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Kristy Russell takes us on a deeply personal and professional journey through the world of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD). As Utah's sole specialist covering the entire state, Kristy shares how her grandmother's Lewy body dementia diagnosis transformed her perspective on memory care after initially swearing off working with dementia patients due to challenging experiences.

The conversation tackles misconceptions head-on. Memory loss is just one symptom — thinking, behavior, and problem-solving abilities are equally affected. Kristy reveals a startling reality: only half of people with Alzheimer's are diagnosed, and of those, merely 30% share their diagnosis with loved ones, often fearing loss of independence.

Communication emerges as the cornerstone challenge for caregivers. Through vivid examples, Kristy explains why arguing with someone with dementia about recent events is futile. Her "filing cabinet" metaphor brilliantly illustrates how memory works — newest files disappear first — helping caregivers understand why their loved ones can't simply "try harder" to remember.

For overwhelmed caregivers, Kristy offers practical wisdom about delegation and self-care. "The energy you put out is the energy you're going to get back from the person with dementia," she notes, emphasizing that seeking help isn't failure but excellence in caregiving. She explains respite options and encourages caregivers to maintain their own health appointments and activities.

Looking forward, Kristy shares hope about new medications like aducanumab that can remove brain plaques in early stages, signaling a positive trajectory in treatment development. Her powerful closing message resonates deeply: "You're doing a good job and you're not alone."

Whether you're caring for someone with dementia, working in healthcare, or simply seeking to understand these conditions better, this episode provides invaluable insights, practical strategies, and heartfelt encouragement for the journey ahead.

• Kristy's journey from swearing off dementia care to becoming Utah's statewide ADRD specialist
• Only about half of people with Alzheimer's disease are diagnosed, and of those, only 30% share their diagnosis with family and friends
• Early diagnosis allows for better planning and less crisis management as the disease progresses
• Communication challenges require meeting people with dementia in their reality rather than constantly correcting them
• The "filing cabinet" memory metaphor explains why recent memories disappear first
• Self-care for caregivers includes delegating tasks and utilizing respite services
• New medications like aducanumab can help in early stages by removing brain plaques
• The Utah government's WISE initiative focuses on helping seniors age in place independently

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What happens when a doctor of physical therapy who swore he'd never work with older adults discovers his true calling in senior care? Matt Hansen, Executive Director of the Home Care and Hospice Association of Utah, takes us on his remarkable journey from pediatric specialist to passionate advocate for quality home-based care.

Matt reveals how his perspective dramatically shifted when he recognized the profound similarities between life's bookends—young children and seniors often share the clearest understanding of what truly matters in life. Through candid storytelling, he challenges some of our most deeply held assumptions about caring for aging loved ones, particularly the belief that families should handle everything themselves.

The conversation tackles head-on the uncomfortable reality that well-intentioned family caregiving often fundamentally changes relationships. When adult children become caregivers, they frequently stop being daughters or sons in the same way. Professional support can preserve these precious family dynamics while ensuring comprehensive care.

Perhaps most provocatively, Matt questions the inheritance mindset that prevents seniors from utilizing their life savings for quality care. "The money my parents saved is there to take care of them," he emphasizes. "The greatest inheritance they've given me isn't financial—it's values, work ethic, and love."

Looking toward the future, Matt shares his optimism about emerging technologies that promise to transform home care. From non-wearable sensors that monitor vital signs through mattresses to AI systems that streamline documentation, these innovations may help address the serious staffing and reimbursement challenges facing the industry.

For anyone considering home care for a loved one—or as a career path—this episode offers invaluable perspective. As Matt beautifully states, entering someone's home to provide care isn't just a job; it's stepping onto "sacred ground" where you might be their only advocate for maintaining independence and dignity.

