Spotlight - Shining a light on senior-centered services—educating, empowering, and enhancing lives

Athena Quinones

Welcome to Spotlight! Your go-to podcast for the latest in senior care services, innovative solutions, and strategies that enrich the lives of older adults. I'm your host, Athena Quinones, Business Development Director at Kisco Senior Living and a dedicated Senior Ambassador. Whether you're a senior, adult child, or professional in the field, this podcast is here to provide you with valuable insights and education on innovation in senior care.

  1. APR 8

    Dementia Care & Burnout Prevention

    Who is caring for the person holding it all together? When a loved one receives a dementia diagnosis, the focus immediately shifts to their medical needs. But what about the emotional toll on the spouse, the child, or the sibling?  In this episode, Athena Quinones sits down with Alexandra Kaplan, Lead Caregiver Coach at the Institute on Aging (IOA), to discuss the "hidden" side of Dementia Care. From navigating anticipatory grief to accessing respite care resources, we explore how to support the caregiver so they can continue to provide care without losing themselves in the process. Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's or dementia is a marathon, not a sprint. Alexandra Kaplan joins the Spotlight Podcast to provide a roadmap for caregiver burnout prevention. We dive deep into the emotional realities of the aging journey, including the complex feelings of anticipatory grief—grieving a person while they are still physically present. Whether you are looking for caregiver self-care tips, wondering how to access respite care grants, or seeking a memory care transition strategy, this conversation offers practical tools and holistic support. Alex also highlights the vital services provided by the Institute on Aging, including the 24/7 Friendship Line and their virtual caregiver coaching programs. Timestamps for Easy Navigation: 00:00 – Intro: Supporting the Caregiver in Dementia Care 01:58 – What is the Institute on Aging (IOA)? 03:40 – The Friendship Line: Solving Senior Isolation 09:00 – Emotional Impact: Relief vs. Shock after an Early Diagnosis of Dementia 14:20 – What is Anticipatory Grief? Grieving before the loss 17:50 – Identifying the Warning Signs of Caregiver Burnout 23:45 – Practical Caregiver Self-Care Tips: Refilling your cup in small ways 27:30 – The "Support List" Exercise: Mapping your village 29:15 – How Alzheimer's Support Groups transform the journey 32:30 – Navigating Respite Care Resources & Grants 36:30 – Why Early Evaluation is a "Gift" for Memory Care Transition 41:00 – Advice for Professionals: How to take tasks off a caregiver's plate Key Resources Mentioned: Institute on Aging (IOA): ioaging.org The Friendship Line (24/7 Support): 1-800-971-0016 Alzheimer's Association: alz.org Family Caregiver Alliance: caregiver.org Hilarity for Charity (Respite Grants): wearehfc.org About Alexandra Kaplan Alexandra Kaplan is the Lead Caregiver Coach at the Institute on Aging. She specializes in providing emotional support, dementia education, and burnout prevention resources to families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. Her work focuses on the holistic well-being of the family unit, ensuring that caregivers are seen, heard, and supported. About Athena Quinones Athena Quinones is a Business Development Director, Senior Ambassador, and the founder of PROSERVE. As the host of Spotlight, she connects families with the "invisible ecosystem" of senior care professionals to ensure every transition is handled with compassion and expertise. YouTube: www.youtube.com/@Spotlightbyathenaquinones Apple Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/spotlight-by-athena-quinones/id1818136225 Spotify: open.spotify.com/episode/0E1iDvJaLXTicCYKwX6lbv?si=khbUIgFDTIi40nl7z_7G4g Website: www.spotlightbyathenaquinones.com/podcast

