Real conversations about aging parents

Rebecca Tapia, MD
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Real conversations about aging parents

Join me every week for REAL conversations about the ups, downs and sideways of navigating life with aging parents. We focus on mindset, education and collaboration through a willingness to discuss raw stories and all the sticky topics. Cultural pressure? Financial problems? Family dynamics? Fascinating!! No judgement here. No shoulds. Just a bunch of people figuring this out together. About the host: I am a recovering perfect daughter, elective roommate of my 90 year old grandmother, and a rehabilitation physician who has seen *thousands* of families navigate the chaos that can occur when the unexpected happens (falls, strokes, etc). I've been taking notes and I'm ready to share and listen.

  1. 4 DAYS AGO

    Hot Topic: "Medicare at Home" proposed by Harris campaign

    Welcome! In this episode we talk about the HOT OFF THE PRESS topic of Medicare at Home, a new proposal to extend medicare benefits into home care, vision and audiology care. Find more here: https://thehill.com/policy/healthcare/4922425-harris-adult-caregivers-medicare-benefit-at-home-care-sandwich-generation/ https://oneill.law.georgetown.edu/delivering-on-medicares-promise-providing-a-home-care-benefit-for-people-who-need-long-term-care/ Caveats: This is a judgement free zoneThere are no "shoulds" allowed, we live in curiosityTake what works well for you, leave the rest!This podcast is for informational purposes only; it is not intended as formal legal, financial or medical advice If you are finding value in this podcast, please share and leave a review so others can find it too! Rebecca Disclaimer: The information presented on this podcast is solely for information purposes. We do not provide medical, legal, financial, or other professional advice through this podcast and we are not responsible for any errors or omissions. It is your responsibility to seek advice from a licensed professional. Any actions you take are done at your own risk.

    23 min

  2. OCT 2

    Experts Opine: Nightmare scenario case study with Elder Law Attorney Lisa Powers

    Welcome! In this episode I have friend of the podcast Lisa Powers, an Elder Law Attorney out of New York state. She has a wealth of knowledge to share, this time we focus on some specific "case studies" with good learning points. Find more about Lisa here: https://www.harrisbeach.com/people/powers-lisa-m/ In this episode of Real Conversations About Aging Parents, host Rebecca welcomes back elder care attorney and business coach Lisa. The discussion covers various topics related to elder care, including common pitfalls in planning, the importance of accurate medical and financial information, and personal stories illustrating the complexities of this field. Introduction Guest Introduction Discussion Overview Horror Story: Medicaid and Medical Misinformation Common Overlooked Aspects Hospital Stays and Observation Status Conclusion Caveats: This is a judgement free zoneThere are no "shoulds" allowed, we live in curiosityTake what works well for you, leave the rest!This podcast is for informational purposes only; it is not intended as formal legal, financial or medical advice My course "unSandwiched" is now LIVE If you are finding value in this podcast, please share and leave a review so others can find it too! Rebecca Disclaimer: The information presented on this podcast is solely for information purposes. We do not provide medical, legal, financial, or other professional advice through this podcast and we are not responsible for any errors or omissions. It is your responsibility to seek advice from a licensed professional. Any actions you take are done at your own risk.

    28 min

  3. SEP 25

    Solo Podcast: A world expanding or contracting

    Welcome! In this episode I talk about the juxtaposition of worlds that are growing and shrinking at the same time, what are some of the root causes and practical solutions to find connection and support from two very perspectives Navigating the Expanding and Shrinking Worlds of Our Lives In this episode, host Rebecca Tapia delves into the contrasting experiences of different life stages, discussing how our worlds expand and contract over time. From the simplicity of a child's perspective to the complex responsibilities of adulthood, and finally to the often shrinking world of aging parents due to various constraints, Rebecca offers insights and personal anecdotes. The episode emphasizes understanding and empathy, especially in caregiving situations, and explores practical ways to support aging parents in maintaining a connected and fulfilling life. 00:00 Introduction 02:18 The Expanding Worlds of Youth 05:15 The Complex, Busy Middle Years 22:32 Technology as a Bridge 23:51 Practical Ways to Support Aging Parents 33:58 A Personal Anecdote and Closing Thoughts Caveats: This is a judgement free zoneThere are no "shoulds" allowed, we live in curiosityTake what works well for you, leave the rest!This podcast is for informational purposes only; it is not intended as formal legal, financial or medical advice If you are finding value in this podcast, please share and leave a review so others can find it too! Rebecca Disclaimer: The information presented on this podcast is solely for information purposes. We do not provide medical, legal, financial, or other professional advice through this podcast and we are not responsible for any errors or omissions. It is your responsibility to seek advice from a licensed professional. Any actions you take are done at your own risk.

