In Episode 98, Don and I have a fantastic conversation with Dr. Marc Rothman, MD,founder and president of the Dementia Spring Foundation, a non-profit 501(c)(3) venture studio that invests in visual and performing artists and innovators who are changing the prevailing narrative of dementia and bringing joy and creativity to the dementia community through their work. Founded in 2020, the Artist Network now includes over 200 artists and innovators from around the world who are grappling with memory loss, Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias in their work. New artist Spotlights are shared every week on the Dementia Spring website. (Including our Oscar qualified short film, My Mom and the Girl ,starring Valerie Harper in her final performance!!)Through the Foundation’s annual, competitive Dementia Arts Impact Award program, funding, technical & marketing support, and subject-matter expertise are provided to a select group of artists and innovators who are telling new stories of dementia and bringing theatre, dance, music, and other visual/performing arts programs to those living with dementia.And if that's not enough, Dr. Rothman is also the CEO of Lizzy Care, a company providing tools and resources for dementia care at home.Join us as our guest,Dr. Rothman, reveals his insights on harnessing artistic talents to enhance caregiving experiences. Discover how integrating art into dementia care not only brings joy and connection but also offers a holistic approach to treatment that blends medical and artistic perspectives, creating a more enriched life for both caregivers and individuals with dementia.Immerse yourself in discussions on the profound impact of music and visual arts on mental health and healing. We underscore the importance of preserving memories through photography and the ethical considerations that come with sharing such intimate moments. The episode also touches on the cultural shift required in our institutions to prioritize arts therapy, advocating for comprehensive care models that improve quality of life. With personal stories and innovative projects, including virtual reality and comedy, we demonstrate how creativity stands as a beacon of hope and connection for those affected by dementia. And that includes, Love Conquers Alz, of course!xoxoSusieSupport the showJOIN THE PEOPLE OVER PROFIT MOVEMENT FOR NURSING HOME REFORM! Visit the No Country For Old People Website for more information.YOU CAN ALSO SUPPORT THE COMPLETION OF OUR DOCUMENTARY "NO COUNTRY FOR OLD PEOPLE" BY MAKING A TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION THROUGH THE NATIONAL CONSUMER VOICE HERE or GO FUND MEPurchase GERI-GADGETS® here.COUPON CODE: LCA20 for 20% Off No MinimumLearn more about Peter Istvan Photography here. Follow us on Twitter, FB, IG, & TiK Tok 💜 Listen on your favorite platform 💜 If you like what you hear leave us some love. 💜

Elopement usually conjures up visions of secret excursions or maybe even the Elvis Chapel in Las Vegas. But elopement is also used to describe what happens when someone with dementia or cognitive loss leaves a safe area, such as a home or care facility, without supervision or awareness of the potential dangers.  In dementia care facilities, it is a heartbreaking reality that needs urgent attention. With over 30 years of experience as an occupational-therapist-turned-dementia-coach and 5 years of being a daughter-of-dementia, our guest, Lizette Cloete  OTR/L, CADDCT, CDP, shares her first-hand, personal experience with elopement, how it can lead to accidents, injuries, and even death as a result of hypothermia, malnutrition, and weight loss, and why there is a huge need to protect vulnerable residents living in long term facilities.  Lizette is the owner of “Think Different” Dementia, helping families navigate dementia together, using science-backed strategies, has become a sought-after speaker on dementia-related topics, both nationally and internationally. Her podcast, Christian Dementia Caregiving, is a key resource for connecting and sharing her valuable insights. In 2023, Lizette was awarded a grant to create an online education and coaching community for family care partners. She is truly a fount of information and support for our caregiving community.  We recount personal stories, including a tragic incident from 1994, highlighting the dire consequences of inadequate staffing and training in these facilities. By sharing these narratives, we stress the critical need for improvements in care and safety measures to protect vulnerable individuals. The broader implications of facility understaffing reveal a pressing need for vigilance and proactive strategies to prevent similar tragedies.Understanding and managing dementia-related wandering is a complex challenge for caregivers and families. From unpredictable behaviors to ethical dilemmas around monitoring technology, we discuss real-life anecdotes that underscore the relentless nature of wandering. With hopes pinned on proactive engagement and innovative solutions, we aim to inspire meaningful change in caregiving practices, ensuring the safety and well-being of loved ones.Connect with Lizette: Think Different Dementia Christian Dementia CaregivingSupport the showJOIN THE PEOPLE OVER PROFIT MOVEMENT FOR NURSING HOME REFORM! Visit the No Country For Old People Website for more information.YOU CAN ALSO SUPPORT THE COMPLETION OF OUR DOCUMENTARY "NO COUNTRY FOR OLD PEOPLE" BY MAKING A TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION THROUGH THE NATIONAL CONSUMER VOICE HERE or GO FUND MEPurchase GERI-GADGETS® here.COUPON CODE: LCA20 for 20% Off No MinimumLearn more about Peter Istvan Photography here. Follow us on Twitter, FB, IG, & TiK Tok 💜 Listen on your favorite platform 💜 If you like what you hear leave us some love. 💜

