Episodes
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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
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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 adviceMy 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.
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Episodes manquant?
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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 adviceMy 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.
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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 adviceMy 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.
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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 adviceIf 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.
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Welcome!
Do you have friction or resistance to spending time with a person who is negative? In this EXTRA SPICY episode I give you my take on dealing with debbie (or don) downers, some practical advice, and a fiery point of view (take it or leave it).
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 adviceMy 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.
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Welcome!
In this episode we don't shy away from contemporary topics. Let's talk about Biden and all the rumors swirling about his cognitive function... sounds like fun to me!!
AI says this is the summary:
In this episode, host Rebecca Tapia takes a brief break from her saga series to provide an update on her grandmother's health and talk about a more taboo but essential topic: cognitive decline in aging, especially in the context of the recent presidential debates. Rebecca delves into normal age-related changes in cognition, the common struggles faced by aging parents or grandparents, and controversial topics such as the age limits for government positions and cognitive health of political figures.
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 adviceMy 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.
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Welcome!
In this episode I talk about the transition to skilled nursing facility...
AI summary:
**Grandmother's Health Journey**:
- Initial fall and subsequent hospitalization in ICU.
- Progression through medical floor, acute rehab, and a skilled nursing and rehab facility.
- Challenges faced in each setting, with a shift from high-intensity hospital care to less intensive skilled nursing care.
**Differences in Care Settings**:
- Hospitals and acute rehab facilities provide high attention and care.
- Skilled nursing facilities have lower staffing ratios and less frequent medical checks due to different funding structures.
- The impact of legislative changes on staffing and reimbursement in these facilities.
**Family Dynamics and Support**:
- Difficulty in balancing responsibilities with providing care, and the need for sustainable solutions for long-term care.
- The emotional toll and complexity of decisions regarding her grandmother's care.
- Importance of family involvement and realistic, sustainable solutions for caregiving.
**Communication and Privacy**:
- Challenges with setting up electronic monitoring devices for communication while respecting privacy.
- Her grandmother's preferences for not using devices like phones or tablets for communication.
**Final Thoughts**:
- Adjusting expectations when transitioning from hospital to skilled nursing care.
- Preference for traditional Medicare over managed Medicare due to better support in unplanned care issues.
- Creating criteria for family involvement and decision-making (reasonably safe, sustainable, and funded care solutions).
- Encouragement for those less involved in care to approach the situation with curiosity and support rather than strong opinions.
If you need any adjustments or additional information, let me know!
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 adviceMy 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.
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Welcome!
And so it continues - the Acute Rehab Phase.
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 adviceMy 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.
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Welcome!
And the story continues, live!
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 adviceMy 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.
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Welcome!
In this episode I talk about a new development - Nana falling and going to the hospital. I am sharing raw and live information about my own experience with an aging parent!
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 adviceIf 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.
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Welcome! WOW, SIXTY EPISODES AND STILL GOING!
In this episode, we discusses crucial topics around elder care, particularly those moments that signify irreversible changes or 'points of no return.' These include incontinence, moving into assisted living, cognitive decline, giving up driving, and the loss of physical abilities. We discuss importance of recognizing these changes and preparing for them effectively.
Introduction
Incontinence
Transition to Assisted Living
Cognitive Decline
Giving Up Driving
Loss of Physical Abilities
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 adviceIf 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.
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Welcome!
In this episode I take a deeper look at my favorite tv show, "Frasier". Let's see what AI thinks this episode is about...
The Impact of 'Frasier' on Multi-generational Living & Cultural Norms
In this episode of 'Real Conversations About Aging Parents,' host Rebecca Tapia delves into the influence of popular culture on societal norms, with a focus on the TV show 'Frasier.' She explores its portrayal of a multi-generational household and the dynamic relationships between the characters. Rebecca highlights how the show normalizes adult children caring for aging parents, the inclusion of live-in help, and the varied family structures depicted. Through specific examples and quotes from 'Frasier,' she discusses the show's handling of disability, romantic relationships for older adults, and the balance of different generational perspectives. Listeners are encouraged to share their thoughts and suggestions for future TV show reviews.
00:00 Introduction to Today's Topic
01:01 Frasier: A Multi-Generational TV Show
02:58 The Characters and Their Dynamics
05:06 Themes of Family and Caregiving
12:03 Physical Therapy and Aging
15:49 Romantic Relationships in Later Life
21:08 Quotes and Final Thoughts on Frasier
22:48 Conclusion and Listener Engagement
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 adviceMy 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.
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Welcome!
In this episode we review social paticipation barriers for aging parents. We discuss barriers and trouble shooting for participating in social or celebration events such as graduations, weddings, etc.
TIPS:
1) Notice participation issues
2) Get curious - ask questions
3) Get creative in working around barriers
4) Practice and repeat!
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 adviceMy 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.
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Welcome!
In this episode we explore another emotion - RESENTMENT! Where does it come from? How does it feel? What does it represent?
I have my ORIGINAL podcast guest, Rene, to dive deep and unpack the emotion in all its (terrible) glory.
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 adviceMy 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.
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Welcome!
In this episode we deep dive a POSITIVE emotion, the fabulous concept of gratitude. We talk about various versions of gratitude, how it shows up with aging parents, and a few caveats in using the super power of gratitude.
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 adviceMy 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.
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Welcome!
In this episode we visit again (see Episode 51) with Aaron Murphy of ForeverHome about the personal side of his aging-in-place passion. He and his wife have a blended family with four teenagers and four aging parents, one with advancing dementia. Let's talk about. I love this no-nonsense conversation - please enjoy!
If you want to reach out to Aaron...
Check out https://www.foreverhome-us.com/ for information about aging in place, or for architecture services head over to https://adm-architecture.com/.
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 adviceMy 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.
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Welcome!
In this episode I have a special guest, Eryn Oruncak, who walks us through her approach to interior design including how she integrates form, function and lighting.
Eryn founded Elan Design in 2016 offering services for interior design and fine art. She has completed the Science in Design certification and has a lot to share with you today!
Eryn's website: https://www.elan.design/
Eryn's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elan_design_interiors_fineart/
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 adviceMy 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.
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Welcome!
In this episode I take a closer look at factors influencing life expectancy. There's actually some science to it! Whether you are a mega-planner and want more information or just curious about the potential changes in life expectancy, tune in!
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 adviceMy 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.
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Welcome!
In this episode I run down various ways to collaborate with the healthcare team, specifically five tips:
How to ask questionsExecutive managementHow to be presentBeing realisticSelf careAt the end of the day - you want everyone pulling in the same direction right? Tune in!
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 adviceMy 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.
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