Bringing Older Adults & Their Families Closer Together with Paula Muller, Ph.D. and Founder of Sociavi Co.

What magic happens behind the scenes at one of the world's largest events, particularly those that shine a light on our aging population and the tech revolutionizing their lives? You're in the right spot! We're excited to take you with us as we re-cap the innovation, technology, and stories that are impacting the future of care.

Carrie Aalberts and Nicole Will, are at the forefront of amplifying and exploring the people and companies that are transforming care through technology. Carrie, known to many as Dementia Darling, brings a decade of expertise in senior care and a passion for supporting dementia caregivers with resources and education. She's a beacon of hope for many navigating the dementia journey.

Nicole Will, founder of willGather, a platform dedicated to enriching the lives of older adults and those who care for them. Nicole's multifaceted approach to advocacy and innovation, rooted in her personal and professional experiences, offers a fresh perspective on the care economy.

 Together, they share their experiences at the AgeTech Collaborative From AARP at CES, share stories behind the missions, and highlight the inspirations that drive impactful work in the agetech space. So, sit back, relax, and join us as we share, laugh, cry and give you a personal and insightful journey into the world of aging, innovation, and the human stories that connect us all.

Learn more at AARP & AARP AgeTech Collaborative.

 To learn more about AgeTech Collaborative From AARP at CES and connect with many of the companies we mentioned, visit HERE

To connect with Carrie Aalberts visit HERE.

To connect with Nicole Will visit HERE. 

To learn more about CES visit HERE. 

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

What does it mean to live a good life when the very essence of your memory and autonomy begins to fade? In a world where aging is inevitable, the challenges of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's pose profound questions about identity, care, and dignity.

Today, I'm honored to have a conversation with Dr. Jason Karlawish. He is the author of The Problem of Alzheimer's: How Science, Culture, and Politics Turned a Rare Disease into a Crisis and What We Can Do About It. As a professor of medicine, medical ethics, health policy, and neurology at the University of Pennsylvania's Perelman School of Medicine, Dr. Karlawish's work transcends the traditional boundaries of science and ethics, offering new perspectives on how we care for those living with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia.

His journey has led him to pivotal roles at the Alzheimer's Disease Research Center and the Penn Memory Center, where he provides leadership in the Penn Program on Precision Medicine for the Brain (P3MB). He addresses the ethical challenges of aging brains and explores how diseases like Alzheimer's and Lewy body disease affect autonomy and self-determination through innovative projects. Dr. Karlawish is reshaping how we understand and support the Alzheimer's community.

His essays on ethics and aging have appeared in publications such as The Hill, The New York Times, The Philadelphia Inquirer, STAT News, The Washington Post, and more. In our conversation today, we discuss the evolution of Alzheimer's from a misunderstood condition to a widely recognized crisis, the vital role of caregivers, and the transformative impact of storytelling and advocacy in changing the narrative of dementia care.

Dr. Karlawish's insights not only highlight the complexities of Alzheimer's disease but also celebrate the human spirit's resilience. Join us as we discuss the journey of caregiving, the challenges and opportunities in research and policy, and how we can collectively foster a society that supports all aspects of aging with grace and dignity.

Thank you, Dr. Karlawish, for your compassionate care, for infusing humanity into your practice, and for engaging in this meaningful conversation with me. I am grateful for your dedication and advocacy. Thank you!

Learn more at www.jasonkarlawish.com

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

How do we harness modern technology to truly touch lives, especially when addressing the silent epidemic of social isolation in our aging population?

Today, I am privileged to introduce to you my colleague and friend, Kyle Rand. He is the CEO of Rendever, a visionary who took personal inspiration from his grandparents' experiences and turned them into a revolutionary solution.

Drawing from his extensive research at Duke University on neural prosthetics and the intricate workings of the aging brain, Kyle founded Rendever, an award-winning virtual reality platform recognized by Forbes' 30 Under 30 and listed on Time's 100 Most Influential Companies.