In honor of Residents’ Rights Month and in conjunction with our documentary, No Country For Old People, Don and I, along with our special guest-host, Rick Mountcastle, the former US attorney famed for his role in the Purdue Pharma case,  are highlighting the importance of listening to residents who live in our country’s nursing homes, assisted living and board and care facilities. In episode 96, we speak with AARON ADAMS, son, former caregiver, author and inventor. Aaron is a heavy machine operator for the local 649 international union of operating engineers and lives in Peoria Illinois. His father, Thomas Adams, was a robust 75-year old who was a beloved brother, father, uncle, nephew, cousin, and friend.  After treatment for heart issues, Aaron’s father was sent to an acute rehab hospital.  to explore the emotional labyrinth of healthcare navigation which in too many cases isn't always kind. Through Aaron's poignant personal story caregiving for his father, we unveil the harsh realities of seeking adequate medical care and the systemic flaws that many families encounter. From Aaron's fiery exchange with healthcare providers who underestimated his father's needs, to the desperate struggle of a family fighting against hospital bureaucracy to grant their father a peaceful end at home, these narratives underscore the dire need for advocacy and transparency. Rick Mountcastle lends his legal expertise, dissecting these challenges and providing a sobering perspective on patient neglect and the systemic issues at hand.In a world where medical decisions can feel like a battlefield, the emotional rollercoaster of advocating for loved ones becomes evident. As families grapple with complex treatments and the ethical dilemmas surrounding end-of-life care, they find themselves questioning the motivations of medical professionals and the adequacy of patient care. The stories shared here emphasize the importance of informed advocacy, the emotional toll of feeling sidelined, and the sacrifices made to ensure dignity and respect for loved ones. Join us as we unravel these deeply personal and univBuzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!Start for FREEInstacart - Groceries delivered in as little as 1 hour.Free delivery on your first order over $35.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showJOIN THE PEOPLE OVER PROFIT MOVEMENT FOR NURSING HOME REFORM! Visit the No Country For Old People Website for more information.YOU CAN ALSO SUPPORT THE COMPLETION OF OUR DOCUMENTARY "NO COUNTRY FOR OLD PEOPLE" BY MAKING A TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION THROUGH THE NATIONAL CONSUMER VOICE HERE or GO FUND MEPurchase GERI-GADGETS® here.COUPON CODE: LCA20 for 20% Off No MinimumLearn more about Peter Istvan Photography here. Follow us on Twitter, FB, IG, & TiK Tok 💜 Listen on your favorite platform 💜 If you like what you hear leave us some love. 💜

How can a system meant to care for our most vulnerable turn into our worst nightmare? Join us as we kick off a special series of Love Conquers Alz episodes, inspired by our soon-to-be-released documentary, "No Country for Old People." We’re honored to have Rick Mountcastle, former U.S. attorney and co-producer of our documentary, with us. Rick offers his eye-opening experiences prosecuting nursing homes for fraud and abuse.  Together, we hope to shed light on the urgent need for public awareness and collective action to combat the systemic neglect rampant in the long-term care industry. In this series, we will present personal narratives that serve as powerful calls to action, urging us to demand better care standards and advocate for systemic change. In this episode, we feature the poignant account of Jen Trejo, who faced unimaginable hardship after her son Christopher (whose story was featured in the Netflix limited series "Painkiller") was prescribed OxyContin. From a mother's gut-wrenching moment of signing surgery papers for her son, to the neglect suffered within skilled nursing facilities, her story uncovers the severe failings of our profit-driven healthcare system. Jen shares the struggle of finding appropriate care for a loved one with a history of drug addiction and the frustrations of a system that prioritizes financial considerations over patient care. Jen also talks about the poor conditions in certain facilities and the lack of support for patients with more intensive care needs are also examined.We also explore the transformative power of love and advocacy in these challenging times and how collective efforts have sparked progress, especially in addressing the opioid crisis and improving caregiving standards. From the emotional toll of dealing with addiction and inadequate medical care, to the relentless pursuit of improvement despite resistance, this episode underscores the importance of empathy, persistence, and the human spirit in driving change. Tune in and join us in our mission to make a real difference.FACEBOOK Instagram Support the showJOIN THE PEOPLE OVER PROFIT MOVEMENT FOR NURSING HOME REFORM! Visit the No Country For Old People Website for more information.YOU CAN ALSO SUPPORT THE COMPLETION OF OUR DOCUMENTARY "NO COUNTRY FOR OLD PEOPLE" BY MAKING A TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION THROUGH THE NATIONAL CONSUMER VOICE HERE or GO FUND ME Follow us on Twitter, FB, IG, & TiK Tok 💜 Listen on your favorite platform 💜 If you like what you hear leave us some love. 💜

