The Care Table

Amy Huddleston
  • 5.0 (26)
  • Education

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. 6d ago

    Finding Peace at Life’s End: What is a Death Doula? | The Care Table Ep. 35

    In this heartfelt episode of The Care Table, Amy sits down with Chelsea Duckers, a compassionate social worker and trained death doula, to gently explore a topic many of us find difficult: death and the beautiful support available as we approach life’s final chapter. Chelsea shares how death doulas (also called end-of-life doulas) provide non-medical, holistic emotional and practical support to individuals with terminal diagnoses and their families—often stepping in much earlier than hospice. With warmth and honesty, they discuss processing emotions, creating meaningful legacy projects, planning a peaceful vigil, and finding control and peace amid uncertainty. This conversation offers comfort, practical ideas, and gentle encouragement that talking about death can actually help us live more fully and lovingly today. Takeaways: - Talking about death earlier gives families time to process, plan, and reduce regret. - A death doula complements hospice by addressing the emotional, spiritual, and legacy aspects. - Legacy projects (letters, memory books, etc.) can bring tremendous peace to both the person and their loved ones. - It’s normal to feel relief alongside grief—be gentle with yourself. - Planning for end-of-life can help us live more presently and gratefully today. Products/Books/Resources: Books by Caitlin Doughty:  - From Here to Eternity - Traveling the World to Find the Good Death - https://amzn.to/3RzvPn7 - Will My Cat Eat My Eyeballs? And Other Questions about Dead Bodies - https://amzn.to/4vqaeeU The Order of the Good Death: https://www.orderofthegooddeath.com/ INELDA (International End of Life Doula Association) – Directory to find doulas by state: https://inelda.org/ Rothkoff’s Life Reflections Workbook – Request via their website resources page (great for prompting conversations and planning): https://rothkofflaw.com/resources/ Rothkoff Law Group - https://rothkofflaw.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! Chapters: 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction  01:36 – What is a Death Doula?  03:22 – Chelsea’s Journey into This Work  08:55 – The Pandemic’s Impact & Discovering Death Culture  17:20 – What Services Does a Death Doula Provide?  22:07 – Legacy Projects: Leaving Something Meaningful  31:49 – Supporting the Whole Family  38:40 – Grief Support After Loss  41:07 – A Touching Story from Practice  46:55 – Cost, Access & Finding a Death Doula  52:26 – Gentle Advice for Families  57:29 – Resources & The Life Reflections Workbook  01:00:35 – Closing Thoughts  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!

  2. Jul 14

    Caregiving Cliff Notes: Essential Lessons from Podcast | The Care Table Ep. 34

    In this episode of The Care Table podcast, Amy shares valuable insights on caregiving, elder care planning, and health management, offering practical tips for families navigating aging parents' needs. Takeaways: - Downsizing for seniors and professional help - Choosing the right hearing aids and audiologist - Assessing driving ability with specialists - Understanding diabetes and blood sugar management - Planning for elder care costs and Medicaid - Medicare limitations on long-term care - Talking about end-of-life wishes - Exercise as medicine for aging and Parkinson's - VA benefits for veterans and their families - Benefits of companionship offered by home care services Sound Bites: "Medicare will not cover long-term care" "Talking about death is a gift to your family" "Companionship from home care changes lives" Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 01:01 Importance of professional downsizing assistance 02:24 Choosing the right hearing aid provider 04:16 Assessing when to stop driving 06:08 Understanding diabetes and blood sugar control 07:33 Planning for elder care costs and Medicaid 10:24 Medicare's coverage limitations for long-term care 12:22 Talking about end-of-life wishes 15:13 Exercise as medicine for joint health and Parkinson's 17:08 VA benefits for veterans and access tips 19:00 Supporting caregivers with specific help 20:54 The impact of home care and companionship 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!

  3. Jul 7

    The True Cost of Elder Care: What You Need to Know | The Care Table Ep. 33

    In this episode of The Care Table podcast, elder law attorney Jerry Rothkoff shares insights on preparing financially for future care needs, the importance of early planning, and navigating the complexities of long-term care costs, Medicare, and Medicaid. Takeaways: - The evolution of elder law practice from asset-focused to holistic care advocacy - The importance of care advocacy and social workers in elder law - Cost analysis of home care, assisted living, and nursing homes - Medicare and Medicaid coverage limitations for long-term care - Timing and strategies for long-term care planning - The role of long-term care insurance and government benefits - Negotiating costs and exploring creative funding options - The significance of family conversations and legal documents in elder care Sound Bites: "Medicare was never designed to cover long-term care." "Long-term care is a big business, and costs are high." "Growing old is a gift, and it can be fantastic." Products/Books/Resources: Life Care Planning Law Firm Association - https://www.lcplfa.org/find-a-lcplfa-member#/ Jerry Rothkoff - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerry-rothkoff-9a19b921/ Medicare.gov - https://www.medicare.gov Medicaid.gov - https://www.medicaid.gov “I’m Dead, Now What” Organizer: https://amzn.to/4qXPtoK Rothkoff Law Services - https://rothkofflaw.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! Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Financial Planning for Elder Care 01:02 The Evolution of Elder Law Practice 09:01 Understanding Long-Term Care Planning 17:41 Financial Realities of Long-Term Care 23:08 Cost Breakdown of Care Options 27:39 Understanding Long-Term Care Options 33:36 Financial Planning for Long-Term Care 39:42 It's Never Too Late to Plan 41:50 The Importance of Family Conversations 47:26 Navigating the Healthcare System 55:23 Embracing Aging with Wisdom 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!

