ComForConnections: Aging and Home Care Podcast

ComForCare

As an aging services professional, staying up-to-date can be daunting, especially in the dynamic care continuum. That is why we have designed our episodes for busy professionals like you, who are deeply passionate about providing the best care possible to older adults. In our upcoming episodes, you will hear from leading experts and aging services professionals who will provide knowledge, insight and the latest best practice tips that can be used to inspire your own professional growth, your colleagues and those you serve. Visit ComForConnections.com to download tips and resources, view show notes and access our episodes. You can also subscribe and listen to our podcast on your favorite app.

  1. 12/17/2025

    Building Better Partnerships in Care

    Strong caregiving depends on strong relationships. In this episode, psychologists Dr. Julie Mayer and Dr. Barry Jacobs share practical guidance for creating healthy, collaborative partnerships between families and professional caregivers, helping everyone feel supported and aligned in their loved one's care. What you’ll learn in this episode Why guilt is so common for family caregivers and how to work through it How to gradually introduce professional care to create smoother transitions Communication habits that build trust between families and caregivers Why empathy is essential for preventing conflict and improving teamwork How agencies can support caregivers with training and consistency Approaches to self-care that help both family and professional caregivers sustain their wellbeing Additional resources: The AARP Caregiver Answer Book – Julie and Barry's comprehensive guide to caregiving, communication, and emotional resilience  Understanding the Different Stages of Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care Needs – A helpful overview for anticipating changing care requirements  Episode 36: How to Talk with Aging Parents Who Won’t Receive Help Graciously – In an earlier episode of ComForConnections, Barry addresses how to care for a parent who doesn’t want your care. Featured Guests Dr. Julie Mayer Dr. Julie Mayer is a clinical psychologist with decades of experience supporting family systems, caregiver wellbeing, and lifespan challenges. Her work focuses on helping families navigate the emotional landscape of caregiving with empathy, communication, and resilience. Dr. Barry Jacobs Dr. Barry Jacobs is a clinical psychologist and nationally recognized expert on family caregiving, chronic illness, and care partnerships. His work emphasizes the central role of relationships and shared understanding in delivering meaningful, coordinated care. Stay Connected! Like what you heard? Subscribe to ComForConnections on your favorite podcast platform, and explore more caregiver resources from ComForCare. About the Host Tiffany Robinson is a passionate advocate for caregiver education. As the host of ComForConnections, she brings warmth, insight, and a deep understanding of the caregiving experience to every episode.

    36 min

  2. 12/02/2025

    The Best Friends Approach to Dementia Care

    For more than 35 years, David Troxel has helped shape the way caregivers understand dementia and what it takes to build real connections. In this episode, he and host Tiffany Robinson explore why social history matters, what trust-building looks like in practice, and how caregivers can create therapeutic moments every day. What you’ll learn in this episode How the Best Friends™ Approach strengthens trust and eases daily care. Why "if you've met one person with dementia, you've met one person with dementia" matters in practice. How social histories and life story cards turn everyday tasks into moments of connection. Simple, meaningful activities caregivers can use at home. Ways to shift from task-oriented routines to relationship-centered care. Additional resources: David Troxel – Connect with David and learn more about his work, speaking, and resources for families and professionals supporting people living with dementia. Books by David Troxel – Explore the Best Friends™ series and other practical guides that help caregivers build connection, reduce stress, and create supportive daily routines. In-Home Dementia Care Services – Discover ComForCare’s personalized at-home support designed to improve safety, comfort, and connection for individuals living with dementia. Joyful Memories - Home Care Services – A music-based engagement program that uses familiar songs and guided activities to spark connection, movement, and emotional well-being for people living with dementia.  Featured Guest David Troxel, MPH, is an internationally recognized expert in dementia care and co-creator of the Best Friends™ Approach, a widely adopted model emphasizing empathy, connection, and life-story-driven support. He has authored numerous influential books with collaborator Virginia Bell, including A Dignified Life and the Best Friends Activity Books. David has decades of experience in adult day programs, dementia education, and caregiving program development, and continues to teach, write, and support caregivers around the world. Stay Connected! Like what you heard? Subscribe to ComForConnections on your favorite podcast platform, and explore more caregiver resources from ComForCare. About the Host Tiffany Robinson is a passionate advocate for caregiver education. As the host of ComForConnections, she brings warmth, insight, and a deep understanding of the caregiving experience to every episode.

