Aging Together // Unfiltered
TL;DR: A podcast for adult children of aging parents and family caregivers who want honest, no-fluff conversations about aging, care, and caregiving. We talk about what’s working, what’s broken, and what needs to change—without sugarcoating or euphemisms.Aging Together // Unfiltered explores the real challenges and hard decisions families face as they support aging loved ones. Hosted by Dr. Pooja A. Patel—a double-board certified occupational therapist and gerontologist, and longtime caregiver advocate—this show moves beyond “proper” conversations and into the realities families are navigating every day.After four seasons of carefully curated, polished discussions, this podcast is now...
Care, Cost, & Location: Care Planning in Crisis Mode
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Dr. Pooja Ashok Patel speaks with Amanda Bailey, a senior living expert and dementia care advocate with more than 20 years of experience, about helping families make informed care decisions before a crisis. They explore care options, placement-agent compensation and bias, practical touring questions, hospice, and why physicians need better resources to guide families.
Key Topics
Amanda Bailey describes her mother's rapid Alzheimer's progression and how crisis-driven decisions shaped her career in senior care.Bailey's workbooks explain senior living and at-home services, including independent living, assisted living, memory care...Love Alone Is Not A Financial Plan: A Money Talk for Women of the Sandwiched Generation
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Women are expected to work, raise kids, and care for aging parents, often all in the same decade, with no plan for how to pay for any of it. When caregiving gets heavy, women are the ones who step back from work. The lost income, raises, and retirement savings compound over time.
In this episode, Dr. Pooja Ashok Patel talks with Abbe F. Large, managing director at Lenox Advisors. Abbe has more than 30 years of experience in financial planning. She also cared for her father through pancreatic cancer, and that experience...
She Called 47 Times Today: Rethinking How We Respond to Repetitive Behaviors in Dementia
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Dementia creates a unique challenge for caregivers, often leading to a cycle of anxiety and repetitive behaviors like constant phone calls. In this eye-opening episode, Pooja A. Patel and Kirstin Thomas, co-founder of Kindred Mind, delve into the emotional landscape of caregiving for loved ones with dementia. They challenge conventional wisdom that suggests simply redirecting or ignoring these behaviors, highlighting instead the profound need for connection and reassurance that lies behind each repeated call.
Kirstin shares her personal journey as the sole caregiver for her mother, who lives with dementia. She r...
How Old Are You Today? One Daughter's Game for Connecting With Her Mother Through Dementia
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Donate to the How Old Are You Today Fund: https://djcf.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=8722
What if every correction you make to a loved one with dementia is actually creating a deeper disconnection? In this transformative episode, Pooja A. Patel sits down with Glenna Hecht, a seasoned caregiver and founder of Humanistic Consulting, to explore the profound impact of communication on dementia care. Whether you’re a family member or a professional, this conversation is essential for anyone grappling with the challenges of dementia caregiving.
Glenna...
Invisible Infrastructure: How Our Healthcare System Fails Families and What to Do About It
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Families are the unsung heroes of elder care, yet they’re left to navigate a complex system without support. In this eye-opening episode, Pooja A. Patel welcomes Holly Larson, founder of Your Chief Care Officer, who shares her profound insights on how families have become the backbone of the care infrastructure. Discover the hidden challenges that caregivers face and the solutions that can empower them to manage elder care effectively.
Holly’s journey began when her father’s medical crisis thrust her into the chaotic world of caregiving. She reveals the staggeri...
We Need to Play Until We Die: Sensory Engagement at Every Stage of Dementia
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Unlocking meaningful connections in dementia care is the key to enhancing lives. Join Pooja A. Patel and Angela Fairhurst as they dive into the transformative power of sensory engagement for individuals with dementia, challenging the status quo of infantilizing activities that fail to resonate with adult experiences. If you’re a caregiver, clinician, or simply someone passionate about improving the quality of life for loved ones living with dementia, this episode is a must-listen.
Angela Fairhurst, founder and CEO of Geri-Gadgets, shares her personal journey inspired by her mother’s battle with L...
Talking About Death Won't Kill You: What is a Death Doula, & Other End-of-Life Care Needs
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Every family faces the inevitable, yet few are prepared to navigate the emotional and logistical complexities of death. In this eye-opening episode, host Pooja A. Patel dives deep into the world of death doulas with seasoned experts Kim Ladd and Lindsay Lenhart—both former neonatal intensive care nurses turned death doulas. They reveal how this emerging profession transforms end-of-life experiences into meaningful journeys, advocating for conversations about death long before a crisis strikes.