What if the shift towards for-profit hospice care models is compromising the quality of your loved one's final days? In this episode, Don and I have a robust conversation on hospice with Penny Hawkins Smith, BSN, RN, CHPN.  Hospice Nurse Penny, as she is known to her millions of social media followers, is a nationally certified hospice and palliative care registered nurse with over 17 years of experience  with a passion for hospice advocacy and normalizing death and dying.   Have you ever wondered how hospice care is funded and what services are actually covered? We break down the often-misunderstood world of hospice care funding, highlighting the system used by nonprofit agencies and detailing the array of services provided under this model, as well as the hidden truths behind the financial practices of many hospice agencies and their unsettling impact on patient care. We confront the alarming rise in Medicare spending and the exodus of physicians from the field. The episode also tackles the aggressive marketing strategies in the industry and the emotional turmoil families face when navigating palliative and hospice care. From the importance of clear communication and family advocacy to the systemic hurdles within end-of-life care, this conversation offers insights and personal stories that resonate deeply.Navigating the maze of hospice care decisions can be daunting, especially when facing ethical dilemmas and advocating for compassionate treatment. We explore the critical role of hospice advocacy, the rights of patients and families, and the often-overlooked challenges of caregiving in nursing homes. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, we shed light on the importance of respecting patient dignity and goals, and the necessity for better education and support in end-of-life decisions. Join us as we call for empathy, open dialogue, and a more humane approach to hospice and elder care.Follow Hospice Nurse Penny on TIKTOKSupport the Show.JOIN THE PEOPLE OVER PROFIT MOVEMENT FOR NURSING HOME REFORM! Visit the No Country For Old People Website for more information.YOU CAN ALSO SUPPORT THE COMPLETION OF OUR DOCUMENTARY "NO COUNTRY FOR OLD PEOPLE" BY MAKING A TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION THROUGH THE NATIONAL CONSUMER VOICE HERE or GO FUND ME Follow us on Twitter, FB, IG, & TiK Tok 💜 Listen on your favorite platform 💜 If you like what you hear leave us some love. 💜

Can human connection and dignity survive in a profit-driven healthcare system? On this episode of "Love Conquers Alz," we are joined by the talented artist and filmmaker Teace Snyder, who introduces his thought-provoking film "Hold Me." The film explores the emotionally charged and controversial topic of voluntary euthanasia, focusing on a woman whose job is to comfort individuals in their final moments. Teace shares the poignant inspiration behind the film, highlighting the ambiguous professional role of a "holder" and how the film raises essential questions about human connection, grief, and end-of-life care. Our conversation with Snyder sheds light on the delicate balance between personal choice and ethical implications in these profound moments.Our discussion expands to the broader issues of systemic neglect and the isolating experiences of the elderly and sick in our healthcare system, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. We draw parallels to solitary confinement and critique the pervasive influence of money in healthcare, particularly within the hospice system. Through a candid examination of systemic corruption and the hidden influence of the nursing home lobby, we aim to inspire grassroots movements and honest conversations. Our goal is to foster empathy and prioritize human dignity in a system too often driven by profit. Join us as we navigate these complex topics with hope and a commitment to meaningful change.Support the Show.JOIN THE MOVEMENT FOR NURSING HOME REFORM BY SUPPORTING THE COMPLETION OF OUR DOCUMENTARY "NO COUNTRY FOR OLD PEOPLE" BY MAKING A TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION THROUGH THE NATIONAL CONSUMER VOICE HERE or GO FUND ME Follow us on Twitter, FB, IG, & TiK Tok 💜 Listen on your favorite platform 💜 If you like what you hear leave us some love. 💜

In Episode 92, Don and I talked with three prolific writers who have made profound literary  contributions to the Dementia community and now pooled their talents and love of poetry to launch a beautiful anthology, “Poetry For the Dementia Journey”, that sprung from an online event featuring over 30 poets. (This just may be one of my favorite episodes!!) Marianne Sciucco is not a (dementia) nurse who writes but a writer who happens to be a nurse.  Her novel, Blue Hydrangeas, an Alzheimer’s Love Story, is a testament to the power of love in the face of this heart wrenching disease.  She has since launched her own podcast “Untangling Alzheimer’s and Dementia: An AlzAuthors Podcast” and is the Co-founder of the non-profit AlzAuthors.com, a global community of over 300 dementia-centered writers. Ann Campanella is the manager/director of AlzAuthors and is a former magazine and newspaper editor. She is the author of two award-winning memoirs and four collections of poetry. Her first memoir, Motherhood: Lost and Found, tells the story of her mother’s descent into Alzheimer’s and was named “One of the best Alzheimer’s books of all time,” by Book Authority two years in a row. Sue Fagalde Lick has been nominated for the Pushcart Prize in both fiction and nonfiction and won first prize in Willamette Writers Kay Snow Awards for poetry.  Sue is co-founder of the Central Coast chapter of Willamette Writers  and former president of the Oregon Poetry Association.  Her latest release,  No Way Out of This, is a meSupport the Show.JOIN THE MOVEMENT FOR NURSING HOME REFORM BY SUPPORTING THE COMPLETION OF OUR DOCUMENTARY "NO COUNTRY FOR OLD PEOPLE" BY MAKING A TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION THROUGH THE NATIONAL CONSUMER VOICE HERE or GO FUND ME Follow us on Twitter, FB, IG, & TiK Tok 💜 Listen on your favorite platform 💜 If you like what you hear leave us some love. 💜

