This week, Jerry Norton talks about the benefits & uses of hemp & CBD. Jerry started his wellness business to spread the healing power of hemp & to celebrate all the cannabinoids found within this amazing plant. CBD reduces inflammation, and CBD oil used with massage therapy is even more effective. CBD treatment can replace expensive medications with no negative side effects. As a hemp farmer and founder of the Oregon Industrial Hemp Farmer’s Association, he has first-hand knowledge of a rapidly growing health field. Don’t miss this show!

This week we talked with Julie Mendez, a Family Caregiver Support Specialist at NorthWest Senior and Disability Services. Julie discussed the Family Caregiver Support Program of NWSDS. Taking care of a family member or friend is an important job. It can also be a stressful, full-time job. The Family Caregiver Support Program is for unpaid caregivers & provides several services: caregiver training & support groups, individual counseling, access to respite care, help with finding services, and funds for minor home repairs or equipment. Julie is a wealth of information, so don’t miss this show to learn more about this great program!

This week we talked with Julie Mendez, a Family Caregiver Support Specialist at NorthWest Senior and Disability Services. Julie discussed the Family Caregiver Support Program of NWSDS. Taking care of a family member or friend is an important job. It can also be a stressful, full-time job. The Family Caregiver Support Program is for unpaid caregivers & provides several services: caregiver training & support groups, individual counseling, access to respite care, help with finding services, and funds for minor home repairs or equipment. Julie is a wealth of information, so don’t miss this show to learn more about this great program!

In this episode, Presley Reader talks with John Hughes, CSA, CAEd about medications used to treat Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of dementia. John talks about the traditional treatments used for treating symptoms of dementia and how they don’t change the progression of the disease. He also spoke about the new medications that came to market in 2021 and early 2023. The new medications help with the severity or progression of the disease, preserving cognition for a longer period of time. Don’t miss this exciting show!

In this episode, Presley Reader talks with John Hughes, CSA, CAEd about medications used to treat Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of dementia. John talks about the traditional treatments used for treating symptoms of dementia and how they don’t change the progression of the disease. He also spoke about the new medications that came to market in 2021 and early 2023. The new medications help with the severity or progression of the disease, preserving cognition for a longer period of time. Don’t miss this exciting show!

n this episode, Presley Reader talks with John Hughes, CSA, CAEd about Five Things Learned About Dementia in 2023. Using a list created by the Alzheimer’s Association, they delve into each item and discuss each in detail and add their own information. Topics covered include better treatments for Alzheimer's & other dementias, daily multivitamins that may help maintain cognitive abilities, American diets, racism, and hearing aids. It’s all about dementia in this show, so don't miss it!

In this episode, Presley Reader talks with John Hughes, CSA, CAEd about Five Things Learned About Dementia in 2022. Using a list created by the Alzheimer’s Association, they delve into each item and discuss each in detail as well as adding their own information. Topics covered include better treatments for Alzheimer's & other dementias, daily multivitamins that may help maintain cognitive abilities, American diets, racism, and hearing aids. It’s all about dementia in this show, so don't miss it!

This week’s guest is a Psychotherapist and Podcaster from Zestful Aging Podcast. Nicole Christina joins us to talk about eating disorders in older women. Did you know that a consistent national trend shows that eating disorders in post-menopausal women are increasing? Nicole speaks with us about this new trend and how we can address this destructive phenomenon by giving examples of people experiencing eating disorders and how they worm their way into someone’s life. She also gives tips on discussing this issue with your loved one. Don’t miss this show!

This week’s guest is a Psychotherapist and Podcaster from Zestful Aging Podcast. Nicole Christina joins us to talk about eating disorders in older women. Did you know that a consistent national trend shows that eating disorders in post-menopausal women are increasing? Nicole speaks with us about this new trend and how we can address this destructive phenomenon by giving examples of people experiencing eating disorders and how they worm their way into someone’s life. She also gives tips on discussing this issue with your loved one. Don’t miss this show!

This week, Dr. Gilbert Simas, Medical Director, and Crystal Lacey, Program Director from Willamette Valley Medical Center, discussed the Senior Behavioral Health Services. For many older adults, declining physical and mental capabilities and complicated medical problems coupled with loss and adjustment in lifestyle can be overwhelming. Geropsychiatry is a specialized area of medicine that focuses on unique physical and emotional needs. Don’t miss this show and the great information shared!

This week, Dr. Gilbert Simas, Medical Director, and Crystal Lacey, Program Director from Willamette Valley Medical Center, discussed the Senior Behavioral Health Services. For many older adults, declining physical and mental capabilities and complicated medical problems coupled with loss and adjustment in lifestyle can be overwhelming. Geropsychiatry is a specialized area of medicine that focuses on unique physical and emotional needs. Don’t miss this show and the great information shared!

This week, our guest is Lauren Heinatz, the Transitions Director of ComForCare Home Care. Lauren joins us to talk about dealing with loved ones’ dementia during holidays. Lauren gives us a lot of tips on how to handle holiday festivities while dealing with your loved one’s dementia. This year, many families are scaling down their in-person celebrations, but even so, those with dementia can become upset or confused by holiday activities. Lauren shows us how to adjust to meet their needs so that they are included appropriately. Don’t miss this show!

This week, our guest is Lauren Heinatz, the Transitions Director of ComForCare Home Care. Lauren joins us to talk about dealing with loved ones’ dementia during holidays. Lauren gives us a lot of tips on how to handle holiday festivities while dealing with your loved one’s dementia. This year, many families are scaling down their in-person celebrations, but even so, those with dementia can become upset or confused by holiday activities. Lauren shows us how to adjust to meet their needs so that they are included appropriately. Don’t miss this show!

This week our guest is Alex Johnson, the principal broker at TrueLife Financial Solutions. Alex joins us to talk about the changes to Medicare and the upcoming enrollment dates for 2023. Alex shares his expertise to explain why you should consider adjusting your Medicare coverage to suit your needs, the differences between the Advantage and Supplemental plans in 2023, and what changes to those plans you should note. Everyone covered by Medicare needs to pay attention to upcoming decision deadlines and changes to plans. Don’t miss this show!

This week our guest is Alex Johnson, the principal broker at TrueLife Financial Solutions. Alex joins us to talk about the changes to Medicare and the upcoming enrollment dates for 2023. Alex shares his expertise to explain why you should consider adjusting your Medicare coverage to suit your needs, the differences between the Advantage and Supplemental plans in 2023, and what changes to those plans you should note. Everyone covered by Medicare needs to pay attention to upcoming decision deadlines and changes to plans. Don’t miss this show!

This week our guest is Alex Johnson, the principal broker at TrueLife Financial Solutions. Alex joins us to talk about the changes to Medicare and the upcoming enrollment dates for 2023. Alex shares his expertise to explain why you should consider adjusting your Medicare coverage to suit your needs, the differences between the Advantage and Supplemental plans in 2023, and what changes to those plans you should note. Everyone covered by Medicare needs to pay attention to upcoming decision deadlines and changes to plans. Don’t miss this show!

This week our guest is Jennifer McCammon, Editor & Publisher of 50 Plus Magazine. Jennifer joins us to talk about 50 Plus Magazine which serves people 50 to 90, and beyond in Oregon and SW Washington. The magazine provides readers with inspiring stories, helpful resources, and expert insights and provides businesses with a direct connection to this vibrant community. Jennifer & her team are developing programs for support and connection, serving as the one-stop resource for services – for anything from professional services, urgent needs, support programs, and more. Don’t miss this show!

This week’s guest is Elizabeth Regalado from ELIZABETH REGALADO PROFESSIONAL HOME ORGANIZER, LLC. She joins us to discuss decluttering and organizing things. Are you a packrat who saves everything because somebody might need it someday? Are you tired of being surrounded by so much stuff that you don't know what you have, can't put everything away, or can’t find things when you want them? Clutter drains your energy, affects your efficiency, and adds to your stress. Professional Organizer, Elizabeth Regalado helps people declutter and organize their “things” to bring peace and balance to their homes or offices. Don’t miss this show! #Salem

This week our guest is Elijiah Friday, Community Programs Development Coordinator, at NorthWest Senior and Disability Services (NWSDS). He gave us an overview of their programs and talked about their special event where presenters will speak about their programs in detail and about volunteer opportunities. NWSDS is a local intergovernmental agency providing services and programs to seniors and people with disabilities in the counties of Clatsop, Marion, Polk, Tillamook, and Yamhill. Volunteer and make a difference!

This week our guest is Elijiah Friday, Community Programs Development Coordinator, at NorthWest Senior and Disability Services (NWSDS). He gave us an overview of their programs and talked about their special event where presenters will speak about their programs in detail and about volunteer opportunities. NWSDS is a local intergovernmental agency providing services and programs to seniors and people with disabilities in the counties of Clatsop, Marion, Polk, Tillamook, and Yamhill. Volunteer and make a difference!

This week we have Bryce "Spider" Lisser from Stone Guardian Acupuncture on the show to tell us about the slow-motion martial arts you see in the park and similar settings. Yes, it's really a form of martial arts, just done slowly and deliberately. Teaching QiGong and Tai Chi is part of Bryce's practice of Chinese Medicine at Stone Guardian Acupuncture. Tai Chi can even be used by seniors who want to have better balance and prevent falls! Don't miss it!

This week our guest is Bill Sweeney, Senior VP of Government Affairs at AARP, who joined us to explain how the Inflation Reduction Act impacts Medicare. Congress has just passed historic legislation to lower the prices of prescription drugs and put money back in the pockets of seniors. The new law requires Medicare to start negotiating the price of certain drugs, caps seniors’ annual out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs in Medicare Part D and limits the cost of insulin to $35 a month in Medicare. Find out when changes take effect. Don’t miss this show!

This week our guest is Bill Sweeney, Senior VP of Government Affairs at AARP, who joined us to explain how the Inflation Reduction Act impacts Medicare. Congress has just passed historic legislation to lower the prices of prescription drugs and put money back in the pockets of seniors. The new law requires Medicare to start negotiating the price of certain drugs, caps seniors’ annual out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs in Medicare Part D and limits the cost of insulin to $35 a month in Medicare. Find out when changes take effect. Don’t miss this show!

Andrew Mullin, Marketing Director at Redwood Heights Assisted Living talks about a new approach to assisted living. The SPARK Program, inspired by Montessori, ultimately focuses on supporting residents’ ideas, choices, and independence. The staff empowers residents to create a community that speaks to them. Staff encourages new ideas and helps to make them a reality by fostering the natural “spark” within. Andrew also discussed the available care options and activities within this community. Don’t miss this show!

This week we talked with Shelby Murtha, Oregon, Account Manager from CaptionCall. She discussed CaptionCall phones that are optimized for individuals with hearing loss. They use voice-to-text technology, assisted by captioning agents and automated speech recognition, to transcribe your conversation so that other speakers’ words appear on your CaptionCall screen. You can use CaptionCall with landlines or cell phones, which doesn’t change your existing service or price. CaptionCall is FREE! Don't miss this show!

This week we talked with Shelby Murtha, Oregon, Account Manager from CaptionCall. She discussed CaptionCall phones that are optimized for individuals with hearing loss. They use voice-to-text technology, assisted by captioning agents and automated speech recognition, to transcribe your conversation so that other speakers’ words appear on your CaptionCall screen. You can use CaptionCall with landlines or cell phones, which doesn’t change your existing service or price. CaptionCall is FREE! Don't miss this show!

This week we talked with Mike Struder PT, and Former President of Northwest Rehabilitation Associates. He discussed the effects of exercise on Parkinson’s disease. Mike shared his knowledge of the impact of exercise on Parkinson's Disease and how it can be "disease-modifying". Physical therapists prescribe complete plans that are individualized to the subtype or phenotype of PD - it is not a "one-size-fits-all." Programs, such as boxing, cycling, and Tai Chi can be helpful due to the socialization, intensity, and sense that you are doing something healthy and beneficial for yourself. This causes the release of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic factors, which can improve PD symptoms.

This week we talked with Mike Struder PT, and Former President of Northwest Rehabilitation Associates. He discussed the effects of exercise on Parkinson’s disease. Mike shared his knowledge of the impact of exercise on Parkinson's Disease and how it can be "disease-modifying". Physical therapists prescribe complete plans that are individualized to the subtype or phenotype of PD - it is not a "one-size-fits-all." Programs, such as boxing, cycling, and Tai Chi can be helpful due to the socialization, intensity, and sense that you are doing something healthy and beneficial for yourself. This causes the release of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic factors, which can improve PD symptoms.

This week, our guest Bryce 'Spider' Lisser from Stone Guardian Acupuncture & Apothecary is our guest in this episode, and we'll be discussing aging with balance. Bryce is an acupuncturist and Qigong/Tai Chi Teacher. Stone Guardian Acupuncture & Apothecary is a Chinese medical practice that emphasizes all four pillars of Chinese medicine: acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, tuina massage, and qigong. Before this episode, I thought acupuncture meant turning people into a human porcupines, but Bryce dispels that myth and others. Don't miss it!

This week, our guest Alisha Mack, Senior Living Advisor from Oasis Senior Advisors, joined us to discuss selecting the right senior living option for your loved one, as it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the process. With a lot of senior housing communities, & a wide range of different types of options to choose from, it’s not always easy to know where to begin. Alisha’s team offers free services for individuals & their families. They aim to reduce the stress of searching for senior housing services in the Willamette Valley.

This week we talked with Julie Mendez, a Family Caregiver Support Specialist at NorthWest Senior and Disability Services. Julie discussed the Family Caregiver Support Program of NWSDS. Taking care of a family member or friend is an important job. It can also be a stressful, full-time job. The Family Caregiver Support Program is for unpaid caregivers & provides several services: caregiver training & support groups, individual counseling, access to respite care, help with finding services, and funds for minor home repairs or equipment. Julie is a wealth of information, so don’t miss this show to learn more about this great program!

This week we talked with Julie Mendez, a Family Caregiver Support Specialist at NorthWest Senior and Disability Services. Julie discussed the Family Caregiver Support Program of NWSDS. Taking care of a family member or friend is an important job. It can also be a stressful, full-time job. The Family Caregiver Support Program is for unpaid caregivers & provides several services: caregiver training & support groups, individual counseling, access to respite care, help with finding services, and funds for minor home repairs or equipment. Julie is a wealth of information, so don’t miss this show to learn more about this great program!

This week we talked with Karen Smith, Health Promotion & Care Transition Coordinator at Northwest Senior & Disability Service, about their health & wellness programs, why they are essential, and how to access them. Are you looking for a way to stay healthy, improve your health, or manage a health condition? If so, NWSDS offers free, evidence-based health and wellness programs in five counties. Examples are Otago, Tai Chi, chronic disease management, and many other programs to help improve your overall health. Don’t miss this show!

This week we talked with Karen Smith, Health Promotion & Care Transition Coordinator at Northwest Senior & Disability Service, about their health & wellness programs, why they are essential, and how to access them. Are you looking for a way to stay healthy, improve your health, or manage a health condition? If so, NWSDS offers free, evidence-based health and wellness programs in five counties. Examples are Otago, Tai Chi, chronic disease management, and many other programs to help improve your overall health. Don’t miss this show!

This week our guest Maxine “Max” Tammany, a Hospice Consultant, joined us to discuss the benefits of Hospice. In this episode, we talk with Maxine ‘‘Max“ Tammany, a long-time Hospice Consultant and Educator, in this episode. She explains what services are covered in a hospice setting and how people can use those services to the greatest benefit. Max also discusses many myths and misconceptions about hospice care and gives us the “real story.” Also, she touches briefly on services that are unique and vary between hospice agencies. It’s another exciting show, so make sure you tune in!