• Moving from pediatrics to geriatrics after initially being reluctant to work with older adults
• The misconception that families can handle senior care alone without professional support
• How family relationships change when relatives become caregivers instead of maintaining their primary roles
• Challenging the mindset that saved money should be preserved as inheritance rather than used for quality care
• The funding challenges facing home care with Medicare Advantage plans paying significantly less than traditional Medicare
• Technology innovations making aging in place safer, including non-invasive monitoring systems and AI-assisted documentation
• Utah's surprising statistic of over 450,000 family caregivers, many who don't identify as caregivers
• The sacred responsibility of working in someone's home and serving as their advocate

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Could changing your diet in your 70s actually improve your health, or is it too late? According to nutrition expert Amy Covington, the power to transform health through diet remains strong throughout our entire lives.

Amy shares the remarkable story of a senior who initially refused to change his eating habits but experienced dramatic improvements in his diabetes management and mobility after just six months of nutritional changes. This transformation challenges the widespread belief that older adults can't reverse chronic conditions or improve their metabolic health.

Drawing from her experience overseeing Utah's nutrition programs and researching senior malnutrition, Amy distinguishes between simply "plant-based" eating and truly nutritious whole foods. She offers practical approaches for seniors hesitant to completely eliminate animal products, suggesting an 80-20 rule that allows flexibility while maximizing health benefits.

Perhaps most valuable are her strategies for addressing decreased appetite, a critical issue for many seniors. From making mealtimes social events to enhancing food's visual appeal and stimulating appetite through light activity, these techniques help break the cycle of poor nutrition that often accelerates health decline. Amy also recommends specific screening tools caregivers can use to identify nutrition risks before they become serious medical concerns.

Whether you're caring for an aging parent, working professionally with seniors, or planning for your own healthy aging journey, these evidence-based nutrition strategies offer a path to enhanced quality of life. Discover how simple changes like incorporating more colorful vegetables, switching to whole grains, and being mindful about protein sources can significantly impact wellness in our later years.

• Nutrition changes can significantly improve health at any age – even in your 70s or 80s
• Plant-based nutrition offers specific benefits for chronic conditions common in seniors
• Small changes like following the 80/20 rule can make meaningful health improvements
• Decreased appetite is a major concern for seniors, often creating a cycle of poor nutrition
• Eating with seniors, making meals visually appealing, and encouraging light exercise can improve appetite
• Eating less red meat (ideally twice monthly) and focusing on whole grains offers significant health benefits
• Medicare and Medicaid increasingly recognize nutrition services for chronic conditions
• Simple screening tools like the Malnutrition Screening Tool can help identify nutrition risks
• Frozen fruits and vegetables are cost-effective alternatives that maintain nutritional value
• Changing the plate composition to include more colorful vegetables and fruits is an easy first step

Contact your local Area Agency on Aging through das.utah.gov/locations to learn about meal programs and nutrition services available in your county.

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Experience the enlightening journey of Connie Assiff, a passionate caregiver and Tai Chi instructor, who shares her inspiring story about navigating the challenges of caregiving while advocating for holistic health for seniors. From her unexpected start as a caregiver at 25, Connie has dedicated her life to empowering families with the tools and resources needed to ensure aging with dignity.

In this episode, we delve into the multifaceted lessons she learned over her nearly three-decade-long journey. Connie discusses the current understanding of aging, the importance of health literacy, and the transformative power of Tai Chi for older adults. She emphasizes that exercise is not just about physical well-being but also about emotional resilience, and how incorporating movement into daily life can foster independence and joy in older age.

Listeners will also gain practical insights on how caregivers can seek support systems to alleviate feelings of isolation and overwhelm. Connie's advocacy work fuels a passionate dialog about the necessity of self-care and how it enables caregivers to continue their vital work without sacrificing their own health.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in caregiving, whether professionally or personally. Discover the refreshing perspective that “self-care is not selfish” as she provides valuable advice and strategies for integrating movement into daily routines. Whether you're a caregiver, a family member, or simply someone interested in aging well, Connie's insights hold wisdom for all. Tune in and be inspired to take action for healthier aging! Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review!

