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Valerie Lynn Borgman

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Desperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEP 153 Are Assisted Living and Dementia Care Communities Safe?All assisted living and dementia care communities have to be safe...right? In this episode, Valerie Lynn walks you through everything you need to know about evaluating safety in senior living—from essential physical features like fall prevention and security systems to medical care and emotional well-being because senior living communities are NOT created equal. With real-life stories and practical tips, you'll learn what questions to ask, what red flags to watch for, and how to trust your instincts to make the best decision. Whether you're starting your search or actively touring communities, this episode will empower yo...2025-01-0624 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 128 What you Don't Know About the Senior Living Industry with Special Guest Melissa FritzMaybe you’ve even started to google senior living and care and maybe you’re scratching your head trying to figure out why it's so confusing! I’m your host Valerie Lynn and…in this episode I’m talking with industry professional and host of the upcoming PBS North special, Inside Senior Living, Melissa Fritz. Melissa’s series, Inside Senior Living, follows families on this journey. Her background working for Brookdale Senior Living as well as her personal experience navigating senior living for her father who had Alzheimer’s, fueled her passion for helping families understand their options and na...2024-01-2247 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 125 Behind the Scenes of A Senior Living Community with Executive Director Tina NuttHave you ever wondered what it takes to run an assisted living community? Should you ask to meet the person in charge and is there anything you should be asking them? Who exactly IS the person in charge and what should you expect from them when your mom or dad lives there? In this episode, we’re talking with Executive Director Tina Nutt ... that person in charge...about what it takes to run a successful independent and assisted living community. From dining to care to a day in the life.... you don't want to miss this episode! CL...2023-12-1124 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 124 Assisted Living & Care - Terminology Through Story"I'm sorry...what did you say?" After years of working in senior living, I still forget that this industry has its own language. A language most of the families I work with have never heard or know very little about. A language largely from the medical field... no doubt due to its creator Doctor Keren Wilson of Oregon.  No matter where it came from, not knowing what you're being asked or what it all means for your loved one and their care....only adds to an already stressful search. In this episode, we're talking terminology t...2023-11-2720 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 123 Types of Dementia and Their Affect on Your Search for Senior Living and CareDespite the fact that dementia is a very individual disease - and that symptoms may vary - many memory care communities will not even consider a new resident with a Lewy body, Frontotemporal, Vascular or Alcohol Related Dementia diagnosis. They won’t even look at their medications or doctors notes. This week we're looking at some of the symptoms of the different types of Dementia including Alzheimer's and why it can be more difficult to find care. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more do...2023-11-1319 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 122 Who Can Help You with Your Search for Assisted Living and Memory Care?You’ve made so many phone calls ... gone on tours and ultimately didn’t find what you were looking for. Let’s be honest....maybe you're not even really sure what you're supposed to be looking for or even need. So this week we’re going to talk about the help you may find along the way if you or someone you know is starting this journey. We're talking about what you can expect..what should happen and what you can ask for. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTA...2023-10-3023 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 121 Why is it So Hard to Find What You’re looking for in Senior Living and Care?It feels like it should be easy. You search..."my mom needs help going to the bathroom".  Or "care for my elderly parent" or "help for seniors". You google and you should be able to get a straightforward answer, right? You call the places that come up during your search and none of them can help. Almost all of our clients tried to find the right fit on their own before they found us. This week we're talking about why it's so hard! CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us o...2023-10-1614 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 120 Should you Disclose Everything to a Senior Living Community or Adult Family Home?Many families struggle with disclosing their loved ones care needs especially if there are behaviors they find embarrassing or if they feel no-one could possible want to care for their loved one. Other families find financial information too private to share. Some families don't know what they should or shouldn't be sharing. In this episode we're talking about why it might not be a good idea to NOT disclose and when it might be ok. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! ...2023-10-0223 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 119 When the Senior Living Community Tour Guide is NOT AvailableSome families have been turned away... some were faced with frazzled, nervous staff... other families reported feeling unwelcome. So what is this tour guide position, why does everyone seem so nervous when they're not available and why it is so hard to get the information you want. Don't miss this episode!!! CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Need help with your situation? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our...2023-09-2514 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 118 Alzheimer’s/ Dementia & DrivingThere are things in life we take for granted…like driving. We jump in our car and take off to the grocery store without a thought. Loss of independence is one of the top things seniors report they fear. Not being able to drive is one of the biggest representations of that loss. So what are you supposed to do when you fear your loved one isn’t safe behind the wheel? In this episode, we’re talking about how to approach this conversation and what other families have done. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SH...2023-09-1813 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 117 The Mini Mental Exam for Alzheimer’s & DementiaHas your loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's or Dementia? Or have you told their Doctor you suspect they have a cognitive impairment? Then you may have heard about this test. Many families we work with are still confused about how it works and what impact it can have on finding the right assisted living or memory care. This week we're talking about how the test is scored and how senior living communities use the information. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!2023-09-1107 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 116 Can Families Provide Care in Assisted Living?Caregiving is such a difficult job…It comes with so many emotions…loss, guilt, frustration, anger, sadness and fear. Despite your reasons for being a caregiver…there often comes a day when you make that move to assisted living. But what if your mom or dad are asking you to continue helping them shower? What if the cost of medication management has you asking if you can do that for your mom after she moves into assisted living?  Can you? Should you? CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Foll...2023-09-0408 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 115 When You Disagree with the Community’s Nurse AssessmentYou know your loved one best but when it comes to a nurse assessment…The community is balancing regulations and liabilities. Yes, They are providing care but they are also a company. A company that is subject to annual inspection and protecting their license as well as the caregivers and other residents. There are so many variables to consider. So what if you disagree with their assessment of your loved one? Listen in and check out our doable download to find out! CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us...2023-08-2808 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 114 How Senior Living Communities Figure CostIf you’ve been through the search for senior living chances are the pricing got confusing. Why is it so hard to get a final price? Why is it so hard to compare and how does the cost change so quickly? This week we're answering these tough questions! CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Need help with your situation? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Ema...2023-08-2108 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 113 Will Your Independent or Retirement Living Community call 911 for Your Loved One? Some won't.There are many reasons seniors decide to make the move to senior living…sometimes it’s the yard, meals, transportation or making new friends. Many times is safety. Whatever the reason…I bet you didn’t think you had to ask THIS question. In my research, I have found 3 companies...not communities but companies... with many communities... whose policy is to NOT call 911 for their independent residents.  Every company has a right to their policies...and you have a right to know. Don't miss this episode!!! CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW...2023-08-1409 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 112 Explaining Alzheimer’s & All Forms of Dementia to Children of all Ages with Guests Alder Allensworth & Brenda FreedYour mom has Alzheimer’s…. And you? … Have teenagers. So what do you do when your teenagers say, "No!" to spending time with grandma? Or maybe your mom thinks your 10 year old is actually you! With everything you have on your plate…how are you supposed to handle this!? This week we’re talking with Counselor and RN, Alder Allensworth and Singer/Songwriter and Music therapist Brenda Freed about their picture book and program helping families have these conversations with their children and plan activities…so that even through the tough stages of Alzheimer’s…your family can continue to...2023-08-0728 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 111 Family Talk with Leslie Fuller - The Conversation about Moving to Assisted Living, Downsizing & Asking for HelpIn this episode, founder of Inspired Senior Care, Leslie Fuller shares her family's story. She talks about what it was like when the strong one, the caregiver....the one no one was expecting to end up in the hospital...did. What the conversation about assisted living was like and how the process of moving was for them.  Leslie has her master of social work with a focus in gerontology. She worked in senior living for many years as an executive director then a regional dementia care manager. Today, she helps senior living communities  communicate with their residents an...2023-07-3121 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 110 Language Matters in Assisted Living and Memory Care with Guest Leslie FullerHave you ever toured a senior living community… and it just didn’t feel right? Did you hear things or see things that made you feel like this was an institution and not a community? If you're not getting that warm welcoming feeling.. how can you be sure your mom or dad will? In this episode, we’re talking with the founder of Inspired Senior Care, Leslie fuller about what language to look for when you tour a senior living community. Leslie has her master of social work with a focus in gerontology. She worked in senior living...2023-07-2425 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 109 When to Consider the Cash Home Buyer - Investor/Wholesaler with Guests Brian & Ranny RayJOHN BUYS UGLY HOUSES Have you ever seen these small signs on the side of the road? Did you know that these folks get lists of homes that have been paid off or are on a reverse mortgage and call the home owner? In many cases attempting to undervalue the home and buy it for a very low price. They could be calling your mom or dad or grandma. I’m so excited to welcome Brian and Ranny Ray of Senior Home Partners…encompassing both the Real Estate and General Contractor side of home buying and selling. We’r...2023-07-1721 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 108 Caregiver Resources with Guest Carrie Aalberts AKA Dementia DarlingThis is our 4th episode in our caregiver series with Carrie Alberts, a.k.a. Dementia Darling. In this episode, we're talking about all her favorite resources for caregivers. These resources are for anyone. If you know someone with Alzheimer’s or any cognitive impairment or if you’re a caregiver in memory care or a private duty caregiver. You’ll want to check out this entire series. Just key word search Carrie or Dementia Darling! And you should definitely get to know Carrie! She's a certified dementia practitioner. She’s worked in senior living for a decade, has a degree...2023-07-1027 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 107 Dementia Tips with Guest Carrie Aalberts aka Dementia DarlingThis week is our third episode in our caregiver series. I’m so excited to welcome back Carrie Alberts, a.k.a. Dementia Darling and if you’re listening right now and you’re thinking... Oh I didn’t mean to listen to a dementia episode… this episode isn’t for me… Then I definitely want you to listen in because these tips are for anyone interacting with someone who has dementia not just caregivers or people you know… and of course.. If you’re a caregiver or you work in senior living then you’re also in the right place!  2023-07-0337 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 106 From Respite to Gaslighting - More Tips for Caregivers with Guest Carrie Aalberts aka Dementia DarlingLast week we started our caregiver series with Carrie Aalberts aka dementia darling… with her top tip… finding your community and if you’re a caregiver or you know someone who is?  you’ll definitely want to check it out…  This episode is a continuation of our first conversation covering Carrie’s top tips for caregivers. Carrie worked in senior living for a decade, has a degree in gerontology and a passion for caregivers and all these tips are so important. So here we go! From respite to gaslighting! Part 2 of our conversation with Carrie. CLICK HERE for...2023-06-2631 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 105 Finding Your Community as a Caregiver with Carrie Aalberts aka Dementia DarlingYou visit your mom once a week to fill her pill box but you worry she’s not taking her medications, so you give her a call every day just to make sure. Or maybe your dad lives with you because he just isn’t safe living alone and even though he doesn't need much help, you make his meals every day.  