This week, Ann Horinouchi, COO and Community Developer from S3 Balance, joined us to discuss the importance of exercise for older adults, including seniors. Many think they’re too old to exercise, but the exact opposite is true. Exercise is more important when you’re 80 than when you’re 20. That’s when exercise is essential to maintain functional mobility and balance. It preserves the ability to navigate the basic activities of daily living, provides a good quality of life, and protects your independence. Don't miss this show!

This week, our guest is the owner of Aroma Concierge, Lori Tisdale. We discussed some of the benefits of essential oils and aromatherapy. She explains why essential oils are used with dementia patients in local memory care communities. Lori shares the clinical side of aromatherapy and fantastic stories of how soothing applications of scent have been used with those who struggle with memory or are in hospice care. And healthy people can benefit, too! Tune in to learn that this approach helps lift mood, aid wellness, ease anxiety, and more.

This week our guest is Mac McMurry, Agent, CLTC from New York Life Insurance, who joined us to discuss exploring the building blocks of retirement planning. This week, we talked with Mac McCurry, Agent, CLTC, from New York Life Insurance. We discussed setting up your retirement to weather turbulent markets. Mac explains how to create a good foundation for your retirement by outlining the building blocks of that foundation. Many people worry about their income during retirement, as it's no fun to watch your nest egg go up and down with the market, especially in volatile times. Mac explains how to ensure your plan will last for you without drama and turbulence. Don't miss this show!

This week our guest is Mac McMurry, Agent, CLTC from New York Life Insurance, who joined us to discuss exploring the building blocks of retirement planning. This week, we talked with Mac McCurry, Agent, CLTC, from New York Life Insurance. We discussed setting up your retirement to weather turbulent markets. Mac explains how to create a good foundation for your retirement by outlining the building blocks of that foundation. Many people worry about their income during retirement, as it's no fun to watch your nest egg go up and down with the market, especially in volatile times. Mac explains how to ensure your plan will last for you without drama and turbulence. Don't miss this show!

This week, Dr. Gilbert Simas, Medical Director, and Crystal Lacey, Program Director from Willamette Valley Medical Center, discussed the Senior Behavioral Health Services. For many older adults, declining physical and mental capabilities and complicated medical problems coupled with loss and adjustment in lifestyle can be overwhelming. Geropsychiatry is a specialized area of medicine that focuses on unique physical and emotional needs. Don’t miss this show and the great information shared!

This week, our guest is Heidi Miller, Outreach Coordinator from Center 50+, who joined us to discuss aging in place using the “Village” model in Salem, Oregon. She talks about the village model, a community-based approach that assists older adults who want to continue living in their own homes as they age. Villages connect interested neighbors to their senior neighbors, encouraging companionship and volunteerism and helping seniors age in place with confidence. The town offers a network of resources that also ties in with services & programs at Center 50+. Don’t miss this informative show!

This week, Holly Hordichok, Community Relations, and Laurie Pomeroy, Executive Director, from Heartwood Place Memory Care in Woodburn, discussed the Memory Care community and their services. In this exciting episode, we explore the details of memory care, what kind of services they offer, and the type of people who live in their community. They also share details about some of the unique programs of Heartwood Place Memory Care. Stay tuned as we cover a wealth of information!

This week, the Founder, Owner, and Music Therapist from Bridgetown Music Therapy, Alexis Baker, joins us to discuss music therapy. Alexis is a licensed & board-certified music therapist with 8+ years of experience. Over the years, she has worked with various populations in multiple settings but ultimately focused on serving older adults in 2016. Drawn to their wisdom, life stories, and humor, Alexis loves this age group and is passionate about making a difference in their lives using music. Don’t miss this exciting show!

This week, Lisa Haines, Community Relations Manager from Holiday Retirement, joins us to discuss the benefits of Independent Living. If you aren't familiar with this term, it is also called retirement living, over 55, senior living, and other names. Lisa tells us all about it and the benefits you get from living in a community like Hidden Lakes. She also briefly discusses the difference between Independent Living and Assisted Living. Lisa is a wealth of information, so don't miss this show!

This week, Alex Johnson, the principal broker from TrueLife Financial Solutions, joins us to discuss the open enrollment for Medicare Advantage Plans. If you signed up for a Medicare Advantage plan in the fall and then realized you picked the wrong plan, the open enrollment period allows you to switch plans. Alex shares his expertise to explain why you should consider adjusting your Medicare coverage to suit your needs instead of choosing a plan based solely on price. Don’t miss this important show!

This week, Mark Wang, Owner/Adminitrator of Visiting Angels of the Willamette Valley, joined us to discuss the in-home Care Agency. As the owner and administrator of Visiting Angels of Willamette Valley, Mark Wang is in a position to share a lot of information about home health care. For example, what does home care mean? And what, exactly, does an in-home care agency do? How does home care work – and importantly, what is not included? How much does it cost, and who pays? In this episode, Mark helps educate us, and there are a few laughs along the way. It’s an informative episode you don’t want to miss!

This week, Marilyn Daily Blair, Manager of Center 50+, joined us to discuss the adventure of self-discovery and the challenge of staying connected in our older years. Center 50+ focuses on programs & services that recognize the second half of our lives, age 50 and over. We can do this through a healthy and active lifestyle, making new friends, and finding new ways to remain connected in our community. Marilyn shared how Center 50+ has adapted to COVID-19 thru virtual content & front-porch delivery with their WOW van. Don't miss this show!

This week, Alex Johnson, the principal broker from TrueLife Financial Solutions, joins us to discuss the open enrollment for Medicare Advantage Plans. If you signed up for a Medicare Advantage plan in the fall and then realized you picked the wrong plan, the open enrollment period allows you to switch plans. Alex shares his expertise to explain why you should consider adjusting your Medicare coverage to suit your needs instead of choosing a plan based solely on price. Don’t miss this important show!

This week, Bridget Buchholz, Sales & Marketing Director from Waverly Place Assisted Living & Memory Care, joins us to discuss Waverly Place Senior Living. This community approaches assisted living memory care & transcends old-school concepts of nursing homes. Bridget explains whether residents need a little bit of help or need higher levels of care, the community is designed to serve those needs and negotiate life’s changes as they occur. Waverly Place offers a safe, thriving, and inspiring environment for its residents. Don’t miss the show!

This week, our guest Tiffany Fallows, Mortgage Advisor from Platinum Mortgage Group joins us to discuss reverse mortgages. Tiffany Fallows joins us to discuss the basics of reverse mortgages - how to qualify, how they work, how long can you stay in your home, and more! She also covered how reverse mortgages have changed over the years and dispelled some of the common myths and misconceptions about them. She also explained how to use them in ways that might surprise you! Tune in to find out how reverse mortgages work and if one might be right for you or your loved one! #Salem

This week ou guest, Ellen Klem, Director of Outreach and Education, for the Oregon Department of Justice, Office of the Attorney General joins us to discuss fraud and scams. With COVID in the news daily, scammers have noticed and opened fake or substandard testing sites. Ellen discusses these sites and gives some tips on how to determine if a test site is valid or not. The ODOJ helps consumers with complaints, prevents fraud, enforces consumer protection laws, and they invest in consumer education. Don’t miss this show

This week our guest, Ellen Klem, Director of Outreach and Education, for the Oregon Department of Justice, Office of the Attorney General joins us to discuss fraud and scams. With COVID in the news daily, scammers have noticed and opened fake or substandard testing sites. Ellen discusses these sites and gives some tips on how to determine if a test site is valid or not. The ODOJ helps consumers with complaints, prevents fraud, enforces consumer protection laws, and they invest in consumer education. Don’t miss this show

This week, our guest Chad Cox Program Coordinator for the HOPE Senior Peer Mentoring Program at Northwest Senior & Disability Services joins us to talk about the H.O.P.E. Senior Peer Mentoring Program. Health problems, reduced mobility, the loss of a loved one, and other stressful life changes can take a toll on our emotional health. Senior Peer Mentors are volunteers who are trained to offer confidential and helpful mentoring using a self-guided workbook model. The program is free for those 60 or older and wishing to gain help managing their mild to moderate depression or anxiety. Don’t miss this show!

This week, our guests Nikki Jardin Co-Founder & Editor from Mirador Magazine, and Tavé Fascé Drake, Co-Founder, Editor & Art Director join us to talk about the magazine for people with dementia and cognitive impairments. YES, our guests created a magazine for people with cognitive impairment and their care partners as well. Each issue offers stories on a variety of topics loosely related to that volume’s theme as well as puzzles and other activities that can be enjoyed independently or with others. Special attention has been given to optimizing the magazine’s layout, fonts, etc. for people with dementia. Don’t miss this show! #Salem

This week, our guests Nikki Jardin Co-Founder & Editor from Mirador Magazine, and Tavé Fascé Drake, Co-Founder, Editor & Art Director join us to talk about the magazine for people with dementia and cognitive impairments. YES, our guests created a magazine for people with cognitive impairment and their care partners as well. Each issue offers stories on a variety of topics loosely related to that volume’s theme as well as puzzles and other activities that can be enjoyed independently or with others. Special attention has been given to optimizing the magazine’s layout, fonts, etc. for people with dementia. Don’t miss this show! #Salem

This week, our guest is Lauren Heinatz, the Transitions Director of ComForCare Home Care. Lauren joins us to talk about dealing with loved ones’ dementia during holidays. Lauren gives us a lot of tips on how to handle holiday festivities while dealing with your loved one’s dementia. This year, many families are scaling down their in-person celebrations, but even so, those with dementia can become upset or confused by holiday activities. Lauren shows us how to adjust to meet their needs so that they are included appropriately. Don’t miss this show!

This week, our guest is Lauren Heinatz, the Transitions Director of ComForCare Home Care. Lauren joins us to talk about dealing with loved ones’ dementia during holidays. Lauren gives us a lot of tips on how to handle holiday festivities while dealing with your loved one’s dementia. This year, many families are scaling down their in-person celebrations, but even so, those with dementia can become upset or confused by holiday activities. Lauren shows us how to adjust to meet their needs so that they are included appropriately. Don’t miss this show!

This week our guests are Amy Schmidt & Michael Radut from Care Availability. Amy and Michael join us to talk about the fabulous resource CareAvailability.com. They talked about CareAvailabilty.com which is a community-based organization with technology for finding resources & services with a goal to list EVERY housing & care company to have the most comprehensive directory available. This gives families to access resources from any device without sharing their contact details. It is available at no cost to hospitals in hopes to be an easy one-stop resource instead of care providers needing to update multiple paid sites. Don’t miss this show!

This week our guest is Alex Johnson, the principal broker at TrueLife Financial Solutions. Alex joins us to talk about the changes to Medicare and the upcoming enrollment dates for 2022. Alex shares his expertise to explain why you should consider adjusting your Medicare coverage to suit your needs, the differences between the Advantage and Supplemental plans in 2022, and what changes to those plans you should note. Everyone covered by Medicare needs to pay attention to upcoming decision deadlines and changes to plans. Don’t miss this important show to learn more!

This week our guest is Alex Johnson, the principal broker at TrueLife Financial Solutions. Alex joins us to talk about the changes to Medicare and the upcoming enrollment dates for 2022. Alex shares his expertise to explain why you should consider adjusting your Medicare coverage to suit your needs, the differences between the Advantage and Supplemental plans in 2022, and what changes to those plans you should note. Everyone covered by Medicare needs to pay attention to upcoming decision deadlines and changes to plans. Don’t miss this important show to learn more!

This week our guest is Jennifer McCammon, Editor & Publisher of 50 Plus Magazine. Jennifer joins us to talk about 50 Plus Magazine that serves people 50 to 90, and beyond in Oregon and SW Washington. The magazine provides readers with inspiring stories, helpful resources, and expert insights and provides businesses a direct connection to this vibrant community. Jennifer & her team are developing programs for support and connection, serving as the one-stop resource for services – for anything from professional services, urgent needs, support programs, and more. Don’t miss this show!

This week’s guest is a Psychotherapist and Podcaster from Zestful Aging Podcast. Nicole Christina joins us to talk about eating disorders in older women. Did you know that there is a consistent national trend showing that eating disorders in post-menopausal women are increasing? Nicole speaks with us about this new trend and how we can address this destructive phenomenon by giving examples of people experiencing eating disorders and how they worm their way into someone’s life. She also gives tips on how to discuss this issue with your loved one. Don’t miss this show!

This week’s guest is Elizabeth Regalado from ELIZABETH REGALADO PROFESSIONAL HOME ORGANIZER, LLC. She joins us to discuss decluttering and organizing things. Are you a packrat who saves everything because somebody might need it someday? Are you tired of being surrounded by so much stuff that you don't know what you have, can't put everything away, or can’t find things when you want them? Clutter drains your energy, affects your efficiency, and adds to your stress. Professional Organizer, Elizabeth Regalado helps people declutter and organize their “things” to bring peace and balance to their homes or offices. Don’t miss this show! #Salem

Our guest this week is Melissa Kidd from Cherriots. She explains senior public transportation services in the Salem-Keizer area and in Marion and Polk Counties. Melissa is the Customer Service Manager from Cherriots, the perfect person to explain the services Cherriots provides to seniors and those with mobility issues. Quite frankly, you will be amazed by some of the things they do to help seniors. She also discusses changes and enhancements at Cherriots. By the time we’re done, you’ll see that Cherriots is more than just a bus line service. Tune in for a great show with Melissa Kidd!

Our guest this week is Melissa Kidd from Cherriots. She explains senior public transportation services in the Salem-Keizer area and in Marion and Polk Counties. Melissa is the Customer Service Manager from Cherriots, the perfect person to explain the services Cherriots provides to seniors and those with mobility issues. Quite frankly, you will be amazed by some of the things they do to help seniors. She also discusses changes and enhancements at Cherriots. By the time we’re done, you’ll see that Cherriots is more than just a bus line service. Tune in for a great show with Melissa Kidd!

This week’s guest is Hannah Gallardo, the Community Relations Coordinator at Heron Pointe Senior Living. She joins us to discuss both assisted living and independent living options. Hannah starts by explaining the differences between them and what services are offered within the community. Then, she gives us some practical tips to use when shopping for a senior living community, and she also discusses the home-like environment and activities offered to residents and their families at Heron Pointe. Don’t miss this show!

This week, attorney Christopher Hamilton, Partner at McGinty Belcher & Hamilton, stops by to tell us about the most common estate planning mistakes people make and why that matters. Estate planning involves helping people prepare for issues such as who will take care of your dependents if you die or become ill. It lets you decide in advance who can make medical and financial decisions for you if you become incapacitated. And it can determine who inherits your favorite possessions, or even your home. These decisions will be made by a court, possibly contrary to what you may want unless you have prepared the necessary documents in advance. Don't miss this show!

Our guest is Alex Johnson, principal broker at TrueLife Financial Solutions. He explains changes to Medicare and upcoming enrollment dates for 2022. Alex shares his expertise to explain why you should consider adjusting your Medicare coverage to suit your needs, the differences between the Advantage and Supplemental plans in 2022, and what changes to those plans you should note. Everyone covered by Medicare needs to pay attention to upcoming decision deadlines and changes to plans. Don’t miss this important show to learn more!

Our guest, Curtis Almquist, is the Executive Director and Business Solutions Specialist on LegalShield’s National Small Business Council. With LegalShield, members get access to attorneys with an average 22 years of experience. Typically, you’ll speak to an attorney in your area who can assist you with the exact type of law for which you need help. Part of the service includes your calls being returned within four business hours. Because the law firms are prepaid by LegalShield, their sole focus is on serving you – rather than billing you! Don’t miss this informative episode. Don’t miss this show!

