The Care Table

Amy Huddleston
  • 5.0 (27)
  • Education

Welcome to The Care Table with Amy Huddleston. With nearly two decades in the home care industry, Amy received countless requests from friends and professionals navigating the caregiving journey. Her passion for helping others led to creating The Care Table podcast—a name that reflects conversations and support for aging loved ones. Through expert interviews on topics like a dementia diagnosis, financial planning, and emotional well-being, plus personal caregiving stories, The Care Table podcast reminds you you’re not alone. Join us to find the peace and support you need as a caregiver.

  1. 2d ago

    VA Family Caregiver Benefits & Help with Application Process | The Care Table

    How to access the VA Caregiver Support Program’s resources In this episode of The Care Table podcast, Amy Huddleston speaks with Tim Jobin, acting director of the VA Caregiver Support Program, about how family caregivers can find and apply for VA support. They explain where to start, the difference between general and comprehensive programs, what help is available, and how caregivers can connect with practical and emotional support. Chapters: 00:00 Why VA caregiver paperwork can feel overwhelming 02:04 Where to find the caregiver application and local team 07:32 The veteran’s VA healthcare enrollment requirement 09:14 When you do and do not need an accredited representative 12:06 Who can be considered a family caregiver 14:02 How VA support helped a veteran remain at home 16:21 What the comprehensive program can provide 19:03 Peer support, counseling, and reaching out for help 22:08 Application decisions and the 90-day target 24:25 General versus comprehensive caregiver services 26:08 Other in-home VA resources and social workers 29:03 Program expansion and virtual caregiver psychotherapy 33:03 Support options for veterans without a family caregiver 35:32 Application steps and service-connection criteria 36:56 Tim’s encouragement to caregivers Takeaways: - A caregiver of a veteran can start with the VA Caregiver Support Program website, an online 10-10 application, a local VA caregiver support team, or the Caregiver Support Line. - The veteran must be enrolled in VHA healthcare to qualify for the caregiver support program; the VA enrollment office can help veterans get started. - Caregivers do not need to hire or pay an authorized representative to apply for the Caregiver Support Program.  - A family caregiver can be a spouse, child, parent, sibling, or close friend, not just a spouse. - The General Caregiver Support Services program offers resources such as coaching, respite, peer connections, and caregiver support without requiring an application; comprehensive program applications may take up to 90 days for a decision. - The Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers program may include a tax-free stipend, mental health counseling, and, for some caregivers, CHAMPVA eligibility.  - The Caregiver Support Line is staffed by licensed clinical social workers, operates weekdays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern, and can connect callers with local teams and support. - Other VA services discussed include home-based primary care, homemaker/home health services, patient-aligned care team social workers, and virtual psychotherapy for caregivers in the comprehensive program. Sound Bites: "You don't have to be alone." "I encourage people to reach out." "Make that contact. We're here to support you." Products/Books/Resources: VA Caregiver Support Program: https://caregiver.va.gov/ The Caregiver Support Line (CSL) is a toll-free number 1-855-260-3274 for caregivers, family members, friends, Veterans, and community partners to contact for information related to caregiving. VA Caregiver Support Program details: https://www.caregiver.va.gov/CAREGIVER/index.asp Support The Care Table Podcast: Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheCareTable Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaretable/ Visit us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Care-Table/61580615603797/ Our website: https://www.thecaretable.com/ Email us: info@thecaretable.com Please rate and review us so we know if we’re helping you!