    32 min

  3. 11/18/2025

    Building Trust in Dementia Caregiving

    Compassion is a central skill in dementia care. In this episode, host Tiffany Robinson speaks with Ellen Belk, founder of Keep In Mind, Inc., about how caregivers can build trust, why developing dementia-friendly communication skills is important, and how to connect with the heart and soul of every person living with cognitive decline. What you’ll learn in this episode Why compassion is a foundational skill in dementia care How to communicate in dementia-friendly ways The role of family involvement in creating a true care partnership Practical self-care approaches that help prevent caregiver burnout Recognizing the person beyond the diagnosis and connecting with heart and soul Additional resources: Keep In Mind — The portal to access Ellen’s Keep In Mind dementia training, caregiver education, and the Keep In Mind Community Understanding the Different Stages of Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care Needs — A clear, stage-by-stage overview to help caregivers anticipate changes and adjust support with confidence. In-Home Care for Dementia — Guidance on how professional caregivers assist with daily routines, safety, communication, and comfort for those living with cognitive decline at home. Featured Guest Ellen Belk is the founder of Keep In Mind, Inc., creator of the nationally recognized 360º Team Approach training program, and a leading voice in elevating dementia awareness. With decades of experience overseeing more than 100 care communities across the U.S., Ellen blends communication expertise, real-world caregiving insight, and a compassionate philosophy that prioritizes connection, dignity, and trust. Her 12-module caregiver training series is widely used by frontline teams seeking practical, relatable dementia education. Stay Connected! Like what you heard? Subscribe to ComForConnections on your favorite podcast platform, and explore more caregiver resources from ComForCare. About the Host Tiffany Robinson is a passionate advocate for caregiver education. As the host of ComForConnections, she brings warmth, insight, and a deep understanding of the caregiving experience to every episode.

    34 min

  4. 11/12/2025

    Strengthening Caregiver Health and Client Independence

    When caregivers learn to move smarter, everyone benefits. In this episode of ComForConnections, occupational therapist Carol Chiang, founder of Evolving Homes, shares practical ways to protect caregiver health, prevent client falls, and build confidence for aging in place. Carol and host Tiffany Robinson discuss small shifts in technique, communication, and mindset that keep both caregivers and clients thriving. What you’ll learn in this episode How proper biomechanics protect caregivers from injury while supporting client mobility. Simple cueing techniques that build client confidence and independence. Why "don't steal their therapy" is the key to long-term strength and dignity. How caregivers can mentor clients toward healthy daily habits that prevent hospitalizations. The core components of Carol's Evolving Homes model for safe, confident aging in place. Additional resources: Evolving Homes – Carol Chiang’s expert home modification and aging-in-place consulting. Age in Place or Find a New Space – A practical guide to creating safer, more supportive homes for aging adults, authored by Chiang. Managing Fall Risk – In-Home Safety Checks and Assessments – ComForCare’s guide to identifying hazards and making simple home updates that reduce fall risk. Featured Guest Carol Chiang, Occupational Therapist, has spent more than 25 years helping older adults age safely and confidently in their homes. Through her company, Evolving Homes, and her book Age in Place or Find a New Space, she provides education and home assessments that bridge the gap between safety, design, and independence. Her expertise in biomechanics and aging-in-place strategy has made her a sought-after voice on caregiver health and home adaptation. Stay Connected! Like what you heard? Subscribe to ComForConnections on your favorite podcast platform, and explore more caregiver resources from ComForCare. About the Host Tiffany Robinson is a passionate advocate for caregiver education. As the host of ComForConnections, she brings warmth, insight, and a deep understanding of the caregiving experience to every episode.