Comedian/Filmmaker/Caregiver HEATHER FINK came to filmmaking from comedy.  She has been making funny videos since she was a kid growing up in small town New Jersey. After earning a Philosophy degree from The George Washington University, she began NYU's Grad Film program as Writer/Director.  Heather has gone on to direct over 35 comedy short and has been featured on MTV, Dr. Phil, TV Guide Magazine and The Washington Post, to name a few. Most currently, she was featured in the LA Times with, as she said in her post on X, her “my most depressing interview and pull quotes ever!” talking about the residual affect ion her career following the SAG-AFTRA and WGAstrikes in 2023.  She currently pays the bills as a Sound Person for film and tv, including Marvel’s “Daredevil” and Hulu’s “The Dropout.” Heather came to caregiving after her beloved father had a paralyzing stroke. Now, she is taking her life-altering story to the stage with her one-woman show, Quicksand, that chronicles how she navigated her role as a young caregiver after her dad’s stroke and the challenges she faced trying to keep herself from sinking. As Heather says, “From caregiving to death and the midlife crisis, QUICKSAND is a storytelling and clown exploration of the realest sh*t we face.” We chatted with Heather about the importance of creating a supportive community and shared our personal experiences with grief and loss, and the challenges of balancing personal storytelling with the need to connect with a wider audience in documentary filmmaking.  Don and I had a truly fantastic, funny, and heartfelt exchange with this incredible lady and are sure you are going to enjoy our conversation with the one and only Heather Fink.Support the Show.JOIN THE MOVEMENT FOR NURSING HOME REFORM BY SUPPORTING THE COMPLETION OF OUR DOCUMENTARY "NO COUNTRY FOR OLD PEOPLE" BY MAKING A TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION THROUGH THE NATIONAL CONSUMER VOICE HERE or GO FUND ME Follow us on Twitter, FB, IG, & TiK Tok 💜 Listen on your favorite platform 💜 If you like what you hear leave us some love. 💜

SEASON 9 Premiere!Episode 90 features our esteemed guest, Dr. Ethelle Lord, is an author, practitioner, educator, management coach, presenter, mother and grandmother, and a pioneer in the containment of dementia.      Spending 21 years in the care of her husband Larry, living with vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s truly motivated Dr. Lord's career path as a Global Dementia Care Shape and the founding president of the International Caregivers Association, a Dementia-Management-Consultant and Creator of the “Transactional Dementia Intelligence” or TDI business model of dementia care, a WHOLE SYSTEM which includes management, training, care, and coaching.  She has also authored the enlightening book, "Alzheimer and Dementia Coaching: Taking a Systems Approach in Creating an Alzheimer's Friendly Healthcare Workforce."As Dr. Lord says, “One of the biggest challenges people face is the lack of basic information on where to begin, what to do, and how to do it.” Well this dementia warrior is helping the world, face those challenges -  and Don and I were honored to have her with us on Love Conquers Alz!Support the Show.JOIN THE MOVEMENT FOR NURSING HOME REFORM BY SUPPORTING THE COMPLETION OF OUR DOCUMENTARY "NO COUNTRY FOR OLD PEOPLE" BY MAKING A TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION THROUGH THE NATIONAL CONSUMER VOICE HERE or GO FUND ME Follow us on Twitter, FB, IG, & TiK Tok 💜 Listen on your favorite platform 💜 If you like what you hear leave us some love. 💜

“I’m a lawyer by trade, politician by practice, and an academic by accident.”   These are the musings of the remarkable, and I have to say, charming, Max Sherman.   In Episode 89, we interviewed a young and energetic 89 years old, Max Sherman. Max's  life has been significantly influenced by women. But one in particular has shaped who he is today. In 1953 Max was among 4 high school boys conducting a church service at a local jail when he first laid eyes on a Gene Alice, who was there with her fold up field organ. And their love affair still thrives to this day...  In 2002 Gene Alice started noticing that something was different and soon after was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.  Through the inevitable progression of the disease Max and Gene Alice’s journey together is now chronicled in the beautiful and poignant memoir, “Releasing the Butterfly: A Love Affair in Four Acts”. It's a  caregiver's story and journey.  An honest, heart wrenching and insightful look at not only the disease but of a bond that could not be broken. Max shares many of the insights he has gained as a caregiver, and thoughts on how to maintain connection even while grieving the losses of the fading abilities of a spouse living with Alzheimer’s.Max boasts a rather formidable body of work which includes: Texas State Senator, President of West Texas State University, and Dean of the LBJ School of Public Affairs. His leadership roles also include President of the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Vice President of the Harry S. Truman Scholarship Foundation.  AND recently he was honored as an 80 over 80 recipients. Don and I had the best conversation chatting with the author of this ode to a 70 year love-affair that will warm your heart and make you want to fall in love all over again!Support the Show.JOIN THE MOVEMENT FOR NURSING HOME REFORM BY SUPPORTING THE COMPLETION OF OUR DOCUMENTARY "NO COUNTRY FOR OLD PEOPLE" BY MAKING A TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION THROUGH THE NATIONAL CONSUMER VOICE HERE or GO FUND ME Follow us on Twitter, FB, IG, & TiK Tok 💜 Listen on your favorite platform 💜 If you like what you hear leave us some love. 💜