Lindsay and Kim share their profound personal stories that led them to this calling, emphasizing the critical need for...
Hearing Loss & Dementia: A Silent Link & A Whole Lot of Money
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When was the last time you got your hearing checked? If you think hearing loss is just a minor inconvenience, think again. Dr. Pooja A. Patel and Dr. Robert Keefer dive deep into the startling connection between untreated hearing loss and its significant role in accelerating Alzheimer's disease and cognitive decline. This episode is a must-listen for anyone concerned about aging, brain health, and the hidden costs of neglecting hearing health.
Dr. Keefer, an Alzheimer's prevention advocate and former audiology clinic founder, reveals how untreated hearing loss can elevate the risk of...
Nobody's Selling Peace of Mind: Why Care Tech Skips Family Caregivers
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In a world where health tech is evolving rapidly, the most overlooked players in the caregiving landscape are the caregivers themselves. Join Pooja A. Patel and seasoned elder care expert Meghan Phelan as they unveil the crucial gaps in care technology that leave family caregivers vulnerable and overwhelmed. If you’re a caregiver feeling the weight of responsibility, this episode is your lifeline.
Pooja and Meghan dive deep into the struggles caregivers face in today’s tech-driven environment. They highlight a startling truth: while innovation in health tech has surged, the tools d...
I'm Just Helping: What the Caregiver Identity Crisis Costs Families
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Content Type: Interview
Primary goal: Educational
Summary:
In this episode, we explore the complex world of caregiving, focusing on self-identification, societal perceptions, and systemic support. Our guest, Kunal Parikh, shares insights from his extensive work in digital health and aging, emphasizing the importance of recognizing caregiving roles early and advocating for societal change.
Key Topics:
Caregiver self-identification and societal perceptionsImpact of cultural and gender expectations on caregiving rolesSystemic barriers to caregiver support and resourcesThe importance of language and t...Lost in Translation: Why the U.S. Caregiving System Fails South Asian Families
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Content Type: Interview
Primary Goal: Discussion
Summary:
This episode explores the elder care navigation gap faced by immigrant families in the US, highlighting cultural, systemic, and language barriers. Salina Shah shares insights on building culturally grounded support networks to improve elder care outcomes.
Key Topics:
The System Keeps You Alive, Not Well: Caregiving & Health Span in a Longevity Era
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Content type: Interview
Primary Goal: Educational
Summary:
This episode explores the critical issues of caregiving, health span versus lifespan, and the importance of proactive planning for aging well. Nancy Griffin, an expert in longevity and aging, shares insights on how caregivers can prioritize their health, navigate systemic challenges, and foster intergenerational support.
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The Question of When: Why Most Families Wait Too Long to Plan for Placement
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Summary
In this episode, Pooja & Cory discuss the complexities of long-term care planning, exploring options, timing, and decision-making processes for families facing elder care decisions.
Key Topics
About Cory
Cory Fosco is the author of "The Question of When: A Practical Guide to Knowing...
The ER Wasn't Built for Seniors: What is Hospital-Level Care at Home?
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summary
This episode explores the future of hospital-level care at home, addressing why it hasn't become mainstream yet, and how it can reduce costs, improve patient outcomes, and ease caregiver burdens. Lon Hecht, CEO of Care2U, shares insights on innovative in-home acute care models, insurance coverage, and the impact on healthcare systems.
key topics
Barriers to hospital at home adoptionCare2U's model of in-home acute careInsurance coverage for hospital at homeImpact on caregivers and familiesCost savings and healthcare system benefits
...
Long-Term Care Will Wipe Out Your Wealth: Can Home Equity Be Your Plan?
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Summary:
This episode explores the critical topic of long-term care funding, focusing on innovative solutions like reverse mortgages and insurance options. Kevin Guttman, a reverse mortgage expert, shares insights on how seniors can leverage home equity and insurance to secure their future care needs.
Key Topics:
Long-term care funding optionsReverse mortgages explainedInsurance strategies for seniorsUsing home equity for care costsMyths and misconceptions about reverse mortgagesAbout Kevin Guttman, CRMP:
Kevin Guttman is a senior mortgage broker, a r...
Dementia & Financial Exploitation: Who's Responsible?
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Summary:
This episode explores the silent crisis of elder financial exploitation, especially in the context of dementia. Charles Wallace shares his harrowing three-year legal battle to uncover how nearly $1 million was stolen from his mother, highlighting systemic failures and the urgent need for better safeguards.