  2. Oct 27

    Adult Day Centers: Structure, Support & Ways to Pay for It | The Care Table

    Learn what adult day services are, their payment options, and how they support the family caregiver. In this episode, Bill Zagorski, CEO of American Senior Care Center, walks caregivers through what adult day services really are—how the days are structured, how centers are staffed, and why these flexible, engaging programs matter so much. He explains the benefits for both older adults and the families who love them, how the costs and payment options work (including ways to find help paying), and how adult day can support the goal of keeping a loved one living at home longer. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Adult Day Services and Guest Background 02:02 What Are Adult Day Services? Definitions and Clarifications 04:19 Terminology: Why 'Adult Day Services' Is Preferred Over 'Daycare' 04:46 A Typical Day at an Adult Day Center 05:50 Activities and Schedule: From Morning Socials to Afternoon Engagements 08:23 Flexibility in Hours and Drop-off Options 09:24 Staffing Requirements and Ratios in Adult Day Programs 10:59 The Role of Nursing and Medical Staff in Adult Day Centers 10:59 Introduction to adult day services and their benefits 11:59 Who adult day services are for and common diagnoses 13:12 The role of adult day services for caregivers 15:45 Cost of adult day services and comparison to home care 17:40 Overcoming barriers and misconceptions about adult day care 20:48 How to evaluate if adult day services are right for your loved one 23:37 Transportation options and solutions for adult day programs 26:52 Funding sources for adult day services including Medicaid and VA 30:49 How to find a suitable adult day program near you 32:42 Addressing caregiver guilt and the importance of self-care 35:37 The overall value and benefits of adult day services for aging in place 38:49 Research and data supporting the effectiveness of adult day programs 40:07 Closing remarks and resources for families seeking adult day services Takeaways: - Who adult day services are for - Cost of adult day services and funding options - Transportation options for adult day services - How to find a suitable adult day program - The industry prefers the term 'adult day services' over 'adult day care' to avoid infantilization. - Programs typically run from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with flexible hours to accommodate families. - The importance of caregiver respite and self-care - Research outcomes supporting adult day services Sound Bites: "Connecting with a person is what adult day is." "Adult day services is a system of professionally delivered, community-based care." "We try to get away from using the term adult day care." Products/Books/Resources: National Adult Day Services Association (NADSA) Finder: https://www.nadsa.org/for-caregivers/choosing-a-center/ Eldercare Locator: https://eldercare.acl.gov/home Genworth Cost of Care 2025 Study: ​​https://investor.genworth.com/news-events/press-releases/detail/1054/carescout-releases-2025-cost-of-care-survey-results Support The Care Table Podcast: Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheCareTable Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaretable/ Visit us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Care-Table/61580615603797/ Our website: https://www.thecaretable.com/ Email us: info@thecaretable.com Please rate and review us so we know if we’re helping you!

  3. Oct 20

    Respite Grants and Support from Hilarity for Charity | The Care Table

    Learn the multiple ways Hilarity for Charity supports caregivers of those with dementia.  In this episode, we explore the impactful work of Hilarity for Charity, founded by Seth Rogen and Lauren Miller Rogen, focusing on supporting families impacted by Alzheimer's through innovative programs like respite grants, online support groups, and youth education initiatives. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Hilarity for Charity and its mission 02:13 The founding story of Hilarity for Charity by Seth and Lauren Rogen 04:03 Supporting families impacted by Alzheimer's through light-hearted approaches 06:01 Details of the caregiver respite grant program 07:53 Online support groups and virtual resources for caregivers 09:56 The caregiver road trip: a fun, interactive guide 11:56 Adapting programs to crises and emerging needs 14:04 How to apply for respite grants and eligibility criteria 16:10 The review process and what happens after applying 17:48 Using existing caregivers and continuing support 20:02 Stories of impact from families receiving grants 21:59 The future of caregiving support and community engagement 24:05 Supporting youth education and early prevention efforts 25:58 The importance of caregiver self-care and community resources 28:12 How to support Hilarity for Charity through donations and fundraising 30:03 Final thoughts: caring for caregivers and loved ones Takeaways: - Respite grants provide caregivers with essential breaks to prevent burnout. - Virtual support groups make caregiving support accessible from anywhere. - Hilarity for Charity's programs are designed to be light-hearted yet impactful. - The organization continuously adapts to crises like natural disasters to serve families. - Supporting caregivers is crucial for the well-being of both the caregiver and the person with dementia. Sound Bites: "You matter too, your work makes a difference." "Your love and support truly change lives." "You are not alone in this journey." Products/Books/Resources: Hilarity for Charity (HFC): https://wearehfc.org/ Caregiver Road Trip Guide: https://wearehfc.org/roadtrip HFC Caregiver Respite Grants: https://wearehfc.org/care-grants/ HFC Caregiver Support Groups: https://wearehfc.org/support-groups/ HFC’s Youth Movement Against Alzheimer’s (YMAA): https://wearehfc.org/ymaa/ “Taking Care” documentary about Lauren Miller Rogen’s caregiving journey: https://www.takingcarefilm.com/ Support The Care Table Podcast: Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheCareTable Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaretable/ Visit us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Care-Table/61580615603797/ Our website: https://www.thecaretable.com/ Email us: info@thecaretable.com Please rate and review us so we know if we’re helping you!

