The Hard Lessons of Elder Care: Mistakes and Lessons Learned

The Resilient Heart Podcast

Caring for an elderly parent or loved one can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it can also be filled with challenges and difficult lessons to learn. As children, we often look up to our parents as the ones who have all the answers, but as they age, we may find ourselves in the position of providing care and support. It can be a difficult and emotional journey, but by learning from the mistakes and lessons of those who have walked this path before us, we can provide the best possible care for our loved ones while also taking care of ourselves.

In this episode, we are joined by Nancy May, a corporate leader, business advisor, author, speaker, and nationally recognized podcast host of Eldercare Success Podcast. Nancy talks about providing the best eldercare for our loved ones. She shares her experience with elderly parents and how it has sharpened her career, the biggest mistakes that people make when they become caretakers of parents, and the lesson she learned from caring for parents. She also talks about the best practices for eldercare, being prepared for a loss, and essential tips for caretakers. Tune in to learn more about this and other exciting topics!

Timestamps

[00:24] Nancy May’s background information

[04:03] Nancy’s experience with elderly parents and how it has helped her career

[08:06] The biggest mistakes that people make when they become caretakers of parents

[10:04] Essential things that people should have before needing legal help with will and medical directive

[11:06] Lessons learned from caring for parents

[16:03] Elder financial abuse

[18:01] Mistakes that Nancy made that people can avoid

[20:04] Navigating through grief

[22:44] Best practices for eldercare

[26:43] Having conversations with your loved ones about their wishes for end-of-life care

[30:53] Being prepared for a loss

[33:31] What trauma does to our bodies and minds

[34:48] The transition from grief to helping other people prepare for a loss

[42:14] Essential tips for caretakers

Notable quotes:

• “People can rebuild their dark side pretty quickly if you are willing to keep your eyes and ears open.”
• “Every time you go through something significant and life-changing, you will always manage better if you are prepared.”
• “Whatever faith-based somebody has can play a part in the belief system they carry.”

Relevant Links:

The book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies

Connect with us: Nancy May

Website: https://www.eldercaresuccess.live/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ElderCareSuccess

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancyamay/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caremanity10/

Gabi Garland

Website: http://www.gabigarland.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabigirl34/