Key Topics:
Elder financial exploitation and dementiaSystemic failures and responsibility gapsLegal and medical challenges in elder abuse casesAbout Charles E. Wallace, Jr.:
Charles E. Wallace Jr. has a technology background in the finance, ba...
Why Isn’t This Covered? The Truth About Home Medical Equipment and Insurance
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summary
This episode explores the critical role of home medical equipment in aging in place, insurance coverage challenges, and practical strategies for families to access necessary adaptive devices. Erica Sell, founder of Harmony Home Medical, shares insights on how policy and awareness can improve safety and reduce healthcare costs.
key topics
About Erica Sell, ATP, CAPS:
Erica Sell is the Founder and CEO of...
Can I Sue for This? Accountability In Nursing Homes
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Summary
In this conversation, Pooja A. Patel and Riz Ali discuss the complexities of personal injury law, particularly in the context of nursing homes. They explore the nuances of medical negligence, the importance of family advocacy, and the challenges of accountability within nursing homes. The discussion highlights the critical role of documentation and the legal expectations families should have when pursuing justice for their loved ones. The conversation emphasizes the need for families to be proactive in their loved ones' care and to understand their rights within the long-term...
ADA Doesn't Help Everybody: How to Design Inclusive Spaces
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Summary
In this conversation, Pooja A. Patel and Francisco Lasta explore the complexities of accessibility, universal design, and inclusive design. They discuss the evolution of these concepts, the challenges faced in implementing inclusive design, and the critical role of occupational therapy in shaping built environments. The conversation highlights the need for flexibility in design to accommodate diverse needs and emphasizes the importance of user experience in public spaces. They also touch on innovative approaches to design that prioritize both functionality and aesthetics, advocating for a future where inclusive design...
Widowed at 33: The Caregiving, The Grief, & Everything in Between
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Summary
This conversation delves into the profound journey of caregiving, grief, and loss experienced by a young widow. The speaker shares her personal story of navigating the challenges of caregiving for her husband, diagnosed with a brain tumor, the emotional toll it took, and the societal perceptions of young widows. The discussion highlights the importance of support, understanding, and patience from the community during such difficult times, as well as the ongoing struggle of managing grief after loss.
Takeaways
Home Modifications Are NOT A Weekend Project: The Reality of Aging in Place
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Summary:
In this conversation, Pooja A. Patel and Dawn Heiderscheidt discuss the complexities of aging in place and the importance of proactive planning for home modifications. They explore the misconceptions surrounding home modifications, the need for financial planning, and the generational differences in attitudes towards aging. The discussion emphasizes the importance of collaboration between healthcare professionals and contractors, as well as the need for aesthetic considerations in home modifications to maintain dignity and comfort for aging individuals.
Takeaways:
Aging in place requires thoughtful planning a...We're Guilt-Tripping Families Into Dementia Care: A Systems Issue
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Summary
In this conversation, Pooja A. Patel and Rachel Wiley discuss the systemic challenges in dementia care, emphasizing the unrealistic expectations placed on families and the inadequacies of memory care facilities. They explore the importance of communication between caregivers and families, the need for early diagnosis, and the role of occupational therapy in supporting individuals with dementia. The discussion also highlights positive changes in dementia care and the growing community awareness surrounding the issue.
Takeaways
Too Poor to Afford Care, Too Rich for Medicaid: The Forgotten Middle of Aging
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Summary
In this conversation, Pooja A. Patel and Dr. Brandy Archie discuss the challenges faced by the 'forgotten middle' in elder care, particularly regarding Medicare's limitations and the lack of resources available for those who do not qualify for Medicaid. They explore the importance of health literacy, the role of technology in providing solutions, and the necessity of involving occupational therapists in planning for aging in place. The discussion emphasizes the need for better access to information and resources, as well as the importance of planning ahead to ensure...
When Care Is an Hour Away: The Reality of Aging in Rural America
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In this episode, Dr. Pooja A. Patel and Dr. Sydney Marshman delve into the critical issue of healthcare access in rural communities, emphasizing how geographical location significantly impacts the quality of care individuals receive as they age. They discuss the disparities in access to primary care, specialty services, and the challenges faced by families in rural areas when seeking medical attention. Dr. Marshman shares her experiences as an occupational therapist working with older adults in Iowa, highlighting the importance of home assessments and therapy services that cater to the unique needs of rural...
Season 5 Trailer
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We don’t need more polished narratives right now.