This groundbreaking innovation isn’t just tech for tech's sake. It is a beacon of hope, reducing social isolation and bringing the vast expanse of the outside world to older adults, irrespective of their physical boundaries.

As we visit today, we talk about our time at CES and seeing AgeTech Collaborative from AARP and the momentum, recognition, and excitement we observed. We also uncover the heart and the science behind Rendever, the stories from senior living communities, family caregivers, and older adults, and the ripple effects that this platform is creating in reshaping the future of care. You don’t want to miss this conversation as we talk about the journey of our emotions and the intersection of technology, empathy, and human connection.

Kyle, I deeply admire your work, and I feel incredibly fortunate to count you as a friend. Thank you for weaving magic into our lives with Rendever. I'm thrilled about what the future holds and am celebrating this week's exciting new features and releases with you. Thank you!

Learn more at www.rendever.com

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

Have you considered the profound impact that medication can have on our well-being as we age? Over one-third of older adults take five or more medications, and at least one of them may be completely unnecessary. As a result, approximately 2 million adverse drug events requiring hospitalization occur every year.

My guest today is Dr. Donna Bartlett, a board-certified geriatric pharmacist with over 17 years of clinical experience and 20 years in the retail pharmacy sector, she has made it her life's mission to tackle this issue. She is the author of Med Strong: Shed Your Meds for a Better, Healthier You - Aging Well with Less Prescribing. She is also a professor of pharmacy practice at the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences University. In addition, she co-hosts a podcast called "The Med List," extending her expertise to a multitude of critical areas, including polypharmacy, medication access, and fall prevention.

Today, we'll talk about the essential reasons why deprescribing is vital for both older adults and their caregivers, the complex factors contributing to medication overprescription, the practical ways we can become advocates for appropriate medication management, and we'll discover the medication optimization plan. We'll learn how we can ask important questions and work effectively with our healthcare providers. This conversation will give us a glimpse into medication management and empower you to make informed healthcare decisions.

I've loved getting to know you, Donna, and I'm so grateful for your work and how you support others. Looking forward to cheering you on in all you do!

Learn more at www.donnabartlett.com

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

Love and loss can lead us to become champions for a cause we never expected to face. My guest today is Mary Lou Falcone, an internationally renowned classical music publicist and strategist, who has spent five decades shaping the careers of prominent artists and institutions.

However, it's her personal story that brings an added layer of depth to her illustrious career. Faced with her partner's diagnosis of Lewy Body Dementia, Mary Lou found herself in the most challenging role of her life – that of a caregiver. Her journey through love, loss, and caregiving has led her to become an advocate for Lewy Body dementia awareness, turning her personal struggle into a beacon of hope and inspiration for others.

Throughout our conversation, Mary Lou will share insights from her book, 'I Didn’t See It Coming: Scenes of Love, Loss, and Lewy Body Dementia.' Mary Lou shares how her early life experiences prepared her for caregiving, the challenges she faced while caring for her late husband, Nicky Zann, a popular 1950s rock ’n’ roll musician who became a world-renowned cartoonist, illustrator, and painter, and why she chose to share their story with the world.

We talk about Nicky's life, the profound loss, and the awakening to advocacy. We talk about the complex and often misunderstood world of Lewy Body Dementia (LBD), a condition that affects millions yet remains in the shadows. We'll explore not just the medical aspects of LBD, but the deeply personal experiences that come with caring for someone living with this condition.

Mary Lou also shares about the importance of spreading awareness about LBD, the difficulties caregivers face, and the resources available for those battling this condition. This episode promises to be not just an exploration of LBD, but a testament to the power of love, resilience, and the human spirit in the face of adversity.

To help increase awareness about Lewy body dementia, an often misdiagnosed neurodegenerative disease affecting approximately 11 million people worldwide, the film FACING THE WIND follows the journeys in real time of three families dealing with LBD.  The film is scheduled to be released in late 2024 or early 2025.

It was a delight to meet you and interview you, Mary Lou. Thank you for all you do to raise awareness and the many ways you advocate for those living with Lewy Body disease.

