Inspired Caring

Michele Magner
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Mental Health
  • Weekly

If you are helping out an aging family member, this is the place for you! Here, you will find inspiration, tools and resources that are needed to be prepared to take care of your loved one AND yourself along this caregiving journey. Michele Magner is a family caregiver, Gerontologist, Certified Dementia Practitioner, Professor and has worked in the Senior Living Industry. She knows that everything we do today, impacts our own aging outcomes so she created the Inspired Caring Family Support & Education Program. Today is the day to be inspired! www.InspiredCaring.com michele@michelemagner.com

  1. 4d ago

    226. Food Diversity, Quality & Nutrition with Chefs for Seniors Omaha, Nick Campney

    Summary In this conversation, Nick Campney discusses the critical role of nutrition for seniors, sharing insights from his journey as a chef and career in the food industry. Dedicated to serving this demographic, he highlights the unique dietary challenges seniors face, the importance of essential nutrients, and the risks associated with convenience foods. Campney also emphasizes the value of personalized meal preparation through his service, Chefs for Seniors, which aims to enhance the quality of life for older adults by providing nutritious meals and companionship. In this conversation, we explore the multifaceted benefits of hiring a personal chef, particularly for seniors. The discussion highlights how personal chefs can provide not only nutritious meals but also companionship, addressing issues of loneliness and isolation. With the philosophy of food as medicine, he shares insights on how to make quick and accessible healthier eating choices. Keywords nutrition, seniors, food safety, personal chef, dietary needs, convenience foods, essential nutrients, aging, health risks, meal preparation personal chef, healthy eating, senior meals, food as medicine, companionship, meal planning, quality of life, nutrition, isolation, healthy aging Takeaways Nutrition becomes more important as we age. Seniors need more nutrients, not necessarily more calories. Protein and hydration are especially important for seniors. Poor nutrition can lower immunity and increase hospitalizations. Malnutrition can worsen chronic diseases and cognitive decline. Essential nutrients for seniors include protein, fiber, calcium, and vitamins. Food safety regulations vary significantly between countries. Convenience foods often lack nutritional value and can be harmful. Personal chefs can help seniors maintain independence and enjoy meals. Customization in meal preparation is crucial for meeting individual dietary needs. Personal chefs can provide companionship and nutrition. Loneliness has severe health implications. Eating more vegetables can significantly improve health. Flavorful meals are essential for encouraging eating. Menu planning is crucial for maintaining a healthy diet. Personal chefs can help alleviate caregiver stress. Healthy eating contributes to overall quality of life. The service is not limited to seniors; families can benefit too. Building trust with clients is key to successful meal planning. Food is a central part of culture and health. Chapters 00:00 The Importance of Nutrition for Seniors 02:56 Nick Campney's Culinary Journey 05:50 Nutritional Needs and Challenges for Seniors 09:01 Risks of Convenience Foods 11:54 Essential Nutrients for Aging 14:48 Food Safety and Ingredient Awareness 17:44 The Role of Personal Chefs for Seniors 20:52 How Chefs for Seniors Operates 25:26 The Value of Personal Chefs 29:15 Quality of Life and Loneliness 30:41 Food as Medicine 35:15 Building Trust Through Food 40:04 The Importance of Menu Planning 43:53 Expanding Services Beyond Seniors 45:45 Finding Local Services 48:11 Personal Touches and Inspirations Chefs for Seniors Omaha & Lincoln Email Nick: nick.campney@chefsforseniors.comClean 15 and Dirty Dozen lists Inspired Caring is THE family support & education program that helps families feel calm and confident to make better decisions faster. Inspired Caring is also offered as an annual membership tobusinesses to provide for the families they work with. Connect with Michele Magner: ⁠Website⁠⁠E-mail⁠Instagram⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠YouTube⁠ Custom podcast music written and produced by Colin Roberts. Colin is a TedX Omaha speaker and does custom songs for any occasion.