Heeeeeeee’s back! And Don and I couldn’t be happier!  Our dear friend and “Senior Care Influencer”, Lance A. Slatton is not only a Writer, Author, and Healthcare professional with over 20 years in the healthcare industry…he is a number one class act and all around nice guy! Oh, and he is also the busiest person I have ever met! I thought I was juggling. Nope. Apparently not. ;)In case you’re not familiar with Lance, here’s just little background on this Care Commander: Lance is a native of Michigan, and the Senior Case Manager at Enriched Life Home Care Services, a leading care provider.  His ingenuity and fortitude led to the creation of  All Home Care Matters, an informative podcast and YouTube show devoted to helping families, caregivers, and their loved ones navigate long-term care issues. All Home Care Matters was recently the recipient of the Silver Creator Award from Google & YouTube. Lance also produces and Co-Host’s two additional shows (I know! What are we doing wrong!?): Conscious Caregiving with L & L, co-hosted by Lori La Bey and The Caregiver’s Journal with Denise M. Brown.If that were not enough, he also writes a monthly column for McKnight’s Home Care News, DailyCaring.com, and AgeBuzz.Recognizing Lance’s contributions to the industry, he was named a “50 Under 50” honoree by the New York City Journal for 2023  and has been chosen as a Juror for the Academy of Interactive Visual Arts for 2023 and 2024.And because he apparently has so much spare time on his hands Lance has now authored a new book, “The All Home Care Matters Official Family Caregivers' Guide”, a beacon of wisdom, meant to guide you through the complexities and emotional tides of becoming a caregiver.  So, grab a cuppa tea or coffee and find out more about this new endeavor and everything else in the wild world of the inimitable Lance A. Slatton. And remember -  Love is Powerful. Love is Contagious. And Love Conquers Alz.xoxo SusieSupport the Show.JOIN THE MOVEMENT FOR NURSING HOME REFORM BY SUPPORTING THE COMPLETION OF OUR DOCUMENTARY "NO COUNTRY FOR OLD PEOPLE" BY MAKING A TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION THROUGH THE NATIONAL CONSUMER VOICE HERE or GO FUND ME Follow us on Twitter, FB, IG, & TiK Tok 💜 Listen on your favorite platform 💜 If you like what you hear leave us some love. 💜

📣 New Love Conquers Alz Episode #87!Don Priess and I were so excited to talk to Christina ‘n Cindy Hardin-Weiss WEISS (https://adaptiveequipmentcorner.com), the founders of Adaptive Equipment and Caregiving Corner, IMHO - THE best place to go for educational and instructional videos and home medical equipment product reviews for professional caregivers, families caring for a loved one, and older adults who want to age in place. We are such HUGE fans of these ladies. Cindy and Christina bring years of expert knowledge and hands on experience to their educational videos and adaptive equipment reviews. If they endorse it - you know it's good! They literally put each and every product to the test! Even adult diapers! Come on! They are the real deal! They are the Ralph Nader for Caregivers.Cindy Hardin-Weiss is a Physical Therapist and has spent the majority of her career in home healthcare. Her passion is to assist people in maintaining their independence, especially when it makes a difference in their ability to remain in their homes. Christina Hardin-Weiss is a Speech/Language/Dysphagia Therapist. She has spent most of her career treating patients in skilled nursing facilities. She enjoys working with individuals who have dementia and their families, as well as those that have difficulty eating, chewing, and swallowing due to illness or disease.Their mission is to help you maintain yours or your loved one's dignity and independence while remaining safely in the comfort and familiarity of your home. It is a noble cause indeed and we can’t wait for you tto get to know Cindy and Christina Hardin-Weiss.Please listen on your favorite platform (https://linktr.ee/LCALZ) and/or watch us on our YouTube Channel (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRgcPBktXGd5ubfJf4xmJRA). And share, share, share! 💜 Remember:Love is PowerfulLove is Contagiousand Love Conquers Alz!Love,SusieChristina 'N Cindy on LinkedInSupport the Show.JOIN THE MOVEMENT FOR NURSING HOME REFORM BY SUPPORTING THE COMPLETION OF OUR DOCUMENTARY "NO COUNTRY FOR OLD PEOPLE" BY MAKING A TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION THROUGH THE NATIONAL CONSUMER VOICE HERE or GO FUND ME Follow us on Twitter, FB, IG, & TiK Tok 💜 Listen on your favorite platform 💜 If you like what you hear leave us some love. 💜