Curtis Almquist, Executive Director from LegalShield, joined our show to explain how, as a LegalShield member, you’ll get access to attorneys with an average of 22 years of experience at a surprisingly affordable cost. You will speak with an attorney in your area who can assist you with the exact type of law for which you need help, and your calls will always be returned within four business hours. Because the participating law firms are prepaid, their sole focus is on serving you rather than billing you. Don't miss this show! #Salem

WindSong at Eola Hills is the first-ever Memory Care Community to become fully credentialed in the Montessori Lifestyles approach. The Montessori-inspired lifestyle method of care is a person-centered approach that focuses on muscle memory and the five senses, building on existing skills, interests, and abilities. In this program, residents participate in familiar tasks that encourage them to be active in the memory care community. Rebecca Allen, Community Relations Director from WindSong at Eola Hills, joins us this week to explain the Montessori Lifestyles approach to memory care. It’s fascinating. Don’t miss this show!

WindSong at Eola Hills is the first-ever Memory Care Community to become fully credentialed in the Montessori Lifestyles approach. The Montessori-inspired lifestyle method of care is a person-centered approach that focuses on muscle memory and the five senses, building on existing skills, interests, and abilities. In this program, residents participate in familiar tasks that encourage them to be active in the memory care community. Rebecca Allen, Community Relations Director from WindSong at Eola Hills, joins us this week to explain the Montessori Lifestyles approach to memory care. It’s fascinating. Don’t miss this show!

When it comes to understanding the complex details associated with Medicare, Social Security, and many other aspects of aging, information can be confusing or difficult to find. But, aging successfully is a challenge we all face. So, after helping family members navigate the process, Cindy Easton and Phil Kilcoin co-founded Aging Energized, an educational resource that offers tools like online classes, e-books, and a community for your questions and suggestions to make the journey of discovery more enjoyable and successful for everyone. Listen in to earn more! #Salem

As the Manager of Strategic Health Programs for ComForCare Home Care, Stephanie Wierzbicka is an expert on why older adults fall and what options are available to manage that risk. She encourages everyone to be proactive because most seniors do not realize that they are at risk of falling. Tune in to Part 2 of this series to learn about falls, fall prevention, resources you can use for determining and reducing your fall risk -- and why caregiving is a team sport! Don't miss this valuable advice – it’s a show worth catching!

You might be surprised to know that most older adults don’t know why they have fallen. This week, Stephanie Wierzbicka, Manager of Strategic Health Programs for ComForCare Home Care, talks about why older adults fall and what options are available to manage that risk. She says it’s necessary to be proactive because most seniors do not realize that they are at risk of falling. Tune in to Part I of a two-part series to learn about falls, fall prevention, and why caregiving is a team sport. Don’t miss this show!

Manny Martinez, President of Copa Wealth Strategies, is our guest this week. As a Senior Financial Advisor, he puts his MBA and 32 years of experience, including time as an investment banker, to work during our show. He knows how the uber-wealthy grow their wealth and protect it. He’s here to show us “average” folks how to use similar tactics to grow and protect our own financial assets. Manny talks about how to protect your family, income, and retirement nest egg. Don’t miss this show!

In his work at Pikes Northwest Real Estate, Shawn Sibon routinely helps seniors when it’s time to sell their homes and transition to something smaller or even to assisted living. Senior Real Estate Specialists like Shawn understand that this type of life transition is more than a home sale – it’s a complex project involving lots of related tasks and sometimes family complications. He joins us today to share his tips about downsizing and moving and remind us that in times of transition, it’s wise to work with a specialist who knows how to help. Don’t miss this informative show!

Steve Toll of ComForCare Home care joins us this week to talk about conditions that are labeled “reversible” dementia. Some forms of cognitive impairment mimic dementia but are actually treatable, and these are referred to as “reversible.” It’s a term that applies to any type of dementia caused by a condition that can be controlled, cured, or improved by treatment. As a Care Enhancement Specialist, Steve supplies all the details. Don’t miss this show!

This week, Nadine Grzeskowiak, the gluten-free RN, joins us to explain celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity, and gluten-free diets. She explains how you can modify your lifestyle to live with celiac disease, starting by switching to foods without gluten. Nadine also talks about getting tested for celiac disease and how gluten-free eating can be yummy! She’s an expert consultant, author, podcaster, professional speaker, and research enthusiast, so you know this will be good! Don’t miss the show! #Salem

Amy Schmidt is the Managing Partner and Publisher (a.k.a. “Queen Bee”) of Retirement Connection. She discusses the organization’s retirement guide, which provides resources for those who want to age in place, as well as their families and friends who want to help. She’ll explain how the guide works and how you can get a free copy. Yes, it’s FREE! Don’t miss this informative episode!

As the owner and administrator of Visiting Angels of Willamette Valley, Mark Wang is in a position to share a lot of information about home health care. For example, what does home care mean? And what, exactly, does an in-home care agency do? How does home care work – and importantly, what is not included? How much does it cost, and who pays? In this episode, Mark helps educate us, and there are a few laughs along the way. It’s an informative episode you don’t want to miss!

Dr. Vicki Schmall is the Executive Director of Aging Concerns and an authority on the effects of isolation and loneliness among older adults. She joins us to discuss the challenges of feeling cut off from others. For instance, did you know that being disconnected from others can have the same negative impact on your health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day? Fortunately, Dr. Schmall has some tips for dealing with these issues and covers several ways isolated individuals can stay connected to reduce their sense of loneliness. She also shares some resources available to ensure that you, or your loved one, can get help before a crisis occurs. Don’t miss this helpful show! #Salem

Our guest is Baron Robison, Executive Director of Kickin' Cancer. Baron joins us to share what it takes to outsmart cancer. His organization, Kickin’ Cancer, offers education and support for living an anti-cancer lifestyle. This is achieved through five core values: good social support, reduced stress, plenty of rest, understanding food and nutrition, and getting your body moving. In July, the organization is hosting a festival of fundraising events! If you’re interested in a cancer-free life, don’t miss this show!

Samantha Demchak and Sue Miller of Meadow Creek Village Assisted Living in Salem join us to explain how an assisted living facility can be a home-like setting. In the right assisted living facility, residents are treated like family, and the staff provides a personal and caring touch. There are also many choices for food and activities. Also, smaller communities can offer a lot of charm and personality because they can create a setting that feels more like home. Learn more by listening to this great episode!

Our guest, Baron Robison, is the Executive Director of Kickin’ Cancer. He joins us to share what it takes to outsmart cancer.Baron’s organization, Kickin’ Cancer, offers education and support for living an anti-cancer lifestyle. This can be achieved through five core values that benefit everyone: good social support, reduced stress, plenty of rest, understand food and nutrition, and getting your body moving. If you’re interested in a cancer-free life, don’t miss this show!

Benjamin Surmi, Social Gerontologist from Koelsch Communities, joins us to explain Humanitude, a practical method that helps caregivers improve their skills. As the Director of Training and Culture for Koelsch Communities, Benjamin is always looking for ways to improve care. Humanitude is a training system that helps caregivers learn to provide person-centered care, and it has yielded amazing results in Europe and Japan, where it has been used for years. Be the first to learn about it as it is being pilot tested in the US. Don’t miss this show!

Benjamin Surmi, Social Gerontologist from Koelsch Communities, joins us to explain Humanitude, a practical method that helps caregivers improve their skills. As the Director of Training and Culture for Koelsch Communities, Benjamin is always looking for ways to improve care. Humanitude is a training system that helps caregivers learn to provide person-centered care, and it has yielded amazing results in Europe and Japan, where it has been used for years. Be the first to learn about it as it is being pilot tested in the US. Don’t miss this show!

Our guest, Dr. Doug Eliason, is the Vice President of Clinical Affairs at P3 Health Partners, which is a healthy population management group founded and led by physicians. The group wants to shift the medical industry’s focus from managing illness to promoting wellness through value-based care. By taking this approach, the P3 team unburdens primary care providers and empowers patients to get the care they deserve. Don’t miss this show!

This week we spoke with Tifani Hodges, Account Executive from Traditions Hospice. She shared with us the basics of hospice care, dispelled some common myths, and talked about hospice services with which you may not be familiar. Few of us are emotionally prepared to face a life-limiting illness, and the hospice agency can help make that tough time easier on families in a way that provides warmth, kindness, and pain-free care. Hospice offers many choices, and it offers families grief services after your loved one passes. Don’t miss this show!

Kristine Grow, the spokesperson from the Coalition for Medicare Choices, explains why Medicare Advantage plans are growing in popularity. Medicare Advantage is a public-private partnership where health insurance providers deliver comprehensive medical coverage to Americans over 65 and to individuals with disabilities. Medicare Advantage covers everything traditional Medicare does and more. These plans are growing in popularity, and they can provide seniors with better services, better access to care, and better value. Don’t miss this show!

This week Andy Droney, Senior Director ADT Health & Innovation Programs, joins us to talk about Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS). It is an electronic device designed to let you summon help in an emergency. When emergency help is needed, the PERS user presses the help button. It automatically dials an emergency response center where the caller is identified. The center will try to determine the nature of the emergency. If the center cannot contact you, it will alert emergency service providers to go to your home. Don’t miss this amazing show!

Do you suffer from stress, grief, anger, abuse, or other emotional issues? Lynell Beckstrom, Master Trainer from the Rapid Eye Institute, joins us to discuss how Rapid Eye Technology (RET) can help with many emotional concerns in people's lives. She’ll explain how the emotional stress from any cause can be released, the body retrained, and the mind re-educated to think and react differently through the RET process. RET helps people with everyday anxiety as well as the distress caused by abuse, grief, anger, family dynamics, and other highly charged emotions to find relief. Don’t miss this show!

Allison Harris is the “Walk with Ease” Program Coordinator at OSU’s Extension Service. On our show, she details the importance of physical activity in chronic pain management and aging. The Walk with Ease program, developed by the Arthritis Foundation, can help to decrease pain and stiffness and improve overall health. Walk with Ease can be done individually or as part of a class or group. The program teaches you about walking and pain management, and it includes exercises to do before walking. Don’t miss this show!

Fred Steele, the Director of Oregon’s Office of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman, joins us to explain what the agency and its volunteers do for seniors in care facilities. The mission of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman program is to protect individual rights, enhance the quality of life, improve care, and promote dignity for Oregonians living in licensed long-term care facilities. This includes all nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, residential care facilities, and adult foster care homes. And they are looking for volunteers! Don’t miss this show!

You might be surprised to learn that most older adults don’t know why they have fallen. This week, Stephanie Wierzbicka, Manager of Strategic Health Programs from ComForCare Home Care, talks about why older adults fall and what options are available to manage that risk. She says it’s necessary to be proactive because most seniors do not realize that they are at risk of falling. Tune in to Part 2 of this two-part series to learn about falls, fall prevention, resources you can use for determining and reducing your fall risk, and why caregiving is a team sport. Do not miss this important show!

You might be surprised to know that most older adults don’t know why they have fallen. This week, Stephanie Wierzbicka, Manager of Strategic Health Programs for ComForCare Home Care, talks about why older adults fall and what options are available to manage that risk. She says it’s necessary to be proactive because most seniors do not realize that they are at risk of falling. Tune in to Part I of a two-part series to learn about falls, fall prevention, and why caregiving is a team sport. Don’t miss this show!

In this show, Dr. Kelly Prill from the Elemental Wellness Clinic explains how she combines natural medicine with clinical neuroscience to treat the whole person. She asks, “If you’re not feeling well, what does your web of symptoms look like, and how can we untangle it?” That’s the challenge taken up daily by Dr. Prill, a Naturopathic Physician and Functional Neurologist who specializes in helping people unravel confusing situations to find the root cause of their symptoms. Her method creates personalized plans that address things like headaches, lack of focus or concentration, brain fog, and anxiety. She works to prevent dementia by uncovering the root cause of these symptoms to help people feel whole and connected again. Don’t miss this fascinating show!

In this show, Dr. Kelly Prill from the Elemental Wellness Clinic explains how she combines natural medicine with clinical neuroscience to treat the whole person. She asks, “If you’re not feeling well, what does your web of symptoms look like, and how can we untangle it?” That’s the challenge taken up daily by Dr. Prill, a Naturopathic Physician and Functional Neurologist who specializes in helping people unravel confusing situations to find the root cause of their symptoms. Her method creates personalized plans that address things like headaches, lack of focus or concentration, brain fog, and anxiety. She works to prevent dementia by uncovering the root cause of these symptoms to help people feel whole and connected again. Don’t miss this fascinating show!

Our host, John Hughes, shares his own story with our listeners. You may not know this, but his mother’s long-term care needs motivated him to change careers and make room in his life to help people in our area. And today, he’s the owner and administrator of ComForCare Home Care in Salem. Over time, he has also become a dementia educator, and often provides free dementia training for the community. John serves on the Advisory Board of Center 50+ in northeast Salem and, of course, enjoys hosting his radio show. Maybe John’s story will encourage you to take the next step on your own journey. Don’t miss this show!

This week we’ll have a different type of discussion as you get to learn about John Hughes, the Owner and Administrator of ComForCare Home Care in Salem. John is also a certified dementia educator who likes to give back to the community with free dementia training, this radio show, and by serving on the Advisory Board of Center 50+. John shares his story about dealing with his mother’s long-term care needs and how it motivated him to change careers to help people in our area. Don’t miss this show!

Naomi Asselin is a bereavement coordinator at Bristol Hospice. As our guest this week, she shows us that “normalizing” bereavement is part of what lets us have difficult conversations with someone who is grieving. The hospice at which Naomi works offers resources to help someone through that difficult period of their life. She encourages us to learn more about the process and understand the subtle differences between grief, mourning, and bereavement. Add to your ability to support family and friends by listening to this episode.

Can dementia be reversed? The answer to this question may surprise you. That’s because there are some conditions that mimic dementia and cause cognitive impairment, and these are referred to as “reversible” dementia. It’s a term that’s applied to any type of dementia caused by a condition that can be controlled, cured, or improved once it’s treated. Steve Toll, Care Enhancement Specialist with ComForCare Home Care, joins us to discuss the many dimensions of reversible dementia. Don’t miss this show!

Can dementia be reversed? The answer to this question may surprise you. That’s because there are some conditions that mimic dementia and cause cognitive impairment, and these are referred to as “reversible” dementia. It’s a term that’s applied to any type of dementia caused by a condition that can be controlled, cured, or improved once it’s treated. Steve Toll, Care Enhancement Specialist with ComForCare Home Care, joins us to discuss the many dimensions of reversible dementia. Don’t miss this show!

This week Patrick Brodigan joined us to discuss Loneliness and Isolation with older adults – what it is and its impact on older adults. Patrick also shares some tips for how to deal with both loneliness and isolation then offers several resources that people can utilize to stay connected and reduce their loneliness. There are resources available to ensure that you, or your loved one, can get some help before a crisis situation occurs. Don’t miss this helpful show! #Salem

In this episode, Steve Toll, the Director of Special Programs for ComForCare Home Care, talks about home safety for someone with dementia. Steve breaks this down into two different categories for safety: making the home safe for the person and how to make that person "feel" safe in the home. Steve shares techniques on how to make your loved one feel safe in the home and with the people caring for them. He also makes several suggestions on how to make the home environment safe for a person with dementia. Don't miss this exciting episode!

Our guest, James Welch, is the owner of a new caregiver registry that selects and refers top-notch caregivers to seniors in the Willamette Valley area. It’s a new resource designed to find care based on individual needs and location. The registry is essentially a matchmaker service that collects only a small fee for finding your ideal caregiver. The registry lists only those caregivers who are checked and vetted, according to rigorous standards established by the State of Oregon. If you’d like to learn more, don’t miss this show!

Robert Giesbers, manager of AJ Medical Transport and R&J Mobility, joins us to talk about transport and mobility options for seniors. Robert starts by discussing the range of transportation options that are available, from traditional cars such as Honda Civics and minivans from one of his companies, and everything from ramps and lift chairs to scooters and van conversions from the other. Robert also talks about the safety measures transportation companies take to keep you safe during COVID. Don’t miss this show!