    39 min

  2. MAR 24

    Why "Tidying Up" is actually making you more disorganized

    Are you facing the daunting task of downsizing a lifetime of memories, or is paperwork management causing a silent crisis in your home? In this episode, we reveal why organizing is less about "HGTV aesthetics" and more about protecting your family's mental health and safety during a senior living transition. In this episode of Spotlight, host Athena Quinones sits down with Jennise Mendoza, founder of Rescue Me Organizing, to unpack the emotional and logistical weight of life transitions. From the "Barbie doll" battles of family dynamics to the critical necessity of an "Emergency Password Vault," Jennise explains how a professional organizer acts as the ultimate bridge between chaos and peace. Whether you are an adult child helping a parent move or a senior looking to simplify, this conversation provides a roadmap for decluttering with dignity. We explore how to manage "organized chaos," the health and safety risks of clutter, and why emotional support is the most important tool in any organizer's kit.   Key Takeaways & Timestamps 01:55 – The HGTV Myth: Why your organizing system should fit your personality, not a magazine cover. 03:10 – The "Treasure Box" Strategy: A clever way to handle sentimental items without cluttering the whole house. 07:15 – The Psychology of "Stuff": How a lifetime of collecting "success" markers can impact mental health during a move. 10:13 – Family Dynamics & Role Reversal: Navigating the power struggle between parents and adult children during downsizing. 12:15 – The 1-Hour Rule: Why working in small "piecemeal" bits is more effective than a 5-hour marathon. 19:57 – Health and Safety: How decluttering prevents falls and meets fire safety codes in senior living communities. 23:23 – Signals for Help: When is it time to hire a professional organizer? (Hospitalization, stroke recovery, or mail overwhelm). 29:53 – The Emergency Checklist: The vital paperwork management every adult needs to have in place before a crisis.   About Jennise Mendoza Jennise Mendoza is the founder of Rescue Me Organizing. Transitioning from a high-stress corporate insurance background to professional organizing, she specializes in helping seniors and individuals with disabilities create systems that work for their unique needs. Jennise is known for her non-judgmental approach and her ability to "rescue" families from the overwhelm of life transitions. Website: https://www.rescuemeorganizer.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennise-mendoza-22a5435/   About Athena Quinones Athena Quinones is a Business Development Director, Senior Ambassador, and the founder of PROSERVE. As the host of Spotlight, she connects families with the "invisible ecosystem" of senior care professionals to ensure every transition is handled with compassion and expertise.   YouTube: www.youtube.com/@Spotlightbyathenaquinones Apple Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/spotlight-by-athena-quinones/id1818136225 Spotify: open.spotify.com/episode/0E1iDvJaLXTicCYKwX6lbv?si=khbUIgFDTIi40nl7z_7G4g Website: www.spotlightbyathenaquinones.com/podcast

    36 min
  3. Is CBD just another health fad, or a medical game-changer?

    FEB 24

    Is CBD just another health fad, or a medical game-changer?