  4. Jun 30

    Understanding Medicaid Rules & Asset Protection | The Care Table Ep. 32

    In this episode of The Care Table podcast, Maggie Sutton, an elder law expert with 15 years of experience, shares essential insights on Medicaid planning, asset protection, and legal preparations for aging. Learn how to start planning early, what documents are crucial, and how to navigate complex regulations to secure your future and protect your assets. Takeaways: - Medicaid qualification and asset limits - Exempt and countable assets - Five-year look-back period and gift penalties - Importance of up-to-date legal documents - Spousal protections and resource allowances - Timing for consulting an elder law attorney - Navigating estate recovery and asset transfers - Resources for elder law assistance Sound Bites: "Medicaid rules are very similar across states." "Gifting assets can lead to penalties and delays." "Notify Medicaid of any change in circumstances." Products/Books/Resources: National Elder Law Foundation - https://nelf.org NALA - National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys - https://www.naela.org/ Ohio Area Agency on Aging - https://aging.ohio.gov/about-us/who-we-are/area-agencies-on-aging Maggie Sutton - Elder Law Attorney - https://www.linkedin.com/in/maggie-sutton-b17a208/ Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Medicaid and Elder Law 02:42 Understanding Medicaid Qualifications Across States 05:16 Asset Limits and Exemptions in Medicaid 09:50 When to Consult an Elder Law Attorney 12:35 Planning Ahead: The Importance of Early Conversations 20:04 Recognizing Warning Signs for Legal Assistance 23:35 Navigating Medicaid After Health Decline 25:13 The Five-Year Look Back Period Explained 30:55 Cost of Medicaid Planning Services 36:10 Resources for Families in Financial Need 36:34 Navigating Medicaid Applications 37:41 Understanding Spousal Protections in Medicaid 39:36 Asset Management for Couples 43:02 Preparing for Medicaid Applications 44:36 Common Pitfalls in Medicaid Applications 47:41 Ongoing Medicaid Responsibilities 49:17 Transferring Assets Between Spouses 52:44 Medicaid Coverage for Different Care Types 55:29 Financial Planning for Assisted Living 59:21 Combining Benefits: Medicaid and VA Aid 01:00:38 Avoiding Common Mistakes in Medicaid Planning 01:02:31 Community Resources for Caregivers 01:05:14 Addressing Elder Abuse Concerns 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!

  5. Jun 23

    Home Care vs. Home Health: What's the Difference? | The Care Table Ep. 31

    In this episode of The Care Table podcast, Amy Huddleston and Jennifer Bassett explore the ins and outs of home care, including the differences between home health and home care, how to choose the right agency, and the importance of early planning and emotional connection in caregiving. Takeaways: - Differences between home care and home health - Importance of emotional connection and companionship - How to select and customize a home care plan - Financial considerations and insurance options - The role of agency versus private caregiving - Transportation and safety in home care - Early planning and family involvement Sound Bites: "Companionship changes lives for people." "Home care helps preserve independence." Products/Books/Resources: GUIDE (Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience) Model - https://www.cms.gov/priorities/innovation/innovation-models/guide Hilarity for Charity Grants - https://wearehfc.org/caregivers/ Home Instead - https://www.homeinstead.com/ Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-bassett-922a095/ Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Home Care 01:43 Understanding Non-Medical Home Care 03:30 Home Health vs. Home Care 08:59 Services Offered in Home Care 12:02 The Importance of Companionship 16:07 Customizing Care Plans 20:10 Navigating Family Resistance 26:25 Transportation Services in Home Care 30:00 Agency vs. Private Caregivers 35:50 Understanding Coverage and Costs 39:14 Understanding Home Care Costs and Insurance 42:42 The Importance of Budgeting for Care 45:54 Navigating Care Options and Resources 49:01 The Role of Agencies in Home Care 53:39 Tax Benefits and Financial Planning 57:00 Long-Term Care Insurance Insights 01:00:49 The Value of Early Conversations 01:05:50 Personal Stories of Impact in Home Care 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!