Sound familiar? You’re a caregiver and it’s time to find your tribe! I’m so excited to welcome Carrie Aalberts aka Dementia darling to the show! If you don’t know her yet…you’ll want to...2023-06-1914 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 104 When Pets Become a ProblemHow many times have you cringed watching your mom almost trip over her dog? And what happens when you’re not there? What to do with your parent's beloved cat or dog can be a brutal conversation. In this episode, we talk about knowing when it's time to have the conversation about pets and other possible options to giving them up. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Need help with your situation? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! Would you like to...2023-06-1208 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 103 Loss of Independence in Senior LivingThe time has come for your mom to move into senior living and she’s NOT happy about it. She keeps talking about how she’s losing her independence but you see it as gaining the freedom to do more since she won’t have to worry about keeping up with the house. So what’s she talking about? This week we’re looking at what this loss might look like for your loved one and ways you can help. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doabl...2023-06-0509 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 102 Googling Senior Living & CareMany of our clients have told us they spent hours on the internet… which led them to countless phone calls…which led them nowhere! So why is it so hard to find what you’re looking for? Listen in! CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Need help with your situation? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.despera...2023-05-2909 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 101 Why a Birthday is Way More Important than CakeDo you know your Mom or Dad or Grandpa's birthday? Are you sure? This week we're talking about why a birthdate could be wrong and why it's so important for seniors! CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Need help with your situation? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com Hit subscribe ✅ and spread the...2023-05-2207 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 100 Mom’s been in Rehab too Long and Medicaid Won’t Pay to Keep her Apartment21 days, 12 days, 42 days… zero days. These are just some of the states and how long they’ll hold your mom or dad’s apartment while they’re in the hospital on vacation or in a skilled nursing facility. Listen in to Sarah's story and find out what her options were! CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Need help with your situation? BECOME A CLIENT TODAY! Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Ema...2023-05-1507 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 99 How to be Sure You're Choosing the Right Senior Living CommunityIt's true....assisted living, memory care and even independent living is all designed to help your aging loved one. It's also true that these are BUSINESSES and your tour guide... is a sales position. So how can you be sure you're choosing the right community for your loved one and not just because you like the person showing you around? I've got some tips to help you do just that. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would you like to share...2023-05-0809 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 98 Social Isolation and SeniorsSaying the words I’m lonely or sad or depressed are not the usual conversation starters especially since mom or dad don’t want to be a burden. You’re more likely to hear them say they’re fine…they like being alone. So today we’re going to outline some of the signs your aging loved one might be isolating, possible objections to getting out of the house and social opportunities. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would you like to share your...2023-05-0107 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 97 Family Talk - Ryan Herd, Cancer, Caregiving and TechI'm excited to welcome back, Ryan Herd. You may have seen his TEDx talk about his innovative technology that helps you be a fly on the wall for your aging loved one. (Check out last week's episode to learn more about this amazing tech!) This week, Ryan is sharing his inspiration…The story about his father’s battle with cancer and how Ryan’s concern and his dad’s fight for independence led to the creation of a small non-intrusive …no cameras … technology called Caregiver Smart Solutions.  CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow...2023-04-2422 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 96 Is Your Loved One Safe Behind Closed Doors? How Can You be Sure? Guest Ryan HerdIs your mom leaving the stove on? Did the furnace break down in the middle of winter or the air conditioner during the hottest days and you didn’t find out for a week? Are you considering installing cameras…But that just seems too intrusive? Then you won't want to miss this episode! We’re talking with the creator of caregiver smart solutions, Ryan Herd. You may have seen his TEDx talk about his innovative technology that helps you be a fly on the wall for your loved one…without being intrusive.  CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD...2023-04-1731 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 95 When They Forget Who You AreWhat’s in a name? Alot…there’s so much that I would give anything to have had the technology we have today where I could've kept a recording of my dad leaving me a message… calling me the way he usually did by my first and middle name. My dad died in 2007 he had alcohol related dementia and there was a point in his disease where he didn’t know who I was.  In this episode we're talking through what other families have experienced along with some tips for what to do if this happens to you. 2023-04-1011 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 94 The Assisted Living Conversation and Likely Objections with Guest Bekah WolkenOk…so who’s going to talk to mom about the fact that she is not doing ok at home? Is it you? Your brother? Her best friend or her Doctor? Are you seriously dreading this conversation...because most families are! This week is PART 2 with Bekah Wolken who has years of experience working in the senior living industry and in this episode she's sharing her tips! We're talking strategies, tone and likely objections you should be prepared for. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doab...2023-04-0332 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 93 Common Signs Your Loved One May Need More Assistance - with Guest Bekah WolkenWe've all been asked how we're doing and most of us... at one time or another have said..."I'm fine." If you've asked your aging parent the same question? Chances are you're hearing..."I'm just fine." So this week we're talking with Bekah Wolken about some of the signs that fine...might not be fine at all. Bekah has years of experience working in the senior living industry and in this episode she's sharing her tips! CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! 