It's so common for our clients to leave their Medicaid google search more confused than when they began it! Can tutu own a home? A car? A bank account? A pension? What happens if she gives it away? In this episode, we'll go through the Hawaii rules covering what you are allowed to own to qualify for Medicaid. Haven't heard of Medicaid...
2024-09-1111 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha006: Brandon Jarnesky of United Construction Group wants to help Tutu Make Her Home SaferLast week we learned about decluttering tutu's home and organizing to establish safer living spaces. But what if the home needs modifications? Brandon Jarnesky of United Construction Group is on the podcast this week to teach us some of the most common modifications he sees homeowners make in order to ensure the home is safe and accessible for seniors. We're talking about widening doorways on older homes, adding bathroom features to enhance safety, and eliminating or accommodating uneven surfaces and steps. Brandon shares his passion for helping our community as a builder and an employer helping local f...
2024-09-0431 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha005: Create Your Honu Space with Belia PaulInterested in a more peaceful and organized life? Belia Paul of A Honu Space is on the podcast to share practical tips on making homes safer and more accessible, easing future burdens on family members, and understanding the deep emotional ties to cherished belongings. Learn how proactive estate and living space management can be a priceless gift to your children, encouraging meaningful conversations and the passing down of family histories. Belia shares her extensive expertise in organizing and decluttering, focusing on safety and convenience for seniors. We'll discuss the vital role of compassionate, non-family members in helping...
2024-08-2840 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha004: Jackie Boland & AARP Hawaii Want to Help You Age in Place this Saturday!Get ahead of the curve in planning for a successful aging journey with insights from Jackie Boland, Community Outreach Director and 29-year employee of AARP Hawaii. Learn about the upcoming Maui Aging in Place Workshops on August 24th, featuring sessions on estate planning, housing options, home modifications, and more. Jackie emphasizes the critical importance of early planning and connecting with local resources, ensuring that listeners can navigate the future with confidence and peace of mind. Discover the pivotal role AARP plays in advocating for the well-being of older adults. With a projected 20% budget shortfall in Social Security...
2024-08-2143 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha003: How to Do Your Estate PlanWe've learned about probate in Episode 002, and we know we'd like to avoid it. We're imagining a world in which loved ones receive our assets in a simple, stress-free way, with no legal complications. Join us today as we simplify estate planning, focusing on when it is and is not appropriate to name beneficiaries on financial accounts. We consider the often-overlooked challenges and best practices for managing minor beneficiaries. We highlight the time-consuming, expensive journey of appointing a conservator when minors are named as direct beneficiaries and stress the importance of using trusts to minimize potential legal hurdles. We...
2024-08-0916 min
Taking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha002: What is Probate, and How Can I Avoid it?Perhaps you have heard the term "Probate" and wonder, "What is involved in the process?" Or maybe a loved one has passed away and you are responsible for probating his or her estate? In this episode, we describe what is required to settle an estate through probate in Hawaii. We break down why many people aim to avoid probate, a process that can be time-consuming, frustrating, and needlessly expensive. We'll walk you through the essential steps–from obtaining a death certificate to filing initial court paperwork – so you'll gain a deeper understanding of Hawaii's probate system and can ma...
2024-07-1914 minTaking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with Aloha001: Caring for Elderly Parents? Get a Power of Attorney While You Still Can!Have you been caring for your elderly parents or grandparents? Are you paying their bills, taking them to the doctor, managing their prescriptions? In this pilot episode of Taking Care of Tutu, we introduce you to the indispensable power of attorney – a crucial legal document. We'll explain why you need a general durable power of attorney and the alarming consequences of neglecting this essential step, including the exhausting and unnecessary court processes of conservatorships and guardianships. We also highlight a critical yet often overlooked aspect: the necessity for individuals over 18, including college-bound children, to have a power of...
2024-07-1212 minTaking Care of Tutu - Navigating Estate Planning and Probate with AlohaWelcome to Taking Care of Tutu!Welcome to "Taking Care of Tutu," the podcast that explores the legal mechanics of how we care for our loved ones and ourselves using the tools of estate planning, probate, and elder law. Join us as we dive into the world of legal intricacies with a touch of aloha spirit. In this podcast, we follow the journey of a dedicated estate planning, probate, and elder law firm as they share insights, stories, and expert advice. They're on a mission to be a one-stop resource in Hawaii for all things related to creating trusts and wills, passing on the family...
2024-04-0801 min