  6. Jun 16

    From Love to Loss: A Caregiver's Journey Through Dementia and Parkinson's | The Care Table Ep. 30

    In this episode of The Care Table podcast, Deborah shares her heartfelt caregiving journey caring for her husband Bernie, from their love story to navigating dementia and Parkinson's. This episode offers invaluable insights on caregiving challenges, resource gaps, and compassionate advice for families facing similar situations. Takeaways: - Resource gaps and need for caregiver education - Creative caregiving strategies and innovations - Advocacy for better caregiver support and policies Sound Bites: "This was hell on earth." "Dementia is the beginning of the end." "We need help, this isn't working." Products/Books/Resources: Elder Rage, Take My Father, Please by Jacqueline Marcel -  https://amzn.to/4vM7r0b 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 Caregiving Journey 05:05 Navigating the Diagnosis: Medications and Support 10:29 Reflections on Caregiving and Support Systems 18:51 Conversations About End-of-Life Wishes 21:56 Navigating End-of-Life Conversations 24:15 The Role of Hospice Care 26:18 Challenges of Adult Daycare 30:20 Resources for Caregivers 32:36 Home Care Services and Their Limitations 35:17 Maintaining Dignity in Caregiving 39:25 Finding Independence in Care 40:57 Self-Care for Caregivers 41:52 Navigating Health Challenges During Caregiving 43:58 The Emotional Toll of Caregiving 45:02 The Reality of Dementia Diagnosis 45:41 The Struggle for Support and Help 49:04 Lessons Learned in Caregiving 52:02 Self-Care for Caregivers 55:42 Creative Solutions in Daily Care 57:01 Honoring Memories and Future Endeavors 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!

  7. Jun 9

    How Veterans Can Access VA Home and Facility Care Programs | The Care Table Ep. 29

    This episode of The Care Table podcast provides a comprehensive overview of VA veteran services, focusing on geriatrics and extended care programs. Melissa Rumer, a VA expert, explains enrollment processes, available home and facility services, and how veterans and caregivers can access vital resources to support aging in place. Takeaways: - VA healthcare enrollment process - Extended care programs for veterans - Home-based and community care services - Benefits and eligibility criteria for veterans - Support for caregivers and family members Sound Bites: "Enroll in VA healthcare to access services." "Start early and connect with VA resources." Products/Books/Resources: Getting started with the VA - https://www.va.gov/resources/getting-started-with-va/ and https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/ Request your military service records (including DD214) -  https://www.va.gov/records/get-military-service-records/ https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records   For family members - VA can help you connect to benefits and health care for spouses, dependents, survivors, and family caregivers -  Learn more about VA benefits for family members and caregivers   Geriatrics and Extended Care - https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/   Find a VA accredited representative or VSO - https://www.va.gov/get-help-from-accredited-representative/find-rep/   Aid and Attendance benefits and Housebound allowance -  https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/   Directory of Social Work Leaders -    https://www.socialwork.va.gov/Social_Work_Leaders.asp?utm_source=geriatrics&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=find_a_VA_social_worker   Veterans Benefits Administration - https://www.benefits.va.gov/BENEFITS/Applying.asp https://benefits.va.gov/benefits/    VA Resource Navigator - https://www.prevention.va.gov/PCL/PCL-VA-Navigator.asp   VA Caregiver Support Program - https://www.caregiver.va.gov/   VA's National Caregiver Support Line (CSL) The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Caregiver Support Line (CSL) is a toll-free number 1-855-260-3274 for caregivers, family members, friends, Veterans, and community partners to contact for information related to caregiving and available support and services. Our dedicated CSL team provides information on caregiver support services, counseling, educational services, and referrals (electronic notification) to local Caregiver Support Program (CSP) staff at VA medical centers (VAMC).    Get started with services for Aging Veterans - https://www.va.gov/files/2025-06/vawelcomekit-qsg-aging-veterans.pdf   VA Age-Friendly Health Systems Initiative -   https://www.va.gov/geriatrics/pages/VA_Age_Friendly_Health_Systems_Initiative.asp   Pension Poaching FAQ -  https://www.va.gov/files/2025-05/pension-poaching-faqs.pdf “Being Mortal” by Dr. Atul Gawande Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Veteran Services 02:56 Understanding VA Healthcare Enrollment 05:56 Overview of Extended Care Programs 08:48 Personal Care Services Explained 12:02 Navigating Home-Based Care Options 14:56 Skilled Home Care and Nursing Services 17:52 Palliative Care and Quality of Life 20:43 Eligibility and Benefits Overview 23:42 Avoiding Scams in VA Benefits 26:51 Conclusion and Resources 40:16 Understanding VA Coverage for Nursing Homes 44:10 Exploring Assisted Living Options for Veterans 49:07 Navigating Financial Assistance for Care 50:41 The Importance of Early Planning for Care Needs 01:05:07 First Steps for Caregivers Seeking VA Resources 01:11:52 Maximizing VA Benefits and Resources 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!

  8. Jun 2

    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!

See All (35)

5
out of 5
26 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.

Information

  • Creator
    Amy Huddleston
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    35
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Care Table
  • Show Website
    The Care Table

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