Our guest, Lauren Heinatz, is the Transitions Director of ComForCare Home Care, so she knows a lot about making adjustments. On this show, she gives us a lot of tips on how to handle holiday festivities while also dealing with your loved one with dementia. Of course, this year, many families are scaling down their in-person celebrations, but even so, those with dementia can become upset or confused by holiday activities. Lauren shows us how to adjust to meet their needs so that they are included appropriately. A few tips: limit travel, provide them with a quiet room separate from the gathered group, have only a few people visit with them at one time, and most of all, create good memories. Don’t miss this show!

When it comes to understanding the complex details associated with Medicare, Social Security, and many other aspects of aging, information can be confusing or difficult to find. But, aging successfully is a challenge we all face. So, after helping family members navigate the process, Cindy Easton and Phil Kilcoin co-founded Aging Energized, an educational resource that offers tools like online classes, ebooks, and a community for your questions and suggestions to make the journey of discovery more enjoyable and successful for everyone. Don’t miss this show!

Curtis Almquist from IDShield joined us to talk about protecting yourself from identity theft. Curtis is the Executive Director of ID Shield and shares his expertise on protecting you, your family, and your business from identity theft. Identity theft is an upsetting trend and one that can hurt you and your family financially for many years. The key to protection is having a way to monitor your presence online so that you can be notified of unusual activity and take action before becoming a victim. But no one can monitor the entire internet on their own, which is why Curtis is here to explain how protection services work – what they do for you, how much they cost, and how you can benefit when you have a protection service working for you. Don’t miss this show!

Cassandra Hutchinson from NorthWest Senior and Disability Services is our guest, and she’s here to tell us about needs-based assistance for those who want to age in their homes. She’s here to talk about Oregon Project Independence (OPI). This program is for people who do not qualify for regular Medicaid services. It is a needs-based program that typically serves people aged 60+ who need “some” help in their homes to stay independent. Cassandra explains the program, as well as a new Pilot Program for OPI that serves a younger population segment. Don’t miss this show!

Karen and Jeff Parsons are senior downsizing experts, and as realtors, they can help with every aspect of estate sales, selling, and moving. So we invited them to talk about how they handle downsizing. You’ll learn that Karen and Jeff can handle everything from sorting, packing, and clearing out to moving, unpacking, and settling in. They get into the details like donations, deep cleaning, and home photos and videos. And best of all, many of these services are free when Jeff is the listing agent. Let’s face it, moving from an established home can be overwhelming, and sometimes, family politics can make it even more so. Karen and Jeff show us an easier way to handle it all. Don’t miss this show!

Marilyn Daily-Blair, Director of Center 50+, joined us to discuss the adventure of self-discovery and the challenge of staying connected in our senior years.In Marilyn’s 50+ community center, they focus on programs and services that recognize the second half of our lives (age 50 and over) is about discovery, self-fulfillment, having the time to savor rather than rush, and maintaining a quality-filled life. We can do this through a healthy and active lifestyle, making new friends with diverse interests, and finding new ways to remain connected to our peers and our community. Marilyn shared how Center 50+ has adapted to COVID-19 thru virtual content and front-porch delivery with their WOW van. Don't miss this show!

Suzy Deeds, an Options Counselor with Northwest Senior & Disability Services, joined us to discuss difficult practical decisions facing seniors and their families. Click https://goo.gl/D6fzHK today to listen! In her role as an Options Counselor, Suzy’s passion is being an advocate for seniors and people with disabilities. She loves to show families how to support their loved ones in ways that let them remain as independent as possible, including the option to stay in their own homes as they age. We discussed the programs for family caregivers such as Options Counseling, the Family Caregiver Support Program, and others. We cover a lot of valuable information, so don’t miss this show!

Alex Johnson, the Principal Broker from TrueLife Financial Solutions, joined us to talk about important Medicare enrollment dates and changes for 2021. Alex shares his expertise to explain why you should consider adjusting your Medicare coverage to suit your needs, what the differences are between the Advantage and Supplemental plans in 2021, and what changes to those plans you should note. Everyone covered by Medicare needs to pay attention to upcoming decision deadlines, and anyone with questions can work with a Medicare advisor to ensure they have the proper coverage for their needs and budget. Don’t miss this important show to learn more!

Curtis Almquist, Executive Director from LegalShield, joined our show to explain how, as a LegalShield member, you’ll get access to attorneys with an average of 22 years of experience at a surprisingly affordable cost. You will speak with an attorney in your area who can assist you with the exact type of law for which you need help, and your calls will always be returned within four business hours. Because the participating law firms are prepaid, their sole focus is on serving you rather than billing you. Curtis explained the pricing and gave examples of using the services. Don’t miss this show!

Dodie Brockamp, Executive Director of the Silverton Senior Center, drops in to discuss the many changes underway at the Silverton Senior Center, where everyone over 50 is welcome to use the center and participate in activities. Many of those activities are now virtual, as seniors are encouraged to isolate at home if they’re among the high-risk population. She also shares the COVID safety practices in place for services that are still available in person at the senior center. Don’t miss this show!

Katie O'Toole and Matt Jones joined us from Connect America to discuss medical alert devices and electronic health monitoring. Katie is the territory manager, and Matt is the regional sales manager with Connect America, and they use their expertise to describe how electronic devices can aid in remote monitoring of health conditions. Some of those devices will help ensure you take your medications correctly. They can even take your blood pressure, weight, and blood glucose. This information can then be sent to your doctor or family members to review. Other devices can send an alert if something is wrong. Don’t miss this show!

This week, we had the pleasure of talking with Lavinia Goto from NorthWest Senior and Disability Services. We talked about how important it is to reduce the risk of falls among seniors. Did you know falls are a leading cause of injury-related death for those over 65? Lavinia gives us an overview of typical falls and how to prevent them. She shares tips on what causes falls, the importance of screening for fall risk, and what you can do to reduce your risk of taking a fall. It matters in our community because, surprisingly, Oregon is among the top ten states for falls! Don’t miss this show!

Our guest, Lori Hayhurst, has lots of experience helping families as a Senior Move Manager from Senior Solutions of Oregon. During this week’s show, we talked about what a senior move manager is and how they can help with senior moving. Apart from what you might guess, move managers also help with organizing, downsizing, setting things aside for donation or disposal, packing, and unpacking, either during the move or at a separate time. They can coordinate with estate sale organizations, too, which can be a significant help to families who understandably can feel overwhelmed by the project. Do not miss this great episode! #Salem

Harold Fowlkes joins us this week from Bristol Hospice. Harold shares the basics of hospice care, dispels some of the common myths, and talks about the hospice services that may be unfamiliar. Few of us are emotionally prepared to face a life-limiting illness, and hospice can help make that tough time easier on families, with services that provide warmth, kindness, and pain-free care. Hospice supports both adults and children in its mission to change the end-of-life experience. Also, it offers families grief services for a year after their loved one passes. Don’t miss this informative show!

Diane Dennis, RN, from Age at Home Service, joined us to discuss geriatric care managers and the role they play.Diane is a Geriatric Care Manager and owner of Age at Home Service. She explains that geriatric care managers are licensed professionals who specialize in aging and managing senior care. They can act as an advocate and a voice of neutrality, leading families through difficult, emotionally charged conversations. Geriatric care managers also help families and seniors identify areas of concern and work to create a senior care plan that helps coordinate services and provide peace of mind. Don’t miss this show!

Diane Dennis, RN, from Age at Home Service, joined us to discuss geriatric care managers and the role they play.Diane is a Geriatric Care Manager and owner of Age at Home Service. She explains that geriatric care managers are licensed professionals who specialize in aging and managing senior care. They can act as an advocate and a voice of neutrality, leading families through difficult, emotionally charged conversations. Geriatric care managers also help families and seniors identify areas of concern and work to create a senior care plan that helps coordinate services and provide peace of mind. Don’t miss this show!

Our guest, Chad Cox, is the Program Coordinator for the HOPE Senior Peer Mentoring Program at Northwest Senior & Disability Services. Health problems, reduced mobility, the loss of a loved one, and other stressful life changes can take a toll on our emotional health. Senior Peer Mentors are volunteers who are trained to offer confidential and helpful mentoring using a self-guided workbook model. The program is free for those 60 or older and wishing to gain help managing their mild to moderate depression or anxiety. Don’t miss this show!

This week we are joined by Amy Schmidt & Michael Radut. They talked about Care Availability which is a community-based organization with a technology approach to finding resources and services with a goal to list EVERY housing & care company to have the most comprehensive directory available. This gives families to access resources from any device without sharing their contact details. It is available at no cost to hospitals in hopes to be an easy one-stop resource instead of care providers needing to update multiple paid sites. Don’t miss this show! #Salem

John Kaiser from Assisted Living Solutions joined us this week to discuss when and why to transition to assisted living. John talks about sensitive topics that are often hard to discuss, including, "How to know it's time to get care for Mom or Dad." As a Senior Living Advisor, John helps to educate, facilitate, support, and guide clients and their families through a frequently overwhelming transition process when additional care is needed for your loved one. He also discusses the costs of care and how and when to engage other professionals like move managers, attorneys, and real estate agents, etc. Don't miss this show!

Our guest this week, Jennifer Beam, a Respiratory Therapist, and owner of Premier Pulmonary Services, joined us to explain the services that are available for those with respiratory issues. People who deal with COPD, emphysema, asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, and hypertension, need comprehensive support groups to learn how to manage symptoms like shortness of breath. Ultimately, managing your condition so that you can feel better lets you continue to participate in life's activities. At Premier Pulmonary Services, they also offer help for those with sleep apnea and CPAP machines. Finally, we discussed masks to use when allergies flare up or smoke is present. Don’t miss this show!

Marilyn Daily, Director of Center 50+, joined us to talk about programs and services for those at her 50+ community center. The second half of our lives (age 50 and over) is about self-discovery, maintaining a quality-filled life through a healthy and active lifestyle, and finding new ways to remain connected to our peers and our community. Marilyn discusses programs and services of specific interest to those over 50, as well as resources and services for family caregivers or children of aging parents. Don’t miss this show!

My guest this week was Dave Yoast, president of Amramp. His company installs modifications to your home to help you age in place. One of the great stresses of getting older is finding that things you once took in stride have become obstacles. Dave tells us how his team can provide you with options to help you enjoy the comfort of your own home as you age. For example, ramps, grab bars, stairlifts, or vertical lifts can help you navigate your home without having to climb stairs. Many things can be purchased or rented – whichever accommodates your budget – and most ramps can be installed within a few days. Dave and his team can also remove them when they’re no longer needed. Don’t miss this show!

My guest this week on Aging in the Willamette Valley was elder-law attorney Monica Pacheco, a partner at the firm of Douglas, Conroyd, Gibb & Pacheco. Monica spoke briefly about estate planning and outlined the consequences of failing to make a plan. She also touched on some of the benefits available to veterans through various VA programs and dispelled some of the myths about qualifying for VA and Medicaid benefits. She shared with our audience how an elder-law specialist, such as herself, can help people qualify for both Medicaid and VA programs. Don’t miss this highly informative episode! #Salem

If you or a loved one are a veteran, I hope you’ll listen to my interview with Jerry Wilson of Yamhill County Health and Human Services. Jerry is the County Veterans Service Officer in Yamhill County. He walked us through an overview of the many benefits available to veterans and their spouses, such as pension, and burial expenses, and especially the Aid & Attendance benefit, which he covered in detail. It is designed to help veterans with long-term care assistance. Jerry also mentioned that navigating the VA website to search for benefits on your own is challenging, but County Veterans Services Officers, such as himself, provide their services for free. Just bring your DD Form 214 when you visit your local Veterans Service Officer. Don’t miss this show!

This week’s guest, Robert Winningham, Ph.D., joined us to discuss memory, aging, and brain health. Dr. Winningham is the Interim Dean and a Professor of Gerontology and Psychology at Western Oregon University. We talked about how to maintain and improve your cognitive abilities as you age. Dr. Winningham explains why we forget, and he tells us how we can improve our memory. Also, he addresses the always-popular quandary, “Is multitasking a good thing?” Learn the answers to these questions and many more! Don’t miss this show!

Our guest this week was Joel Henderson of the Oregon Talking Book and Braille Library, which is a division of the State Library of Oregon. Joel stopped by to discuss the free audio and Braille book library that serves any Oregonian with a print disability (visual, physical, or reading impairment). This great library has a collection of more than 85,000 audiobooks and magazines, and it is 100% free to use. There are no membership fees, no postage or late fees, and no replacement fees. The library provides a free player to each user, or you can choose to play books on a mobile device using the BARD mobile app. It’s a fantastic Oregon resource. #Salem

This week on Aging in the Willamette Valley, I interviewed Ben Heinatz, Client Care and Staffing Manager from ComForCare Home Care. We discussed the benefits of using a home care agency. Ben shares his insights about the plusses of home care services. We begin by defining home care, and Ben navigates from there to explain what "home care" does and does not entail. How does home care work? How do you pay for it? We cover these topics and more, along with a few laughs. You don't want to miss this episode!

Our guest, Keith Relf of Roadrunner Transport, talked about seniors getting safe and reliable transportation to medical and personal appointments in this area.Keith owns and operates the local non-emergency medical transport service. It caters to those who are ambulatory or need wheelchair access and prefer not to drive. With or without a wheelchair, if you need a little extra help getting in and out of the vehicle or checking in for your doctor’s appointment, they can accommodate you. As a senior citizen, it can be very liberating not to have to worry about getting to and from a medical office or pharmacy. Roadrunner's mission is to provide customers with safe and reliable transportation to and from these necessary sessions. Their motto is, "Let's get mobile." If you want to learn more, don't miss this show!

Do you ever wonder if a friend or family member might be edging toward Alzheimer’s Disease? This week on Aging in the Willamette Valley, I interviewed Alise Liepnieks, a program specialist from the Alzheimer's Association, to learn about the ten warning signs of Alzheimer’s and the importance of early detection. Alise is from the Mid-Willamette Valley Office of the Alzheimer’s Association. She helped us understand the programs available through the association in our area, such as support groups, educational presentations, and their 24/7 support hotline. Do not miss this show!

Christy Turner is an expert on dementia, a frequent speaker, and a dementia consultant. In fact, they call her the Dementia Sherpa. So this week, we discussed how the disease of dementia affects the brain -- it is much more than memory loss. Christy explained how families can work with a loved one who has dementia. She shared tips on how to make it “easier” rather than fighting it, such as techniques for communicating with the person who is struggling with dementia. Christy also spoke about non-pharmacological behavior management techniques. Don’t miss this show!

This week on Aging in the Willamette Valley, I interviewed Peter LeBray, an expert on geriatric psychology and gerontology, two areas of interest to those of us who are aging.Dr. LeBray, who is a consulting Geriatric Psychologist, visited John and Presley to share his views on aging. We discussed the history and evolution of Geriatric Psychology and the field of Gerontology, why these disciplines were created, and when they are necessary. If you are curious about Geriatric Psychology or Gerontology, do not miss this great show!

This week’s guest is Pastor Ralph Trask, Senior Pastor of Fellowship Church. He helps us explore the connection between spirituality and aging, and the effect spirituality has on our overall well-being as we age. And, in this context, we discuss the difference between spirituality and religion. In our conversation, we recognize that many people have new questions about their spirituality as they near the end of their journey, and the Pastor offers some brief advice on that topic. We also talk about how “retired” people can stay active and contribute to the community as part of their spirituality. We cover a lot of important ground, so don’t miss this show!