    In this episode of Spotlight, host Athena Quinones is joined by Cheri Sacks, a certified cannabis nurse and founder of Chronic Health Wisdom. With her background in neuroscience and diabetes education, Cheri explains why CBD health benefits the aging body in ways traditional pharmaceuticals often can't. We dive deep into the endocannabinoid system, the difference between hemp and marijuana, and why seniors are the fastest-growing demographic of cannabis users. If you've been curious about using CBD for pain management, as a sleep aid, or for neuroprotection against Alzheimer's, this nurse-led conversation provides the "do's and don'ts" for safe, effective use.   Key Topics Covered   ✅ The Science of Balance: Understanding the endocannabinoid system—the body's internal feedback loop. ✅ Cannabis vs. Hemp: Clearing up the confusion between THC and CBD. ✅ The Chain Reaction: How reducing inflammation leads to better mobility, exercise, and restorative sleep. ✅ Methods of Consumption: Choosing between fast-acting tinctures, topical lotions, and long-lasting gummies. ✅ Safety First: Critical medication interactions (blood thinners and heart meds) and how to "start low and go slow." ✅ Quality Control: How to avoid "gas station CBD" and find reputable products using QR codes and lab reports.   Episode Timestamps 0:00 - Introduction: Meet Cheri Sacks of Chronic Health Wisdom 2:00 - From Candy Striper to Cannabis Nurse: Cheri's Background 4:47 - What is the Endocannabinoid System? 6:14 - Marijuana vs. Hemp: The THC and CBD Distinction 8:00 - Full Spectrum vs. Broad Spectrum: What Seniors Should Know 9:30 - Why Seniors Use CBD: Pain Management, Sleep Aid, and Brain Health 11:46 - The Holistic Health Chain Reaction: Moving from Pain to Mobility 14:07 - Tinctures, Gummies, or Lotions: Which is Best for You? 18:42 - Dosing and Safety: Interactions with Heart Meds and Blood Thinners 23:11 - When to Avoid CBD: Heart Attacks and Immunotherapy 25:05 - The History and Stigma of Cannabis: Why It Was Removed from Medicine Cabinets 32:18 - How to Spot Quality: Avoiding Synthetic and Unregulated Products 34:24 - Trusted Resources: Where to Learn More   About Cheri Sacks Cheri Sacks is a certified cannabis nurse with decades of experience in neuroscience and chronic disease management. Through her company, Chronic Health Wisdom, she provides education and coaching to help seniors and their families navigate the therapeutic use of cannabis for a better quality of life.   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chronichealthwisdom Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chronic_health_wisdom LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherisacks/   About Spotlight Spotlight, hosted by Athena Quinones, is a dedicated space for exploring the most vital issues in senior care. From healthcare innovations to financial planning, Athena brings on experts to empower adult children and seniors with the wisdom they need to thrive.   YouTube: www.youtube.com/@Spotlightbyathenaquinones Apple Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/spotlight-by-athena-quinones/id1818136225 Spotify: open.spotify.com/episode/0E1iDvJaLXTicCYKwX6lbv?si=khbUIgFDTIi40nl7z_7G4g Website: www.spotlightbyathenaquinones.com/podcast

    37 min
  4. Beyond the Dollar: Managing the Emotional Burden and Family Dynamics of Senior Care

    FEB 10

    Beyond the Dollar: Managing the Emotional Burden and Family Dynamics of Senior Care

    In this episode of the Spotlight podcast about Senior Care, host Athena Quinones sits down with Francesca Vogel, partner at Hillendale Home Care. They move beyond "dollars and cents" to explore the holistic realities of the financial cost of aging parents.   From the "invisible" cost of lost career opportunities to the physical risks of falls at home, Francesca explains how family dynamics and mental health are affected by the caregiving journey. Whether you are navigating home care or considering senior living, this conversation provides the resources and roadmap you need to move from crisis mode to proactive planning.   What You'll Learn in This Episode: - The Reality of Lost Wages: How the average 55-year-old daughter loses significant income while acting as an unpaid caregiver. - Hidden Home Expenses: Why aging in place often requires expensive home modifications and safety upgrades to prevent falls. - The Emotional Toll: Navigating the emotional burden of caregiving and protecting your own mental health. - Estate Planning Essentials: Why a Power of Attorney (POA), a living trust, and a fiduciary are non-negotiable for aging parents. - Financial Lifelines: How to access VA Aid and Attendance, long-term care insurance, and palliative care resources.   🕒 Timestamps & Chapters: 0:00 – Intro: The holistic cost of senior care. 3:14 – The $100K Trap: Lost wages and the financial reality for adult children. 5:41 – The "Nest Egg" Dilemma: Why parents resist spending on their own care. 7:42 – The Conversation: Why you must plan while parents are still healthy. 9:30 – Hidden Costs: Home modifications, walkers, and emergency response systems. 11:59 – Aging in Place vs. Senior Living: Which is actually safer? 16:53 – The Continuum of Care: Combining home care with community living. 20:46 – Mental Health for Caregivers: Dealing with burnout and grief. 24:32 – The Risks of Hiring Private Caregivers vs. Professional Agencies. 29:04 – Family Dynamics: Managing sibling conflict and the importance of a POA. 36:17 – Unlocking Benefits: VA Aid and Attendance & Long-Term Care Insurance. 40:35 – Local East Bay Resources: Palliative care and support groups.   Key Resources Mentioned: - Estate & Financial Planning: Power of Attorney (POA), Fiduciaries (e.g., Marina Ware), and Living Trusts. - Professional Support: Geriatric Care Managers and Advisors on Aging. Safety Systems: Vitalink Home Emergency Response. - Medical Resources: John Muir Palliative Care, Kaiser Memory Clinic, and CEI (Center for Elders' Independence). - Support Groups: ALS Association, Parkinson's Association, and Stroke Support Groups.     ABOUT FRANCESCA VOGEL OF HILLENDALE:   Francesca Vogel: francesca@hillendale.net Website: https://hillendalehomecare.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hillendalehomecare Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hillendalecare LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hillendalehomecare/   ABOUT SPOTLIGHT PODCAST: Spotlight brings you expert conversations on senior health, wellness, and quality of life. We connect you with healthcare professionals who are making a difference in senior living communities.   YouTube: www.youtube.com/@Spotlightbyathenaquinones Apple Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/spotlight-by-athena-quinones/id1818136225 Spotify: open.spotify.com/episode/0E1iDvJaLXTicCYKwX6lbv?si=khbUIgFDTIi40nl7z_7G4g Website: www.spotlightbyathenaquinones.com/podcast   #SpotlightPodcast #SeniorCare #AgingParents #FinancialCost #HomeCare #SeniorLiving #Caregiving #EstatePlanning #MentalHealth #PlanningAhead #EastBayResources

