Becky Barton, a former occupational therapy professor, shares her journey of adapting to life with dementia and the small adjustments that help her continue enjoying her passions, from singing and reading to cooking and spending time with her grandchildren. Through herstory, Becky reminds us that while dementia brings challenges, it also opens opportunities to find new meaning and purpose in each day. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guest host Angie Light of RadiusCare joins Caregiver Crossing for a conversation with Lyndsay Bilbrey and Julia DeLong from Dillman & Owen about what caregivers need to know when planning for long-term care through Medicaid. They share guidance on eligibility, common mistakes, and how to start the process with less stress. The episode also highlights Be My Eyes, a free app connecting people who are blind or have low vision with sighted volunteers through live video See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Phyllis Ferrell, global advocate for brain health and Honorary Chair of the Joy’s House 25th Anniversary Gala, joins Caregiver Crossing to share practical ways to protect our cognitive health and challenge the way we think about aging. She explains the Five Finger Study and how small, intentional steps can make a lasting difference. The episode also features Jahri's World, whose inclusive concerts for neurodivergent kids bring families together through music and movement. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Nearly 60% of Americans don’t have crucial healthcare documents like a Power of Attorney or advance directive. On this segment of Caregiver Crossing, we speak with Audrey Augustinovicz, founder of Peaceful Journey LLC, about why planning ahead is key for caregivers and families. Audrey walks us through the importance of personalized advocacy, from attending medical appointments to preparing healthcare documents and opening up vital family conversations. Tune in to learn how you can simplify healthcare decisions and gain peace of mind for the future! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What happens when the person who supports families through dementia has lived that journey herself? Precious, Memory Care Support Specialist with American Senior Communities, joins Caregiver Crossing to talk about what families may notice during the holidays and how to make gatherings feel good for everyone. She shares real moments from her own experience, tips for keeping loved ones comfortable, and why respite care can be one of the best gifts you give this season. We also celebrate National Physician Assistants Week and honor the lasting impact of Jane Goodall. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Medicare can be confusing, especially during open enrollment. In this episode of Caregiver Crossing, Bruce Muller from the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)explains how his team helps families cut through the complexity. From breaking down Parts A, B, C, and D to clearing up myths about coverage and costs, Bruce shares practical guidance and stories that show how SHIP makes a real difference for seniors and caregivers See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Companion Care can mean everything from a ride to the grocery store to help with bathing, meal prep, or simply sharing conversation over coffee. In this episode of Caregiver Crossing, we sit down with Kim Moore, Companion Care Administrator at CarDon, to explore how these services meet both the practical and emotional needs of seniors and their families. Kim walks us through the first steps families can take, the signs it might be time to seek support, and why companionship is just as vital as daily routines. She also shares personal insight from her own journey with a loved one living with dementia. Show notes: www.Joyshouse.org https://lifespanservices.us/companion-care/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Laura Johnson has spent years walking alongside families at Joy’s House, first in direct care and now in development. She’s seen caregivers at their most stretched and at their most resilient, and she carries their wisdom with her every day. In this conversation, Laura shares what those lessons look like in real life: a family discovering relief when they finally accept help, friendships that start in the Joy’s House lobby and turn into lifelines, and the creative ways caregivers lean on churches, neighbors, or even a quick tip from someone who understands. Show notes: www.Joyshouse.org See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When a loved one gives the gift of life, the journey for their family is only beginning. Courtney Tillotta, Aftercare Support Manager at Indiana Donor Network, joins Tina McIntosh to explain what Aftercare Services look like in practice. She shares how families are paired with a coordinator, the kinds of grief resources and personal check-ins that are offered, and why traditions like quilts and remembrance ceremonies matter. Courtney also describes how donor families can stay connected to the lives touched by their loved one’s gift and what support continues in the years that follow. Show notes: www.Joyshouse.org https://indianadonornetwork.org/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

