Host Laura Daniels and Jimmy Caldwell of Imagine Wellness, a 16-bed residential care home, discuss choosing the right assisted living. They highlight the personalized care, exceptional 1:4 staffing ratio, and holistic approach found in smaller settings. The episode emphasizes why families should start the care conversation before a crisis and how genuine compassion leads to residents truly flourishing.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction: The Eldercare Journey

01:45 Focus on Small Assisted Living Communities

02:22 Meet Jimmy Caldwell, Owner of Imagine Wellness

02:43 Inspiration for a Small, Boutique-Style Home

05:05 Core Values and Holistic Care Philosophy

06:57 The Impact of the 1:4 Staffing Ratio

08:25 Peace of Mind and Staff Consistency

09:23 Small Home vs. Large Assisted Living

11:14 Flexibility and Individualized Care

13:06 Success Story: A Resident Blossoms

14:57 Advice: Plan Before the Crisis Happens

16:39 A Typical Day at Imagine Wellness

18:04 Setting Expectations and Transparent Communication

19:34 Accommodating Hobbies and Personal Touches

21:11 "Living Still Happens Here" Philosophy

23:30 Contact Information for Care Advocates & Imagine Wellness

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Navigating Eldercare — Assisted Living, Demystified
Host: Laura Daniels, RN, founder of Care Advocates
Guest: Stacey Shaffer, Sales Director, Gemstone Assisted Living

00:00–00:58 | Show & Host Intro
Laura Daniels—geriatrics RN and founder of Care Advocates—introduces the podcast and how she helps families after hospital/rehab stays or when home-care needs change.

00:58–01:54 | What Care Advocates Does
Customized care plans, placement options (residential care homes, assisted living, memory care), and ongoing support. Today’s focus: assisted living, with guest Stacey Shaffer.

01:54–03:20 | Meet Stacey
Laura highlights Stacey’s grace, empathy, and resourcefulness—someone who connects deeply with families at vulnerable moments.

03:20–04:50 | Stacey’s Background & Trust Building
From Marriott sales/marketing to senior living, Stacey brings a “no isn’t an option” service mindset. Trust starts with listening fully before suggesting solutions.

04:50–05:48 | Family Emotions & Burnout
Top emotions: guilt (not keeping loved one at home), stress (logistics), and real caregiver burnout.

05:48–07:37 | What Assisted Living Is
24/7 awake staff for quick response and ADL support. Replicating that consistency at home is hard across multiple shifts.

07:37–10:04 | Common Misconceptions

1. It’s not a hospital or skilled nursing facility.

2. Move-in doesn’t equal decline.

3. Cost fears—many options exist.
   Laura adds: diagnoses like dementia or feeding needs don’t automatically require nursing homes; many can be supported in assisted living to age in place.

10:04–11:58 | The Sales Director’s Role
Part therapist, part designer, always a resource. Honesty first—even if that means referring elsewhere. Every move-in is customized.

11:58–13:28 | Personalized Care Plans
Details matter: wake times, hearing-aid charging, brace application, favorite TV channels. Consistency gives residents and families confidence.

13:28–14:50 | Details & Dementia
Story: Mary Alice’s love for purple woven into daily outfits—small touches build trust. Dementia (e.g., Lewy Body) can often be supported in assisted living unless there’s wandering/safety risk.

14:50–16:07 | Aligning Expectations
Use insights from both resident and family (what Mom says vs. what actually works) and translate that clearly to the care team.

16:07–17:39 | When to Start Looking
As soon as you’re helping with more than one ADL. Early tours allow the loved one to participate and prevent crisis-driven, limited choices.

17:39–19:28 | Independence & Quality of Life
Assisted living can increase independence by removing fear of falls and missed restroom trips, freeing time for activities—art, church, exercise.

19:28–21:44 | Touring Tips
Observe residents (appearance, mood), ask them about food and entertainment, watch staff interactions (smiles, greetings), and check cleanliness on an “average” day. Aesthetics are nice, but care is the priority.

21:44–24:00 | From Guilt to Peace + “Fast Eddie”
Families gain peace when the team uses everything learned to tailor care. Stacey shares “Fast Eddie,” a stroke survivor who joined a community “Dating Game” event—finding purpose and love.

24:00–25:31 | Wrap & Contacts
Stacey’s direct line: 702-358-1168.
Laura offers a free consultation: 210-669-2222 | AdvocateRN.com.
Subscribe and share the show!

Listen / Watch
📅 Sundays, 8:30–9:00 AM on 930 AM The Answer.
🎧 Available on all podcast apps.
▶️ Full video episodes on YouTube.

Contact Laura for a Free Consultation
📞 210-669-2222
📧 laura@advocatern.com

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Confused about Independent Living? Join host Laura Daniels, elder care advocate, and guest expert Tina Tedford, Sales and Marketing Director at Franklin Park Sonterra, for a candid discussion about this often-misunderstood senior living option. With over 30 years of experience, Tina shares what sets independent living apart from assisted living, details the vibrant daily life and amenities available, and explains why proactive planning makes all the difference. Learn how communities like Franklin Park offer seniors a resort-style experience—focused on freedom, companionship, and choice—and explore real-life examples of residents who found a fulfilling "new chapter" in community living.