    43 min
  5. $40,000 Stolen by Her Own Daughter—Why Every Senior Needs a Fiduciary

    12/02/2025

    $40,000 Stolen by Her Own Daughter—Why Every Senior Needs a Fiduciary

    🚨 Elder Financial Abuse is Happening Right Now—Here's How to Protect Your Loved Ones Marina Ware, Licensed Professional Fiduciary, reveals the shocking truth about estate planning for seniors and why family members are often the biggest threat to your parent's financial security. In this must-watch interview, Marina shares a real case where a daughter stole $40,000 from her own mother's estate—and explains how a professional fiduciary could have prevented it. What You'll Learn: ✅ The #1 reason seniors need a fiduciary (even with loving family) ✅ Warning signs of elder financial abuse to watch for RIGHT NOW ✅ Power of attorney for elderly parents—healthcare vs. financial explained ✅ How to avoid probate court (saves thousands of dollars and years of time) ✅ When Adult Protective Services (APS) should be contacted ✅ Estate planning for seniors without children—what happens to assets? ✅ The cost of fiduciary services and how billing works ✅ Pet trusts and charitable trusts explained Critical Warning Signs Discussed: ⚠️ Large unexplained withdrawals from parent's bank account ⚠️ One sibling living at home and constantly asking for money ⚠️ Adult children refusing outside help or oversight ⚠️ No estate plan in place (assets go to probate court) ⚠️ Outdated estate documents with wrong beneficiaries Key Topics Covered: Elder financial abuse prevention strategies How to find a licensed professional fiduciary in your state Family dynamics and sibling rivalry in estate planning Power of attorney for finance vs. healthcare decisions Trustee, executor, and conservator roles explained Working with seniors who have dementia or cognitive decline National Certified Guardian licensing (46 states) What happens when someone dies without a will or trust 🔗 RESOURCES & LINKS: ABOUT MARINA WARE: Marina Ware is a Licensed Professional Fiduciary authorized to serve as power of attorney for finance and healthcare, successor trustee, court conservator, and guardian. With 14 years of experience as a paralegal in estate planning and probate, and National Certified Guardian licensing in 46 states, Marina specializes in protecting seniors' financial interests and carrying out their final wishes. Connect with Marina Ware: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marina-m-ware-0653959/ Diablo Valley Fiduciary: https://www.diablovalleyfiduciary.com/ Licensed in 46 States for Trustee/Executor Services ABOUT SPOTLIGHT PODCAST: Spotlight brings you expert conversations on senior health, wellness, and quality of life. We connect you with healthcare professionals who are making a difference in senior living communities. YouTube: www.youtube.com/@Spotlightbyathenaquinones Apple Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/spotlight-by-athena-quinones/id1818136225 Spotify: open.spotify.com/episode/0E1iDvJaLXTicCYKwX6lbv?si=khbUIgFDTIi40nl7z_7G4g Website: www.spotlightbyathenaquinones.com/podcast #EstatePlanning #ElderFinancialAbuse #PowerOfAttorney #SeniorLiving #Fiduciary #EstatePlanningForSeniors #ElderCare #FinancialAbusePrevention #AvoidProbate #SeniorProtection #TrusteeServices #EstatePlanningAttorney #ElderLaw #SeniorFinances #FamilyConflict #InheritanceProtection #ProbateCourt #LivingTrust #SeniorSafety #ProtectYourParents