We need honesty, especially in healthcare.
Caregiving, aging, access to care, dementia, systems that fail quietly—these realities are already heavy. Sugarcoating them doesn’t protect anyone. It just delays the conversations families are forced to have anyway.
Season 5 of Aging Together is unfiltered by design.
More direct. Less comfortable. Willing to name what’s actually happening, especially in the context of current events that continue to expose how fragile our care systems really are.
This sea...
S4E20: Women's Health - Hormones, Fitness, & Recovery | Karlin Soelberg
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Summary
In this conversation, Karlin D. Soelberg shares her personal journey of navigating health challenges after turning 40, particularly focusing on her experience with hormonal changes and the difficulties in finding appropriate medical care. She emphasizes the importance of patient advocacy and education in addressing women's health issues, especially when faced with dismissive attitudes from healthcare providers.
Takeaways
About the Guest
S4E19: Navigating Grief - from SIL to Mother to Husband | Leslie Frank
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Summary
In this conversation, Leslie Frank shares her extensive experience as a caregiver for her husband, mother, and sister-in-law, highlighting the emotional and logistical challenges of navigating long-term care. She discusses the importance of finding the right care setting, the complexities of grief, and the necessity of self-care for caregivers. Leslie emphasizes the value of support systems, patient advocacy, and the need for ongoing communication with care providers. Her insights provide a roadmap for others facing similar situations, encouraging them to focus on what truly matters for their loved...
S4E18: Tech Tools to Support Elders | Alfred Poor, Health Tech Futurist
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Summary
In this episode of the Aging Together podcast, Dr. Pooja A. Patel interviews Alfred Poor, a health tech futurist, about the intersection of health technology and aging. They discuss the evolution of health tech, the importance of wearable devices, and the challenges faced by caregivers. Alfred shares his personal experiences with technology in caring for his elderly mother and emphasizes the need for tailored solutions that respect the dignity and independence of aging adults. The conversation also highlights the role of employers in supporting caregivers and the necessity...
S4E17: Cultural Perspective: Filial Piety & Remote Work | Vijay Sairam
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Summary
In this conversation, Vijay Sairam shares his transformative journey as a caregiver for his aging parents and how it shaped his mission to democratize access to remote jobs through his startup, Remote Job Central. He discusses the importance of flexibility in work for caregivers, cultural perspectives on caregiving, and the need for a supportive work environment that prioritizes family. Vijay emphasizes that caregiving is an expression of love and duty, and he advocates for remote work as a lifeline for those balancing personal and professional responsibilities. He encourages caregivers to...
S4E16: The 8 Dimensions of Wealth(ness) | Jaelyn (Jae) Vickery, LSW, CFT
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Summary
In this episode of the Aging Together podcast, Dr. Pooja A. Patel interviews Jaylen Vickery, a certified financial therapist, about the intersection of financial wellness and emotional health. They discuss the seven dimensions of wellness, the importance of building a relationship with one's future self, and the challenges faced by caregivers. Jaylen shares her Five Reps to Wealth approach, emphasizing the need for compassionate accountability and the significance of preventative care in achieving a balanced life. The conversation highlights the emotional burdens caregivers carry and offers insights into...
S4E15: Grief & Strength: Raising Children while Losing a Spouse | Allyson Schrier, MFA
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Summary
In this conversation, Allison Schrier shares her profound journey as a caregiver for her husband, diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia, while raising two children. She discusses the emotional turmoil of navigating grief, the challenges of parenting through loss, and the importance of maintaining family dynamics. Allison reflects on her transformation from caregiver to dementia educator, emphasizing the need for resources and support for families dealing with similar situations. The conversation highlights resilience, the complexities of caregiving, and the creation of Zinnia TV, a resource aimed at helping caregivers and...
S4E14: Supportive Living Communities: Finding the Just-Right Fit for You | Dawn Marie Johnson
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Summary:
In this episode of the Aging Together podcast, Dr. Pooja A. Patel interviews Dawn Marie Johnson, a seasoned professional in the senior living industry. They discuss the evolution of supportive living options, the importance of family involvement, and the challenges faced by caregivers. Dawn shares her personal journey into the industry, emphasizing the significance of holistic well-being and the role of technology in enhancing the quality of life for seniors. The conversation also touches on the future of senior living communities, the need for affordability, and the importance o...