00:02 Welcome to Navigating Eldercare & Meet Tina Tedford

01:17 Tina’s Journey: From Nursing Homes to Independent Living

02:13 The Role at Franklin Park Sonterra: Senior Living with Style

03:09 Independent Living vs. Assisted Living Explained

04:25 Is Independent Living Right for You? (Contrasting Resident Types)

04:30 The Proactive Couple: Seeking Freedom and Amenities (Bill & Susan)

06:21 The Social Senior: Combating Isolation (Margaret)

07:48 The Reluctant Senior: Overcoming the "Nursing Home" Fear (Harold)

09:11 Invitation to Tour & Contact Tina (210-404-1444)

10:15 Creative Solutions for Couples with Mixed Needs

12:53 A Day in the Life: Amenities, Activities, and Social Engagement

14:27 Resident-Led Committees and Community Involvement

15:47 Privacy and Choice: Introverts are Welcome, Too

16:38 Easing the Transition: Help with Downsizing and Moving

17:39 The Importance of Pre-Planning: Talk to Your Parents Now

19:08 Final Advice: It's a New Chapter, Not the End

19:46 Shifting Perception: Resort Style Community, Not a Facility

20:21 Tina's Inspiring Story of a Blind Resident

22:34 Closing Thoughts & Contact Information for Tina and Laura Daniels

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Navigating Eldercare provides essential guidance and practical solutions for every step of the elder care journey. Host Laura Daniels, a Registered Nurse specializing in geriatric care and founder of Care Advocates, brings over 30 years of expertise in advocacy and care transition planning. Each week, Laura shares expert insights to help families and professionals make confident care decisions for seniors in transition—whether after a hospital stay, rehab, or when home care needs change.

In this episode, Laura is joined by Michael Zendejas, owner of Homewatch Caregivers in San Antonio, a certified dementia care specialist, and a veteran. They discuss the vital role of in-home care, differentiating it from home health, and exploring the comprehensive services an agency provides, including assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), specialized care for advanced diagnoses (like Parkinson's or Alzheimer's), and crucial respite care to combat caregiver burnout. Mike emphasizes the importance of choosing a licensed, insured, and locally-owned agency, focusing on caregiver matching and the critical support provided during the first 72 hours of hospital-to-home transitions to prevent readmission. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand in-home care options and the value of planning ahead for the care journey.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction: Navigating Eldercare with Host Laura Daniels, RN

00:31 Laura's Mission: Guiding Families and Professionals Through Care Transitions

01:28 Care Advocates: Services and Philosophy (Customized Care Plans, Advocacy, Support)

01:55 Introducing Guest Mike Sandeja, Owner of Homewatch Caregivers

02:23 Mike Sandeja's Background and Service to Seniors03:23Inspiration for Starting an In-Home Caregiving Agency

03:52 Defining In-Home Care vs. Home Health

04:39 Services Offered by Homewatch Caregivers (ADLs, Specialized Care)

05:14 Who Needs Home Care? (Falls, Post-Discharge, Chronic Conditions)

06:54 Understanding and Utilizing Respite Care

07:54 The Reality of Caregiver Burnout and Self-Care

08:37 Misconceptions about In-Home Care (The Caregiver Team)

09:33 What Sets Homewatch Caregivers Apart? (Local, 24/7 Decision Makers)

10:35 Agency vs. Private Caregiver (Licensing, Insurance, Backup Care)

11:32 Matching Caregivers with Clients (Skills and Personality)

12:21 Caregiver Onboarding and Training Process

13:25 Involving Family in the Customized Care Plan

14:18 Creative Solutions and Preparing the Home for Discharge

15:26 The Most Important Question to Ask a Caregiving Agency

16:21 Focus on the First 72 Hours: Hospital-to-Home Transition

17:15 Reducing Readmission Rates and Coordinated Care

18:43 Service Agreements: No Long-Term Contractual Obligation

19:28 Where Caregivers Can Serve Clients (Assisted Living, Communities)

20:41 Mike Sandeja's Advice: The Journey Starts Now (Plan Ahead!)

21:35 Why It's Critical to Not Wait for a 911 Emergency

22:34 Contact Information for Homewatch Caregivers (210-346-1172)

23:29 Conclusion and Contact Information for Care Advocates (210-669-2222)

Professional Affiliations:

• National Placement and Referral Alliance
• Alliance of Professional Health Advocates (APHA)
• National Association of Healthcare Advocacy (NAHAC)

Laura's approach combines professional expertise with heartfelt understanding, making her an invaluable resource for families facing the challenges of elder care decisions. Her commitment to improving quality of life for seniors shines through in every interaction, making her the perfect guide for listeners navigating their own elder care journeys.