    36 min

  5. 10/31/2025

    Meeting the Rising Demand for Long-Term Care

    As America's population ages, long-term care is becoming one of the most urgent challenges of our time. In this episode of ComForConnections, host Tiffany Robinson speaks with Nora Super, former Executive Director of the White House Conference on Aging and advisor to the Reframing Aging Initiative. Together, they explore the changing demographics of aging, the rising costs of care, and what it means for the families and professionals providing it. What you’ll learn in this episode Why 70% of older adults will need long-term care, and what that means for families and caregivers The growing gap between care demand and the supply of professional caregivers The real costs of home-based, assisted living, and nursing home care Innovative housing and community models like PACE, co-housing, and tiny homes How public policy and Medicare reform could shape the future of care   Additional resources: Reframing Aging Initiative - Learn about Nora's current work advancing positive narratives about aging AARP and National Alliance for Caregiving Report (2025) - Data and insights on family caregiving in the U.S. Long-Term Care Insurance - Home Care Services - Expert advice from ComForCare on how to navigate long-term care insurance Featured Guest Nora Super is a nationally recognized expert on aging and long-term care policy. She served as Executive Director of the White House Conference on Aging under President Obama and now advises the Reframing Aging Initiative. Nora has worked with organizations such as AARP and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and brings personal insight as both a policy leader and care recipient navigating the long-term care system. Stay Connected! Like what you heard? Subscribe to ComForConnections on your favorite podcast platform, and explore more caregiver resources from ComForCare. About the Host Tiffany Robinson is a passionate advocate for caregiver education. As the host of ComForConnections, she brings warmth, insight, and a deep understanding of the caregiving experience to every episode.

    28 min

  6. 10/15/2025

    The Future of AgeTech in Caregiving

    Technology can be a powerful ally for caregivers, from fall detection to daily check-ins. In this episode of ComForConnections, host Tiffany Robinson talks with Nancy Griffin, founder of Glowing Older, about how AgeTech is transforming caregiving. Learn how innovation is expanding independence and giving caregivers new tools to provide safer, smarter support. What you’ll learn in this episode How AgeTech enhances independence while supporting caregivers in their work The ways Connected Care detects early changes to improve safety and quality of life Why caregivers should view technology as a partner, not a replacement How fall detection, wellness monitoring, and telehealth tools expand the care toolkit The peace of mind that connected alerts provide to family members Additional resources: Glowing Older – Nancy Griffin’s podcast and platform reimagining the aging experience Remote Patient Monitoring - Home Care Services – Learn how ComForCare helps detect changes early and support independent living Smarter Senior Care: How Predictive Technology Prevents Emergencies at Home –  Explore how connected predictive technologies help caregivers spot risks early, prevent emergencies, and keep older adults safe at home. Featured Guest Nancy Griffin is the founder of Glowing Older, a podcast and media platform dedicated to transforming how society views and supports aging. A long-time advocate for innovation in senior living and wellness, Nancy brings a deep understanding of how technology, design, and communication can enhance quality of life for older adults. Through Glowing Older, she highlights thought leaders and organizations driving change across the aging services field. Stay Connected! Like what you heard? Subscribe to ComForConnections on your favorite podcast platform, and explore more caregiver resources from ComForCare. About the Host Tiffany Robinson is a passionate advocate for caregiver education. As the host of ComForConnections, she brings warmth, insight, and a deep understanding of the caregiving experience to every episode.