  4. Oct 6

    When and How to Take the Keys Away Conversation | The Care Table

    When to have the “stop driving” conversation and how best to handle it. This episode provides a comprehensive guide for families on how to approach the difficult conversation of giving up driving for their loved ones. It covers recognizing warning signs, having compassionate discussions, and exploring alternative transportation options to ensure safety and independence. Takeaways: - Signs it's time to stop driving - How to approach the conversation with empathy - Medical and legal options for assessing driving ability - Alternative transportation options including community resources and technology - Handling resistance and refusal with compassion Sound Bites: "You're building a new safety and mobility plan" "Only Illinois requires a mandatory road test based on age" "You're not the bad guy, you're doing what's right" Products/Books/Resources: - AARP SafeTrip App: https://www.aarp.org/lp/safetrip-app/ - The Care Table episode with driver rehabilitation specialist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2OdSOYsHJOA&t=40s - Find a certified driver rehabilitation specialist: https://www.aded.net/search/custom.asp?id=2046 - At the Crossroads guide from The Hartford/MIT:  https://assets.thehartford.com/image/upload/cmme_crossroads.pdf - Eldercare Locator - 800-677-1116 or eldercare.acl.gov and ask for the Area Agency on Aging transportation options - GoGoGrandparent (phone-based Uber/Lyft for people who don’t use apps): https://www.gogograndparent.com/ Chapters: 0:00 — The difficult conversation about giving up the keys 1:30 — Why age alone doesn’t determine driving safety 1:59 — Health changes that can affect driving 2:28 — Memory, judgment, and cognitive impairment 3:25 — Understanding the grief and fear behind the conversation 4:25 — Reframing it as a safety and mobility plan 4:52 — Warning signs that driving may no longer be safe 6:15 — Using ride-alongs and specific examples 7:10 — Considering a middle path before stopping driving 8:03 — Involving doctors and neurologists 8:30 — Setting limits on driving time, distance, or purpose 8:58 — Driver safety classes and the AARP Safe Trip app 10:26 — Getting a formal driving evaluation 11:49 — Understanding state DMV rules 13:14 — The At the Crossroads guide and family driving agreement 14:34 — Choosing a calm, private time to talk 15:55 — Keeping the conversation rooted in safety and care 16:25 — Responding to anger and cognitive impairment 18:22 — Planning replacement rides before taking the keys 19:45 — What to consider if a parent refuses 20:57 — Practical ways to prevent unsafe driving 22:29 — Keeping life active after driving stops 23:23 — Questions to ask local aging agencies 24:43 — Transportation programs and ride options 26:33 — Delivery services for groceries, medication, and meals 27:27 — Using paid caregivers for transportation 28:20 — Building a recurring weekly ride schedule 29:47 — Coordinating drivers and backup support 31:41 — Finding help for long-distance caregiving 33:50 — Protecting social activities and independence 34:30 — Closing reassurance for families making this decision Support The Care Table Podcast: Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheCareTable Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaretable/ Visit us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Care-Table/61580615603797/ Our website: https://www.thecaretable.com/ Email us: info@thecaretable.com

  5. Sep 22

    How to Talk to Senior Living Facility Staff About Your Loved One | The Care Table

    Best ways to communicate with staff when your parent lives in an assisted living or skilled nursing facility. In this episode, Heather Adcock shares her extensive experience in long-term care to provide valuable insights into facility communication, family engagement, and navigating regulatory processes. Perfect for families and caregivers, this conversation offers practical advice to improve interactions with care facilities. Takeaways: - Importance of consistent family communication - Roles and responsibilities of facility staff - Best practices for family engagement - Regulatory requirements and survey processes - Handling concerns and complaints effectively - Building trust and understanding with staff - The impact of family dynamics on care - Strategies for effective care conferences - The role of ombudsmen and regulatory agencies - Balancing expectations and reality in elder care Sound Bites: "Give families grace and manage expectations." "Regulations for nursing homes are staggering." "We are all on call 24 hours a day." Products/Books/Resources: Nursing Home Resources & Finding One Near You: https://www.medicare.gov/care-compare/resources/resources-and-information Find an ombudsman for support: ​​https://theconsumervoice.org/get-help/ Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to facility communication and guest background 01:16 Heather Adcock's career in long-term care 02:25 Overview of facility types and resident capacity 04:04 Family expectations and communication in transitions 05:02 Initial communication and updates when moving in 07:32 Designated points of contact for families 10:01 Family involvement and managing multiple contacts 12:15 Effective communication methods: email, phone, and more 16:02 A day in the life of a facility administrator 17:32 Handling concerns and the importance of documentation 20:30 Family conferences and virtual meetings 21:16 Building successful family-facility partnerships 23:17 The importance of consistency and patience 28:19 Responding to medical and condition changes 34:34 Giving families grace and managing expectations 36:05 Regulations and survey processes explained 44:56 Communication during surveys and inspections 50:24 Understanding state and federal regulations 58:16 Preparing for survey visits and managing stress 01:01:26 Effective family communication habits 01:08:36 Key advice for families entering long-term care 01:13:25 Respecting resident wishes and end-of-life conversations 01:14:51 The importance of compassion and understanding in elder care Support The Care Table Podcast: Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheCareTable Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaretable/ Visit us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Care-Table/61580615603797/ Our website: https://www.thecaretable.com/ Email us: info@thecaretable.com Please rate and review us so we know if we’re helping you!