2023-03-2712 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 92 Understanding Denial in AgingAre you the one trying to convince your family that your Mom needs more help? Or are you the family member that just doesn't see it. Denial is something we hear families talk about, admit to and think a family member might be in. The most important thing about denial is that it's normal. If you’ve been told you’re in denial, you are not alone. If you're the one trying to convince someone else they are...you're not alone. So listen in! In this episode, we’re talking about the signs you might be in denial, why you mi...2023-03-2007 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 91 When Getting Around is Getting Hard - Transfers in Assisted LivingLast week we talked about weight in assisted living and how that affects transferring but it’s not just weight. It’s arthritis, a stroke, Parkinson’s, surgery or a fall… and no matter how much your mom or dad weighs transfer assistance can be more expensive and may not be available at every assisted living. In this episode we're talking about the different types of transferring and why you should start your call with this topic, when looking for assisted living. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRA...2023-03-1311 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 90 Weight Matters in Assisted LivingThis is NOT a weight loss episode and when it comes to weight… Let’s just say right now what we’re all thinking…. This subject sucks…Not only is it hard to think about being immobile and needing help to get around but it can also be really uncomfortable to talk to your mom or dad about their weight. The hard TRUTH is that it matters in ways that have nothing to do with your health. Don't miss this episode! CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more d...2023-03-0610 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 89 Call Systems in Assisted LivingOne of the things that families tell us they find most frustrating, is when their mom or dad pushes the call button and it takes forever for a staff member to answer that call. This can be a big deal! What if they're needing help to the restroom or had a fall? In this episode we're talking about the call system in assisted living and memory care. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would you like to share your story and...2023-02-2710 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 88 Alcohol in Senior LivingWhether your dad is a recovering alcoholic, you're concerned about medications, memory care or your mom's right to have her glass of wine with dinner....alcohol is something that can be an issue in senior living. So today we’re talking all about alcohol! CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com Hit subscribe ✅ and s...2023-02-2007 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 87 Privacy in Senior LivingCare staff, management and maintenance…all have keys or access to keys to your parent’s apartment. The standard is to knock, announce themselves and wait for a response. But so often we hear from residents that they’re sitting in their living room …watching TV…lying down for a nap or in the bathroom and all the sudden their apartment door swings open and in walks a caregiver! Listen in to find out why this standard isn't happening.  CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips...2023-02-1309 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 86 Showering in Assisted LivingI recently worked with a family whose dad was touring assisted living communities and during the tour he found himself alone with the tour guide. She later shared with me that he had some real concerns about how the whole showering thing was going to work. The first thing I thought was... wow! He didn’t feel comfortable asking his kids this question or asking the question in front of everyone on the tour. The other thing I wondered was how many other times seniors like your mom or your dad are having these same thoughts and not asking the...2023-02-0610 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 85 Family Talk: Author Tracy Crump - Caregiving, Financial Concerns, In-Home Care & Assisted LivingThis week we welcome Author Tracy Crump. Tracy had no idea that her years as an ICU nurse would prepare her for her Mother’s mysterious illness a mystery that her diligence helped solve… Tracy even preventing a potentially life threatening mistake when hospital staff attempted to give her father the wrong medication. Through everything, Tracy reminds us how important it is to advocate for your loved one. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would you like to share your story and...2023-01-3040 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 84 Food in Senior Living - The Dining ExperienceWhat if I told you …that for the rest of your life you could only eat at one place…what would you say? I’m actually surprised we don’t hear more about how important food is to the seniors we help… even though care and location are arguably more important…food is often one of the reasons seniors want to move out of their current community. So this week we’re going to talk about how dining works in a senior living community versus an adult family home How communities can differ from each other ...2023-01-2311 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 83 Family Talk: Actor & Filmmaker Kim Plumridge - Alzheimer’s, Judgement, Media & GriefThis week I’m so excited to welcome Kim Plumridge. Kim shares her caregiving journey and we're also talking about her award winning short film, My Story of Alzheimer’s Disease, highlighting a diverse group of families and their journeys. Kim is a woman who holds many titles…actor, director, producer, teacher and yes… caregiver. Don't miss her story!! CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us a...2023-01-1621 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 82 The GuardianshipShow UPDATE! There are Guardianship companies that can also do Power of Attorney*** Maybe…you didn’t know there was something called power of attorney… or maybe your mom didn’t really understand what it was and whenever you asked about it? Her response was… I can take care of myself… Or maybe you signed POA paperwork years ago… but no one can seem to find it anywhere…. What can you do if you need a POA… But it’s too late. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for...2023-01-0907 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 81 The POA, Power of AttorneyYour dad is in the hospital and you need to pay his bills so you do some digging and find out where he banks. You need access to his accounts so you can make sure everything’s taken care of. You get to the bank and they ask for your Power of Attorney…. you have no idea what they’re talking about… If this sounds familiar or even if you've heard of the term POA before…this episode is for you! CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGR...2023-01-0209 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 80 Hearing Loss and Senior LivingYou moved your dad to senior living for his safety, to make sure he takes his medications and that someone is right there in case he falls so you weren't really focused on his hearing loss. Hearing loss is something that we just live with....I know I do...I turn the tv up or I ask "What?" or I just let things go....so it's no surprise that it's not a focus when moving to a senior living community. This week we're making it one with some tips and ideas to help make community living a better experience.2022-12-2706 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 79 Alzheimer’s - When They Don’t Think They Need HelpOver the past several weeks…We’ve looked at signs that your loved one may no longer be safe at home alone. No longer safe driving, cooking, bathing, cleaning. Maybe their friends and neighbors are also worried. But every time you bring it up to your mom? Well…It doesn’t go great…or maybe it does! But she forgets the conversation even happened. This week…we’re looking at what you can do when your mom doesn’t think she needs help but you know you need to do something. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW N...2022-12-1910 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 78 The Nurse AssessmentWhen looking for a senior living community or even in-home care, many families ask why there has to be another nurse assessment. Why can't the first community share their assessment with the next one or why can't Medicaid use the current assessment? This week we're answering these questions and more! CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.d...2022-12-1212 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 77 What’s Going on with Mom? Is it Alzheimer’s?It was Thanksgiving Dinner… now you’re used to mom repeating herself a few times and always chalked it up to old age… but this time was different… she started doing the strangest things and it all started with the mashed potatoes. This week we’re going to take a look at some real life examples…stories families have shared with us and things we’ve experienced. Things that made everyone go … whoa.. hang on a minute… this is different…Something’s really wrong…. and what should your next steps be? CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FUL...2022-12-0508 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 76 What is Elder Mediation?One parent with Alzheimer’s and 5 kids with… no hope of agreeing about what to do… what to do with Mom, the house, the car or even the cat. If this sounds like your family? You won’t want to miss this week’s episode on Elder Mediation. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com Hit s...2022-11-2810 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 75 When Family Members DisagreeYour dad’s health is declining. Your mom has been his caregiver for years and let’s face it.. She’s not getting any younger! You’re worried about her health…so  when she finally agrees to let you help her find a senior living community for dad, you’re relieved. You get on the phone to tell your brother, excited about the plan… but he’s not as excited and all hell breaks loose. This week we're taking a look at what happens…when families disagree. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on...2022-11-2109 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 74 What is a Respite or Short Term Stay in Assisted Living?We’ve been focused on family caregiving for the last couple of episodes and one of the things we see so often is the caregiver getting sicker than the one they’re caring for. So this week we’re going to talk about one option for taking a break, the respite or short term stay. We're also going to look at some other reasons you may want to consider one.  CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would you like to share your st...2022-11-1409 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 73 Are You Still a Caregiver After Moving Your Loved One to Assisted Living or Memory Care?In Episode 72 I defined the role of a caregiver because most of the time we identify as "helping" mom or dad not actually being a caregiver….but the truth is … most of the time - we are caregivers…. whether you’re a son, daughter, friend or spouse… caregiving is hard and asking someone else to step in and take over the job can be even harder. In this episode I'm exploring why you might be considering assisted living or memory care, what to expect, tips for letting go and answering the question: Are you still a caregiver after move-in day? 2022-11-0708 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 72 Am I a Caregiver?Are you a caregiver? Not by trade…not that that you went to school for it… not that you even ever thought you’d be doing it. sometimes we’re caregivers without even knowing it…  We’ve worked with families who didn’t realize they were caregivers… of course they knew they were doing things for their mom or dad but they didn’t realize the extent of the role they were playing…so this week we're answering the question...Am I a Caregiver? CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTA...2022-10-3108 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 71 The Senior Living Move-in PaperworkHave you ever bought a house? Or even a car? Remember that giant stack of paperwork? Paperwork you thought would never end? It seems like endless signing ….you’re hoping you aren’t signing your life away....and who actually reads all those pages anyway??? If you haven't been through the move-in paperwork at a senior living community... then you don't want to miss this week's episode!  CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would you like to share your story and be a gu...2022-10-2409 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 70 What to Expect When Moving Out of a Senior Living CommunityThere are several reasons you may find yourself moving out of a senior living community and I think you can probably imagine the reasons are most often not pleasant ones. You’re unhappy, or you can’t afford the monthly fee, care needs have exceeded the staffs ability to provide the care or your loved one has passed away. In these situations you may be asking yourself…what happens next? Do I get a refund? That deposit I paid in the beginning do I get that back? What if I don’t find a place by the time the money run...2022-10-1711 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 69 How to Keep Your Loved One’s Legacy Safe with Guest Tim RobertsMy dad died in 2007 and for a year or so I listened to a message he had left on my cell phone…I loved hearing his voice over and over…until the day I upgraded to a new cell phone having no idea that that recording would be lost forever. Can you relate? As your parents and grandparents age have you thought about how to preserve their legacy? In this week’s episode, we’re talking with Tim Roberts founder of Echobox Memory Vault…a free app designed to keep all your …memories safe.  CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DO...2022-10-1022 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 68 Which Senior Living Staff Member Should you Take your Complaints to?Your dad finally agreed to move in to an assisted living community… you toured…found a great place… helped your dad figure out how many of his things he could bring…hired a moving company…moved.... and a month later? He’s not happy or maybe you’re not happy. In this episode we’re looking at some reasons families have been unhappy and we’re taking a close look at the staffing structure of most senior living communities so you know who to bring your complaints to … should you have them. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD...2022-10-0312 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 67 Can You Negotiate Cost with Senior Living Communities?You went on your first tour of a senior living community and wow! You had no idea how much senior living costs and all that work you put into your financial spreadsheet? Out the window! This week we've got some tips to save you money! CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com ✅ Don't for...2022-09-2606 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 66 What is Occupational Therapy and When Do You Need it?Has your mom started changing her normal routines? Maybe she mentioned that she’s only showering once a week… or only bakes when you’re there because you can reach the mixing bowls?  