Learn more at www.maryloufalcone.com

*This episode is brought to you by Gigi Betty co. A boutique gift shop raising awareness and funds for caregivers and care partners. Show now at www.gigibettyco.com. Use the special code WILLGATHER20 for 20% off your order- Just for our podcast listeners!

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

At the 2023 Positive Approach to Care conference, I had the opportunity to interview Carolyn Barnes, with Scrunch Cloth.

Have you wondered how a simple change in our daily routine items can significantly enhance the quality of life for many? Today we explore an innovation that makes the seemingly mundane tasks of daily living safer, easier, and more inclusive. We're diving into a product that's redefining personal care for individuals across a spectrum of needs.

My guest today is Carolyn Barnes, a seasoned Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant with a passion for empowering individuals through effective, personalized care. Carolyn's expertise in adaptive equipment along her with father, inventor Paul Barnes, has led to the creation of a revolutionary product that stands out in simplicity and functionality: the Scrunch Cloth. Unlike any ordinary washcloth, Scrunch Cloth's design is a testament to the power of thoughtful innovation in enhancing daily life for those with physical, mental, or visual disabilities, as well as their caregivers.

Today, we explore the journey behind Scrunch Cloth, from its inception to becoming an indispensable tool in rehabilitation and maintenance therapies. We talk about its unique "No Grip, No Drop" design, how it assists individuals dealing with conditions like dementia, Alzheimer's, arthritis, and more, and the impact it has on fostering independence and dignity. Join us as we unfold the story of Scrunch Cloth, a simple yet transformative solution for daily living.

This episode is powered by Seni, which provides support and products for those caring for their loved ones.

Learn more at www.scrunchcloth.com

*This episode is brought to you by Gigi Betty co. A boutique gift shop raising awareness and funds for caregivers and care partners. Show now at www.gigibettyco.com. Use the special code WILLGATHER20 for 20% off your order- Just for our podcast listeners!

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

There is a critical aspect of Alzheimer's that often goes under-discussed: the financial implications. What should families know about the economic burden of this disease and how can they prepare for it?

Today's guests share all about Alzheimer's care, advocacy, and awareness, a journey both heart-wrenching and hopeful. We're peeling back the layers of this complex issue to uncover the impact, challenges, and strides being made in the fight against this condition.

Joining us are three wonderful guests, each bringing a unique perspective to our discussion. Jenna Pogorels, an expert with over a decade of experience in dementia program services, is the Associate Director of Community Services for the Alzheimer’s Association Minnesota-North Dakota chapter. Tara Ambrose, Vice President and Senior Manager of Client Risk Prevention at RBC Wealth Management brings her extensive experience in protecting vulnerable clients from financial exploitation. Wally Chapman, Senior Vice President at RBC Wealth Management, combines his professional expertise with a personal commitment to Alzheimer's advocacy, influenced deeply by his family's involvement in the cause.

In today's conversation, we'll navigate through various topics, including the personal connections of our guests with the Alzheimer's Association, the collaborative efforts between the Alzheimer's Association and RBC Wealth Management, and the prevalence and impact of Alzheimer's and dementia. We'll also explore the types of support offered by the association, early warning signs of the disease, the financial implications for older adults and caregivers, and practical tips for navigating this challenging journey. Plus, we'll discuss how you, our listeners, can get involved and make a difference.

Learn more at www.alz.org 

This episode is sponsored by RBC Wealth Management. Thank you for being so committed to supporting older adults and their caregivers. It is so appreciated!

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

The choices we make each day shape our overall well-being and our brain health as we age.

Today my guest is Rob Liebreich, President and CEO of Goodwin Living, a name synonymous with excellence in senior living and healthcare. Rob is a dynamic leader with over two decades of experience in aging services.

Today, Rob shares the initiatives that drive Goodwin Living, the significant challenges and opportunities in healthcare, how to better serve our family caregivers and our older adults, the importance of workforce development, and Goodwin Living's unique approach to citizenship. Rob also shares his personal story with his mom around their pioneering, StrongerMemory program designed to enhance brain health for people of all ages that is accessible. Goodwin Living has focused on enhancing its services, reputation, and support for residents, their families, and employees with an emphasis on providing quality care and making a positive impact in the greater community. This episode is full of great information and powerful insights.

