The Care Table

Amy Huddleston

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. 7h ago

    Reversing Parkinson's: The Power of Exercise with David Zid | The Care Table Ep. 28

    In this episode of The Care Table podcast, expert David Zid shares his journey from personal trainer to creator of a specialized Parkinson's exercise program. Discover how tailored physical activity can slow disease progression, improve mental health, and empower patients and caregivers alike. Takeaways: - Start with 2-5 minutes of activity twice a week - The impact of exercise on Parkinson's symptoms and depression - The importance of consistency and support in exercise routines - How exercise can slow or potentially reverse Parkinson's progression - The role of caregivers and social support in patient outcomes Sound Bites: "Get your heart rate up through exercise." "It's never too early or too late to start." "Exercise gives you the dawn of hope." Products/Books/Resources: Total HealthWorks - https://totalhealthworks.com Moving It Five K Run/Walk - https://runsignup.com/Race/OH/Columbus/movinit5k Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Delay the Disease Program 02:55 David Zid's Journey and Inspiration 06:02 The Importance of Exercise for Parkinson's Patients 09:03 Class Structure and Techniques 12:09 Overcoming Challenges and Building Confidence 14:55 The Role of Support Systems 18:10 Understanding Parkinson's Disease 20:55 Small Wins and Long-Term Commitment 23:52 The Power of Minimal Exercise 26:45 The Power of Accountability in Fitness 29:57 Accessible Fitness: Online and In-Person Options 30:52 Financial Accessibility: Scholarships and Support 31:41 The Importance of Community Events 32:47 Training for Professionals: Expanding Knowledge 33:49 Continuing Education: Learning About Parkinson's 35:50 Overcoming Bad Days: Encouragement for Clients 38:44 Emotional and Social Benefits of Exercise 39:37 The Impact of Exercise on Depression 41:35 Transformative Stories: Real-Life Impact 44:44 Final Thoughts: The Power of Exercise 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!

    48 min
  2. May 26

    Understanding Arthritis: Types, Symptoms, and Treatments with Dr. Jen Richardson | Ep. 27

    In this comprehensive interview, Dr. Jen Richardson, a rheumatologist with 23 years of experience, shares expert insights on arthritis, including types, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments. Perfect for family caregivers and anyone interested in understanding and managing arthritis effectively. Takeaways: - Types of arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid, gout, psoriatic) - Symptoms and diagnosis of arthritis - Non-medication and medication treatments - When to consider joint replacement - Advances in biologic treatments and medications - Role of caregivers in arthritis management Sound Bites: - "Rheumatology is the study of joints and autoimmune disorders." - "Osteoarthritis tends to be worse with activity and age." - "Gout often presents with a red, swollen big toe." Products/Books/Resources: Arthritis Foundation - https://www.arthritis.org/ Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Rheumatology and Dr. Jen Richardson 02:07 Journey into Rheumatology: Passion and Purpose 05:12 Understanding Arthritis: Common Types and Causes 10:01 Symptoms and Diagnosis of Osteoarthritis 13:13 Non-Medication Treatments for Osteoarthritis 18:37 Rheumatoid Arthritis: Symptoms and Differences 23:18 Exploring Gout: Symptoms and Treatment Options 30:43 Understanding Gout and Its Management 32:38 Exploring Psoriatic Arthritis 34:56 The Importance of Early Intervention 36:20 Navigating Joint Replacement Decisions 41:02 Advancements in Biologic Treatments 43:44 The Prevalence of Arthritis 45:10 Evaluating Alternative Treatments 48:34 Supporting Caregivers of Arthritis Patients 51:14 Practical Products for Arthritis Relief 53:30 Recognizing Urgent Symptoms in Arthritis 55:19 Advice for Family 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!

    58 min
  3. May 19

    Empathy and Aging: A Personal Journey with Tim Mitchell | Ep. 26

    In this episode of The Care Table podcast, Tim Mitchell reflects on his experiences with family, particularly focusing on feelings of regret and the emotional complexities of caregiving for his mother and his in-laws. He shares personal anecdotes that highlight the challenges of maintaining empathy and connection, especially during difficult times. The discussion delves into youthful perspectives on aging and the importance of emotional health in relationships. Takeaways: - Always give someone a hug. - Regret can linger when we don't express love. - Youth often lacks empathy for the elderly. - Caregiving can be emotionally taxing. - It's important to cherish family moments. - Sadness can be a part of the caregiving experience. - Understanding comes with age and experience. Products/Books/Resources: PBS Matter of Mind: My Alzheimer’s episode: https://www.pbs.org/independentlens/documentaries/matter-of-mind-my-alzheimers/ PBS Alzheimer’s Every Minute Counts episode: https://www.pbs.org/video/alzheimers-every-minute-counts-alzheimers-every-minute-counts/ Still Alice book: https://amzn.to/4wBHAJx Some of the links provided are affiliate links. I may receive a commission if you purchase through these links. Thank you for your support! 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!