📅 Tune in Sundays at 8:30am–9:00am on 930AM The Answer or listen anytime on your favorite podcast app. Watch the full video episodes here on YouTube for added insights and resources.
Contact Laura for a Free Consultation:
📞 210-669-2222
📧 laura@advocatern.com
🌐 www.advocatern.com

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to Navigating Eldercare, the definitive podcast for families and professionals seeking guidance and practical solutions for the elder care journey. Hosted by Laura Daniels, a registered nurse with 30 years of experience in geriatrics and founder of Care Advocates, this show tackles the real questions and challenges of care transitions.

Each week, we bring you expert insights to help you make informed and confident decisions, whether you're dealing with a loved one's change in health, planning for future needs, or seeking to age in place safely. From understanding your options like assisted living and residential care homes to navigating complex emotional and logistical issues, we provide the advocacy, education, and support you need every step of the way.

Join us to turn overwhelm into clarity and find the right care at the right time for the people who matter most.

Chapters

• 00:02 | Introduction to Navigating Eldercare

• 00:20 | Meet Your Host, Laura Daniels

• 01:53 | Today's Topic: The Desire to Age in Place

• 02:13 | Introducing Guest Expert: Amy Roberts, a San Antonio-based Aging in Place Realtor

• 03:06 | Amy's Personal Journey and Passion for Elder Care

• 04:56 | The Value of Universal Design and the CAPS Certification

• 06:23 | Defining "Aging in Place"

• 07:39 | The Reality of Unprepared Homes and Involuntary Moves

• 09:05 | How an Aging in Place Realtor Helps Older Adults

• 10:41 | Handling Tough Conversations: When a Loved One Doesn't Want to Move

• 11:15 | Case Study: The Overwhelmed Spouse and the Resistant Partner

• 14:44 | The Importance of the CAPS (Certified Aging in Place Specialist) Certification

• 16:13 | DIY Home Modifications for Safe Aging in Place

• 18:36 | The Most Common Places for Falls

• 19:00 | Staying Socially Connected and Maintaining Wellness at Home

• 20:09 | Healthcare Resources to Support Aging in Place

• 22:00 | Case Study: The Importance of Having an Advocate After a Move

• 23:17 | A Message from Laura Daniels and Care Advocates

• 24:36 | Contact Information for Laura Daniels and Amy Roberts

• 25:26 | Closing Remarks

Professional Affiliations:

• National Placement and Referral Alliance
• Alliance of Professional Health Advocates (APHA)
• National Association of Healthcare Advocacy (NAHAC)

Laura's approach combines professional expertise with heartfelt understanding, making her an invaluable resource for families facing the challenges of elder care decisions. Her commitment to improving quality of life for seniors shines through in every interaction, making her the perfect guide for listeners navigating their own elder care journeys.

📅 Tune in Sundays at 8:30am–9:00am on 930AM The Answer or listen anytime on your favorite podcast app. Watch the full video episodes here on YouTube for added insights and resources.
Contact Laura for a Free Consultation:
📞 210-669-2222
📧 laura@advocatern.com
🌐 www.advocatern.com

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of "Navigating Eldercare," host Laura Daniels, a registered nurse and founder of Care Advocates, discusses the critical importance of creating a caregiving plan before a crisis occurs. She outlines the key components of a comprehensive plan, including starting difficult conversations with loved ones, assessing their current situation and finances, and exploring various care options like aging in place or assisted living. Laura also emphasizes the necessity of building a support team and, most importantly, prioritizing self-care for the caregiver to prevent burnout. This episode provides a vital framework and resources to help families and professionals make informed decisions and reduce the stress of the caregiving journey.

Chapters

• 00:02 - Welcome to Navigating Eldercare

• 00:20 - Meet Your Host: Laura Daniels

• 01:19 - About Care Advocates

• 01:49 - Introducing Today's Topic: Creating a Caregiving Plan

• 02:47 - The Importance of Proactive Planning

• 03:15 - What is a Caregiving Plan?

• 04:13 - Stress and the Need for a Plan

• 05:12 - Topic 1: Starting the Conversation

• 06:08 - Topic 2: Assessing the Current Situation

• 07:01 - Topic 3: Reviewing Finances

• 08:51 - Topic 4: Aging in Place

• 10:15 - Topic 5: Considering Assisted Living & Other Care Options

• 12:03 - Topic 6: Creating Your Care Team

• 13:22 - Community Resources

• 14:31 - Topic 7: The Caregiver and Self-Care

• 16:54 - Long-Distance Caregiving

• 17:53 - The Caregiving Plan Worksheet

• 18:22 - Assessing Physical and Mental Health

• 18:51 - Identifying Care Needs

• 19:50 - Financial Management and Legal Matters

• 21:13 - Home Safety and Lifestyle

• 22:09 - Building a Professional Care Team

• 23:03 - Final Self-Assessment Questions for Caregivers

• 24:13 - Care Advocates' Services and Contact Information

• 25:29 - Closing Remarks

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.