Advocate. Leader. Caregiver. Jenny Abeling is dedicated to helping those in need, through the complexities of long-term care. Currently she is the Governor’s Commissioner on Senior Services, working tirelessly to raise up senior related needs across the State of Oregon.  Formerly the Essential Worker Healthcare Trust Director, Jenny led a first in the nation approach to lift Long -Term Care workers by supporting their health and wellness.Now she has launched JennyAbeling.com, where she provides personalized support to individuals, families and Long -Term Care workers, helping to navigate their care needs.  Featured on CNN, Jenny shares her knowledge and experience through media, podcasts, speaking engagements, and events to harmonize empathy with her unique expertise. Jenny was recently honored by the Gray Panthers as a recipient of the coveted Above and Beyond Award honoring Long-term Care Workers.No Jenny has branched out as an author with A Kids Book About Long-Term Care, titled A Kids Book About Long-Term Care.  She truly is a bright light in the world of caregiving and we were thrilled to have the opportunity to talk to her!Support the showJOIN THE MOVEMENT FOR NURSING HOME REFORM BY SUPPORTING THE COMPLETION OF OUR DOCUMENTARY "NO COUNTRY FOR OLD PEOPLE" BY MAKING A TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION THROUGH THE NATIONAL CONSUMER VOICE HERE or GO FUND ME Follow us on Twitter, FB, IG, & TiK Tok 💜 Listen on your favorite platform 💜 If you like what you hear leave us some love. 💜

Don and I both agree that Episode 85 (wow!), ranks as one of our favorites to date. Our amazing guest, Dr. Mitchell Clionsky is a board certified neuropsychologist with more than 30 years of clinical experience and has treated more than 20,000 patients with cognitive problems. Dr. Clionsky understands the toll of memory disorders as both a caring professional and as the son of his mother Muriel, who died in 2008 from dementia. Dr. Clionsky holds staff privileges on four hospitals and in addition to dementia, he evaluates ADHD, concussions, and a variety of neurological conditions. From years of patient data, Dr. Clionsky and his wife/partner Emily Clionsky, MD have developed the Memory Orientation Screening Test or MOST, a highly valid measure that provides a single, numerical score that reflects cognitive status and change over time. MOST helps identify -cognitive problems- earlier in the deterioration process so health professionals can intervene and help their patients live better lives. Now Dr. Clionsky and his wife, Emily, have taken what they do in their consulting room and have written a new book, Dementia Prevention: Using Your Head to Save Your Brain. It's an exciting, fun to read, motivating, and potentially life changing read that is the culmination of 45 years of extensive clinical evaluation and treatment. Scientifically detailed and vetted by Johns Hopkins University doctors and content experts, it is translated into terms that almost everyone will understand. 8 out of 10 people over 55 say that Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias are a major concern. Well now there is something that can be done. Dementia is not inevitable, but for 1 out of 2 people it is preventable. And we are so excited to share all about this fascinating breakthrough. Enjoy!!Connect with Dr. Clionsky here.LINKEDINFACEBOOKSupport the showJOIN THE MOVEMENT FOR NURSING HOME REFORM BY SUPPORTING THE COMPLETION OF OUR DOCUMENTARY "NO COUNTRY FOR OLD PEOPLE" BY MAKING A TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION THROUGH THE NATIONAL CONSUMER VOICE HERE or GO FUND ME Follow us on Twitter, FB, IG, & TiK Tok 💜 Listen on your favorite platform 💜 If you like what you hear leave us some love. 💜

If you don't know  the preeminent caregiving champion, Christina Keys, you're in for a valuable treat! Christina was living her best life, enjoying a successful career, she was financially and spiritually healthy and happy -  when in 2013 her beloved mother suffered a devastating stroke and was given a 1% chance to live. In a blink of an eye Christina went from care-free career woman to full-time caregiver. With Christina’s dogged and loving support, her mother survived - but after 4 years Christina was bankrupt, financially, emotionally, mentally, and physically. And suddenly she was faced with a diagnosis of her own. Her body was shutting down from the stress and she was given 6 months to live. She knew she had to completely change her life…and she did. But she decided to not only transform her own life, but to help change the lives of other caregivers.  Christina’s mission to make sure caregivers everywhere are seen, heard valued and appreciated and are never alone through her local work with Loving Them Forward , the Non Profit she founded, and the national work she is doing as the Director of Community Growth at Caregiving.com.  We can’t wait for you to hear more about her remarkable transformation and journey!Connect with Christina: FACEBOOK  INSTAGRAMConnect with Caregiving.com: https://www.caregiving.comApply and Learn more about the Caregiving.com CaregiverSupport the showJOIN THE MOVEMENT FOR NURSING HOME REFORM BY SUPPORTING THE COMPLETION OF OUR DOCUMENTARY "NO COUNTRY FOR OLD PEOPLE" BY MAKING A TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION THROUGH THE NATIONAL CONSUMER VOICE HERE or GO FUND ME Follow us on Twitter, FB, IG, & TiK Tok 💜 Listen on your favorite platform 💜 If you like what you hear leave us some love. 💜

