Aging Together
TL;DR: for adult children of aging parents; for the sandwiched generation
Key themes: aging, caregiving, mental health, caregiver resources, long-term care
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The Aging Together Podcast explores the challenges and opportunities of caring for aging loved ones. In this podcast, I interview guests who are experts in their fields or can share their experiences with caregiving. Together with the guest speakers, I dive into a wide range of topics including health and wellness, care planning, caregiving, and more. The Aging Together Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and YouTube. This podcast is a product of Aging Together LLC, a private care coaching practice for family caregivers.
This podcast is hosted by Dr. Pooja A. Patel, an occupational therapist with board certification in gerontology and additional advanced certifications in dementia, fall prevention, and geriatric care. She has had the privilege of working with older adults and their families for many years and has seen first-hand the unique challenges that aging can bring. From navigating physical changes and managing chronic conditions to addressing social isolation and planning for the future, aging can be a complex and oftentimes an overwhelming process.
Together with the guest speakers, she dives into a wide range of topics including senior health and wellness, senior care planning, caregiving, and more.
This podcast is for everyone: whether you are an older adult looking to age in place, a caregiver seeking support and guidance, or simply someone interested in learning more about the aging process. Let’s navigate aging, together.
Aging Together
S4E09: Caregiver Mastery: Finding Peace in the Chaos of Emotions | Rick Henkin
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
- Rick's journey into caregiving began with Sonia's diagnosis of Alzheimer's.
- The diagnosis process can take months and is often frustrating.
- Caregiver burden can lead to significant health risks for caregivers.
- Mindfulness and acceptance are crucial for managing caregiver stress.
- Rick created the Caregiver Mastery System to support other caregivers.
- The course is designed to be short and practical for busy caregivers.
- Humor can be a valuable tool in caregiving.
- Caregivers must prioritize their own well-being to provide better care.
- It's important to recognize that feelings of guilt stem from love.
- Every caregiver's journey is unique, and support is essential.
About the Guest
Rick Henkin is a husband, father, grandfather to 6 girls, and a caregiver for his wife. He became a caregiver when his wife, Sonia, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in Jan. 2020 at the age of 65. Based on his experiences, Rick is the creator of the Caregiver Mastery System.
- CaregiverMasterySystem.com or https://forfamilycaregivers.com/
- facebook.com/groups/forfamilycaregivers
- https://www.youtube.com/@ForFamilyCaregivers
- https://www.instagram.com/forfamilycaregivers/
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/forfamilycaregivers/
- email: rick@forfamilycaregivers.com
S4 Sponsor: SafetyGrip, by Hartmobility
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The Aging Together Caregiver Hub is a FREE community for family caregivers of older adults. Join us today to find a peer network and access our learning studio with simple, bite-sized content, resources, and a support group.
S4 Sponsor: SafetyGrip, by Hartmobility
Patented anti-slip grip technology for all your home safety needs.
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