At the 2023 Positive Approach to Care conference, I had the opportunity to interview Nikki Jardin and Tave Fasce, Founders of Mirador Magazine.

Today we explore how a simple act, like reading a magazine, can become a cherished lifeline.

A few years ago, Nikki's life took a poignant turn when her aunt was diagnosed with Young-Onset Alzheimer's at 63. Stepping up as her primary guardian, Nikki navigated the complexities of care with love and dedication. Her aunt, a curious soul with a passion for magazines, particularly about animals and science, started facing challenges with reading – a cherished activity slowly being stripped away by the disease. Nikki, sharing a professional bond in writing with her aunt, saw an urgent need for accessible reading material for those living with dementia.

Driven by this need, Nikki embarked on a journey to create what is now Mirador Magazine. Alongside Tavé Fascé, co-founder and a graphic designer with an eye for inclusive design, they crafted a magazine that's easy to read and enjoy, designed specifically for individuals with changing brain conditions.

It took 18 months of dedicated research and development to prepare their first publication, with a goal to serve not just a niche community but to enhance interactions and connections among families facing similar challenges.

Mirador, named as a tribute to Nikki's late Aunt Sharron, a Spanish speaker and explorer of their family's heritage, symbolizes a lookout or vantage point. It's a fitting metaphor for a magazine that offers a window to the world for those whose cognitive abilities are changing.

As we discuss Mirador's journey, its impact, and its future, we invite you to join us in this heartwarming and enlightening conversation. A shoutout to Carrie Alberts for recommending we meet these incredible women.

This episode is powered by Seni, which provides support and products for those caring for their loved ones.

Learn more at www.miradormagazine.com

*This episode is brought to you by Gigi Betty co. A boutique gift shop raising awareness and funds for caregivers and care partners. Show now at www.gigibettyco.com. Use the special code WILLGATHER20 for 20% off your order- Just for our podcast listeners!

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

Ever felt like you're adrift in the overwhelming rapids of caregiving? My guest today is Theresa Wilbanks, a beacon of hope and wisdom for those caring for a loved one.

Theresa is an accomplished author, a passionate speaker, and the compassionate host of the Self-Caregiving Strategies Podcast. She founded Sustainable Caregiving after experiencing firsthand the turbulent emotions of looking after her father until his final days at 99. During that intense period, Theresa found herself wading into caregiving, initially from a distance. Struck by the weight of emotions, from the tranquil moments of calm to the overwhelming challenges, Theresa likens the caregiving journey to being on a raft navigating through a river's unpredictable turns.

Through Teresa's story, she shares how she turned adversity into a roadmap for others. Her book, "Navigating the Caregiver River: A Journey to Sustainable Caregiving," not only captures her story but also outlines her innovative Sustainable Caregiving Strategies. These strategies resonate deeply with many caregivers, especially those feeling adrift, overwhelmed, or on the verge of burnout. They encompass both the emotional storms one undergoes, as well as offer practical advice, derived from Theresa's own experiences and reflections.

Today, we'll explore the depths of the emotional impact of caregiving, understand the essence of "sustainable caregiving," and get a glimpse into Theresa's game-changing strategies. We'll also discuss the significance of self-care, talk about insights from her book and much more. So, whether you're a caregiver feeling the weight of responsibility, someone who's witnessed the caregiver's journey, or simply curious about the landscape of caregiving, today's discussion promises a wealth of insights and inspiration.

Thank you, Theresa, for sharing with us all that you have learned and encouraging us to be sustainable in our caregiving.

Learn more at www.sustainablecaregiving.com

*This episode is brought to you by Gigi Betty co. A boutique gift shop raising awareness and funds for caregivers and care partners. Show now at www.gigibettyco.com. Use the special code WILLGATHER20 for 20% off your order- Just for our podcast listeners!

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com