In Episode 83, Don and I had a heartfelt and informative conversation with Dr. George Ackerman who started the movement Together for Sharon to honor his late mother Sharon Riff Ackerman, who succumbed to complications from Parkinson's Disease and Alzheimer's Disease on January 1, 2020. George is an absolutely  tireless #advocate for those who suffer with PD and their families and has an unending hope for a cure. Come join us and learn about this important movement and why this is so important to George and his family.ORDER YOUR WRIST BANDS HERE: https://www.togetherforsharon.com/con...Please go to their site and follow their socials to show your support and solidarity:SiteFacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedInYouTubeTwitter/XLove Conquers Alz!Susie xoxoSupport the showJOIN THE MOVEMENT FOR NURSING HOME REFORM BY SUPPORTING THE COMPLETION OF OUR DOCUMENTARY "NO COUNTRY FOR OLD PEOPLE" BY MAKING A TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION THROUGH THE NATIONAL CONSUMER VOICE HERE or GO FUND ME Follow us on Twitter, FB, IG, & TiK Tok 💜 Listen on your favorite platform 💜 If you like what you hear leave us some love. 💜

In Episode 82, Don and I had a fantastic conversation (no surprise) with  UK’s own PIPPA KELLY. Author, podcast host, award-winning blogger, contributor to numerous national newspapers and magazines, Pippa has truly made a name for herself in the dementia and elder care universe. It was Pippa’s own personal journey with her mother, who battled vascular dementia for 10 years, that shaped her creativity and launched her career.   A prolific writer for the Huffington Post, The Guardian and many others, she also shares her thoughts and experiences on her popular, Covid-born podcast “Well I know Now…So Much More About Dementia.”  And has become one of the UK’s top 10 dementia influencers.  But Pippa Kelly’s artistic proclivities know no bounds. Her debut novel “Invisible Ink” deftly draws upon her experiences with her mother to craft a fascinating, poetic fictionalized tale that captures the intricacies of her mom’s insidious disease.In this episode, we talk about the importance of sharing stories and personal experiences. The role of humor and creativity in advocating for better care. The need for education and ongoing advocacy.. The importance of creating community and promoting human interaction. And finally, the positive impact of therapy dogs, especially golden retrievers, is acknowledged.Pippa Kelly is a force to be reckoned with in the literary and dementia space. And let’s face it, we absolutely love her accent. Follow Pippa Kelly here:TwitterFacebookInstagramLinkedInSupport the showJOIN THE MOVEMENT FOR NURSING HOME REFORM BY SUPPORTING THE COMPLETION OF OUR DOCUMENTARY "NO COUNTRY FOR OLD PEOPLE" BY MAKING A TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION THROUGH THE NATIONAL CONSUMER VOICE HERE or GO FUND ME Follow us on Twitter, FB, IG, & TiK Tok 💜 Listen on your favorite platform 💜 If you like what you hear leave us some love. 💜

My co-host , Don, and I have been blessed with so many amazing guests, but truth be told, our 81st guest, Mary Lou Falcone , ranks as one of our very favorites!! We fell in love with this EXTRAORDINARY woman and we have no doubt you will, too.For over 50 years, Mary  helped guide the careers of celebrated artists – Van Cliburn, Gustavo Dudamel, Renée Fleming, Sir Georg Solti, James Taylor – and advised many institutions including Carnegie Hall, Chicago Symphony, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Philadelphia Orchestra, New York Philharmonic, Vienna Philharmonic. Then combining communication skills with her background as a performer and educator, she now adds another layer: advocate for Lewy body dementia (LBD) awareness.Mary became a caregiver when her father had a massive stroke. She was 10 years old. The experience prepared her for the day, many years later, when her husband, a world-renowned cartoonist, illustrator, painter, and 1950s rocker, Nicholas 'Nicky’ Zann, was diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia (LBD).  Nicky, who died from LBD in 2020, was the catalyst for Mary's first book,  I Didn’t See It Coming: Scenes of Love, Loss, and Lewy Body Dementia.     "Mary Lou Falcone is an expert storyteller. After years of telling other people's stories, she now tells her own compelling story." Friend and client, James Taylor. In her memoir of love, loss, and Lewy body dementia (LBD), Mary Lou Falcone takes readers on a cathartic journey of caregiving that is filled with hope, laughter, and tears, making stops along the way for music, romance, and surprises. Written to inspire and give hope, Mary Lou unflinchingly shares in detail her late husband’s struggle with LBD, providing informative, compassionate, and inspiring insights into dementia. As she emerges transformed and energized, so will you after reading I Didn’t See It Coming: Scenes of Love, Loss, and Lewy Body Dementia . Learn about Lewy Body Dementia, why it is difficult to diagnose, and the special challenges faced by caregivers. Enjoy Episode 81!!Love conquers alz,Susie xoSupport the showJOIN THE MOVEMENT FOR NURSING HOME REFORM BY SUPPORTING THE COMPLETION OF OUR DOCUMENTARY "NO COUNTRY FOR OLD PEOPLE" BY MAKING A TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION THROUGH THE NATIONAL CONSUMER VOICE HERE or GO FUND ME Follow us on Twitter, FB, IG, & TiK Tok 💜 Listen on your favorite platform 💜 If you like what you hear leave us some love. 💜