You may not be thinking much of these little changes… but they’re a clue that your mom may benefit from Occupational Therapy. We’re talking with Heidi Huynh owner and Occupational Therapist with Ascend Therapy Services about how this type of therapy can help seniors stay independent and safe. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM...2022-09-1923 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 65 Home Health Care vs In-Home CareThis week we’re talking about two services that can help seniors safely remain in their homes…. In-home care or personal care services and home health care… These days…you can get just about any assistance you need right at home. So where do your parents call home?  are they living in their actual home or a stand alone retirement community?  At either location they might find they want or need a little extra help in order to remain safe. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doabl...2022-09-1208 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 64 What are CCRC’s or a Buy-in Campus?Wouldn’t it be great if you could know that your parent's future care needs were completely taken care of? That they could plan financially and not have to worry if something were to happen with their health? That you didn’t have to keep touring different communities as their needs increased? Oh wait … there is! This week we’re looking at the CCRC and while this option may not be for everyone...it can be a great option for those wanting to invest and plan for the future. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOT...2022-09-0508 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 63 What are Adult Family Homes?When we ask families if they’re familiar with adult family homes … we get either a no, a yes or a yes and they don’t trust them… This week we’re going to talk about what adult family homes are, why some families have never heard of them, those that love them, hate them and why! CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familyta...2022-08-2908 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 62 What is a Memory Care Community Like?We’ve worked with so many families who tour memory care communities and leave feeling defeated and no matter what their loved one’s level of memory loss…feel there’s no way they would place them there. Today we’re taking a look at why families have such strong reactions to memory care communities and what exactly you can expect. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Emai...2022-08-2211 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 61 Our Most Popular Tips from Families! From Caregiving to Finding Senior Care.Last week we took at look back at our most popular Doable Tip episodes from the professionals So this week we’re checking out our most popular doable tips from families who have been through the process of finding senior living and care or being caregivers themselves. Don’t forget to click on our Doable Download where I’ll have a link to each of the full length episodes featured this week.  CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Woul...2022-08-1515 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 60 Our Most Popular Tips Straight from the ProfessionalsSometimes you want all the details and sometimes you just want the bullet points...well this week is a bullet point kindof episode! We're taking a look back at the past year's most popular doable tip episodes featuring the professionals and their number one doable tip! Check out our Doable Download for a link to each full length episode featured. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  2022-08-0815 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 59 What is Skilled Nursing?Has your mom or dad or grandparents ever said…"Whatever you do…you better never put me in a nursing home!"? Well That might be because.. when they were looking for assistance for their parents…Nursing Homes were the only option outside of family caregivers and visiting nurses. This week we’re talking all about Skilled Nursing…the new Nursing Home. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Emai...2022-08-0110 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 58 What is Assisted Living and How do I Know I Need it?You’re visiting your mom and notice she looks a little disheveled… she says she’s been bathing…but you know there’s no way… or you look in the refrigerator and there’s nothing there…you ask yourself.. has she been eating? Or the worst.....you find pills on the floor! These are signs your mom may need some assistance. So this week…we’re talking all about Assisted living! CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would you like to share your story and...2022-07-2508 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 57 What is Independent Living?There are many other reasons seniors choose to move in to independent living … not wanting to keep up the home…socialization and activities and even transportation…So if your loved one simply wants or needs one of these things …safety and a renewed social life then they’re a candidate for independent living. So what exactly is independent living? This week we’re looking specifically at the stand alone independent living community. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would you like to share you...2022-07-1806 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 56 The Caregiving App with Guest Mike the Caregiver GuySo you and your siblings are taking care of your dad…you have shifts and a group text … even though you only have a few shifts a week… it feels like you’re constantly getting those text updates…or… you hire in home care for your mom but it seems like you’re always seeing a new caregiver and have to explain again the best way to care for your mom who has Alzheimer’s…If any of this sounds familiar you won’t want to miss this week's episode! I’m so excited to welcome Mike the Caregiver Guy and founder of Car...2022-07-1118 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 55 Keeping Couples Together when One Has Alzheimer’sMom is completely independent and doesn’t need help with anything ….except…dad… she’s been the caregiver and you know it’s wearing her down…but even the mention of moving dad to memory care… causes panic. This week we’re getting creative to help keep mom and dad together! CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseek...2022-07-0407 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 54 Does Your Senior Living Community Accept Medicaid in the Future?What if you have some money … Enough to move into a community today… but not enough to last for years…How do you choose the right community and what happens after you move in…and then… your money runs out? CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com ✅ Don't forget to subscribe ✅ and spread the word! 