    1h 5m
  4. May 5

    Amy's Top Lessons Learned So Far | The Care Table Ep. 25

    In this episode of The Care Table podcast, Amy Huddleston shares her top lessons from 25 episodes of The Care Table podcast, focusing on caregiving, health, legal planning, and safety tips for older adults and their caregivers. Takeaways: - Caregiving tips and resources - Health and recovery insights for older adults - Legal and financial planning for aging Sound Bites: "Diet has a huge role in recovery." "Outpatient rehab is a game changer." "Freeze credit to protect from scams." Products/Books/Resources: Blink Mini Security Cameras: https://amzn.to/3Zh1Noj Wyze Smart Home Security Camera: https://amzn.to/4sEgAGE Monitor with camera and audio: https://amzn.to/3NBW7mQ Aging Life Care Association to locate a geriatric care manager:  ​​https://www.aginglifecare.org/ How to freeze credit with three major credit bureaus: Equifax: https://www.equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services/credit-freeze/ Experian: https://www.experian.com/help/credit-freeze/ TransUnion: https://www.transunion.com/credit-freeze Some of the links provided are affiliate links. I may receive a commission if you purchase through these links. Thank you for your support! Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Overview of Lessons Learned 00:56 Nutrition and Recovery in Joint Replacement 03:34 Legal and Financial Preparedness for Caregiving 05:17 Protecting Against Scams and Financial Fraud 06:16 Utilizing Physical Therapy Resources 07:08 Caregiving from Afar: Tips and Resources 09:59 Hiring Caregiving Services for Support 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!

    14 min
  5. Apr 28

    When Kidneys Fail: Education for the Hearts Carrying the Load | The Care Table Ep. 24

    This episode of The Care Table podcast features Megan Cockrell, an expert in public health and kidney disease, who explains the vital functions of kidneys, stages of kidney disease, treatment options like dialysis and transplants, and how caregivers can support loved ones through this challenging journey. Takeaways: - Kidney function and importance - Stages of chronic kidney disease - Treatment options including dialysis and transplant Sound Bites: "Healthy habits can delay progression." "Transplant waiting lists can be long." "Patience is key for caregivers." Products/Books/Resources: National Kidney Foundation - https://www.kidney.org Kidney-Friendly Recipes - https://www.kidney.org/recipes Support Groups for Kidney Disease - https://www.kidney.org/support Kidney Smart Classes - https://davita.com/education/kidney-smart-classes/ Medicare Plan Selection - https://www.medicare.gov Guest’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/meghan-cockrell/ Some of the links provided are affiliate links. I may receive a commission if you purchase through these links. Thank you for your support! Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to End-Stage Renal Disease 01:27 Understanding Kidney Function 04:08 Chronic Kidney Disease vs. End-Stage Renal Disease 06:33 The Role of Dialysis 10:04 Symptoms and Warning Signs of Kidney Disease 12:24 Diet and Lifestyle Changes 22:56 Transplant Considerations 25:53 Myths About End-Stage Renal Disease 31:59 Emotional Support for Caregivers 41:50 Final Thoughts and Advice 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!

    44 min
  6. Apr 21

    How Nine Siblings Managed Dad's Dementia Care Across States | The Care Table Ep. 23

    This episode features siblings Kelly and Chris Mooney sharing their heartfelt caregiving journey for their father, highlighting the importance of family involvement, communication, and planning in dementia care. Takeaways: - Sibling involvement in caregiving - Signs and diagnosis of Alzheimer's - Home care vs. facility care costs and decisions - Communication strategies with dementia patients - Importance of planning and documenting wishes Sound Bites: "We all felt honored to help him." "Keep things simple and stick to routines." "He loved his life and his family." Products/Books/Resources: The End of Alzheimer’s Book - https://amzn.to/4c68YqM Door Chime - https://amzn.to/4mn9V1e Medical Data Emergency Alert Bracelet - https://amzn.to/3NTI9Nq Insoles for Airtag Hidden Holder, Tracker Devise Case - https://amzn.to/4vp6Thf Air Tracker Tags-4 Pack: Smart Bluetooth Tracker - https://amzn.to/4vhLGpn Home Instead - https://www.homeinstead.com/ Some of the links provided are affiliate links. I may receive a commission if you purchase through these links. Thank you for your support! Guest Links: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/pkmooney/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-mooney-5632944/ Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Caregiving Journey 02:07 Siblings in Caregiving: Roles and Responsibilities 06:15 Navigating Health Decline and Diagnosis 10:07 Adjusting to Changes: Home Care and Support 15:31 The Importance of Companionship in Caregiving 17:38 Financial Aspects of Home Care 21:51 Discussing Wishes and Future Care Plans 25:41 Reflections on the Caregiving Experience 28:22 Innovative Caregiving Solutions 31:20 Personalizing Care for Comfort 33:25 Navigating Emotional Challenges 36:48 Learning and Adapting as Caregivers 39:48 Lessons Learned from Caregiving 42:41 Conversations About Future Wishes 45:23 The Dual Loss of Alzheimer's 47:20 Coping with COVID-19 Challenges 53:31 Honoring a Life Well-Lived 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!