Have you heard about neuroplasticity? It’s the regenerative capacity of the human brain that gives it the power to learn and improve in response to a stroke or injury. You can lose connections in your brain, but it can repair itself! This week, Mike Studer, President, and Owner of Northwest Rehabilitation Associates join us to explain how this works. Mike also gives examples of how doing specialized exercises can help your brain repair itself and make more connections as you recover from a stroke, concussion, or other types of injury. Don’t miss this great show!

Baron Robison, our guest this week and the Executive Director of Kickin' Cancer, joins us to outline what it takes to outsmart that disease.Baron dedicates his time to help many people reduce the risk of cancer and supporting others in their fight against cancer. His organization, Kickin’ Cancer, offers education and support for living an anti-cancer lifestyle. You can achieve this through five core values that everyone needs: get good social support, reduce your stress, give yourself plenty of rest, understand that your food matters, and get your body moving. Using these five approaches can help you reduce your risk of getting cancer during your lifetime. If you want to hear more about Kickin’ Cancer, don’t miss this show!

Our guest, Rachel Davis, Account Executive from Amedisys Home Health, gives us an overview of what skilled home health care is and how you receive it. She also unravels the question of who pays for this service, as well as many other related concerns. She even covers how home health visits are conducted during the Coronavirus pandemic, and how Medicare has added guidelines about care during this time. Finally, Rachel will cover the various categories of home health, such as physical therapy and RN visits. Don’t miss this show!

This week on Aging in the Willamette Valley, it’s Part 2 of “Ten things you should know about the aging process.”In this episode, show hosts John Hughes and Presley Reader look back over the first 100 shows and review ten categories that are important to those who are growing older in the Mid-Valley. This is the second installment of a two-part series reviewing important topics for our listeners, mentioning the guests who spoke about them, and including some of the tips given during their shows. We’ll topics such as Medicare, Hospice Care, Dementia Care, and more. Don’t miss this show!

This week on Aging in the Willamette Valley, it’s Part 1 of “Ten things you should know about the aging process.”In this episode, show hosts John Hughes and Presley Reader look back over the first 100 shows and review ten categories that are important to those who are growing older in the Mid-Valley. This is the first installment of a two-part series reviewing important topics for our listeners, mentioning the guests who spoke about them, and including some of the tips given during their shows. We’ll topics such as Medicare, Hospice Care, Dementia Care, and more. Don’t miss this show!

This week, Brad Burge, Executive Director of Prestige Senior Living Orchard Heights, and Teresa Dinsmore, Community Relations Director with Prestige Senior Living Southern Hills, joined us to discuss tips on choosing an assisted living facility.Brad and Teresa bring us views of two senior living communities in one show! Both Southern Hills and Orchard Heights offers assisted living, and Orchard Heights offers memory care as well. Brad and Teresa tell us about these communities and share their insights on what you should consider if you’re evaluating assisted living for yourself or a loved one. They have a lot of information to share, so don’t miss this show!

This week on Aging in the Willamette Valley, I interviewed Mac McCurry, CLTC, or New York Life Insurance. We discussed setting up your retirement to weather turbulent markets. Mac explains how to create a good foundation for your retirement by outlining the building blocks of that foundation. Many people worry about their income during retirement, especially if that income is from a traditional 401(k) or IRA retirement investment plan that is tied to market trends. It's no fun to watch your nest egg go up and down with the market, especially in volatile times. Mac explains how to ensure your plan will last for you without drama and turbulence. Don't miss this show!

This week our guest, Miles Johnson, is an expert on the benefits of planning ahead for funeral service and end-of-life decisions. The Johnson Funeral Home is a family-run, local establishment with deep roots in the Salem community and a long-standing commitment to providing a gentle, caring, quality service. Their role is to guide a family through its darkest days with compassion and affordably priced options. Of course, families are spared some of the pain and confusion if we each take time to plan ahead for our own end-of-life concerns. Miles shows us that if we take the time to decide what options we each prefer, we can set up those arrangements in advance, greatly easing the burden of decision placed on our loved ones. Learn more about what you should consider and how to make those decisions in a fascinating conversation about this delicate subject that we’re often hesitant to discuss. Don’t miss this show!

This week, we’re joined by Allison Harris, Coordinator of the “Walk with Ease” program created by the Arthritis Foundation and offered through the Oregon State University Extension Service. Allison details the importance of physical activity in chronic pain management and aging. Walking can help to decrease pain and improve overall health. Walk with Ease can be done individually or as part of a class or group. The program teaches you about walking and pain management, as well as exercises to do before walking. Don’t miss this show!

This week, we’re doing something a little different. Host John Hughes interviews himself – giving you an opportunity to learn more about his role as owner and administrator of ComForCare Home Care in Salem. John is also a certified dementia educator who likes to give back to the community with free dementia training, by serving on the Advisory Board of Center 50+, and by hosting this radio show. John shares his story about dealing with his mother’s long-term care needs and how it motivated him to change careers to help people in our area. Get to know him better -- don’t miss this episode!

This week, I interviewed Steve Toll, Care Enhancement Specialist from ComForCare Home Care. We discussed what to do if you worry that your loved one’s forgetfulness might be dementia.Steve explains normal age-related forgetfulness and how that differs from dementia. He answers many questions such as, when is forgetting a normal part of life? When does forgetting become a reason for concern? How can we tell the difference between forgetfulness and dementia? Memory changes that interfere with a person’s ability to function are NOT part of the normal aging process and may be a sign of dementia. Steve covers all this information and more, so don’t miss this show! #Salem

This week, FETCH’s volunteer founder, Shannon Priem, tells us about Fido’s Emergency Team for Caring Hospitals (FETCH). She shares details about this option for people who are hospitalized and don't have anyone to care for their pets. The FETCH program provides help for senior hospital patients using a network of volunteers who will care for your pet in your own home, or possibly foster your pet in the volunteer’s home. FETCH also works with the Oregon Humane Society to provide boarding for pets when the numbers exceed the capacity of volunteers. Don’t miss this show!

This week, our guest is Steve Toll, Care Enhancement Specialist from ComForCare Home Care. During this episode, Steve shares how music can be used as therapy in many situations, like with hospice patients for pain and with people who have dementia. He explains the technical details about music therapy, some history on how this field has evolved, and a few stories of how he has seen music work as therapy. Research shows that playing memorable music can help people with dementia reduce fall risk, improve mood and behaviors, and increase cognition. Don’t miss this show!

This week, our guest is Nicki Marazzani, Program Manager from Villages United. She tells us about Villages United, which is a community-based nonprofit that assists older adults who want to continue to live in their own homes as they age. Villages United connects interested neighbors to their senior neighbors, encouraging companionship and volunteerism, and helping seniors age in place with confidence. The village offers a network of resources, services, and programs that revolve around the daily needs of members. Nicki is looking for both volunteers and seniors interested in aging in place. Don’t miss this informative show!

This week, our guest was Fred Steele, agency director of Oregon’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman’s office. Fred tells us what a state ombudsman’s office is and what they do. The mission of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman program is to protect individual rights, enhance quality of life, improve care, and promote dignity of life for Oregonians living in licensed long-term care facilities. This includes all nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, residential care facilities, and adult foster care homes. They are looking for volunteers, so don’t miss this show!

This week, our guest is Lucy Morgan, Business Development Director from Moving Made Easy. She explains that while moving is never easy, it’s even harder when you are a senior. The organizing, packing, lifting, and unpacking are more than you might want to face. On top of that, there is all that stuff that needs to be decluttered or that you no longer want. To avoid dealing with all this, many seniors spend years living somewhere they don’t especially want to stay just to avoid the huge hassle and strain of arranging a move.It doesn’t have to be that way when services such as Moving Made Easy can help. They specialize in moving seniors, and their staff will pack, move, and unpack all your belongings, making the transition as easy as possible. They will even help you declutter and get organized along the way. Before you know it, you’re living where you want to live, and you’re liberated from all the stuff you no longer want to have around you. Don't miss this show!

This week’s guest is Kelley Rogers, Senior Living Advisor and Owner of Senior One Source. She talked with us about senior living and all of the options available to seniors and their loved ones. Kelley and her team work to create the best living environment for each situation, whether that means someone staying in their home with assistance, or exploring other senior living options. They work with each client to determine what type of senior community is best suited for their needs and their budget. A senior living advisor will take an interested senior you on tours of the communities that match their needs. Best of all, their services are free. Don’t miss this informative show!

This week our guest Jim Graham, Partnership Specialist from the US Census Bureau. He discusses the 2020 Census, why the census is done every decade, why it is important, and how it is made safe and easy to complete. The 2020 Census can be completed electronically, via telephone, in paper form, or in-person with a census worker. Jim explains that the data is used to allocate funds to various entities like states and counties and that its data can help fund programs for older adults. Don’t miss this highly informative show! #Salem

This week’s guest, Dara Queen, is the Community Relations Director of Senior Helpers In-Home Care. We talked about what, exactly, an in-home care agency does.Dara helps educate us on the benefits of home care services by defining what home care means, including what it does and does not entail. Also, she answers important questions people are often hesitant to ask, such as “How does home care work?” and “Who pays for it?” There are a few laughs along the way, and Dara even sings for us! You don't want to miss this show.

This week, our guest is Michelle Te, General Manager and Managing Editor of Northwest50Plus. She talks about the importance of providing relevant information to the growing audience of 50+ readers in the Willamette Valley.Although many senior publications have useful information, they don’t provide local content. The articles in Northwest50Plus are mostly all by local writers, interviewing local experts and personalities about topics that relate specifically to the Northwest audience. Michelle gives us insight into the reporting, features, and advertising that informs, entertains, and pertains to us here in the Willamette Valley. Don’t miss this show!

This week, Sheryl Sodorff, the Business Development Specialist from Willamette Valley Hospice & Palliative Care, discussed the nonprofit’s 41 years serving the Mid-Valley area. She shared the basics of hospice care, dispelled some of the common myths, and talked about hospice services with which you may not be familiar.Few of us are emotionally prepared to face a life-limiting illness, and the hospice can help make that difficult time easier on families in a place that provides warmth, kindness, and pain-free care. The hospice supports both adults and children in its mission to change the end-of-life experience. Also, it offers families grief services and can even find new homes for surviving pets. Don’t miss this informative show!

This week, our guest is Devon Grogans, marketing director of the Salem Audiology Clinic. We discussed how hearing impacts our overall quality of life, and testing is important.Devon shared information about the value of getting your hearing tested and how our hearing can impact other aspects of our overall quality of life. He explained the audio testing process and told us how hearing aid technology has improved. These days, hearing devices aren’t noticeable to other people, so you can wear them easily in most situations. Even if you don’t think you have hearing loss, it’s still important for anyone over 50 to get checked and establish a baseline for their hearing. Don’t miss this show!

This week, Ann Horinouchi, COO and Community Developer from S3 Balance, discusses the importance of exercise for older adults, including seniors. Many think that they’re too old to exercise, but the exact opposite is true. Exercise is more important when you’re 80 than when you’re 20. That’s when exercise is essential to maintain functional mobility and balance. It preserves the ability to navigate the basic activities of daily living, provides a good quality of life, and protects your independence. Don't miss this show!

This week, Natalie Nelson, Executive Director of Battle Creek Memory Care, and Tonya Burlew, their Community Relations Director, joined us to talk about what to look for in a state-of-the-art memory care community.Natalie and Tonya explain how Battle Creek Memory Care combines a charming and safe environment with specialized memory care for individuals with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other memory issues. Their approach uses customized programs for each resident to build trust and emotional bonds meant to enhance guests’ lives for years to come. Programs include exercise, entertainment, and open visitation (no restricted hours) to encourage family participation. Also, the facility is organized into four neighborhoods, each with its own living, dining, and activity areas. Memory care works best in a supportive, safe, and familiar environment like this. Don’t miss this engaging and informative show!

This week, elder law expert Christopher Hamilton, partner at McGinty Belcher & Hamilton, explains why the holidays are a good time for estate planning.A well-crafted estate plan can save loved ones from having to go through costly and demanding court processes while dealing with their grief. And even when court processes can’t be avoided, a good estate plan can alleviate some of the burdens by streamlining the course of events. The holidays are a great time to put an estate plan together because when you’re gathered with loved ones, you can take a moment to share your intentions with them in person, letting them know that you have made a plan with them in mind, and reducing the concern and anxiety they would otherwise feel later. Don’t miss this show!

This week, Naomi Tillery, Community Relations Director from Boone Ridge Senior Living, joined us to talk about how this new facility approaches assisted living and transcends old-school concepts of nursing homes. She explains how senior care at Boone Ridge is designed to provide a continuum of care on one campus. So, whether residents are able to live independently and care for themselves or need higher levels of care, the community is designed to serve those needs at any level and to negotiate life’s changes as they occur. Less than a year old, Boone Ridge Senior Living opened to provide a safe, thriving, and inspiring environment for senior residents and offers many amenities you might not expect. Don’t miss the show!

This week, we discuss some of the benefits of essential oils and aromatherapy with Lori Tisdale, owner of Aroma Concierge. She explains why essential oils are an integral part of an alternative solution used with dementia patients in local memory care communities. And yet, some people are skeptical about these treatments. Lori shares the clinical side of aromatherapy and fantastic stories of how soothing applications of scent have been used with those who struggle with memory or who are in hospice care. And healthy people can benefit, too! Tune in to learn about this approach helps significantly to lift mood, aid wellness, ease anxiety, and more. Don’t miss this show!

This week, Manny Martinez, a wealth management advisor from WestPac Wealth Partners, joins us to talk about four steps to financial balance. This is advice that works throughout your life and helps to ensure you have funds for retirement. Manny works closely with his clients to create a plan, and then he monitors your progress to make sure the plan is working. He explains how to adjust the plan when life puts unexpected hurdles in your path. His advice can help you protect what you have today while also looking ahead to what’s next. Don't miss this show!

This week, Lynn Tylczak, a volunteer from the All Maximized Music program, talks about the program she’s developed. It provides dementia patients with free music that is selected and scored in a way that potentially improves physical and mental well-being. Clinical research shows that playing memorable music – and that includes specific musical aspects -- can help dementia patients reduce their risk of falling, improve their mood and behaviors, increase cognition, and reduce the need for antipsychotic drugs. Listen to hear more about what the Oregon Health Care Association calls the “Innovative Program of the Year.” Don’t miss the show!

This week, Alex Johnson II, principal broker and founder of TrueLife Financial Solutions, discussed important Medicare enrollment dates and changes to the Advantage and Supplemental plans in 2020. Alex returns to remind us about decision deadlines for Medicare enrollment, and changing your Medicare options. He explains why you should work with a Medicare adviser to ensure that you have the proper coverage for your needs and your budget. Don't miss this important show!

Our guest this week is Harold Fowlkes, the regional community liaison from Bristol Hospice and an expert on hospice care. He gives us a “Hospice 101” look at many of the specialty services offered by hospice organizations. We discuss the Namaste therapy at Bristol Hospice, which focuses on the five senses of the body with massage, aromatherapy, music, and more. Harold also talks about a new program called Bright Moments that can benefit anyone with dementia and end-of-life care, as well as help for their families. Don’t miss this informative show!

This week, our guest was Stephanie Eddy, a Hearing Instrument Specialist, and owner of Advanced Hearing Services. We discussed how everyone’s hearing is different, types of hearing loss, how hearing may change as we age, and hearing loss issues for those with dementia. Since hearing aids are a common treatment for hearing loss, Stephanie also reviewed the many types of hearing devices that are available these days, and how important it is to get your hearing checked by a qualified professional. With a mobile hearing service, testing is often free and can come to you –no driving on your part. Don’t miss this show!