  2. Oct 30

    225. End of Life Planning and Care with Jenni Herchenbach, Flourish Collaborative

    Summary Michele welcomes back Jenni Herchenbach of Flourish Collaborative to answer Creighton University students’ questions about end-of-life care, death doulas, and grief. Herchenbach explains how to plan for a personally meaningful death, support families without taking over, and make room for grief and human connection in healthcare and workplaces. Keywords death doula, end-of-life planning, grief support, hospice, palliative care, caregiving, death care, healthcare professionals Key Topics Jenni describes Flourish Collaborative’s work: end-of-life planning, support for dying people and families, grief tending, and mentoring future death workers. She explains why a “good death” is personal and why end-of-life conversations are easier before a diagnosis or crisis. A death doula is a non-medical death-care professional, but the field is unlicensed and unregulated; training and roles vary widely. Planning only helps when wishes are communicated to someone willing and able to advocate for them. Families may have more choices in caring for a loved one after death than they assume; custom and legal requirements are not the same thing. In hospitals and trauma settings, doulas can support dignity and advocate for a person’s wishes while respecting clinicians’ work and protocols. Her Kleenex-box story illustrates how an offer of comfort can unintentionally communicate that someone should stop expressing emotion. The class flower-and-leaf mandala exercise gave students a shared, temporary way to acknowledge and hold grief. Herchenbach recommends allowing emotion to move while distinguishing others’ grief from what is hers to carry. Chapters 00:00 Why Jenni returned to speak with future caregivers 05:03 Flourish Collaborative: planning, death care, and grief tending 12:13 Family involvement and misconceptions about caring for the dead 15:04 What a death doula does - and what certification means 20:48 Why end-of-life conversations should start early 24:00 Make a plan, name an advocate, and share your wishes 28:24 Supporting patients and families in clinical settings 32:12 How presence, humor, and dignity shape the experience 36:24 What healthcare professionals can do differently 40:16 Talking about death across generations 42:08 The Kleenex box and how to show up for grief 47:22 A flower mandala for making space for grief 53:54 Emotional release and boundaries in death work Takeaways “flourish to me means doing more than just existing.” “I am not the expert in their life. They are the experts in their life.” “You deserve the right to pursue your unique good death.” “I want to know who you're going to communicate this to so that they can carry this for you when you can't carry it.” “Being seen, loved, and supported acts as a mute to the noise and a filter for the light.” “Treat every grief as the individual beautiful being it is.” Action Items Start end-of-life conversations before illness or crisis makes decision-making harder.Write down your wishes and identify someone willing to communicate and advocate for them.Ask the person you want to carry out your wishes rather than assuming they accept the responsibility.When offering tissues or comfort, make clear that the person does not need to stop crying; ask what else would help.At work, ask a grieving colleague what support they want instead of assuming they need less work or more distraction. Connect with Jenni Herchenback at Flourish Collaborative or by email; jenni@flourishcollab.com. Inspired Caring is THE family support & education program that helps families feel calm and confident to make better decisions faster. Inspired Caring is also offered as an annual membership tobusinesses to provide for the families they work with. Connect with Michele Magner: ⁠Website⁠⁠E-mail⁠Instagram⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠YouTube⁠Custom podcast music written and produced by Colin Roberts. Colin is a TedX Omaha speaker and does custom songs for any occasion.

  3. Oct 16

    224. Right at Home with Matt Field

    Summary In this episode, Matt Field from Right at Home shares his unique approach to senior care, emphasizing person-centered care, caregiver retention, and proactive planning for dementia. Discover insights on how to support loved ones effectively and compassionately. Keywords senior care, dementia, person-centered care, caregiver retention, home care, aging, family support, healthcare innovation, caregiving Key Topics Person-centered care in senior services Caregiver retention and training Early diagnosis and planning for dementia The impact of community and family dynamics Innovative approaches in home care Takeaways Focusing on the person behind the care tasks improves outcomes.Caregiver retention is linked to respect, training, and recognition.Early conversations about dementia and care preferences are crucial.Proactive planning reduces crisis-driven decisions.Treating caregivers with dignity enhances care quality.Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Matt Field and Right at Home 03:49 The evolution of community care in Rochester, NY 07:49 Person-centered care versus industry norms 11:57 Training caregivers beyond compliance 15:48 Recognizing early signs of dementia 18:08 The challenge of early diagnosis and family conversations 20:02 Handling crisis situations and legal preparations 21:59 The emotional impact of dementia on families 23:55 The role of professional caregivers in dignity and respect 25:48 The importance of early planning and conversations 28:12 Supporting families through crisis and decision-making 29:57 Innovations in caregiver training and education 31:52 The influence of rabbinical training on care philosophy 33:47 Resources for families and caregivers on Dementia Steady 36:12 The three-step approach: Notice, Read, Reach 38:02 The importance of dignity and personhood in care 40:08 Personal stories and the impact of compassionate care 42:08 The evolving understanding of dementia and aging 44:00 Supporting family caregivers and their well-being 45:57 Final thoughts on compassionate, proactive care Connect with Matt Field on LinkedIn Check out Dementia Steady Inspired Caring is THE family support & education program that helps families feel calm and confident to make better decisions faster. Inspired Caring is also offered as an annual membership tobusinesses to provide for the families they work with. Connect with Michele Magner: ⁠Website⁠⁠E-mail⁠Instagram⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠YouTube⁠ Custom podcast music written and produced by Colin Roberts. He does custom songs for any occasion!

