Navigating senior care be easier when you have the right support system by your side. In this heartfelt episode, host Wendy Jones welcomes longtime friend Kristi Kirschmann and Spiritual Support team leader Roz Burns to discuss the journey families face when caring for aging loved ones and the importance of supporting seniors both physically and spiritually. The conversation explores the mission of the Next Steps for Seniors Foundation and its Spiritual Support Team, which provides companionship, prayer, encouragement, and comfort to seniors after they move into care communities. Through powerful stories of faith, connection, and compassion, Wendy, Kristi, and Roz highlight the profound impact that emotional and spiritual support can have on seniors during life's later chapters. Whether you're caring for an aging parent, exploring senior living options, or looking for meaningful ways to serve your community, this episode offers hope, practical guidance, and inspiration. Key Highlights in this Episode: Navigating Dementia Care: Kristi shares the challenges her family faced as her mother's Lewy body dementia progressed and how professional placement guidance helped them make informed decisions. The Value of Senior Placement Services: Learn how placement specialists help families identify the right senior living communities based on care needs, finances, location, and personal preferences—at no cost to the family. Support Beyond the Move: The conversation emphasizes that care doesn't end once a senior moves into a community. Ongoing guidance and advocacy help families navigate changing care needs over time. The Spiritual Support Team: Roz explains how trained volunteers visit seniors, offer companionship, prayer, and meaningful conversations, helping reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. The Blanket Ministry: Hear touching stories about the Foundation's gift blankets, which provide comfort, connection, and a tangible reminder that seniors are cared for and valued. Finding Peace and Purpose: The team discusses the importance of helping seniors explore spiritual questions, strengthen their faith, and find assurance and comfort during later stages of life. Volunteer Opportunities: Learn how churches and community members can partner with the Next Steps for Seniors Foundation to serve seniors and make a lasting impact. Resources & How to Contact Next Steps for Seniors: Website: nextsteps4seniors.com Podcast Schedule: Tune in to Next Steps for Seniors with new episodes dropping twice a week at 7:00 AM! Every Tuesday: Educational and insightful content to help you navigate the practical steps of aging. Every Friday: Spiritual and emotional support to encourage your heart and mind. Be sure to subscribe on Apple, Spotify, IHeart Podcasts so you never miss an episode, and if you enjoyed today's show, please leave us a rating and review! Learn more : https://omny.fm/shows/next-steps-4-seniors-with-wendy-jones See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