This week, Dr. Tonia Vojtkofsky joined us to talk about how our brains think and the mission of the nonprofit All Health Foundation. She is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in cognitive disorders and aging issues. Dr. Vojtkofsky is also the Executive Director of the nonprofit All Health Foundation, which provides education and integrative behavioral health services. On the show, she talked about comprehensive interventions that target the physical, emotional, and social health of seniors and their families. Many people are unaware that this kind of help is available to them, but the staff of the All Health Foundation will visit seniors in their homes, and Medicare covers the cost. Don't miss this show!

This week, we spoke with Angela Smith, RN, and owner of Silver Angels Foot Care. She explained why it's essential to good health that your feet get checked regularly as we age. Proper foot care is an important -- and often overlooked -- aspect of necessary personal care. If you find it difficult to tend to your toes, the RNs at Silver Angels can help. They aid with foot care for those who are diabetic, elderly, disabled, overweight, injured, or for any reason can't reach their feet. More importantly, they inspect your feet and refer you to other professionals if more advanced foot care is needed. Don't miss this show!

This week on Aging in the Willamette Valley, I interviewed Destinee Schuster of Patient Support Services USA. We discussed disability SSDI and SSI disability benefits.As the owner of Patient Support Services USA, Destinee advocates for your Social Security Disability and Medicare benefits. She and her team partner with people who have severe and long-lasting impairments. They assist individuals in understanding the difference between SSI (Supplemental Security Income) and SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance), determining which programs fit the situation of each person, and how to apply for these programs. It’s important information to have before you actually need it, so don’t miss this great show!

This week, we were joined by Maxine “Max” Tammany, a Hospice Consultant from Brighton Hospice, who joined us to dispel fears and misconceptions surrounding the word “hospice.”If you or someone you know have ever felt apprehensive about hospice care, this is one episode you should hear. Care and comfort near the end of life are precious gifts that offer so much more ease than hospitalization. Focusing on the relief of stress and pain, hospices help patients improve their quality of life at a time when that matters most. Max counters the myths that surround hospice care and gives us insight into what makes it work. Don’t miss it!

This week, I interviewed August Peterson, Coach and Owner of Undefeated by Parkinson's. Coach Peterson gives us an inside look at how counter-intuitive programs such as boxing and other regular exercise can help with Parkinson's disease. Phil Davidson, a participant in the boxing program, also joins us to talk about his first-hand experience. Phil shares how regular exercise has helped him fight Parkinson’s by slowing the progression of the disease and living a better life. Finding ways to live better until a cure is found is the best way to battle Parkinson’s now, so don't miss this show!

Many people worry that memory care communities might be frightening. Or they dread thinking about them when a loved one is “on the dementia path." Fear not, because this week we’re joined by Nick Bales, Executive Director of Jefferson Lodge Memory Care. Nick helps explain memory care and what it is like to be a resident of Jefferson Lodge. Nick has run an independent living, assisted living, and memory care communities before joining Jefferson Lodge, where he is very focused on his residents. Nick takes pride in knowing each one of them personally. #Salem

This week, Angela Plowhead, Geropsychologist from Capacity Solutions, answers the question, “Where do you go after your family doctor says, ‘It's some kind of dementia’?” It’s frightening to have a doctor tell you that your loved one may have dementia. Can that diagnosis be right? It’s easy to feel lost or desperate, and you’ll probably want a second opinion before doing anything else. Our guest this week is Dr. Angela Plowhead, a Geropsychologist who can help you determine the correct diagnosis via cognitive and decision-making assessments. She visits individual homes and considers all factors that might be contributing to the issue. Then, she provides recommendations to help manage the situation. Don't miss this show!

In this episode, Mac McCurry, CLTC, an agent with New York Life Insurance, discusses how to have a fixed or guaranteed income stream during your retirement years. Many people worry about their income during retirement, especially if that income is from a traditional plan like a 401(k), or IRA plan that is still tied to market trends. It's no fun to watch your nest egg go up and down with the market. Mac explains other approaches to ensure your nest egg will last for you without drama and turbulence. Don't miss another great show!

This week, Alise Liepnieks, Regional Coordinator for the Alzheimer's Association in the Mid-Willamette Valley, discusses a persistent question anyone might have about themselves or an aging loved one. How do you know whether someone's forgetfulness or speed in processing their thoughts is related to normal aging or is a sign of dementia? Alise explains the differences and shares “Ten Warning Signs of Alzheimer's" as a guide. It’s information you don’t want to be without – so don't miss the show! #Salem

This week, Jerry Norton, owner of Mind & Body Wellness, talks about the benefits and uses of hemp and CBD. Jerry started his wellness business to spread the healing power of hemp, and to celebrate all of the cannabinoids found within this amazing plant. CBD helps reduce inflammation, and CBD oil used with regular massage therapy is even more effective. CBD treatment can replace expensive medications with no negative side-effects. As a hemp farmer and founder of the Oregon Industrial Hemp Farmer’s Association, he has first-hand knowledge of a rapidly growing health field. Don’t miss this exciting show!

This week, Nadine Grzeskowiak, the gluten-free RN, joins us to explain celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity, and gluten-free diets. She explains how you can modify your lifestyle to live with celiac disease, starting by switching to foods without gluten. Nadine also talks about getting tested for celiac disease and how gluten-free eating can be yummy! She’s an expert consultant, author, podcaster, professional speaker, and research enthusiast, so you know this will be good! Don’t miss the show!

This week, Mac McCurry, CLTC, an agent with New York Life Insurance, gives an overview of how to plan for long-term care. Mac is certified as a CLTC, which means he has the crucial tools needed to discuss the subject of longevity and its acute consequences on a client's family – financial, physical, and emotional. His expertise is planning for those years down the road. He helps families protect themselves from the potential devastation of long-term care expenses with advice that leads to a plan to mitigate adverse consequences. Don’t miss this show!

This week, Tracy Duerst, a personal in-home financial assistant, joins us to discuss how she helps clients stay on top of their mail and keep their bills paid on time. She explains how a personal financial assistant works – it’s an option many people don’t realize is available to them, and it can help retirees preserve their independence and reduce stress. Her insight can bring relief to anyone who dislikes keeping up with a lot of paperwork.

This week, Dodie Brockamp and Bob Foster with Silverton Senior Center, join us to discuss the many changes underway there. Did you know that people over 50 can now use the center and participate in activities there? Also, Dodie talked about many of the new activities they are offering. Learn about smartphones and computers, browse the thrift store, do yoga, and kick up your heels with line dancing. Tune in to learn about the center’s link to Disney. #Salem

Marja Byers, Executive Director of Blindskills, Inc., joins us to discuss vision loss and how people can cope when they are legally blind or otherwise vision-impaired. Blindskills is a nonprofit organization providing support, education, and resources to people living with sight loss -- particularly those new to living with less sight as they figure out how to do things differently. Blindskills publishes DIALOGUE Magazine, operates a toll-free helpline, and provides three monthly support groups open to everyone. Don't miss this show!

This week Janet Sanders, OT, CHT (Occupational Therapist, Certified Hand Therapist), and owner of Sanders Hand and Pediatric Therapy joins us to talk about hand therapy. Hand therapy helps you gain strength and confidence, return to pain-free movement through rehabilitation following your illness, accident, or surgery. Hand therapists can help you with specialized splints, physical therapy exercises, and ergonomic issues with common ailments like arthritis. Don’t suffer in pain! Tune in for a great show!

This week we are joined by Nadine Grzeskowiak, from RN On Call which offers private pay, in-home health care management, and people are seen in their own homes. There is a need for people to have an advocate, a professional Nurse that will help them navigate the complicated medical system, or better yet, help them stay healthy and not need to go to the hospital for a crisis. There are many people that can’t get out to go to appointments for health care. Tune in for a great show!

In this episode, Natasha Steele from Weddle Funeral Service and Deon Strommer from First Call Mortuary Services, join us to talk about “green” burial options. Options for cremation, burial and other ends of life choices are changing today & you need to hear about them. Aqua Cremation, also called Alkaline Hydrolysis, is something Deon pioneered in Oregon and it’s a cost-effective option to traditional cremation. Natural burials, burying on your own property and many more topics are discussed! Don’t miss this show!

When you begin funeral planning, the amount of decisions can seem overwhelming — but don't worry because help is available! Natasha Steele, Funeral Director & Owner, of Weddle Funeral Service joins us to discuss many aspects of funeral planning, pre-planning, and many options during this time of grief. Natasha and her staff are committed to providing support, compassion, information, and direction as needed to all members of our community, their families, and friends who are dealing with loss and grief. Tune in for a great show!

This week Michael Cline, owner of Aspen Pain Clinic, talks with us about Rehabilitation Massage which is a site-specific treatment with a precise goal or outcome in mind. Whether your pain is caused by an accident, work or sports injury, or the tolls of everyday life, our providers will make an expert assessment and design a plan to get you feeling better and back to your normal active self. This approach will relieve pain, restore health, and provide solutions for patients with individualized therapy and education. Don't miss this show!

Join us this week as Melissa Gimby, Marketing Manager for Oregon Medical Centers, LLC (formerly First Choice Chiropractic & Rehabilitation) talks to us about regenerative medicine that uses stem cells to replace and restore damaged tissue in the body. This is done by an injection into your joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and improve the function of the affected area. This approach can help some people avoid surgical procedures & Melissa talks about "where" these stem cells come from. Tune in!

Join us this week to explore how chiropractic care can help with pain from an auto or work-related accident. Melissa Gimby, Marketing Manager for Oregon Medical Centers, LLC (formerly First Choice Chiropractic & Rehabilitation) talks to us about how a chiropractor can help you recover from these types of accidents. She also talks about the three phases of healing in regard to chiropractic care. The clinic has one goal which is to make their patients feel better using chiropractic treatment, massage, and Physical Therapy. Don't miss this show!

In this show, Dr. Larry Gates M.D. from Salem Gastroenterology Consultants joins us to talk about the importance of screenings for colon cancer, liver disease, inflammatory bowel disease and other diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Colorectal cancer is one of the most common, and most deadly, of cancers. For this reason, colon cancer screening is recommended for everyone over the age of 50. The good news is colon cancer is 90% preventable when detected early. Tune in for this important show & make sure you get screened!

You may have heard the term "fiduciary", but have you ever wondered what that means and what those people do? In this episode, Kyle Downs, Trust Administrator at Trinity Fiduciary Services, explains to us what services a fiduciary provides, why you need one or would want to hire one. Kyle also gives some tips on things to look for if you are looking for a fiduciary for yourself or a loved one. Kyle also gives some splendid examples of why you might want a fiduciary as part of your estate planning. Don't miss this show!

In this episode, Lynell Beckstrom, Master Trainer at the Rapid Eye Institute, joins us to discuss how Rapid Eye Technology (RET) can help with many emotional issues in people's lives. Basically, the emotional stress caused by any issue can be released, the body retrained, and the mind educated to think and react differently through the RET process. RET helps people with everyday stress, issues caused by abuse, grief, anger, family dynamics, and other emotional issues. Don't miss this informative episode!

This week Barbara Crawford, the Owner of Columbia Medical Alarm, Inc. joins us to discuss the services her company offers with Personal Emergency Response Systems, medication dispensers and more. Columbia Medical Alarm has been serving the Willamette Valley area for almost 30 years offering safety, peace of mind & reassurance to their clients and family members. They walk you through the entire process, so you don't need to call anyone for any additional support or help. Don't miss this informative episode!

Do you or a loved one struggle with diabetes? Do you sometimes feel like you are alone in your battle with diabetes? This week, we talk with Sondra Underberg and Renee Lacy from Diabetes Support Services. Their organization provides diabetes education beyond what you initially receive from your doctor. They also host multiple support groups in the Salem area. You are not alone, so tune in to hear about how their services help people with diabetes navigate those murky waters! Don't miss this show!

In this episode, Nathan Hambley, Communications Manager for the Pacific Northwest, at Uber joins us to discuss how Uber can help older adults who may, or may not, be internet savvy. We discuss how to use Uber without a smartphone and how families can arrange for rides for their loved ones and receive alerts on the ride progress. Also, some clinics and doctor’s offices can arrange rides for their patients too! We also discuss Uber Eats which can deliver meals to your home! Don't miss this exciting episode about Uber!

Nancy Baldwin, Health Educator & CHEC Supervisor, from Salem Hospital joins us to talk about a resource in our area called the Community Health Education Center (CHEC). At the CHEC you can take health-related classes, check out books or engage with a librarian to find online resources, or join a group meeting held there. If you have been diagnosed with a condition you wish to research, the staff at CHEC can help you. You can also take classes from child birth to end of life and everything in between. Don't miss this informative episode!

This week, we are talking with Dr. Marc Braman from Northwest Lifestyle Medicine about "lifestyle medicine" and how it differs from regular medical treatment. Lifestyle medicine utilizes elements of basic, everyday living as a treatment for medical problems, such as nutrition, physical activity, sleep, stress management, relaxation, sunlight/vitamin D, etc. Lifestyle forms the foundation of all effective long-term treatment and should receive the greatest emphasis. Don't miss this show #Salem

In this exciting episode, we talk to Lisa Haines from Hidden Lakes about independent living. If you aren't familiar with this term, it is also called retirement living, over 55, senior living, and other names. Lisa tells us all about it and the benefits you get from living in a community like Hidden Lakes. She also briefly discusses the difference between Independent Living and Assisted Living. Lisa is a wealth of information, so don't miss this show!

This week, we talk with Curt Dewees, the Marketing Director for Deer Meadow Assisted Living in the small community of Sheridan. Curt explains what types of services are offered in an assisted living community and then talks about some of the charm and unique qualities of Deer Meadow. If you are looking for an assisted living community in a peaceful & tranquil setting, tune in to hear more about Deer Meadow. More importantly, Curt answers the questions "Is there a meadow?" and "Are there deer in it?" Don't miss this great episode!

Naomi Asselin, Bereavement Coordinator with Bristol Hospice, talks about "normalizing" grief and bereavement and how to have those difficult conversations with someone who is grieving. Naomi also talks about the grieving process and how hospice offers resources to help someone through that difficult period of their life. She also describes the subtle differences between grief, mourning, and bereavement. Don't miss this important show!

In today's episode, we talk with Benjamin Surmi, Director of People and Culture at Koelsch Communities. He is actively involved with creating dementia care programs, lecturing on dementia, and following different innovations in dementia care around the world. He discusses the mission to change the dementia narrative from a story of tragedy, hopelessness, and decline, to a story of growth and hope. Additionally, he covers information on training and education, technology, creative engagement for people with dementia, and much more! Don't miss this show!

In this episode, show host John Hughes and Presley Reader look back over the first 100 shows and review ten categories that are important to understand while growing older in the Mid-Valley. This is the second installment of a two-part series reviewing important topics for our listeners, mentioning the guests who spoke about them, and including some of the tips given during their shows. Part two covers topics such as Medicare, Hospice Care, Dementia Care, and more. Don’t miss this show!

In this episode, show hosts John Hughes & Presley Reader look back over the first 100 shows and review 10 "categories" that are important to know about while growing older in the Mid-Valley. This is part one of a two-part series reviewing important topics for our listeners and mentioning the guests who spoke about these topics and some of the tips given during their show. Part one covers topics like aging in place, estate planning, and more. Don’t miss this show!

In this episode, Steve Toll, the Director of Special Programs for ComForCare Home Care, talks about home safety for someone with dementia. Steve breaks this down into two different categories for safety: making the home safe for the person and how to make that person "feel" safe in the home. Steve shares techniques on how to make your loved one feel safe in the home and with the people caring for them. He also makes several suggestions on how to make the home environment safe for a person with dementia. Don't miss this exciting episode!