• Overview of Connie's caregiving experiences
• The positive effects of Integrating Tai Chi
• Key lessons learned through caregiving
• Importance of self-care for caregivers
• Tips for younger caregivers feeling overwhelmed
• The role of movement in enhancing quality of life

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What if the future of senior care lies in the seamless integration of technology and human compassion? Get ready to explore this fascinating intersection in our latest episode of the Senior Care Academy podcast. Aaron and I delve into the trends shaping senior care in 2024, as the industry recalibrates after the COVID-19 disruptions. We uncover the significant demand for senior care services despite the stagnant growth in caregiver numbers. Join us as we highlight insights from the Utah Symposium on Aging Care, which inspire fresh approaches to meet these challenges and underscore the government’s role in supporting aging in place through initiatives like the Older Americans Act.

The promise of technology holds immense potential for aging populations, and we are thrilled to share how it’s being embraced worldwide. From the heartwarming innovation of Paro, the therapeutic robotic seal, to the capable assistance of RoBear, the nurse robot, we spotlight the ingenious solutions transforming senior care. Japan’s pioneering efforts in addressing demographic challenges offer a model for others, especially the U.S., where home care expenditure is notable. Embracing technology isn't just an option; it's a necessity for enhancing the quality of life for seniors and their caregivers.

Beyond tech, we discuss the enriching concept of community integration, moving away from isolating seniors in facilities towards a vibrant intergenerational living model. This approach not only fosters a sense of purpose but also combats loneliness through diverse activities. We explore practical steps like adopting smart home technologies to support senior independence without the intimidation of full-time care. As we embark on this exciting series of industry insights and updates, we invite you to share your thoughts and suggestions for future topics. Let’s navigate the evolving landscape of senior care together.

On this episode, we touched on...

• The importance of returning to normalcy in senior care post-COVID
• The overwhelming preference for independent living among seniors
• The role of AI and technology in enhancing elder care
• Challenges to technology adoption in the senior demographic
• Global trends in aging populations and their implications
• Strategies to combat senior loneliness through community engagement
• Discussion on future housing solutions for seniors and support systems

Timestamp to help you navigate the podcast:

1:33 – Return to normalcy

2:50 – COVID had a good impact on the senior care industry

6:30 – AI trend for senior care

12:19 – Integrating AI to the industry

14:30 – Internet can help disconnected people to be connected

22:10 – Upskilling the workforce using AI

24:10 – NORC (natural occurring retirement community)

27:13 - Combating senior’s loneliness

27:50 – Find senior’s niche community

28:27 – You dont have to be the innovator, you have to be the integrator

Watch our episode with Ezra Torres here

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Pam Hill and Brian Tucher from Beacon Therapy reveal the transformative power of therapy for seniors, joined by their delightful therapy dog, Hal. Experience firsthand how they create a nurturing space that allows older adults to express their emotions freely, overcoming the stigma of mental health often faced by the elderly. By sharing their compassionate approach, Pam and Brian emphasize the critical role of building trust and friendship to help seniors find renewed purpose and joy even amidst the challenges of aging.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into the nuances of supporting older adults' mental health, from the societal perceptions that often undervalue them to the family dynamics essential in offering empathy and understanding. The episode underscores the importance of engaging with seniors in their reality, particularly in navigating conditions like dementia and Alzheimer's. The therapeutic journey of transitioning from despair to ego integrity is explored, highlighting how community and reminiscence can play pivotal roles in this profound transformation.

Discover the heartwarming impact of therapy dogs in the healing process, as Hal's presence brings joy and sparks positive memories for clients. Pam and Brian share personal stories that honor the individuality of their clients, shedding light on their unique lives and contributions. Additionally, we explore the services offered by Beacon Therapy in Taylorsville, Utah, noting its accessibility and the importance of spreading awareness about these vital resources. This episode is a testament to the power of compassionate therapy and the boundless benefits it offers to seniors and their families.