S4E13: Sandwich Generation Caregiving: A Story of Radical Acceptance | Amy Martin Quinn, MBA, BCPA
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Summary
In this conversation, Amy Martin Quinn shares her experiences as a communications executive turned patient advocate, navigating the complexities of the sandwich generation. She discusses her personal health challenges, the impact of caregiving for her parents while raising her daughters, and the importance of community support. Amy emphasizes the concept of radical acceptance, the necessity of setting boundaries, and the cultural dynamics that influence caregiving roles. Through her journey, she highlights the significance of allowing others to help and the emotional toll of caregiving, especially during times of...
S4E12: From Provider to Caregiver: Navigating Trauma & Compartmentalization | Lorna J. Hines, LCSW, ACSW
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Summary
In this episode of the Aging Together podcast, Dr. Pooja A. Patel speaks with Reverend Lorna J. Hines, a licensed clinical social worker and caregiver, about her extensive experience in caregiving and the emotional toll it takes. They discuss the systemic barriers caregivers face, the importance of seeking help, and the impact of trauma on both caregivers and their loved ones. Reverend Hines shares her personal journey, including the challenges of caring for her parents and the lessons learned along the way. The conversation emphasizes the need for...
S4E11: Navigating Family Dynamics: A Story of Elder Exploitation | Debora Pokallus
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Summary
Deborah Pocalas shares her harrowing experience of elder exploitation involving her father, revealing the complexities of family dynamics, betrayal, and the emotional toll of caregiving. She discusses the discovery of theft by a sibling, the impact of medical misdiagnosis, and the challenges of navigating guardianship. Throughout the conversation, Deborah emphasizes the importance of documentation, recognizing red flags, and finding support during difficult times. Her story serves as a cautionary tale for caregivers and families dealing with similar situations.
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Takeaways
S4E10: Integrative Dental Care for Older Adults | Dr. Joy Poskozim, DDS, FSCD, CDP
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Summary
In this episode of the Aging Together podcast, Dr. Joy Poskozim discusses the critical importance of oral health for older adults, particularly those in nursing homes and receiving home care. She highlights the connection between oral health and overall health, emphasizing how poor dental care can lead to serious health issues. Dr. Poskozim shares her experiences advocating for better oral care practices and the challenges faced by caregivers in ensuring proper dental hygiene. She also provides practical tips for caregivers and discusses the need for systemic changes in...
S4E09: Caregiver Mastery: Finding Peace in the Chaos of Emotions | Rick Henkin
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Summary
Rick Henkin shares his personal journey as a caregiver for his wife Sonia, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's. He discusses the challenges of obtaining a diagnosis, the emotional toll on caregivers, and the importance of acceptance and mindfulness. Rick created the Caregiver Mastery System to help others navigate the complexities of caregiving while maintaining their own mental health. He emphasizes the need for caregivers to prioritize their well-being and offers practical advice for managing stress and guilt.
Takeaways
S4E08: Skin Health through the Ages | Dr. Mary Alice Mina
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Summary
In this episode of the Aging Together podcast, Dr. Pooja A. Patel and Dr. Mary Alice Mina discuss the importance of skin health as we age. They explore the concept of pro-aging versus anti-aging, emphasizing the need for prevention and protection for younger skin, as well as the management of chronic skin conditions in older adults. Dr. Mina shares her journey into dermatology, the significance of a holistic approach to skin health, and the role of dermatologists in guiding patients. The conversation also touches on the misconceptions surrounding...
S4E07: "Boomers Booming": 10 Commandments for Seniors | H. Frances Reaves, Esq.
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Summary
In this episode of the Aging Together podcast, host Dr. Patel speaks with elder law attorney H. Frances Reeves about her journey as a caregiver for her parents, the challenges of navigating the medical industrial complex, and her new book, 'Boomers Booming: How to Thrive After 65 and Have Good Sex.' Frances shares her insights on aging, the importance of proactive planning, and her ten commandments for thriving in later life. The conversation emphasizes the need to challenge stereotypes about aging and the significance of mindset in preparing...
S4E06: Caregiving Beyond Life: One Woman's Journey of Caring for Her Late Husband's Mother | Alison Pena
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Summary
In this episode of the Aging Together podcast, Dr. Pooja A. Patel interviews Allison Penna, a grief resilience coach, who shares her personal journey of caregiving and navigating grief after the loss of her husband. Allison discusses the challenges of caregiving, the importance of setting boundaries, and the need for self-care. She emphasizes the significance of building new networks and reconnecting with oneself after loss. The conversation highlights the often misunderstood nature of grief and the essential role of love and support in the caregiving process.
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