    35 min

  4. SEP 18

    Experts Opine: Heads up... Medicare Changes for next year with Niki Feret

    Welcome! In this episode we talk again with Niki Feret, our resident expert on all things Medicare! AI summary: In this episode of 'Real Conversations About Aging Parents,' host Rebecca Tapia welcomes back Nikki Ferret, a Medicare expert and owner of Brickhouse Agency. The discussion delves into a comprehensive overview of Medicare, including the differences between Parts A, B, C, and D, and the benefits and challenges of Medicare Advantage and supplemental plans. Nikki offers updates on important timelines and changes due to the Inflation Reduction Act, impacting Medicare drug plans. They also discuss tips for adult children helping their aging parents navigate Medicare options, emphasizing the importance of staying informed and utilizing resources like agents during the annual election period. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Reintroduction 01:47 Overview of Medicare Parts A and B 05:00 Medicare Part C: Medicare Advantage Plans 06:35 Medicare Part D: Prescription Drug Plans 09:07 Navigating Medicare Advantage Plans 18:44 Medicare Supplement Plans 22:31 Upcoming Changes in Medicare Plans 23:32 Medicare Enrollment Timeline and Drug Plan Changes 24:00 Impact of the Inflation Reduction Act on Medicare 24:26 Understanding the New Drug Plan Stages 26:25 Annual Notice of Change: What to Look For 27:06 Switching Medicare Plans: Key Considerations 34:59 Medicare Advantage vs. Supplement Plans 41:14 Future Trends in Medicare 44:28 Resources and Contact Information More about Niki Feret: https://brickhouseagency.com/ https://chicagolandmedicare.com/ Chicagoland Medicare is a premier boutique Medicare insurance agency dedicated to serving retirees in Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin. Powered by Brickhouse Agency, LLC—licensed in over 30 states nationwide—the agency specializes exclusively in Medicare, offering expertise and personalized service. With a focus solely on Medicare, Chicagoland Medicare and Brickhouse Agency are passionate about guiding clients through the complexities of Medicare plans and options. They take the time to educate, answer all your questions, and enroll you in the right Medicare insurance policy when you’re ready. To accommodate your busy schedule, they offer meetings via Zoom and phone with a user-friendly website that features an easy scheduling platform. The goal of Chicagoland Medicare and Brickhouse Agency is to empower you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions and to provide support every step of the way. If you'd like to include my upcoming webinar dates and times in any communication you have with your audience, here is that info: Confused and overwhelmed by Medicare? You’re not alone. Whether you're new to Medicare or trying to navigate your plan's changes for 2025 it’s important to stay updated and informed.  You want to make the best Medicare insurance plan choices for your needs. Register for one of our free Prepare for Medicare virtual seminars where we'll cover: - 2025 changes to the Medicare Prescription Drug Plan - Understanding the basics of Original Medicare - Compare Medicare Supplement vs. Medicare Advantage plans - How to enroll if you're new to Medicare - How to avoid lifetime late enrollment penalties - Yearly Medicare housekeeping to-dos Dates and registration link: September 28, 10am Central a...

    47 min

  5. SEP 4

    Marie: Navigating the public cringe factor

    Welcome! In this episode, we dive into the complexities of maintaining relationships with aging parents. Our guest, Marie, discusses her challenges with her aging mother, who has exhibited concerning cognitive and behavioral changes after retirement. We explore the difficulties of setting boundaries, managing inappropriate public behavior, and striving for positive interactions while dealing with underlying grief and loss. The conversation offers insights into handling delicate family dynamics with empathy and resilience. Caveats: This is a judgement free zoneThere are no "shoulds" allowed, we live in curiosityTake what works well for you, leave the rest!This podcast is for informational purposes only; it is not intended as formal legal, financial or medical advice My course "unSandwiched" is now LIVE If you are finding value in this podcast, please share and leave a review so others can find it too! Rebecca Disclaimer: The information presented on this podcast is solely for information purposes. We do not provide medical, legal, financial, or other professional advice through this podcast and we are not responsible for any errors or omissions. It is your responsibility to seek advice from a licensed professional. Any actions you take are done at your own risk.