Life is busy. If arranging your photos & preserving your stories has been on your to-do list, there is no time like the present to make it happen. Memories, like photos, fade away, and time is fleeting. Photo albums that weren't archived can damage images, and memorabilia, slides, and images stored incorrectly can become a real mess to salvage. Zoe Morrison, founder of My Beautiful Life Story, talks about how her services can help preserve photos, memories, and stories for children and grandchildren who may not know the stories behind the pictures.

You've probably heard about long-term care insurance and wondered about what it covers and how to go about getting a policy. Or maybe you've heard that things are changing with long-term polices and wonder what exactly that means. Well, we have the answers. James Hutches is a financial representative from Country Financial, and in this show, he explains what long-term care policies are and how they can be used. He also discusses alternatives to these polices, as well as some helpful tips if you are currently shopping for one or wish to use an existing policy. Don't miss this show! #Salem

Kelli Monaghan of Heavenly Grounded Coaching joins us to share about her own loss of a spouse and how she became a life coach for widows & widowers. She helps them figure out what to do with their lives now that the relationship no longer defines them and how they can do, be, or have anything they want! Kelli also shares some mental health tips for the holidays! Don't miss this exciting show!

In this episode, Lauren Heinatz from ComForCare Home Care gives a lot of tips on how to handle your holiday festivities, but also deal with your loved one with dementia at the same time. Lauren shares how your loved one may get upset or confused by holiday activities and how you need to adjust to meet their needs so that they are included appropriately in the festivities and people. A few tips: limit travel, provide a quiet room separate from the crowd, only have a few people visit with them at a time, and most of all, create good memories.

In this episode Sue Horn, Community Relations Director at Avamere Court at Keizer shares information about long-term care options. Avamere Court is a continuing care retirement community with Independent Living, Assisted Living, Skilled Nursing, and Memory Care. Sue explains the differences between Independent Living and Assisted Living and how to determine which one is appropriate for your loved one. A lot of useful tips and information are discussed, so don't miss this exciting episode!

Marie Jennings, Community Relations Director at Parkland Village Retirement Community, shares some tips and tricks for enjoying the holidays with your loved one who may have cognitive or mobility issues. She also discusses signs that indicate your loved one might need care and how to start that conversation with them. She shares information about the quaint and charming Parkland Village with Independent Living and Assisted Living. Tune in for another great show! #Salem

Shelly Mendoza talks about ways to determine if a person has the cognitive skills necessary for safe and independent driving. She also covers how to approach a loved one with concerns about their driving abilities and the DriveABLE cognitive assessment that focuses on the cognitive abilities essential for safe driving.DriveABLE is a computerized cognitive assessment that checks attention, memory, visual tracking/processing, judgment, and decision making under time pressure and impulse control. It's a scientific and independent method to help take away the keys!

Do you have trouble understanding your soft-spoken grandchildren? Have you injured your arm or shoulder? Is reading more difficult for you due to small print? Do you have tremors from Parkinson's? Laurie Brooks from Access Technologies walks us through the world of both high and low-tech options to help with all of these tasks and more, including software that allows you to talk to your computer, devices to help you hear better on the phone, various magnification options, and other gadgets to help maintain your quality of life! #Salem

Melanie Bjerke of Davenport Place Assisted Living in Silverton joins us in this episode to explain that assisted living can be home-like, and the staff can have a personal touch with their residents. Davenport Place is a smaller assisted living space in a small-town setting, but it has a lot of charm and personality! Don't miss this episode!

Medicare Part D - Prescription Drug Plans. We continue exploring Medicare this week with drug plans. What are they? Are they required? Is there more than one option? What’s the cost? Alex Johnson of TrueLife Financial Solutions answers these questions and more! This is part four in a four-part series on Medicare, and Alex explains Medicare Prescription Drug Plans & how they work. He also covers important dates & deadlines you need to be aware of when dealing with these plans. Don't miss this great episode!

Alex Johnson II, the Principal Broker and Founder at TrueLife Financial Services, LLC, joins us for part three of our four-part series on Medicare. In this episode, we discuss Medigap policies (also referred to as Medicare Supplemental polices). What are these used for? Why should you want one? And how does it differ from a Medicare Advantage plan? All of these questions and more will be covered during this episode. Please tune in and don't miss hearing this vital information!

Have you heard about Medicare Advantage Plans and wondered what they are or how they differ from "regular" Medicare? This is part two in a four-part series on Medicare with Alex Johnson of TrueLife Financial Services, LLC, and he explains what Medicare Advantage Plans are and how they work. He also covers important dates and deadlines you need to be aware of when signing up for or changing these plans. Don't miss this great episode full of important information! #Salem

In this episode, Alex Johnson of TrueLife Financial Solutions explains the basics of Medicare. What are the important dates? What do the different pieces of the Medicare puzzle mean, and how should you deal with them? Alex is able to guide us through the Medicare maze so that everyone can understand! Medicare is complex, so this is part one of a four-part series. Don't miss this crucial information!

Our guest this week is Keith Relf, owner and operator of Roadrunner Transport, which is an ambulatory and wheelchair accessible non-emergency medical transport service. If you do not require the use of a wheelchair but need a little extra help getting in and out of the vehicle or checking in at your appointment, they can accommodate you. Roadrunner's mission is to provide customers with safe and reliable transportation to and from medical and personal appointments. Their motto is "Let's get mobile." Don't miss this episode!

This week Kyle Issacs, RDH, spoke with us about the importance of dental hygiene and how her services can come to you in your home or in your care setting such as assisted living. Kyle discusses oral hygiene and how it is important for overall health, especially as people age. Kyle is passionate about those unable to care for themselves, not only providing much needed preventative oral hygiene services but also educating the caregivers of those unable to care for themselves. Tune in for another exciting episode!

Jennifer Neahring joins us to discuss WEAVE (WE are All Village Elders), an Oregon nonprofit organization working to make Salem part of a national movement of villages developing across the country to help provide support for seniors to experience an active, healthy lifestyle and remain in their homes for as long as possible. Connecting neighbors with neighbors and local services will allow a platform for the integration of innovative projects to build healthier communities. Don’t miss this exciting show!

This week we are joined by Meg Rowe to discuss a new training program offered via the Chemeketa Small Business Development Center called "Age Is Opportunity." It's a 10-week program designed for people over 50 who have an idea for self-employment or “encore entrepreneurship” and need information and guidance to get started. The program combines lectures, discussion and collaboration with your peers, and ongoing business advising to provide you with the skills and support needed to successfully plan and sustain your new business.

Oregon is investing in behavioral health to better meet the needs of older adults and people with disabilities, and making sure that providers work together to provide coordinated, high-quality physical and behavioral health care. Tune for our discussion with Patrick Brodigan, Older Adult Behavioral Health Specialist with Marion County Health and Human Services. He describes the types of services available and the effort put in to make sure all providers work together. Don't miss this exciting episode!

Kimberly McCord joins us to explain acupressure and the benefits of using it. To clarify, no needles are involved! Simply touching a specific point on the body will release stress and improve physical health. It can relieve muscle tension and improve circulation but is also effective in treating conditions such as headaches, backaches, insomnia, and anxiety.

In this episode, we discuss respiratory issues with Jennifer Beam from Premier Pulmonary Services. They offer comprehensive support groups to help people deal with a variety of conditions, including COPD, emphysema, asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, and hypertension. Learn to manage symptoms like shortness of breath and ultimately manage your condition, feel better, and participate in life's activities. They also offer services for sleep apnea and CPAP machines. We discussed masks to use when allergies flare up or smoke is present.

Karla spoke about the basics of reverse mortgages - how to qualify, how they work, how long can you stay in your home, and more! She also covered how reverse mortgages have changed over the years and dispelled some of the common myths and misconceptions about them. Tune in to find out how reverse mortgages work and if one might be right for you or your loved one!

This week, our guest is Meg Rowe, Mediator/Facilitator of ReCenter Resolutions who offers mediation and/or facilitates family dialog. She provides adult family mediation and estate mediation to families in conflict, supporting them to have necessary conversations and come to solutions that meets everyone’s interests and needs while preserving important relationships. Do you ever have difficult conversations and wish you had help, like getting your loved one to stop driving? Tune in for more information!

This episode features Alex Johnson from TrueLife Financial Solutions. TrueLife specializes in educating seniors on insurance solutions that are affordable and suitable for their specific situations. The focus is on the needs of the client as opposed to a sale. Free services that TrueLife offers clients include: insurance reviews, travel booklets, and needs analysis. Tune in to listen to a great show with Alex Johnson!

Dr. Kevin Cuccaro discusses methods for treating pain (including opioids), as well as a different approach to understanding pain and how it is constructed in the brain. Pain is an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience in response to perceived danger; it is comprised of emotion, cognition, and sensation. Tune in for part 2 of our series as it will challenge you to think differently about pain and remember to use the pain triangle!

Dr. Kevin Cuccaro discusses methods for treating pain (including opioids) as well as a different approach to understanding pain and how it is constructed in the brain. Pain is an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience in response to perceived danger. It is comprised of three things: emotion, cognition, and sensation. Tune in for part one of a two-part series that will challenge you to think differently about pain!

In this episode, we talk about in-home care services with Toby Forsberg from Helping Hands Home Care. Toby explains what in-home care services do and do not cover and, most importantly, how you can get help with paying for these services to keep you or your loved one safely at home. There is a lot of information, so tune in to hear Toby give us the scoop!

Have you heard about the trend toward direct primary care? We discuss DPC with Dr. Rob Rosborough of Township Health DPC. Most primary care doctors are busy and see 25 to 30 patients per day. Not so with DPC! DPC doctors see fewer than 10 patients per day and spend about 30 minutes with them. They even make house calls when necessary! Tune in to find out more about the pros and cons of DPC!

This week we talk with Jennifer Garner, Senior Service Navigator, about what you need to know to successfully navigate long-term living options and resources to age in place. Many people experience overwhelming feelings that come with facing a long-term diagnosis or even simply seeking long-term care. Information should be easy to access and trustworthy because families and loved ones need support and guidance. Navigating through the murky waters of long-term care is NOT easy, so tune in for this exciting show!

During this episode, we discuss residential care (which is similar to assisted living) and memory care at Four Seasons & Blue Haven. These communities operate on a much smaller scale than the large buildings you may have seen before. Julie Waterhouse, Community Liaison, tells us why a smaller setting is better for some people and what makes these communities different from their larger contemporaries.

In this episode, Marilyn Daily the Director of Center 50+ explains the process of evaluating the city of Salem and the process to determine whether Salem is Age Friendly. There are 8 domains that are analyzed during this process: outdoor spaces and buildings, transportation, housing, respect and social inclusion, civic participation and employment, communication and information, & community support and health services. Tune in to learn more!

In this episode, Christy Turner, the Dementia Sherpa, is our guest, and we are talking about memory care at home. You've heard of memory care facilities, but Christy talks about keeping your loved one home instead of moving them to a memory care facility. It's not easy, but Christy gives guidance on how to do this for your loved one with dementia. You don't want to miss this episode and the riveting discussion!

Jamie Callahan of Team Senior Referral Services provides guidance and advice to seniors and their families when they're trying to find the ideal senior living option for their budget and needs. While running her business, Jamie encountered other advisers who do not research senior communities as she does, and at times, it seemed like they were only trying to get a paycheck. Jamie decided to make a difference and get more rules and regulations put into place on these referral agencies. She succeeded, there are new laws coming into effect in 2018!

In this episode, we talk to Stefani Sackinger from Lumina Hospice and she discusses many of the "myths" about hospice and tells us the "real story." We also explore the differences between hospice care and palliative care. It's another exciting show, so make sure you tune in!

This week we speak with Jennifer Rounsaville and Joanne Heilinger from the Salvation Army Kroc Community Center and touch on many of the offered activities, especially those for seniors. Jennifer is involved in community outreach and business development, and Joanne is a group exercise instructor. It is mind-blowing how many activities and amenities the Kroc Center offers to our community, from kids to seniors. They have it all, folks! Fitness classes, strength and balance classes, low impact classes in the swimming pool, and more!

We've all see the TV commercials with the line "Help! I've fallen and I can't get up!" These commercials are selling Personal Emergency Response Systems, which are wearable devices with emergency push buttons on that individuals use to get help. While these seem fairly generic, there are many differences between these devices and the services behind them. Tune in to find out about a terrific device and get to know Barry and Karen Tevis! #Salem

In this episode, we cover relocation and/or downsizing your home, decluttering, and estate sales with the dynamic team from Caring Transitions of Salem. This business belongs to John Hoge and Tania Turnell, who explain these topics in detail and describe how they add a personal touch to their services. Remember, these transitions can be a difficult time in your loved one's life! Tune in and don't miss learning about these topics!

If you or someone you know has struggled with trying to find a quality and safe senior living community for a loved one, this show is for you! Kristi and Peter from CarePatrol discuss how they help families find a community that will be appropriate for their loved one based on budget, services and activities offered, location, etc. The best part is that their services are totally free. Listen to this episode to learn more!

Dynamic Marketing Director Bailey Lalum discusses Cedar Village Assisted Living & Memory Care. We find out about the services offered, activities, and how the staff and residents interact like family. We focus mainly on the assisted living side of their community, but we do touch briefly on their memory care as well. Bailey is fun, energetic, and full of information, so tune in for an exciting and humorous show!

In this exciting episode, we explore memory care with Holly Hordichok and Laurie Pomeroy from Heartwood Place Memory Care in Woodburn. We explore the details of memory care, what kind of services they offer, and the type of people who live in their community. They also share details about some of the programs that are unique to Heartwood Place Memory Care. Stay tuned as we cover a wealth of information!

We have Bryce "Spider" Lisser from Stone Guardian Acupuncture on the show to tell us about the slow-motion martial arts you see in the park and similar settings. Yes, it's really a form of martial arts, just done slowly and deliberately. Teaching QiGong and Tai Chi is part of Bryce's practice of Chinese Medicine at Stone Guardian Acupuncture. Tai Chi can even be used by seniors who want to have better balance and prevent falls! Don't miss it!

You may have heard the terms "home care," "in-home care," and/or "home health," and wondered what they mean. Are they same or different things altogether? During this episode, Rachel Davis and James Welch from First Call Home Health explain these terms and how they differ. They also cover how they complement each other. You don't want to miss this lively discussion! #Salem

Our homes and lives are filled to the brim with “things.” Providing space and caring for these possessions requires time, money, and effort. We can reach a point where the value or pleasure we derive from these “things” no longer matches the effort required. A professional organizer understands that there are items that improve our daily lives and items that hinder us from achieving our fullest potential. Kristin Bertilson of Queen B Organizing discusses how to help free you from the constraints of too many “things." Tune in for a great show!

Did you know that there are mobile dental hygiene services? Yes, they come to your home or long-term care community to perform oral care services for you! Tune in to our discussion on this topic with Ann Ossinger from DoorStep DentalHygiene, LLC. Another amazing service that comes to you!

In this exciting episode, we talk to Aaron Drilling from Madrona Hills about independent living. If you aren't familiar with this term, it is also called retirement living, over 55, senior living, and other names. Aaron tells us all about it and the benefits you get from living in a community like Madrona Hills. He also briefly discusses the difference between Independent Living and Assisted Living. Aaron is a wealth of information, so don't miss this show!

Bryce 'Spider' Lisser from Stone Guardian Acupuncture & Apothecary is our guest in this episode, and we'll be discussing aging with balance. Bryce is an acupuncturist and Qigong/Tai Chi Teacher. Stone Guardian Acupuncture & Apothecary is a complete Chinese medical practice that emphasizes all four pillars of Chinese medicine: acupuncture, chinese herbal medicine, tuina massage and qigong. Prior to this episode, I thought acupuncture meant turning people into a human porcupine, but Bryce dispels that myth and others. Don't miss it!