📣...2022-06-2707 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 53 When Someone is Keeping You from Selling the House with guest Lilia AndersonYour mom needs more assistance and needs to sell the house to pay for it… but she doesn’t want to leave her home…or your sister doesn’t want her to sell the house…or someone else is living in the house! Over the years…we’ve heard from so many families in this situation….so what exactly are you supposed to do if someone is keeping you from selling the house? I'm excited to welcome guest Lilia Anderson with Keller Williams Realty! CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on...2022-06-2024 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 52 What if You Can’t Afford Senior Living?Many of the families we work with are facing this exact issue! Their loved one may only be getting social security or a very small pension and neither are enough for that senior living community down the street. In this episode, we're looking at possible programs, assistance and ideas that may help. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com 2022-06-1310 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 51 Family Talk: Dr. Delon Canterbury, Overmedicated, Asked to Leave a Care Setting and Becoming the CaregiverA couple of weeks ago we talked with Dr. DeLon Canterbury about over medication in seniors… I was really taken by Dr. DeLon’s personal story so I asked him to come back on the show…. today he shares the story of his grandmother who was over medicated in a care setting causing a very difficult journey for her and their entire family…. Listen in as Dr. DeLon Shares the inspiration for his company GeriatRX…his grandma. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Wou...2022-06-0624 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 50 From Pets to Pot, What Not to Bring to Senior LivingYour parents really need more assistance but getting them to leave their home…their two huge dogs…cats and birds? Well that’s going to be a challenge! Sometimes the obstacles to moving into a senior living community or an adult family home....weren’t what you were expecting! CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com 2022-05-3011 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 49 Do You Suspect Your Loved One is Overmedicated? With guest Dr. Delon CanterburyHow many medications is your loved one on? 10, 20, 30? If it's more than 5 it may be too many!!! Are they experiencing new confusion? Falls? Are med reviews a quick 5 minute..."Are you still taking these meds?" If you answered yes to any of these, DON'T MISS this episode! We're talking with Dr. DeLon Canterbury with GeriatRx, a company dedicated to helping seniors reduce medications they don't need! CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would you like to share your story and be...2022-05-2329 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 48 They Asked You to Move Out Due to Memory Loss...Now What?No one wants to get that phone call from their Assisted Living. The one where they say....."We need to talk about your Mom." Many times those living in Assisted Living may develop memory loss making it impossible to continue living in that environment. Moving is a big deal!! What can you do to help buy some time while you look for Memory Care? CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would you like to share your story and be a guest...2022-05-1611 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 47 Can Regular Assisted Living Work for Someone with Alzheimer’s or other Dementias?Have you toured a memory care community and thought there was absolutely NO WAY you would ever move your mom "IN THERE"! Well....you are not alone. Many families find that the memory care communities they tour have resident who are way more advanced than their loved one. So today...we're taking a look at 5 questions to ask yourself if you'r considering Assisted Living for your loved one who has Alzheimer's. Check out the 5 questions plus a bonus question in our Doable Download! CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us...2022-05-0915 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 46 Family Talk: Jennifer Fink, Early Alzheimer’s, Refusing Help & Memory Care CommunitiesDo you have one parent with Alzheimer’s and the other one, their spouse… just won’t accept any help? Do you wonder if you’re going to get Alzheimer's too? I’m so excited to welcome Jennifer Fink….host of the Fading Memories Podcast…helping families and caregivers through their Alzheimer’s journey… today Jen is sharing her story. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at fami...2022-05-0235 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 45 Family Talk: Jodie - Denial, Separating Spouses, Transitional Trauma & Therapeutic LyingHow do you get your loved one help when they insist they don't need it? What are some signs that it's time to make some really tough decisions about moving? We're excited to welcome back Jodie Condie Finney, DPT and Co-Founder/Director of the Caregiver Club to share her family's story of her mom's journey through Alzheimer's. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  E...2022-04-2534 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 44 Legacy Songwriting with guest Hannah PyettEver wished you took more pictures or asked ore questions before your loved one passed? Do you think about your own legacy and what you want your loved one's to know about you? This week Music Therapist, Hannah Pyett with Chords of Compassion is back! We're exploring leaving a legacy through SONGWRITING! Don't worry...you don't even have to carry a tune! CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our...2022-04-1818 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 43 Easier Outings with Someone Suffering from Alzheimer’s or Dementia with guests Alicia & JodieAre you getting anxious just thinking about taking your loved one out to dinner? Or have you stopped going out at all? Today we've got a great tool to help you have a better outing!! I'm so excited to welcome cousins Alicia & Jodie to talk about their company, The Caregiver Club. They help you communicate discreetly with those you're interacting with....letting them know that you're with someone who needs a little extra patience and understanding.....someone extraordinary. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable...2022-04-1120 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 42 Managing Pain & Anxiety Through Music with guest Hannah PyettPain...Something we've all experienced and when we think about managing pain....Medication is the go to... But What about alternatives? Today we're talking with Board-Certified Music Therapist Hannah Pyett about using music to manage pain and reduce stress and anxiety. Recognizing your loved one's pain signals if they're non-verbal or assisting after a surgery. A simple playlist...a big impact! CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show? 2022-04-0415 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 41 Family Talk: Jonathon Gerson - Caring for a Spouse with Alzheimer’sStudies have shown that caring for those who have Alzheimer’s is one of the most difficult caregiving jobs. Watching your loved one decline…you lose them as they lose themselves….Today I'm excited to welcome back licensed mental health counselor and Alzheimer’s specialist, Jonathon Gerson who cared for his husband for 6 years. It started with cancer then progressed to Alzheimer’s. Today Jonathan shares his story. A story of love, staying in the moment and a little help from friends. