Designing Independence – Gentle Support for Ageing at Home with Mariam Parineh cover art

Designing Independence – Gentle Support for Ageing at Home with Mariam Parineh

Designing Independence – Gentle Support for Ageing at Home with Mariam Parineh

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About this listen

In this episode of Radiant Moments – Caregiver Oasis, Michelle talks with Mariam Parineh, founder of Viva Valet, about what independence at home can look like when the right supports are gently holding things in the background – so families don’t have to carry everything alone.

Drawing on decades of lived experience (living with grandparents, supporting another grandparent from afar, being married to a 94‑year‑old partner, and now caring for her own ageing parents), Mariam offers a compassionate, practical look at confidence in ageing and the hidden load families are holding.

Inside This Episode

The Hidden Burden of Caregiving - What “independent at home”

Understanding Independence & Confidence in Ageing - Mariam explains why confidence – not just physical ability or age – is a key predictor of independence, happiness and safety for older adults, and why carers need to consider more than just “tasks getting done”.

Invisible Labour: The Unseen Work of Families - Beyond the obvious chores, we explore:

Navigating Conversations About Ageing (Before Crisis Hits) - Gentle language you can use now, while your loved one is still relatively well:

The Nine Pillars of Confidence in Ageing - Mariam walks through nine intertwined types of confidence and why they matter:

  • psychological (self‑belief)
  • behavioural (routines and habits)
  • environmental & spatial (home safety and familiarity)
  • emotional & social (feeling safe to interact)
  • spiritual (sense of meaning and purpose)
  • physical (mobility and strength)
  • identity (who they are beyond work or roles)
  • digital confidence (navigating tech in a digital‑first world)

You’ll hear real examples of how these play out in daily life – and how one small change can either erode or strengthen multiple areas at once.

Honouring Identity, Not Just Safety - From cherished routines to favourite chairs and long‑held clothing habits.

Digital Confidence & Practical Help - Why digital systems (parking apps, online payments, GP portals) quietly exclude many older adults, and how Viva Valet are helping.

Connect with Mariam & Viva Valet

  • Website: https://www.vivavalet.com/
  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vivavaletofficial
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vivavaletofficial/
  • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ9hX0jKJZhgPKA_tjSD7tg
  • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vivavaletofficial

Connect with J and B Inspired - Caregiver Resources:

  • Radiant Moments show notes: https://jandbinspired.com/radiant-moments-podcast
  • 90 Second Reset Program: https://jandbinspired.com/90-second-reset-program
  • Oasis Membership Waitlist: https://jandbinspired.com/founding-member

Music by Konstantin Garbuzyuk (via Uppbeat)


#caregiving #ageingathome #independentliving #confidenceinageing #radiantmomentspodcast

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