Dr. Lakelyn is joined by Lisa Pahl, LCSW—hospice and emergency medicine social worker, and co-creator of The Death Deck—for a discussion on how open, honest conversations about death can ease fear, build connection, and create peace at the end of life. Lisa shares wisdom from her years supporting individuals and families through the dying process and offers gentle guidance on how to start meaningful end-of-life discussions with loved ones.

Episode highlights include:

-Why avoiding conversations about death may lead to more fear and confusion.

-How to approach end-of-life talks with empathy and clarity.

-Tools to normalize and open up conversations around dying and grief.

-Lessons learned from Lisa’s work in hospice and emergency care.

-How engaging with death can actually deepen appreciation for life.

Helpful links from the episode:

- www.thedeathdeck.com

- Instagram: @thedeathdeck

To learn more about this podcast and to subscribe to our caregiving newsletters, visit www.homeinstead.com/caregiverchats. Share your thoughts, experiences and ideas by emailing Dr. Lakelyn at caregiverchats@homeinsteadinc.com.

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Facebook: @homeinsteadinc

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Dr. Lakelyn is joined by Nurse Practitioner Sheila Buehler to explore why foot care is a vital part of aging well. Together, they discuss how caregivers can help prevent pain, infections, and falls by supporting healthy feet at home. You’ll learn what warning signs to watch for, when to involve a podiatrist, and practical ways to help with nail trimming, hygiene, and footwear—all aimed at keeping your loved one safe and mobile.

Episode highlights include:

- Why foot care is essential to aging well and staying independent

- The most common foot issues older adults face and how to spot them early

- When to schedule podiatry visits and what to expect

- Practical tips for caregivers: nail care, hygiene, and footwear choices

- How regular foot care can prevent falls and reduce chronic pain

Helpful links from the episode:

- Sheila’s General Foot Care Tips

- CDC’s Tips for Healthy Feet

- Foot Care Professionals: footcaremn.com

- Facebook: facebook.com/SheilaBuehlerCNP

- American Foot Care Nurses Association: afcna.org

Products recommended by Sheila:

- Pedifix Medical Footcare: pedifix.com

- Goldbond Softening Foot Creme (Amazon Link)

- Pedors Shoes: pedors.com

To learn more about this podcast and to subscribe to our caregiving newsletters, visit www.homeinstead.com/caregiverchats. Share your thoughts, experiences and ideas by emailing Dr. Lakelyn at caregiverchats@homeinsteadinc.com.

Like, subscribe, rate and review this podcast on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow us on social media:

Facebook: @homeinsteadinc

Instagram: @homeinsteadinc

YouTube: @homeinsteadinc

TikTok: @homeinstead.inc

Dr. Lakelyn is joined by dementia care expert Adria Thompson, M.A., CCC-SLP for a conversation on how caregivers can support a loved one living with dementia while preserving their independence. Together, they explore the concept of “dignity of risk,” a philosophy centered around balancing autonomy and safety for those living with dementia.

Drawing on clinical experience and real-life caregiving dynamics, Adria and Dr. Lakelyn discuss how caregivers can foster a sense of self-determination in their loved ones, even as the disease progresses. They also address the emotional complexities that come with these decisions, including guilt, fear, and family pressure.

Episode highlights include:

• What “dignity of risk” means and why it’s important at home

• Supporting independence without compromising safety

• Real-life examples of balancing autonomy with oversight

• Caregiver guilt and the emotional side of decision-making

• Tools and mindset shifts to guide families through the grey areas

Helpful links from the episode:

- Home Instead’s dementia care services - HomeInstead.com

- www.belightcare.com

- Instagram: @belightcare

- TikTok: @belightcare

- Facebook: @BeLightCare

- Alzheimer’s Association: alz.org

- HFC Support Groups: wearehfc.org/support-groups

To learn more about this podcast and to subscribe to our caregiving newsletters, visit www.homeinstead.com/caregiverchats. Share your thoughts, experiences and ideas by emailing Dr. Lakelyn at caregiverchats@homeinsteadinc.com.

Like, subscribe, rate and review this podcast on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow us on social media:

Facebook: @homeinsteadinc

Instagram: @homeinsteadinc

YouTube: @homeinsteadinc

TikTok: @homeinstead.inc