"You are capable of anything", a sentiment shared by Kris from the popular TikTok account Lifewithgrams. In this touching episode of Caregiver Crossing, Kris shares her experiences caring for her grandmother with dementia, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and moments of joy she finds along the way. Her down-to-earth nature and unwavering love for her grandmother shines through every word. Kris’ story is a beautiful reminder of the everyday strength that caregivers bring to their loved ones’ lives. Show notes: www.Joyshouse.org www.caregivercrossingradio.org https://www.tiktok.com/@lifewithgrams?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What happens when a caregiver decides she’s done facing it all alone? Ellen Gullett took her experience caring for her mom and turned it into something powerful: a support group that now brings comfort, laughter, and honesty to caregivers at Second Presbyterian Church. In this episode, she shares how the group began, the surprising things she’s learned, and the stories that stay with her. You’ll also hear the kind of support caregivers really need, what not to say, and how one small act of kindness can carry someone. Show notes: www.Joyshouse.org https://visitcaregiverway.com/ https://www.secondchurch.org/supportgroups See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As we age, managing health becomes more complex. Multiple doctors, medications, and appointments can make it hard to keep everything connected. Dr. Zaidi, Plan Performance Medical Director at Anthem Blue Cross & Blue Shield, joins Tina McIntosh to talk about what coordinated care really means for seniors and their families. He explains the role of a hospitalist, why preventive care matters, and how screenings and vaccines can help older adults stay healthier for longer Show notes: www.Joyshouse.org https://www.anthem.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The first weeks of school bring new pencils, fresh notebooks, and the chance to get organized. Caregivers can use that same mindset to prepare for the day-to-day needs of someone they support. Tina McIntosh, Founder and CEO of Joy’s House, shares what that can look like, from keeping a favorite sweater or puzzle in a day bag to choosing a program where your loved one spends the day with people who know them well. She walks through how adult day services operate, what to watch for during a visit, and how small details can make each day run smoothly. Show notes: www.Joyshouse.org See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When someone leaves the hospital, there’s often a quiet stretch of time where families are left to figure out the next steps on their own. Angie Light, Founder and CEO of RadiusCare, steps into that space to make sure care keeps moving in the right direction. She talks about the first moments of connection with families, how she untangles the confusion that can follow a hospital stay, and why her work with Joy’s House feels personal. Through her eyes, you’ll see what it takes to keep care grounded in real relationships and steady support. Show notes: www.Joyshouse.org https://www.radius-10.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Most people have an idea of what organ donation looks like, but the reality is more complex and far more human. Erin Brown from Indiana Donor Network explains what actually happens after someone says yes, how families are supported through loss, and why the language we use can shape how people understand their role in the process. She shares what these conversations look like in hospitals, classrooms, and communities, offering a clear look at how trust is built and why respect matters at every step. Show notes: www.Joyshouse.org https://indianadonornetwork.org/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dave Holder has walked alongside countless families facing some of the hardest decisions they'll ever make. In this episode, he shares what it really looks like to find the right care setting, what families need in those first conversations, and how to build trust when emotions are running high. Dave also reflects on his personal experience as a caregiver, why he believes in the power of community, and what made him say yes to joining the Joy’s House board this fall. Show notes: www.Joyshouse.org https://visitcaregiverway.com/ https://assistedlivinglocators.com/care-advisor/northindy See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Do you find the health care system overwhelming? We're excited to introduce a valuable resource designed for this very purpose. The Map to Good Health Resource Kit, created by former nurse and patient advocate Nan Wetherhorn, equips you with the tools to confidently navigate America’s health care system. Start advocating immediately for the quality care you and your family deserve. Show notes: www.Joyshouse.org www.caregivercrossingradio.org https://livinghealthywithnan.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Making a home safe and accessible doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive! This week on Caregiver Crossing, we chat with Carly Weiner from Rosarium Health, an organization dedicated to helping families find trusted professionals for life-changing home modifications. From small, budget-friendly tweaks to major accessibility upgrades, Carly shares insider tips that make a big impact—helping caregivers and their loved ones stay comfortable, independent, and safe at home. Show notes: www.Joyshouse.org https://visitcaregiverway.com/ https://www.rosariumhealth.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Joy’s House at UIndy is celebrating 11 years of serving families on the south side of Indianapolis. In this episode, we sit down with Lia Taylor, Program Coordinator, and Nyc Sigmon, Care Services Manager, to reflect on what makes this house feel so full of life. Guests light up when they see familiar faces. Caregivers find peace of mind when they walk through the door. And every day brings something new: music, movement, heartfelt conversations, and a strong sense of belonging. Whether you're a longtime supporter or hearing about Joy’s House for the first time, this episode brings you inside the heart of UIndy. Show notes: www.Joyshouse.org See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What makes a city feel like home as we age? In this conversation with Indianapolis City-County Councilor Nick Roberts, we explore how public spaces, transportation, and even neighborhood design can impact daily life for older adults. As one of the youngest council members in the country, Nick shares what he's learning from older residents who show up, speak up, and care deeply about the communities they call home. We talk about the importance of being seen, the vision behind reimagining areas like Castleton, and how thoughtful leadership can help create cities that work for every generation. Show notes: www.Joyshouse.org https://www.indy.gov/activity/councilor-nick-roberts https://visitcaregiverway.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.