  4. Sep 18

    223. The AI Tool to Manage Repetitive Phone Calls - KindredMind with Kristin Thomas

    Summary In this episode of Inspired Caring, Michele Magner speaks with Kristin Thomas, founder of KindredMind. KindredMind is An AI voice companion that answers phone calls from people living with dementia using familiar voice technology. A clone of their caregiver's voice, plus proactive check-in calls and reminders. It's built around "simulated presence therapy" and "validation therapy" — established dementia-care concepts that favor emotional comfort over literal correction. Kristin shares about her journey as a family caregiver and explores the emotional and practical challenges faced by caregivers, the impact of technology in caregiving, and the importance of understanding unmet needs in dementia care. Kristin shares insights on how KindredMind utilizes voice technology to provide reassurance and connection for both caregivers and those they care for, ultimately aiming to reduce anxiety and improve quality of life. Takeaways Caregiving can span generations, impacting family dynamics.The emotional toll of caregiving can lead to feelings of guilt.Innovative technology can provide solutions for caregiver challenges.Understanding unmet needs is crucial in dementia care.Maintaining independence for loved ones is a key ethical principle.Voice technology can enhance communication and reduce anxiety.Caregivers need support to manage their own mental health.The importance of compassion in responding to repetitive calls.Kindred Mind aims to bridge the gap between caregivers and their loved ones.Technology can be a force for good in caregiving.Keywords caregiving, dementia, technology, Kindred Mind, family caregivers, mental health, support, innovation, Alzheimer's, voice technology, AI Sound bites "This caregiving spans two generations now." "She was a powerhouse in shoulder pads." "It's not sustainable to field every single inbound call." "You're never disconnected, you're always apprised." "The goal is always one of calm and peace." "The guilt has lessened." "It's the best version of you showing up." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kindred Mind and Caregiving Journey 06:31 The Impact of Caregiving on Family Dynamics 12:54 Innovative Solutions for Caregiver Challenges 20:11 Understanding Unmet Needs in Dementia Care 26:46 The Role of Technology in Caregiving 32:55 Future of Caregiving and Kindred Mind's Vision Connect with Kristin: KindredMind.Care LinkedIn Instagram What's on her Playlist: Sade Inspired Caring is THE family support & education program that helps families feel calm and confident to make better decisions faster. Inspired Caring is also offered as an annual membership tobusinesses to provide for the families they work with. Connect with Michele Magner: ⁠Website⁠⁠E-mail⁠Instagram⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠YouTube⁠Custom podcast music written and produced by Colin Roberts. He does custom songs for any occasion.