  6. Sep 15

    What a gerontologist wishes families would ask before a crisis | The Care Table

    What is a gerontologist? Dr. Lakelyn Eichenberger, a gerontologist, offers her wisdom on aging, early conversations, respite for caregivers and more. In this episode, Dr. Lakelyn Eichenberger shares her journey into gerontology, the evolution of home care, and practical advice for caregivers. Discover insights on aging, dementia, and how to navigate the caregiving journey with compassion and confidence. Takeaways: - What is a gerontologist and how it differs from other roles in aging - The impact of growing up in a caregiving environment - The importance of early conversations about aging and end-of-life wishes - The evolution of home care services over the years - The role of home care during the COVID-19 pandemic - In-home respite care and its benefits for caregivers - The importance of planning and research for caregiving resources - Addressing misconceptions about aging and dementia - The concept of soul care and staying present - Supporting the sandwich generation and caregiver boundaries Sound Bites: "Dementia is not a normal part of aging" "Aging is vibrant and full of purpose" "Listening can be more powerful than we realize" Products/Books/Resources: Caregiver Chats podcast: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLiSkB_X_wEZF3-6j4_bDhGdoXnTU_p6-B Death Deck: https://thedeathdeck.com/ National Alliance for Caregiving: https://www.caregiving.org/ Alzheimer’s Association: https://www.alz.org/ Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Lakelyn Eichenberger and her background 02:08 What is a gerontologist and how it differs from other roles in aging 03:47 Growing up in a household that valued elders and caregiving 05:47 Dr. Lakelyn's favorite course: Death and Dying 07:58 Transition from one-on-one caregiving to advocacy and education 09:56 Doctoral research on dementia, family caregivers, and in-home respite care 13:08 The evolution of home care services over the years 17:09 The impact of the pandemic on home care and caregiving support 21:58 Advice for caregivers: start researching and planning early 25:47 The importance of boundaries and soul care for caregivers 31:59 Supporting aging loved ones and the importance of early conversations 37:59 Misconceptions about aging and dementia 43:50 The value of wisdom, interdependence, and living in the moment 49:50 The significance of including older adults in decision-making 57:54 Resources and ways to connect with Dr. Lakelyn Eichenberger 59:53 Final thoughts: hope for the future of aging and caregiving Support The Care Table Podcast: Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheCareTable Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaretable/ Visit us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Care-Table/61580615603797/ Our website: https://www.thecaretable.com/ Email us: info@thecaretable.com Please rate and review us so we know if we’re helping you!

  7. Sep 8

    How one wife went from nightly crisis to peaceful caregiving with Diane Chew | The Care Table Ep. 41