    10 min
  6. What No One Tells You About Hearing Aids for Seniors

    11/18/2025

    What No One Tells You About Hearing Aids for Seniors

    🎧 Understanding Senior Hearing Loss and Its Link to Cognitive Decline Did you know that untreated hearing loss significantly increases the risk of dementia in older adults? In this eye-opening episode, Dr. Johnson, a leading audiologist specializing in senior care, reveals the critical connection between age-related hearing loss and cognitive decline—and what you can do about it. What You'll Learn: ✅ Why 40-50% of seniors over 75 experience hearing loss ✅ The shocking link between hearing loss and cognitive decline ✅ Early warning signs of hearing loss in elderly loved ones ✅ How hearing aids for seniors can reduce dementia risk by up to 50% ✅ Cost-effective solutions and Medicare coverage options ✅ The difference between quality hearing aids vs. big box store devices ✅ Preventative strategies to protect your hearing at any age ABOUT DR. JOHNSON: Dr. Johnson is a Doctor of Audiology serving senior living communities and local patients with comprehensive hearing healthcare. He specializes in age-related hearing loss, cognitive health preservation, and personalized hearing solutions for older adults. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-johnson-a82a91196/ Website: https://www.walnutcreekaudiology.com/ Email: Contact@WalnutCreekAudiology.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Walnut-Creek-Audiology/61557161305113/ ABOUT SPOTLIGHT PODCAST: Spotlight brings you expert conversations on senior health, wellness, and quality of life. We connect you with healthcare professionals who are making a difference in senior living communities. YouTube: www.youtube.com/@Spotlightbyathenaquinones Apple Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/spotlight-by-athena-quinones/id1818136225 Spotify: open.spotify.com/episode/0E1iDvJaLXTicCYKwX6lbv?si=khbUIgFDTIi40nl7z_7G4g Website: www.spotlightbyathenaquinones.com/podcast Got questions? Drop them in the comments below! Dr. Johnson and our team love hearing from you. 💙 Watch Next: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aBqDfg5XPhY #SeniorHearingLoss #CognitiveDecline #HearingAidsForSeniors #AgeRelatedHearingLoss #DementiaPreventionTips #SeniorHealth #Audiology #ElderCare #HearingLossTreatment #SeniorLiving #HealthyAging #HearingAids #CognitiveDeclinesWarningSign