Season 8 kicks off with episode 80 - a MUST LISTEN to show featuring JACKLYN RYAN - a sought-after speaker, consultant, workshop presenter, and best-selling author of the gut-wrenching book, “CareGivers, ScareTakers - Exposing Fraud In Senior Care”. With an aging population, families are struggling with dependable, trusted care. This process is riddledwith problems. What can adult children do to protect their parents from abuse and financial theft and also protect their inheritance and peace of mind from unscrupulous caregivers?Just like all of us, Jacklyn was instantly faced with a heart-wrenching time in life when her parents were no longer able to care for themselves are soon learned the world of home healthcare agencies is riddled with what she calls inappropriate and unscrupulous ScareTakers. Armed with her and other's powerful personal stories, plus extensive research on this undeniable problem, Jacklyn is sharing this life-changing information through her enlightening book in hopes of revising the process for those looking for appropriate and trustworthy care for their loved ones. We covered the following topics and more:• How to better prepare when you enter the "wormhole of healthcare" • The Actions You Can Take to Safeguard Your Family Inheritance and Expose the Scammers. • Don't wait for a Crisis to happen! Prepare YOUR OWN Care Ahead of Time. • We neglect to make a plan for our own care when we can no longer care for ourselves. • Make a Plan and Put it in Writing. • Discover resources, how to research and reviews on agencies and caregivers. • "My Father  (or Mother) is in Love with His Caregiver! "Connect with Jacklyn here:EMAIL: info@caregiverscaretakers.comWEBSITE: https://caregiverscaretakers.comLinkedIn: Jacklyn (Jacci Perry) Ryan X: @Jacklyn72519695Support the showJOIN THE MOVEMENT FOR NURSING HOME REFORM BY SUPPORTING THE COMPLETION OF OUR DOCUMENTARY "NO COUNTRY FOR OLD PEOPLE" BY MAKING A TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION THROUGH THE NATIONAL CONSUMER VOICE HERE or GO FUND ME Follow us on Twitter, FB, IG, & TiK Tok 💜 Listen on your favorite platform 💜 If you like what you hear leave us some love. 💜

In Episode 79, my co-host, Don Priess, and I had an enlightening conversation with Stephan Jackman, the CEO of Alzamend Neuro, a clinical stage biotech company committed to “Making Alzheimer’s Just a Memory™.”  Stephan shared information about the new lithium-based drug that offers Alzheimer's patients hope.Stephan is laser focused on his mission to rapidly develop and market safe and effective treatments that address the unmet needs of those living with Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases and psychiatric disorders, through advanced research and development.Their current pipeline consists of two novel therapeutic drug candidates, AL001 – a patented ionic cocrystal technology delivering lithium via a therapeutic combination of lithium, proline and salicylate, and AL002 – a patented method using a mutant-peptide sensitized cell as a cell-based therapeutic vaccine that seeks to restore the ability of a patient’s immunological system to combat Alzheimer’s. Both of our product candidates are licensed from the University of South Florida Research Foundation, Inc. pursuant to royalty-bearing exclusive worldwide licenses.Our primary target, Alzheimer’s disease, was among the most-feared diseases (second only to cancer) among Americans, according to a 2011 survey by the Harvard School of Public Health. Alzheimer’s is also the sixth leading cause of death in the United States according to a 2021 report from the Alzheimer’s Association, a nonprofit that funds research. Existing Alzheimer’s treatments only temporarily relieve symptoms but do not slow or halt the underlying worsening of the disease, which currently affects roughly 6.2 million Americans and that number is expected to grow to 13 million individuals by 2050.Enjoy the listen.Love Conquers Alz,Susie Alzamend NeuroStephan JackmanSupport the showJOIN THE MOVEMENT FOR NURSING HOME REFORM BY SUPPORTING THE COMPLETION OF OUR DOCUMENTARY "NO COUNTRY FOR OLD PEOPLE" BY MAKING A TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION THROUGH THE NATIONAL CONSUMER VOICE HERE or GO FUND ME Follow us on Twitter, FB, IG, & TiK Tok 💜 Listen on your favorite platform 💜 If you like what you hear leave us some love. 💜