This episode includes the following:

• Discusses the journey into focusing on geriatric therapy
• Explains how therapy dogs enhance emotional expression
• Examines common barriers seniors face regarding mental health
• Describes strategies for family involvement and community building
• Explores grief and loss within the aging population
• Discusses the unique perspectives of aging gracefully
• Highlights the importance of respecting the individuality of seniors
• Offers insights into the future of geriatric mental health treatment

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What happens when a personal experience turns into a lifelong calling? Janelle Bird shares her journey from caring for her brother with Down syndrome to becoming a dedicated in-home caregiver for seniors. She highlights the deep connections she forms with clients, where trust, empathy, and small yet meaningful gestures make a lasting impact.

In this episode, we explore the universal experiences of seniors and individuals with disabilities, the power of presence in caregiving, and how small acts of kindness can transform lives. Janelle also offers insights on preventing burnout and sustaining passion in the caregiving profession. Join us for an inspiring conversation on the true power of genuine care.

Key Takeaways:

• Caregiving is a two-way street – Supporting others also brings personal fulfillment.
• Small gestures matter – Simple actions, like handing a client an item instead of making them search for it, can make a huge difference.
• Building trust takes genuine interest – Engaging in conversations about a client’s life helps form deep connections.
• Self-care is crucial – Taking time to recharge ensures caregivers can continue to give their best.
• Dignity is key – Finding ways to help clients while preserving their independence makes caregiving more effective and meaningful.

Timestamps to Navigate the Episode:
0:00 – Introduction and Janelle’s background in caregiving

1:32 – Why connection is at the heart of caregiving

2:53 – The most rewarding aspects of working with seniors

5:23 – Small actions that create big impacts for clients

9:56 – Adapting to different clients and their unique needs

11:54 – Building trust with clients and their families

15:51 – How caregivers can prioritize their own mental well-being

17:45 – Lessons Janelle has learned from her clients

19:57 – What people should know about caregiving as a profession

21:34 – Advice for new caregivers entering the field

23:34 – Final thoughts: The power of a simple smile

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How do shared experiences shape a generation? What role do grandparents play in the lives of their families? And how can Baby Boomers leave a lasting legacy for future generations?

In this episode, Caleb Richardson sits down with Marc Joseph, (aka “Gramps”) the visionary founder of BabyBoomer.org. Together, they delve into the mission of the platform and the unique journey of the Baby Boomer generation, highlighting how their shared history has shaped their outlook on life, family, and community.

The conversation touches on the evolving role of technology in communication, the enduring importance of grandparenting, and the timeless values of love and family in raising children. Marc passionately advocates for Baby Boomers to remain active, share their hard-earned wisdom, and inspire younger generations.

Whether you're a Baby Boomer yourself, or part of a younger generation eager to learn from their insights, this episode is packed with meaningful lessons and powerful takeaways. Tune in to hear Marc’s advice on staying engaged, leaving a meaningful legacy, and what’s next for BabyBoomer.org as it continues to connect and empower a generation.

Takeaways

• Baby Boomers share a unique set of experiences that connect them.
• The mission of BabyBoomer.org is to provide resources for Baby Boomers.
• 30% of Baby Boomers are not involved in their grandchildren's lives.
• Teaching children how to think is crucial for their development.
• Reading to grandchildren fosters bonding and listening skills.
• Technology has changed the way Baby Boomers communicate.
• Baby Boomers own a significant number of businesses in the U.S.
• The importance of family and love is paramount in parenting.
• Leaving a legacy is about sharing wisdom with younger generations.
• Engagement with the community is essential for Baby Boomers.

Timestamp to navigate through the episode:
02:58 The Mission of BabyBoomer.org
05:58 Shared Experiences of Baby Boomers
09:02 The Role of Grandparents in Modern Families
11:51 Teaching the Next Generation
14:56 The Impact of Technology on Baby Boomers
18:04 Legacy and Wisdom of the Baby Boomer Generation
21:12 Reflections on Growing Up as a Baby Boomer
23:59 The Importance of Family and Love
26:58 Challenges and Opportunities for Baby Boomers
29:59 Advice for Aging Well
31:47 Future Initiatives of BabyBoomer.org

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