In this episode, we spoke to Melissa Kidd from Cherriots about the mass transportation services they provide in the Salem-Keizer area and out to Marion & Polk Counties. Melissa told us about the services they provide to seniors and, quite frankly, you will be amazed by some of the things they do to help seniors. Cherriots is more than just a bus line service! Tune in for a great show with Melissa Kidd!

This fun show is filled with information, quotes, jokes, and laughter as we talk with the two "leaders of fun" from Southern Hills Assisted Living: Sammie Mosley and Mark Kronquist. Mark is the Community Relations Director and Sammie is the Resident Wellness Coach. Both promote fun times and lots of laughter in all activities at Prestige Senior Living Southern Hills. Tune in for this fun show as it was hard to contain these two!

In this great episode, we explore the world of Adult Protective Services (APS) and their role in protecting adults. Find out what they do and cannot do while we discuss APS with Devrey Hachenberg, the APS Manager from Northwest Senior and Disability Services (NWSDS). APS receives allegations of abuse and neglect against seniors and individuals with physical disabilities. APS's role is to investigate allegations of abuse and work with consumers to put interventions in place to ensure the abuse does not continue.

If you've ever spent hours online searching for health care providers and became frustrated by the vague information or all of the annoying advertisements, there is a new way to find information.AskEarnest.com is an online database of health care providers with clear information, educational materials, and no annoying advertisements or involuntary redirects to other websites! Zac Metzker and Derrick Teague explain why AskEarnest was created and how it will be useful to many people across the country.

In another exciting episode, we explore adult foster homes with Julie Olds from Northwest Senior and Disability Services. Julie covers issues like licensing, training, how an AFH differs from assisted living, cost, and much more. Listen closely and learn from an expert!

During this episode, Steve Toll shares how music can be used as therapy in many situations, like with hospice patients for pain and with people who have dementia. Steve shares technical details about music therapy, some history on how this field has evolved, and a few stories of how he has seen music work as therapy.

In this episode, we talk to Naomi Tillery about the Alzheimer's Network and the resources they provide to the community. Naomi discusses their educational classes, support groups, and the new Adult Day Respite Program. Tune in to hear the latest about the Alzheimer's Network and how they can be a valuable resource to anyone dealing with Alzheimer's disease or any type of dementia.

Ben Heinatz of ComForCare Home Care helps educate us on the benefits of Home Care services. We begin by defining home care, and Ben navigates from there to help everyone understand what "home" does and does not entail. How does home care work and how can someone pay for it? These topics are all covered along, with a few laughs. You don't want to miss this episode!

Mike Studer from Northwest Rehabilitation Associates returns to the show to discuss GeriAthletics. In case that word seems odd, Mike takes the time to explain how those of us in the over 50 crowd can still be athletes. He touches on ways that decades-long couch potatoes can get in shape again without hurting themselves. We even delve into how yardwork and other everyday tasks can help get or keep you in shape!

Dodie Brockamp is the Executive Director of the Silverton Senior Center. She shares the history of the senior center and lots of information about the wonderful activities and services it offers. Did you know that people 50 and over can now use the center and participate in activities there?

During this episode, we discuss how the Retirement Connection guide can help you and your loved ones find the resources you need as you age in place. Amy Schmidt walks us through the guide book's layout, the types of resources it contains, and where you can get a copy for FREE! Yes, it's FREE!

"Jessie's On The Go" is a mobile salon that brings salon services to you. For people who are unable to leave their homes (or who just feel more comfortable being in their homes), Jessie's is licensed and fully equipped to offer many services. Jessie covers a 60-mile radius of Salem, and she was previously a CNA, so she has a lot of experience working with elderly & disabled people.

During this episode Pam explains many of the types of FREE caregiver training available through Oregon Care Partners and how you can access this training. Pam is also a certified Positive Approach to Care (PAC) for Dementia Trainer and Consultant, a Teepa Snow created program. Pam talks about the free Dementia training via Oregon Care Partners that she teaches.

Bill Cohen is a caregiver support group leader and speaker, an Alzheimer's Association volunteer, and a caregiving consultant. His loving and talented mother Sheila lost her home to Hurricane Katrina. Then she lost her health, her ability to create beautiful art, and, ultimately, her life to Alzheimer's. For almost 10 years, Bill was more than just her oldest son: he was her primary caregiver and advocate. Bill is a navigator (guide) for family caregivers, and he helps families cope with the rollercoaster of dementia care.

Rebecca discusses estate planning, why you should have an estate plan and the perils of not having one. She outlines long-term care planning, including incapacity, wills, end of life care, and what happens if you don't have a plan in place when you pass away. It's great information, so listen to the show!

Brad explains what a modern Memory Care community is, as opposed to the old-style nursing home that many have stuck in their minds. He provides some guidance to families who are dealing with a loved one with dementia and how to pinpoint the signs that it's time to seek professional help. Brad also gives an overview of dementia.

Steven gave a good overview of financial planning for your retirement versus your "younger" lifestyle. He also covered long-term care insurance and why you might need it as part of your retirement plan. We discussed when you should buy it and who might not want or need it. Steven also explained how long-term care insurance has changed and what new "products" are available.

Rick explains the extra services a Senior Service Expert realtor provides when seniors need to sell their homes and transition into smaller homes or long-term care communities. He offers tips on downsizing, moving, and all of the things that go along with this type of transition later in life.

Our guest is Joseph Trybom, who owns two companies: AJ Medical Transport and R&J Mobility. We start by discussing the transportation services offered by AJ using minivans and Honda Civic cars, and then we move on to all of the mobility options that R&J offers: Van customization, van sales, van rentals, & consignments. Both companies offer unique services!

In this episode, Mel Fuller--the Manager of Meals on Wheels in Marion/Polk counties--talks about how Meals On Wheels works, and how 150 volunteers help deliver hot, ready-to-eat meals to 300 home-bound individuals per day. She also discussed the Senior Grocery Box program, Congregate Meal Sites, and how Marion/Polk food share can assist people in signing up for SNAP benefits.

In this episode, we discuss spirituality and aging, and the effect it has on our overall wellbeing as we age. We also discuss the difference between spirituality and religion. Many people have questions about their spirituality as they near the end of their journey, which we briefly discuss, too. We also talk about how “retired” people can stay active and contribute to the community as part of their spirituality.

In this episode, John Kaiser of Assisted Living Solutions discusses many important topics, including, "How to know it's time to get care for Mom or Dad"? As a Senior Living Advisor, John helps to educate, facilitate, support and guide clients and their families through a frequently overwhelming transition process when additional care is needed for your loved one. He also discusses the costs of care and how/when to engage other professionals like move managers, attorneys, real estate agents, etc.

In this episode, we talk to Officer Mark Jantz from the Salem Police Department's Crime Prevention Unit. Mark covers the most common types of scams that target the senior population and gives tips on how to recognize them. He also shares pointers on what to do if you are the victim of a scam and how to prevent them from occurring again.

Mac McCurry gives an overview of how to plan for income during your retirement years, as well as a brief history of long-term care and how it has changed. He also covers long term care insurance (LTCI) and why it should be a part of your planning to help maintain your assets and quality of life.

Mary explains what Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also referred to as Lou Gehrig's disease, is. She covers the diagnosis, disease progression, and the resources available to the families dealing with ALS. Mary also shares the latest research and new medications for treating ALS!

Nick explains the different types of senior living options like independent living, assisted living, and others. He also helps dispel many of the myths or stigmas associated with senior living communities.

In this show we discuss hearing, hearing loss, hearing as we age, and hearing for those with dementia. We also cover different types of hearing devices and how to get your hearing checked by a qualified professional.

Memory, aging, and brain health - the mysteries of these are discussed & explained. We also discussed how to maintain and improve your cognitive abilities. In general, why do we forget? How can we improve our memory? Is multitasking a good thing? These questions and many more answered!

Mike shared his knowledge of the impact of exercise on Parkinson's Disease and how it can be "disease modifying". Physical therapists prescribe complete plans that are individualized to the subtype or (medical term) phenotype of PD - it is not a "one-size-fits-all." Community programs, such as boxing, cycling, and Tai Chi can be helpful due to the socialization, intensity, and sense that you are doing something that is healthy and beneficial for yourself. This can cause the release of Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor, which can improve PD symptoms.

Downsizing4Seniors handles all aspects of a senior's move, from determining furniture placement, organizing and packing, arranging for movers, unpacking and set up, and more. We also discuss choosing a retirement community, or smaller home, and the process of preparing and finalizing their move.

We cover "what is hospice" and how it works in this episode. We also address a few myths about hospice. Harold briefly touches on services unique to Bristol Hospice.

We want to make people comfortable in their own homes. People should not be afraid to be alone or afraid to care for a loved one in their own home. Dale's Remodeling can assess your home to see what modifications need to be made so that you can stay in your home instead of moving.

Windsong at Eola Hills is the first ever Memory Care Community to become fully credentialed in the Montessori Lifestyles Approach. The Montessori-Inspired Lifestyle method of care is a person-centered approach that focuses on muscle memory and the five senses, building on existing skills, interests, and abilities. In our program, we provide familiar tasks that encourage the residents to be active in the memory care community.

During this show, we talked about what a senior move manager is and what assistance they can provide moving seniors. Apart from what you might guess they do, senior move managers also help with organizing and downsizing, either during the move or at a separate time.

Johnson Funeral Home is a FAMILY funeral home; 100% local and family owned and operated. Their passion is providing the highest level of care during a family’s darkest time with affordably priced services ranging from cremation to burial.When you walk in the doors of Johnson Funeral Home, you become a part of their family. You and your loved ones are treated like one of their own. They specialize in creating unique and personalized celebrations of life.

Home health care helps people remain safely at home while recovering from a surgery, suffering an injury or illness, or managing a serious or chronic diseases and diagnoses. Your doctor will order Home Health services and insurance will pay for it.

Parkinson's Resources of Oregon helps people find a balance between their hopes for the future and the need to focus on quality of life in their day-to-day activities. It has been said that Parkinson's disease is not a disease you die from, but one you learn to live with. Parkinson's Resources of Oregon has focused its mission and programs in assisting people with PD maximize their quality of life.

Stacy Nelson, Development & Communication Coordinator from the Alzheimer’s Network, discussed how music creates a positive impact on individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. Other programs available through the Alzheimer's Network were also covered.

Nate's knowledge base is rooted in guardianship and conservatorship proceedings, more broadly described as protective proceedings. He enjoys talking about substituted decision making when a family member or friend is unable to no longer make decisions due to their Alzheimer’s or dementia, and the purpose of guardianships and conservatorships.

Physical therapy is rewarding and helps improve the patient's quality of life. Helping someone regain or maintain quality of life after a stroke, surgery, or with a degenerative condition – is rewarding for the therapist & the patient. Physical therapy aids with a person's physical condition and also helps benefit other conditions like Parkinson's Disease.

Amramp helps people "Age in Place" in their own homes by providing ramps, grab bars, stair lifts, vertical lifts, etc. The products from amramp maybe purchased or rented. Most ramps install without any modifications to your home and can normally be installed within a few days.

The Ombudsman's office advocates for residents living in nursing homes, adult foster homes, assisted living facilities and residential care facilities. The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program relies on volunteers to do the majority of facility visits and most of the work to resolve problems and advocate on behalf of residents.

Discussing the free audio and Braille book library that serves any Oregonian with a print-disability (visual, physical, or reading impairment). The Oregon Talking Book & Braille Library at the State Library of Oregon has a collection of over 85,000 audio books and magazines, and is 100% free to use. There are no membership fees, no postage fees, no late fees or replacement fees. They provide a free player to each user, or users can choose to play books on a mobile device like a smartphone or tablet using the library's BARD Mobile app.

Barbara spoke about the basics of reverse mortgages - how to qualify, how they work, how long can you stay in your home, and more! She also covered how reverse mortgages have changed over the years and dispelled some of the common myths and misconceptions about them.

Jerry gave an overview of the many benefits available to veterans and their spouses, such as burial expenses, pension, and Aid & Attendance. He covered the Aid & Attendance benefit in detail as it's designed to help veterans with long-term care assistance.

Monica spoke briefly about estate planning and what happens when you don't plan. She also touched on benefits available to veterans through various VA programs. She dispelled some of the myths about qualifying for Medicaid benefits and explained how she can help people with both Medicaid and VA programs. #Salem

Marilyn talked about programs and services of specific interest to those age 50 and older, as well as resources and services for family caregivers or children of aging parents. The second half of our lives (age 50 and over) is about self-discovery, maintaining a quality-filled life through a healthy and active lifestyle, and finding new ways to remain connected to our peers and our community.

A discussion of rehabilitation in a skilled nursing facility after a recent hospitalization, Cheryl explains what types of rehabilitation therapy that Salem Transitional Care offers, how they prepare people to go home, or transition to a different care setting, and how Salem Transitional Care helps prevent patients from returning to the hospital.

What is Durable Medical Equipment (DME) and when do people need it? We discuss the barriers people face in getting this vital equipment, and how a DME vendor can help you get the correct equipment for your need and adjust it to fit your body. Find out who pays for this equipment -- you, insurance, Medicaid, or the VA. Also, we share a story about how DME made a real difference in someone's life.

Alise Liepnieks, Regional Coordinator for the Mid-Willamette Valley Office of the Alzheimer’s Association, and I talked about the Ten Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease and the importance of early detection. We will also discuss different programs available through the Alzheimer's Association in our area.

Julie Sobel discusses how the Oregon Money Management Program offers free assistance with personal money management tasks through specially trained and certified volunteers. Their service is personalized, confidential and safe. Program services are offered to eligible individuals who are at least 60 years of age.

Willy Giddings explains the change to Hands Only CPR, and the importance of doing something rather than nothing. Willy also discusses CPR in Schools, teaching every 8th grader in the Salem-Keizer School District CPR along with the AED scholarship program.

In her role at her local Area Aging Agency, her passion is being an advocate for seniors and people with disabilities, and their families to support them in remaining as independent as possible and affording them the option to stay in their own homes as they age. We discussed the programs for family caregivers such as Options Counseling, Family Caregiver Support Program, and Relatives as Parents.

Jeannie spoke about the discharge process from the hospital to a skilled nursing facility or to your home. She spoke about the coordination of all resources and also about preventing readmission's to the hospital. She also gave tips on how people can prepare for hospital stays and the rehab afterward.

Talking about dementia and how it affects the brain; it is much more than memory loss. She discussed how families can work with a loved one with dementia. Tips on how to make it "easier" rather than fighting it. Techniques for communicating with the person with dementia. Christy also spoke about non-pharmacological behavior management techniques.

Newly elected Salem Mayor Chuck Bennett visited John in the studio shortly before taking office to discuss aging in Salem. Tune into KMUZ 88.5 FM & 100.7 FM every Tuesday @ noon for Aging in the Willamette Valley.

Dr. Peter LeBray, a Geriatric Psychologist, visited John and shared his views on aging. Tune in to KMUZ 88.5 FM & 100.7 FM every Tuesday @ noon for Aging in the Willamette Valley.

Kelley Rogers from Senior One Source visited Aging in the Willamette and shared great info about her services that help people find an appropriate level of care for FREE! Learn more at www.senioronesource.net.

Melissa and Kristen talked about hospice and the benefits of hospice. They also discussed the different programs offered by WV Hospice.

Christopher Hamilton, Elder Law Attorney from Hanson & Walgenkim Attorney’s at Law joins us to discuss the differences between guardianship/conservatorship and a power of attorney/advanced directive, why people would want them, and when one is preferable or necessary. You don't want to miss this episode! For more information, visit: www.hansonwalgenkim.com.

Moving is never easy, but it’s even harder when you are a senior. Moving Made Easy specializes in moving seniors from their current home to a new home. MME will pack, move, and unpack all your belongings making the transition as easy as possible.