    In this episode of The Care Table podcast, Dementia Coach Diane Chew shares her profound journey caring for her husband with Lewy body dementia, highlighting the potential benefits of hemp-based products and the importance of early detection, advocacy, and community support in dementia care.  Diane highlights the importance of hospice, self-care, faith, and community support. Her insights offer invaluable guidance for caregivers navigating similar challenges. Takeaways: - Cannabis helped manage Ben's dementia symptoms and sleep patterns. - Early signs of dementia can be subtle and overlooked. - Documenting symptoms is crucial for diagnosis and treatment. - Maintaining connection and presence is crucial in dementia caregiving. - Proactively set legal and financial plans early in the diagnosis. - Self-care and emotional expression are essential for caregiver resilience. - Living in the moment fosters deeper connection and peace. - Surrendering control and embracing acceptance reduces stress. Sound Bites: "Hospice can be used for up to two years." "Trust your intuition and spiritual guidance." "Sleep is a game changer in dementia care" Products/Books/Resources: Diane’s website: https://www.dementiacoachdiane.com/ Leaf 411 Cannabis Nurse Helpline: https://leaf411.org/ ▶️ FREE Newsletter with tips for caregiving, dementia care and self care.  https://www.dementiacoachdiane.com/email-updates ▶️ Explore Gummies for Dementia Care with FREE Nurse Support:  https://www.healerdirect.com/diane Rock to the Future: https://rocktothefuture.org/ The Care Table made a donation in memory of Ben to this non-profit. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and guest background 00:28 Introduction to Diane's caregiving journey 01:04 Ben’s caregiving journey and diagnosis 02:25 Early signs and confusion in dementia 02:52 Understanding hospice and palliative care options 04:04 Impact of stopping cannabis and symptoms 06:30 Cannabis and the endocannabinoid system 07:00 Managing health crises like UTIs in dementia 07:28 Medication reactions and hypersensitivity 09:17 The transformative effect of hemp products 11:03 Finding nurse support and sourcing products 11:58 The importance of legal planning and power of attorney 12:55 Clinical trials and innovative treatments 16:06 The role of faith and intuition in caregiving 16:17 Sleep, agitation, and managing sundowning 20:12 The importance of early detection and advocacy 20:53 Living in the moment and unconditional love 25:02 Living with a loved one with dementia 26:07 Building community and online support networks 27:25 Recognizing when caregiving becomes overwhelming 30:00 Hospital experiences and systemic challenges 30:28 Self-care strategies for caregivers 35:02 Reflections on spiritual connection and guidance 36:50 Lessons learned and advice for caregivers 40:02 Advice for caregivers facing end-of-life decisions 45:09 The miraculous aspects of Diane’s journey 50:05 Closing thoughts and encouragement for caregivers Support The Care Table Podcast: Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheCareTable Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaretable/ Visit us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Care-Table/61580615603797/ Our website: https://www.thecaretable.com/ Email us: info@thecaretable.com Please rate and review us so we know if we’re helping you!

  8. Sep 1

    Music Therapy Is Not Entertainment - It’s a Clinical Tool | The Care Table Ep. 40

    In this episode of The Care Table podcast, Emma Tarai, a credentialed music therapist, explains what music therapy is, how it benefits older adults and those with cognitive impairments, and how caregivers can access these services. Discover how music can bring joy, reduce anxiety, and foster connections in challenging moments. Takeaways: - What is music therapy and how it works - Benefits of music therapy for older adults and those with cognitive impairments - How to identify if someone is a good candidate for music therapy - Accessing music therapy services and insurance coverage - The emotional and social impact of music therapy in hospice and care settings Sound Bites: "Music therapy is useful at any stage of dementia." "Music can bring joy and smiles even in the hardest times." "Music helps validate feelings and connect people." Products/Books/Resources: How to find a music therapist: https://www.musictherapy.org/about/find/ To contact Emma, LPMT: etarai@gmail.com Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to music therapy and guest Emma Tarai 01:22 What is music therapy and how it differs from music appreciation 02:08 Emma's background and journey into music therapy 04:03 Who can benefit from music therapy and signs to look for 06:43 Benefits of music therapy for older adults and cognitive health 11:54 When to start music therapy in dementia stages 13:29 Creating personalized songs for memory and connection 16:51 Session length, format, and setting options 24:11 Group vs. individual sessions and their benefits 26:45 Finding a music therapist and insurance considerations 32:45 Duration and ongoing benefits of music therapy 34:22 Impactful stories and real-life examples of music therapy success 37:18 Why music helps open emotional expression 39:41 The power of music to create connections and shared experiences 46:14 Final thoughts on the importance and growth of music therapy Support The Care Table Podcast: Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheCareTable Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaretable/ Visit us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Care-Table/61580615603797/ Our website: https://www.thecaretable.com/ Email us: info@thecaretable.com Please rate and review us so we know if we’re helping you!

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5
out of 5
27 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Care Table with Amy Huddleston. With nearly two decades in the home care industry, Amy received countless requests from friends and professionals navigating the caregiving journey. Her passion for helping others led to creating The Care Table podcast—a name that reflects conversations and support for aging loved ones. Through expert interviews on topics like a dementia diagnosis, financial planning, and emotional well-being, plus personal caregiving stories, The Care Table podcast reminds you you’re not alone. Join us to find the peace and support you need as a caregiver.

Information

  • Creator
    Amy Huddleston
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    47
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Care Table
  • Show Website
    The Care Table

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