    56 min
  7. Apr 14

    10 Key Dementia Behaviors and How to Manage Them with Anne Farley | The Care Table Ep. 22

    In this episode of The Care Table podcast, expert Anne Farley shares invaluable insights on managing dementia-related behaviors, from agitation and wandering to communication strategies and safety measures. Perfect for caregivers and families, learn practical tips to improve quality of life and maintain dignity. Takeaways: - Common dementia behaviors and their causes - Managing agitation, aggression, and sundowning - Safety measures including air tags, alarms, and community resources - Communication strategies that reduce frustration and agitation - The importance of caregiver self-care and community support Sound Bites: "Sundowning causes confusion and agitation" "Validate feelings, don't correct or argue" "Build a village of support for caregivers" Products/Books/Resources: Wyze Smart Home Security Camera - https://amzn.to/4sEgAGE Insoles for Airtag Hidden Holder, Tracker Devise Case - https://amzn.to/4vp6Thf Air Tracker Tags-4 Pack: Smart Bluetooth Tracker - https://amzn.to/4vhLGpn Alzheimer's Association Resources - https://www.alz.org/ Caregiver Support Groups - https://www.caregiver.org/ Some of the links provided are affiliate links. I may receive a commission if you purchase through these links. Thank you for your support! Guest links: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anne-farley-a8400839/ Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Dementia Behaviors 01:15 Understanding Typical Dementia Behaviors 10:10 Sundowning and Wandering in Dementia 17:52 Managing Agitation and Aggression 30:28 Effective Communication and Care Strategies 33:54 Creating Routine and Comfort 34:45 Communication Challenges in Dementia 38:55 Effective Communication Strategies 45:46 Managing Sundowning and Agitation 48:52 The Importance of Touch and Presence 50:51 Joining Their Journey: Compassionate Care 56:46 Self-Care 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!

    1h 1m
  8. Apr 7

    Expert Guidance on Senior Scams from Law Enforcement | The Care Table Ep. 21

    In this episode of The Care Table podcast, expert Teri Ruslander shares vital insights on scams targeting older adults, including common schemes, prevention strategies, and resources for families to protect their loved ones. Learn how to recognize, prevent, and respond to elder financial exploitation effectively. Takeaways: - Common scams targeting seniors - Creating safety plans for elder protection - Resources and tools for families and caregivers Sound Bites: "Scammers know how to elicit emotions" "Romance scams prey on loneliness" "Family dynamics make scams more complex" Products/Books/Resources: How to freeze credit with three major credit bureaus:  Equifax: https://www.equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services/credit-freeze/ Experian: https://www.experian.com/help/credit-freeze/ TransUnion: https://www.transunion.com/credit-freeze Federal Trade Commission - Consumer Information on Scams: https://consumer.ftc.gov AARP Fraud Watch Network: https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/ Ohio Attorney General's Office Tips and Scams: https://www.ohioattorneygeneral.gov/Individuals-and-Families/Tipster Ohio.gov Prevent and Report Scams: https://ohio.gov/residents/resources/prevent-and-report-scams Wyze Smart Home Security Camera: https://amzn.to/4sEgAGE Monitor with camera and audio: https://amzn.to/3NBW7mQ Some of the links provided are affiliate links. I may receive a commission if you purchase through these links. Thank you for your support! Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Scams Targeting Seniors 02:56 Understanding the Emotional Impact of Scams 05:05 Common Scams Targeting Older Adults 09:31 The Role of Technology in Scams 11:32 Communication Methods Used by Scammers 15:16 Steps to Take After Being Scammed 19:35 Establishing Safety Protocols for Seniors 30:33 Navigating Financial Alerts for Seniors 31:48 Understanding Money Recovery in Scams 34:03 Identifying Scammers and Legal Consequences 35:52 The Role of Law Enforcement in Financial Exploitation 38:35 Recognizing Exploitation by Trusted Individuals 42:10 Creating Safety Plans for Vulnerable Seniors 46:37 The Growing Threat of Scams 50:00 Resources for Seniors and Caregivers 52:25 Tools to Combat Phone Scams 57:11 Implementing a Family Safety Plan 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!

    1 hr
5
out of 5
16 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.

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