  5. Aug 7

    222. LEGO Serious Play for Connection and Healing with Loretta Veney

    Summary Loretta Veney put her foot on the gas right off the bat in this episode and will blow your mind with her inspiring stories from her journey of using Lego Serious Play to improve communication and emotional well-being for people living with dementia and caregivers. Discover practical tips, powerful stories, and how this innovative approach is transforming caregiving and mental health support. She shares that we are significantly underestimating what people are capable of and LEGOs can reveal surprising opportunities for connection. Families have also found collaboration and healing through this unique playful practice! keywords Lego Serious Play, dementia care, caregiver support, mental health, innovative communication, storytelling, emotional well-being, senior activities, resilience, social impact, family collaboration key topics Use of Lego Serious Play in dementia care Personal journey of Loretta Veney as caregiver and facilitator Techniques for improving communication Stories of emotional breakthroughs through Lego building Training and certification in Lego Serious Play Impact of creative activities on mental health and resilience Adapting Lego activities for different stages of dementia Building family and community connections through Lego sound bites "Build how you feel, and we'll come back to that." "People with dementia can still do so many things." "Build your greatest achievement, no matter how small." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Loretta Veney and her work with Lego Serious Play 01:00 Loretta's personal caregiving story and early memories of Lego To Be Honest - I don't think AI could break it down because so much was shared so quickly! BUT - be sure to stick around to the end because she talks about her own caregiver experience too. Inspired Caring is THE family support & education program that helps families feel calm and confident to make better decisions faster. Inspired Caring is also offered as an annual membership tobusinesses to provide for the families they work with. Connect with Michele Magner: ⁠Website⁠⁠E-mail⁠Instagram⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠YouTube⁠ Custom podcast music written and produced by Colin Roberts. He does custom songs for any occasion.   Connect with Loretta VeneyInstagramLinkedInFacebook Good Morning America: Media Listening To: Instrumental Jazz Book: Your Brain on Art AARP Study: Playing With Legos Can Help People With Dementia

  6. Jul 31

    221. Infrastructure

    Summary Michele Magner shares insights on the importance of infrastructure in our personal lives, caregiving, and success. She emphasizes the need to build systems that support us, especially caregivers, to thrive and avoid burnout. keywords infrastructure, caregiving, success, systems, support, wellness, family, resilience, resources, self-care key topics The concept of infrastructure in personal and professional life The importance of systems and support for caregivers How infrastructure impacts success and well-being Practical ways to build and assess your infrastructure The role of infrastructure in managing stress and health sound bites "Infrastructure are the tools and systems for success" "It's dangerous to rely solely on yourself" "You did not sign an infinite contract" "Women are dying because of poor infrastructure" "You have permission" Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Update 01:01 Summer Activities and Family Updates 01:51 Kids' Current Activities and Success Infrastructure 03:47 Personal Infrastructure: Gardening and Observation 07:06 Infrastructure in the Marching Band Program 08:05 City and Event Infrastructure Examples 08:47 Touring and Event Infrastructure Insights 10:15 Everyday Infrastructure: Cooking and Food Supply 11:14 Definition and Importance of Infrastructure 13:16 The Weight of Caregiving and System Failures 14:00 The Danger of Sole Responsibility in Caregiving 16:00 Health Impacts of Poor Infrastructure and Stress 16:50 Reflecting on Personal Family Infrastructure 17:49 The Myth of Infinite Caregiving Responsibility 19:08 Purpose Beyond Caregiving and Self-fulfillment 20:07 Shifting Infrastructure to Support Personal Purpose 20:57 Roots of Stability: Nature's Infrastructure 21:57 Women and the Toll of Poor Infrastructure 23:01 Building Your Personal Infrastructure 23:59 Asking for Help and Setting Boundaries 25:06 The Cost of Not Asking for Support 25:50 Impact of Caregiving on Women's Health and Finances 27:06 Preparing for Seasons of Change 28:04 Assessing and Improving Your Infrastructure 29:07 Letting Go of the 'Do It All' Chapter 30:08 Empowerment Through Infrastructure and Self-Care Need More? Visit www.InspiredCaring.com. This is THE family support & education program that helps families feel calm and confident to make better decisions faster. Inspired Caring is also offered as an annual membership tobusinesses to provide for the families they work with. Connect with Michele Magner: ⁠Website⁠⁠E-mail⁠Instagram⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠YouTube⁠ Custom podcast music written and produced by Colin Roberts. He does custom songs for any occasion.

