In this episode, we delve into the multifaceted world of caregiving with Danielle, a Certified Financial Planner specializing in assisting family caregivers, and Cora, a caregiver for her mother who is juggling with new aches and pains as she ages. They share their personal journeys of balancing self-care while providing unwavering support to their loved ones. From the challenges of being “invisible caregivers” to addressing the complexities of mobility and accessibility issues, they provide valuable insights into the delicate art of caregiving across generations.

Join Dr. Laurie Ferguson and expert caregiver Mike Eidsaune as they explore these compelling stories, offering a blend of empathy, practical advice, and a deeper understanding of the family caregiver journey.

Among the highlights in this episode:

01:46: Danielle shares her background as a Certified Financial Planner and her transition to specializing in financial education for family caregivers

02:56: Danielle discusses her personal journey as a “sandwich generation” caregiver, supporting her elderly grandmother and her mother

03:54: Cora describes her experience caring for her 70-year-old mother

05:01: Danielle and Cora reflect on the balance of caring for loved ones and self-care, with Danielle addressing her recent realization of the toll caregiving has taken on her

07:42: Mike Eidsaune, CEO of Caregiving.com, offers insights on the importance of self-care for family caregivers and suggests reframing it as a crucial part of the caregiving role

10:52: Cora discusses her activities outside of caregiving, like going to the gym, and its positive impact on her mental health and ability to care for her mother

11:38: Danielle explains her role in planning for her mother's retirement and her grandmother's comfort and care needs

12:30: Mike emphasizes the significance of addressing mental health issues in caregiving, highlighting the importance of community support

15:31: Cora and Danielle share insights on managing mobility issues for their loved ones, including planning for accessibility and comfort during travels

18:31: Mike discusses strategies for caregivers to plan for mobility challenges and the emotional impact of mobility loss on the cared-for individual

23:27: Danielle and Cora offer final pieces of advice for other caregivers, emphasizing living life to the fullest and balancing caregiving with personal well-being

27:14: Mike concludes by expanding on the role of a support system in caregiving, stressing its variety and importance in addressing different needs of caregivers

Contact Our Host

Dr. Laurie Ferguson, Director of Education Development at the Global Healthy Living Foundation: lferguson@ghlf.org

A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Manager of Programs & Special Projects at GHLF.

We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to podcasts@ghlf.org

Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we explore a unique facet of caregiving as Alyssa, a young woman passionate about hiking, unexpectedly forges a deep bond with an older woman (lovingly known as “new grandma”) who she met while walking her service dog Kernel. This chance encounter grows into a meaningful companionship enriched by shared walks, a mutual love for dogs and nature, and emotional support.

Together, they navigate through the obstacles of aging and the pain of loss, while celebrating the joys of friendship and shared interests like photography. Alyssa realizes that caregiving isn’t just about assistance; it’s about connection.

Among the highlights in this episode:

01:57: Alyssa describes her caring friendship with “new grandma”, highlighting their shared activities like hiking

04:56: Dr. Ferguson explores the significance of friendship in mitigating loneliness and pain in older age

05:24: Alyssa reflects on how unexpected relationships can be life-changing, mentioning her dog Kernel's role in building connections

06:28: Mike Eidsaune, CEO of Caregiving.com, provides expert insights on the importance of companionship in caregiving, emphasizing human and animal connections

07:26: Dr. Ferguson and Mike address the broader context of loneliness

08:44: Mike highlights the value of finding common ground in caregiving relationships across different generations

10:51: Dr. Ferguson comments on the broader aspects of caregiving, such as companionship and emotional support, beyond physical assistance

11:24: Alyssa talks about the role of humor in her relationship with “new grandma” and how it helps them cope with challenges

17:00: Mike emphasizes the idea that caregiving doesn't always fit traditional definitions and highlights Alyssa's significant impact

18:02: Mike concludes by suggesting resources for caregivers, focusing on the importance of companionship and community engagement for the well-being of loved ones

Contact Our Host

Dr. Laurie Ferguson, Director of Education Development at the Global Healthy Living Foundation: lferguson@ghlf.org

A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Manager of Programs & Special Projects at GHLF.

We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to podcasts@ghlf.org

Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we dive into the unique story of Aisha, a young Black woman who stepped into the role of caregiver when her mother was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia. Facing the dual challenges of her youth and a lack of caregiving resources tailored for her cultural background, Aisha's journey is one of remarkable resilience and innovation.

Aisha shares her personal struggles and triumphs, detailing how she navigated uncharted territories to create a supportive and essential community and resources for caregivers like her.

Among the highlights in this episode:

01:11: Aisha explains her entry into caregiving at age 27 and the adjustments she made, including leaving her job to care for her mother

03:40: Aisha describes her evolving role as a caregiver, from companion to handling more complex tasks as her mother's condition progressed

04:48: Aisha discusses the lack of available caregiving resources for her specific demographic as a young, African American woman

06:05: Aisha details her initiative in creating "Our Turn 2 Care" to support young caregivers of color and those in the LGBTQ community

10:19: Dr. Ferguson, Director of Education Development at GHLF, highlights the significant issue of resource scarcity for specific caregiver groups

10:54: Mike Eidsaune, CEO of Caregiving.com, emphasizes the importance of tailored solutions and representation in caregiving resources

13:16: Aisha stresses the importance of a strong support network for caregivers

14:36: Aisha shares how music and the arts played a crucial role in her caregiving experience

19:52: Aisha advises caregivers on the importance of self-prioritization and reflects on her caregiving experience

22:11: Dr. Ferguson comments on the non-linear nature of the caregiving journey and the importance of self-patience

23:42: Aisha lists various organizations and resources useful for caregivers

28:43: Mike concludes by suggesting ways for caregivers to educate themselves and find local resources

Contact Our Host

Dr. Laurie Ferguson, Director of Education Development at the Global Healthy Living Foundation: lferguson@ghlf.org

A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Manager of Programs & Special Projects at GHLF.

We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to podcasts@ghlf.org

Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.