Caregiver Friendly Care Managers, GUIDE program, Bedsheets
In this episode, we explore innovative caregiver friendly products and services that support family caregivers – and their care receivers – in recognition of November as the month for both National Family Caregivers Month and Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. A broad range of resources (both tech and analog) are required to manage the diverse needs of both family caregivers AND those they care for. This discussion highlights tools and strategies for easing caregiver stress, improving patient care, and ensuring better daily experience and quality of life for both caregivers and recipients.
Recorded on October 31, 2024, this show featured the following guests in the order they presented:
Deborah Harlow, Founder, The Joyful Leader and Joint Creator of the “Women Who Care” Planning and Self-Care Challenges for Caregivers, who shared WWC’s new, complimentary “Easy Planning Challenge for Caregivers” that will be held November 7-13, in recognition of National Family Caregivers Month. The challenge is especially designed for busy caregivers and caregivers-to-be, to help them establish routines and structure. Emphasizing the importance of preparation, she discusses how caregivers can plan in small steps to alleviate stress and improve balance. We may not be able to “fix” it, but with planning, we can approach the caregiving journey in a way that makes it more manageable (and enjoyable!) along the way. “Intentional planning can make all the difference in a caregiving journey, creating sustainable routines that keep caregivers balanced and supported.”
Kate Granigan, CEO, LifeCare Advocates and 2024 President of the Aging Life Care Association, as well as on the Advisory Board for the Massachusetts Guardianship Association, described the role of life care managers in navigating caregiving challenges, finding resources, and supporting caregivers nationwide. She explains the value of planning ahead to avoid caregiver burnout, as well as ways these professionals help find and organize financial and emotional support. “Care management services give caregivers back their time and let them be present with their loved ones rather than getting overwhelmed by logistics.”
Marty Agather, VP Marketing & Sales, Embrace Prevention Care (GUIDE Dementia Care provider) introduced the Guide Dementia Care Program, a Medicare-backed initiative offering comprehensive support for dementia patients and their caregivers. The program provides personalized care plans, medication management, 24/7 call support, and up to $2,500 annually for respite care, helping caregivers manage complex dementia care needs more effectively.
“The Guide Program is aimed at supporting dementia caregivers, helping them find resources and relief through Medicare-supported benefits.”
GUIDE Website:
https://www.cms.gov/priorities/innovation/innovation-models/guide
Nancy McGovern, Founder, Comfort Linen (and Former Physiotherapist) shared her extraordinary journey in developing low-friction bedsheets and garments that enhance mobility and sleep quality. Originally designed to reduce strain and injury among caregivers, Comfort Linen products have evolved to support both caregivers and care receivers by making bed repositioning smoother and safer. – and by greatly improving sleep quality overall.
“With Comfort Linen, we’re creating more independence for care recipients and reducing the physical strain for caregivers.”
Carol Chiang’s 10-31-24 LinkedIn post about Comfort Linen.
All great innovations from caring companies that support both caregivers and their care receivers!
Hosted by: Linda Sherman and Debbie Howard. Further info on them is in the sidebar, fifth item with a microphone symbol.
About the Caregiver Friendly Products Category
Our Caregiver Friendly Products episodes and articles feature leaders from innovative companies providing products and services that improve the lives of family and professional caregivers, as well as their care receivers.
You can listen to all of our Caregiving and Caregiver Friendly Products related episodes on the Rethinking Aging Club podcast.
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Music: Solemnity written and performed by Richard Sherman