  7. Jul 17

    220. Wound Prevention and Care - What You Need to Know

    Summary In this episode, Donna Kerber, LPN a seasoned wound care nurse specialist, shares insights on wound types, prevention, and care strategies, especially for seniors. Learn how to identify early signs of wounds, proper care techniques, and when to seek professional help to prevent serious complications. Wounds can originate from numerous circumstances and are not necessarily a sign of neglect or lack of care. Be sure to call a doctor if you have concerns about a potential wound or want more information on wound prevention and care. keywords wound care, senior health, pressure injuries, diabetic wounds, wound prevention, caregiving, healthcare tips, senior living, wound management, neglect key topics There are different types of wounds (traumatic, surgical, pressure, venous, arterial) Signs of pressure injuries and how to check for them Importance of hydration and nutrition in wound healing Stages of wounds and how they progress When and how to seek medical intervention for wounds Special considerations for dementia patients and noncompliance Use of advanced wound care tools like wound vacs Role of family caregivers in wound prevention and care sound bites "A wound is damage to the skin or underneath." "Stage four wounds involve muscle and bone." "Use pillows or cushions to relieve pressure, never a donut!" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Wound Care 03:06 Understanding Wounds: Types and Causes 06:27 Identifying Wounds: Caregiver's Role 08:51 Pressure Injuries: Prevention and Management 14:56 Stages of Wounds: Healing Process 16:23 Home Care for Wounds: When to Seek Help 21:03 The Importance of Proper Wound Cleaning 24:53 Navigating Wound Care with Dementia Patients 29:20 Diabetic Wounds: Management and Prevention 33:35 Wound Healing: Factors and Expectations 36:02 Home Health Care: Support for Families 38:04 Understanding Wound Care in Senior Living 40:25 Conclusion and Personal Reflections 42:28 Podcast Intro Music Project (MASTER BOUNCE - OUTRO).mp3

  8. Jul 10

    219. The Power of Music in Dementia Care: Insights from a Music Therapist Tara Jenkins

    Summary In this episode, Tara Jenkins, a board-certified music therapist, shares her insights on how music can be a powerful tool in dementia care, emotional connection, and caregiver support. Discover practical tips, scientific insights, and personal stories that highlight the transformative power of music. keywords music therapy, dementia care, emotional connection, caregiver support, neuroplasticity, music and memory, mental health, therapeutic music, neurodiversity, holistic health key topics Music activates multiple brain areas including memory and emotion Music can evoke positive and negative emotional responses Personalized music choices are crucial for meaningful engagement Overstimulation and environment impact music therapy effectiveness Music can be used for relaxation, motivation, and emotional release The importance of knowing individual music preferences and history Music therapy supports both people with dementia and caregivers Creating playlists and using music for self-care and stress relief Full circle moments and personal stories highlight music's impact Guidelines for safe and effective music use in care settings sound bites "Music activates many areas of our brain at once" "Music connects us emotionally to a time and place" "Music can impact us both positively and negatively" Chapters 00:00 Audio Setup Challenges 00:58 Introduction to Music Therapy 06:25 The Science of Music and Memory 12:28 Emotional Connections to Music 16:06 Navigating Music's Impact on Emotions 20:19 Understanding Individual Preferences in Music Therapy 23:26 Creating a Calm Environment for Dementia Care 24:53 The Importance of Choice in Music Therapy 28:30 Using Music for Different Therapeutic Outcomes 33:51 Incorporating Music Preferences in Care Plans 37:41 Exploring New Music and Emotional Connections 43:01 The Emotional Spectrum of Music and Caregiving 45:52 Building Community Through Music Therapy 50:18 Encouragement for Caregivers and Personal Playlists 53:04 Podcast Intro Music Project (MASTER BOUNCE - OUTRO).mp3 resources Check out Tara's Link Tree Instagram LinkedIn Website Hilarity for Charity What's Tara listening to? Olivia Dean and Led Zeplin

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About

If you are helping out an aging family member, this is the place for you! Here, you will find inspiration, tools and resources that are needed to be prepared to take care of your loved one AND yourself along this caregiving journey. Michele Magner is a family caregiver, Gerontologist, Certified Dementia Practitioner, Professor and has worked in the Senior Living Industry. She knows that everything we do today, impacts our own aging outcomes so she created the Inspired Caring Family Support & Education Program. Today is the day to be inspired! www.InspiredCaring.com michele@michelemagner.com

Information

  • Creator
    Michele Magner
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    232
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Michele Magner
  • Show Website
    Inspired Caring