Show notes and resources are here: https://bit.ly/caretechandtips-resources

In this episode, Barry and Bobby kick off the new year by talking about something that quietly hurts a lot of caregivers: completion bias—that irresistible urge to “just finish one more thing,” even when you’re already exhausted.

Barry shares how that mindset recently earned him a tweaked back while working on his dad’s house, and the conversation turns into a much bigger truth: caregiving isn’t a completion game—it’s a sustainability game.

They introduce the idea of energy budgeting (treating your energy like money), talk about setting limits before you’re wiped out, and why stopping at a sensible point is often the responsible choice—even if the job isn’t done.

Then things turn very practical:

• A serious PSA about norovirus (and why hand sanitizer doesn’t cut it)

• Why bleach, isolation, and timing actually matter

• How shoes and carpets can spread it (yep… gross)

• Why this season’s combo of norovirus, flu, and measles is especially dangerous for older adults

They also cover:

• A disturbing scam attempt targeting Bobby’s mom by pretending to be him

• Why even smart, tech-savvy people can get fooled now

• Why you should never respond to money requests in texts or late-night calls

Plus:

• An important update: The IRS is phasing out paper refund checks — direct deposit and digital methods are becoming the default

• A follow-up on Barry’s “parking lot list” strategy for deferring tasks

• A very real, very human conversation about how hard it is to close the last digital loops after losing someone

This is one of those episodes that’s part practical survival guide, part emotional reality check, and part permission slip to stop running yourself into the ground.