    31 min

  7. 09/30/2025

    Solo Aging with Purpose - Supporting Older Adults Without Family Nearby

    What does it mean to age alone, and how can professionals and caregivers provide meaningful support? In this episode, Tiffany Robinson is joined by Steve Gurney, founder of the Positive Aging Sourcebook, to explore solo aging, empathy in caregiving, and building strong support networks for older adults without family nearby. What you’ll learn in this episode Why advance care planning is especially critical for solo agers, and when to start the conversation. The importance of empathy when supporting older adults without children or partners. Practical strategies to help solo agers build a personal village of support. How caregivers can provide purpose and connection beyond daily tasks. Additional resources: ​​Solo Aging Open Forum and Q&A –- Steve Gurney, founder of The Positive Aging Community, led an online open forum on solo aging.  Positive Aging Sourcebook — Steve Gurney's platform and Solo Aging Club. Essential Retirement Planning for Solo Agers by Sara Zeff Geber, PhD. Meaningful Activities — ComForCare resource Featured Guest Steve Gurney is the founder of the Positive Aging Sourcebook and host of the ProAging Network, where he leads weekly live discussions on aging topics. For over 35 years, Steve has helped families, professionals, and older adults make informed decisions about aging and senior living. He is a nationally recognized advocate for purposeful aging and a leader in advancing conversations about solo aging. Stay Connected! Like what you heard? Subscribe to ComForConnections on your favorite podcast platform, and explore more caregiver resources from ComForCare. About the Host Tiffany Robinson is a passionate advocate for caregiver education. As the host of ComForConnections, she brings warmth, insight, and a deep understanding of the caregiving experience to every episode.

    27 min

  8. 09/18/2025

    What Families Need to Know About Dementia Care

    When dementia enters a family's life, the path forward can feel uncertain, overwhelming, and lonely. But with the right information and a strong sense of empathy, families can build confidence and connection, even in the hardest moments. In this episode of ComForConnections, host Tiffany Robinson sits down with dementia care advocate Lori La Bey, founder of Alzheimer's Speaks and DementiaMap.com. Drawing from decades of lived and professional experience, Lori breaks down the difference between dementia and Alzheimer's, offers tips for supporting loved ones in the early stages, and shares how families can shift from crisis mode to a comfort mindset. Whether you're navigating a new diagnosis or worried about subtle changes in someone you love, this episode will leave you feeling more informed-and less alone. What you’ll learn in this episode How to distinguish between dementia and Alzheimer's, and why that clarity matters Subtle signs of cognitive decline families often overlook Tips for early-stage support, from daily routines to difficult conversations How to reframe your caregiving role and build a resilient care team Resources to help you move from isolation to community   Additional resources: About Lori La Bey Dementia Map - Lori's global resource directory for care partners Alzheimer's Speaks - Podcasts, articles, and education Join a local or virtual Memory Cafe  Featured Guest Lori La Bey is the founder of Alzheimer’s Speaks and a passionate advocate for shifting dementia care from crisis to comfort. After caring for her mother for 30 years, Lori launched Alzheimer’s Speaks to amplify the voices of people living with dementia and their care partners. She is internationally known for her educational programs, including Dementia Chats, where those living with cognitive impairments share their insights. Lori also co-created Dementia Map, a global resource directory built to empower families and professionals alike. Her mission is simple but powerful: to foster dignity, connection, and understanding at every stage of the dementia journey. Episode Transcript  Stay Connected! Like what you heard? Subscribe to ComForConnections on your favorite podcast platform, and explore more caregiver resources from ComForCare. About the Host Tiffany Robinson is a passionate advocate for caregiver education. As the host of ComForConnections, she brings warmth, insight, and a deep understanding of the caregiving experience to every episode.

    42 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

As an aging services professional, staying up-to-date can be daunting, especially in the dynamic care continuum. That is why we have designed our episodes for busy professionals like you, who are deeply passionate about providing the best care possible to older adults. In our upcoming episodes, you will hear from leading experts and aging services professionals who will provide knowledge, insight and the latest best practice tips that can be used to inspire your own professional growth, your colleagues and those you serve. Visit ComForConnections.com to download tips and resources, view show notes and access our episodes. You can also subscribe and listen to our podcast on your favorite app.

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