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM...2022-03-2813 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 40 How do you Connect with those Suffering from Alzheimer’s with guest Jonathon GersonThat moment you realize you can no longer communicate with your loved one the way you used to can be the most difficult part of the Alzheimer's journey. Today we’re talking with licensed mental health counselor and Alzheimer’s specialist Jonathon Gerson. Jonathon works not only with family’s but with those suffering from Alzheimer’s and dementia. Celebrating the memories they still have. We’re talking about the brain and some strategies to connect. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would y...2022-03-2116 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 39 Family Talk: Mike & Liz - Alzheimer’s & Traveling, Family Dynamics & GuiltWhat do you do when you need to move your loved one with Alzheimer’s closer to you? Dealing with family members you’ve never even met? Not to mention all that guilt everyone is feeling. How do you get them to agree to move? What’s that flight going to look like? In this episode, Mike and Liz share their story about a very long flight from Virginia to Seattle and finally finding the right care environment for Mike's dad. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for mo...2022-03-1434 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 38 The DNR - Do Not ResuscitateWe talk a lot about advocating for others...but what about advocating for yourself? Making your end of life wishes known is extremely important. If you've moved your loved one into a senior living community you were probably asked about this. In this episode, I share my grandfather's story. Not an easy subject but definitely an important one. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email u...2022-03-0707 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 37 Transfer Trauma in Alzheimer’s with Co-Host Kelly AllenAre you totally into routines? Did that first day on the job or move to a new city…shake you up…just a bit? Now imagine someone with memory loss…very often they’ve created a safe space within very familiar routines. Today Kelly and I are talking about Alzheimer’s and transitions including spotting stress and tips for a smooth transition.  CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  ...2022-02-2822 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 36 What Does Rest Actually Look Like? With Co-Host Kelly AllenAre you actually able to to walk away from those dirty dishes and take a Saturday all to yourself? What about even just a couple of hours away from caregiving? Today we're looking at 4 steps to move closer to real rest...so grab your favorite drink and relax!   CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com2022-02-2116 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 19 Family Talk: Host Valerie Borgman, Dementia, Hospice & The Chicago CubsI'm usually your host... but in this episode I'm sharing my story which took place long before I worked in senior living. My brothers and I watched as our father succumbed to his illness which caused dementia and hallucinations but didn't take away his sense of humor. I'm also really excited to welcome guest host Max Oppenheimer. Thanks Max, for helping me tell my story. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would you like to share your story and be a...2021-10-2531 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 17 Family Talk: Host Valerie Borgman & Guest Adrienne Glusman share their grief experiencesSometimes...really great things can happen after the interview is over. You may remember Adrienne Glusman from our Family Talk interview about caregiving at a young age. After the interview, Adrienne and I found ourselves sharing our experience with loss and grief. I thought....this deserves it's own episode. For resources on grief as well as the article that Adrienne talks about...check out our doable download. CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD with FULL SHOW NOTES Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would you like to share your...2021-10-1109 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 9 Family Talk: Donna & Sharon, A father’s memory loss, his dog Theo and his final daysIn this episode, sisters Donna & Sharon recount how tough it was as their father's memory was declining while he still lived on his own. They discuss their many conversations with 911 and the folks at Life Alert and how happy they were with the home they moved their father into. They also share their father's final days and moments. Click below for this episode's Doable Download and a special list of bonus tips!   CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD and Full Show Notes   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! ...2021-08-1622 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 7 Family Talk: Greg, Accessibility in the little things can make a big differenceJoin us as Greg recounts all the little things he and his family wished they would've recognized earlier to help their dad have an easier, safer and more normal day to day experience. We discuss safety issues in senior living apartments as well as many of the little things that can go wrong when all you want to do is enjoy a dinner out. Don't forget to check out our doable download for a great bonus tip or two!   CLICK HERE for our DOABLE DOWNLOAD and Full Show Notes   Follow us on...2021-08-0229 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 5 Family Talk: Lee, Memory Loss, Creative Care and Pre-PlanningListen in as we talk with Lee who helped his mom move from her Assisted Living Community when her memory loss worsened. We talk about the creative measures he took and how her financial pre-planning helped!   DOABLE DOWNLOAD with a BONUS TIP from LEE   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   Would you like to be a guest on the show and share your story? We're looking for families who have been through the process of finding senior care and housing. Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com...2021-07-1923 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 3 Family Talk: Troy-Skott, Many Memory Care MovesIn this episode Troy-Skott shares what it was like finding a memory care community for his step-father and how his family handled it when they had to move over and over before finding the right fit for Jack.   This episode's DOABLE DOWNLOAD   Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips!   More from Valerie: Clear Path Senior Living Solutions Would you like to share your story and be a guest on our show?  Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com www.desp...2021-07-0524 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingEp 1 Family Talk: Floy, Executor, POA & TrusteeListen in as Floy describes what it was like being Executor for her brother Dale and sister-in-law June's estate and then years later, POA and Trustee for June after her brother passed away.  Click here for this episode's DOABLE DOWNLOAD worksheet Follow us on INSTAGRAM for more doable tips! Would you like to be a guest on the show and share your story? We're looking for families who have been through the process of finding senior care and housing. Email us at familytalk@desperatelyseekingseniorliving.com  More from Valerie: Clear Pa...2021-06-2824 minDesperately Seeking Senior LivingDesperately Seeking Senior LivingExtended Trailer - Meet Your HostMeet your host Valerie Borgman and learn more about the show!   More from Valerie: Clear Path Senior Living Solutions 2021-06-2601 min