    1h 4m

  6. AUG 28

    Solo Podcast: "Slow" Grief

    Welcome! In this episode I unpack my way of explaining "slow" grief, as opposed to fast grief, and how this can manifest in life, what to do about it and how it may be beneficial! AI Show Notes: In this episode, Rebecca Tapia dives into the concept of 'slow grief' experienced with aging parents, contrasting it with the more familiar 'fast grief.' She explores its psychological facets, ties it to the stages of grief by Elizabeth Kubler-Ross, and provides practical advice on how to manage these emotions. 00:00 Introduction 00:35 Defining Slow Grief 02:45 Fast Grief vs. Slow Grief 07:07 Denial Stage in Slow Grief 08:49 Anger Stage in Slow Grief 09:54 Bargaining Stage in Slow Grief 10:47 Depression Stage in Slow Grief 11:33 Acceptance Stage in Slow Grief 14:05 Combining Fast and Slow Grief 12:55 Cognitive Decline and Its Challenges 17:18 Strategies for Managing Slow Grief 32:56 Closing Thoughts Caveats: This is a judgement free zoneThere are no "shoulds" allowed, we live in curiosityTake what works well for you, leave the rest!This podcast is for informational purposes only; it is not intended as formal legal, financial or medical advice My course "unSandwiched" is now LIVE If you are finding value in this podcast, please share and leave a review so others can find it too! Rebecca Disclaimer: The information presented on this podcast is solely for information purposes. We do not provide medical, legal, financial, or other professional advice through this podcast and we are not responsible for any errors or omissions. It is your responsibility to seek advice from a licensed professional. Any actions you take are done at your own risk.

    34 min

  7. AUG 21

    David: Roommates with your wife's grandma?

    Welcome! In this episode I FINALLY talk to my own husband, David, about his point of view during our years living with the aging parent, Nana. AI Show Notes: In this episode, host Rebecca Tapia talks with her husband David about their 20-year marriage, raising children, and the rewarding yet challenging experience of having Rebecca's grandmother (Nana) live with them. They discuss the dynamics of multi-generational living, the integration process, their children's relationships with Nana, and the abrupt end to this living arrangement. The couple also shares insights and advice on having elderly family members move in, the emotional and practical considerations involved, and how such experiences shape future family dynamics. 00:00 Introduction and Special Guest 00:25 Early Years and Marriage 01:31 Medical School and Family Life 02:15 Podcast and Aging Parents 04:32 Living with Nana 07:18 Challenges and Changes 13:30 Reflections on Elder Care 16:48 The Grandparent Dynamic 18:45 Advice for Integrating Grandparents into Your Home 22:10 Considering the Practicalities and Emotional Impact 25:15 Reflections on Death and Family 27:48 Personal Stories and Final Thoughts 32:44 Wrapping Up and Final Remarks Caveats: This is a judgement free zoneThere are no "shoulds" allowed, we live in curiosityTake what works well for you, leave the rest!This podcast is for informational purposes only; it is not intended as formal legal, financial or medical advice My course "unSandwiched" is now LIVE If you are finding value in this podcast, please share and leave a review so others can find it too! Rebecca Disclaimer: The information presented on this podcast is solely for information purposes. We do not provide medical, legal, financial, or other professional advice through this podcast and we are not responsible for any errors or omissions. It is your responsibility to seek advice from a licensed professional. Any actions you take are done at your own risk.

    35 min

  8. AUG 14

    Solo Podcast: Caring for an emotional billionaire

    Welcome! In this episode I get super emo and talk about my concept of "emotional billionaires". Yes I just made that up but it works! AI Summary LOL: Real Conversations about Aging Parents: The Emotional Wealth of an Aging Parent In this heartfelt episode of Real Conversations about Aging Parents, host Rebecca Tapia discusses the concept of 'emotional wealth' with respect to aging parents. Through personal anecdotes about her grandmother and reflections on her own family's experiences, Rebecca explores how a lifetime of generosity and dedication can profoundly affect the support and care an elderly person receives. She contrasts this with the experience of her grandfather, emphasizing the impact of emotional bankruptcy. This episode encourages listeners to reflect on their relationships and the 'emotional bank accounts' that are formed over a lifetime. Caveats: This is a judgement free zoneThere are no "shoulds" allowed, we live in curiosityTake what works well for you, leave the rest!This podcast is for informational purposes only; it is not intended as formal legal, financial or medical advice If you are finding value in this podcast, please share and leave a review so others can find it too! Rebecca Disclaimer: The information presented on this podcast is solely for information purposes. We do not provide medical, legal, financial, or other professional advice through this podcast and we are not responsible for any errors or omissions. It is your responsibility to seek advice from a licensed professional. Any actions you take are done at your own risk.

    25 min
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About

Join me every week for REAL conversations about the ups, downs and sideways of navigating life with aging parents. We focus on mindset, education and collaboration through a willingness to discuss raw stories and all the sticky topics. Cultural pressure? Financial problems? Family dynamics? Fascinating!! No judgement here. No shoulds. Just a bunch of people figuring this out together. About the host: I am a recovering perfect daughter, elective roommate of my 90 year old grandmother, and a rehabilitation physician who has seen *thousands* of families navigate the chaos that can occur when the unexpected happens (falls, strokes, etc). I've been taking notes and I'm ready to share and listen.

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