    32 min
  7. The FREE Service That Takes Seniors to Appointments Uber Won't

    11/04/2025

    The FREE Service That Takes Seniors to Appointments Uber Won't

    How do seniors who can't drive get to the doctor or the grocery store? This non-profit organization offers FREE, door-to-door transportation for seniors (60+) and veterans of any age in Contra Costa County.   In this vital episode of Spotlight, Athena welcomes David Benet from Mobility Matters, a life-changing non-profit organization. David reveals how their volunteer services provide essential, free transportation for seniors and veterans assistance for those who cannot use services like Uber or Lyft.   This isn't just a ride; it's an escorted "door-through-door" service that provides critical community support and social interaction for many who are otherwise isolated. Learn about who qualifies, how this senior care service helps people age in place with dignity, and how it's all made possible by dedicated volunteers. David also shares details on their crucial emergency response program for fires, power outages, and heat waves.   🎙️ Listen to the full, insightful conversation on the Spotlight Podcast: https://youtu.be/fAWwb3yI6UY   ABOUT OUR GUEST: David Benet is the Volunteer Coordinator for Mobility Matters, a non-profit organization providing free, escorted transportation to seniors and veterans in Contra Costa County, helping them age in place with dignity. Website: https://mobilitymatterscc.com/ Become a Volunteer: https://mobilitymatterscc.com/volunteer/ Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/mobilitymatterscc/   ABOUT SPOTLIGHT: Welcome to Spotlight, the go-to podcast for seniors, caregivers, and adult children navigating the world of senior care. Host Athena Quinones interviews experts in senior living, healthcare, elder law, financial planning, and dementia care to provide you with the resources you need to make informed decisions for your family. Subscribe to Spotlight for more essential resources:    YouTube: www.youtube.com/@Spotlightbyathenaquinones Apple Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/spotlight-by-athena-quinones/id1818136225 Spotify: open.spotify.com/episode/0E1iDvJaLXTicCYKwX6lbv?si=khbUIgFDTIi40nl7z_7G4g Website: www.spotlightbyathenaquinones.com/podcast   #SpotlightPodcast #TransportationForSeniors #SeniorCare #MobilityMatters #ContraCostaCounty #VeteransAssistance #VolunteerServices #CommunitySupport #AgingInPlace

    38 min
  8. The Hidden Lifetime Care Benefit No One Told You About

    10/21/2025

    The Hidden Lifetime Care Benefit No One Told You About

    In this episode of Spotlight, Athena interviews Laura Welsh from Nuclear Care Partners to discuss the unique challenges and support available for atomic workers. They explore the history and mission of Nuclear Care Partners, the types of care provided, and the impact of this support on former atomic workers and their families. Takeaways Nuclear Care Partners was founded in 2009 to provide in-home healthcare for former atomic workers. The program offers free medical benefits and compensation up to $400,000 for eligible workers. Care is available for a range of conditions, including cancer and Parkinson's, without the need for progress to maintain benefits. The Department of Labor funds the program, classifying illnesses as workers' compensation illnesses. Family caregivers can be compensated for their involvement in the care team. The program is available in 23 states, with a focus on areas with historical atomic sites. Nuclear Care Partners collaborates with other healthcare providers to offer comprehensive support. The program includes mental health support for conditions related to covered illnesses. Eligibility can be determined quickly, even for non-scientific roles at atomic sites. Free medical screenings are available every three years for early detection of conditions. About Nuclear Care Partners: Laura Welsh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurawelsh1262/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NuclearCarePartners/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NuclearCarePartner/ Follow and Listen to Spotlight:  YouTube: www.youtube.com/@Spotlightbyathenaquinones Apple Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/spotlight-by-athena-quinones/id1818136225 Spotify: open.spotify.com/episode/0E1iDvJaLXTicCYKwX6lbv?si=khbUIgFDTIi40nl7z_7G4g Website: www.spotlightbyathenaquinones.com/podcast

    31 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Welcome to Spotlight! Your go-to podcast for the latest in senior care services, innovative solutions, and strategies that enrich the lives of older adults. I'm your host, Athena Quinones, Business Development Director at Kisco Senior Living and a dedicated Senior Ambassador. Whether you're a senior, adult child, or professional in the field, this podcast is here to provide you with valuable insights and education on innovation in senior care.

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