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All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Shannon Tuimalealiifano as guest to the show. About Shannon Tuimalealiifano, 2014 Dole Caregiver Fellow, Florida: Shannon and her husband, Sualauvi "Sua" Tuimalealiifano, are both Army veterans who met while serving at Fort Bragg. As a military child herself, Shannon understood the strength, camaraderie, and sacrifice that come with military life. After enlisting two years after high school, she served as a trained lab tech and combat medic, later working at Womack Army Medical Center. But nothing could have fully prepared Shannon for the life-changing journey that began after Sua was injured in combat while serving with Army Special Operations in Afghanistan. A paratrooper, jumpmaster, and Special Operations soldier, Sua sustained a severe spinal cord injury that eventually left him quadriplegic. At the time, Shannon was raising three young children, ages 6, 4, and 9 months. Within a week of Sua's medevac from Afghanistan, she joined him at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, followed by rehabilitation at James A. Haley VA Hospital in Tampa. What followed was a long and difficult road through hospital stays, rehabilitation, military transition challenges, and the daily realities of full-time caregiving. After nearly two years in hospitals and rehab, Shannon and Sua returned to Fort Bragg without the support or accessibility their family needed. Their home was not wheelchair accessible, and Sua's wheelchair could not fit through the doors. Eventually, the family relocated to Hawaii through a compassionate reassignment so they could be closer to Sua's family and support system. Even with family help, Shannon faced overwhelming exhaustion, sleep deprivation, and the emotional weight of caregiving around the clock. She later found healing through an equine therapy program with other military caregivers, describing it as "lifesaving and life-giving." Through community, connection, and support from organizations including the Elizabeth Dole Foundation's Hidden Heroes program, The Rosie Network, the VA, and Wounded Warrior Project's Independence Program, Shannon found strength, purpose, and a deeper understanding of the importance of supporting military and veteran caregivers. Shannon's story is one of service, sacrifice, resilience, and the power of caregiver community. About the Dole Caregiver Fellowship: The Elizabeth Dole Foundation Dole Caregiver Fellows Program is a selective leadership and advocacy fellowship for individuals who provide care and support to wounded, ill, or injured service members and veterans of all generations. Participants—spouses, parents, adult children, friends, or other loved ones—are chosen from across the United States to represent caregivers across their communities and nationally. During a two-year term, Fellows receive training, build networks, and work with policymakers, organizations, and the public to raise awareness of the value of caregivers and the challenges they face. They advocate for improved support and resources and advise the Foundation on programs and policy priorities affecting military and veteran families. In addition, by sharing their stories and experiences, they help other caregivers recognize themselves as caregivers, connect to resources, and feel welcomed in a community where every caregiving journey is valued.

All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Peter Ross as guest to the show. About Peter Ross, Co-Founder & CEO of Senior Helpers®: Peter Ross is the CEO and Co-Founder of Senior Helpers®, a leading national provider of in-home senior care, a role he has held since 2006. He is also the CEO and Founder of Town Square Franchising, launched in 2018, which focuses on innovative adult day services and supportive care experiences for older adults and families. Peter has been a longtime leader in the home care and healthcare industries, having served on the Board of Directors for the Home Care Association of America from 2008 through 2021, including as Board President from 2013 to 2020. He is a current CEO Member of the Healthcare Leadership Council in Washington, D.C., and previously served as CEO and Co-Founder of Doctors Express Urgent Care. His broader leadership background includes executive roles with ADP, Ernst & Young, and Intuit, as well as board service with the New England Conservatory of Music and From the Top. About Senior Helpers®: Senior Helpers® is the nation's premier provider of in-home, non-medical senior care services, offering specialized support for individuals living with Alzheimer's disease, dementia, Parkinson's disease, and other conditions, as well as personal care and companion care for those who need assistance with daily activities. Their services are flexible and completely customizable, allowing each personalized care plan to combine different aspects of their care offerings based on the individual needs of each client. When a family first contacts a Senior Helpers office, the process begins with a complimentary initial assessment in the client's home to better understand their needs and develop an individualized care plan. When needed, a qualified staff member, social worker, or registered nurse may conduct a more detailed assessment, depending on state regulations, to further guide the care plan. This assessment is then used in the caregiver matching process to help select the most appropriate caregiver for each client. Senior Helpers® also elevates its care through three key programs: the proprietary LIFE Profile assessment tool, the Senior Gems® program, and the Senior Helpers Center of Excellence training spaces. LIFE Profile is a research-based technology tool that uses data to help identify a client's risk of hospitalization. Senior Gems® provides effective strategies for supporting and caring for loved ones from normal aging through late-stage dementia, focusing on what is precious and unique about each senior at every stage. The Senior Helpers® Center of Excellence is a training space designed to simulate a client's home, allowing caregivers to learn in a real-world environment and demonstrate their ability to provide the highest quality care in the home setting.

Conscious Caregiving with L & L is "Tackling the Tough Conversations." The topic of this episode is "Memory Cafes & Seniors" featuring hosts Lori La Bey and Lance A. Slatton. About Lori La Bey: Lori La Bey is the founder of Alzheimer's Speaks and is co-founder of Dementia Map global resource directory and the co-host of Conscious Caregiving with L & L. Lori's mother who lived with dementia for 30 years. Lori's goal has always been to shift dementia care from crisis to comfort around the world. She offers a variety of free resources to educate, empower, connect, and decrease stigmas; helping families and professionals live graciously alongside dementia. Lori is an international speaker known for her multiple platforms and training programs. About Lance A. Slatton - known as "The Senior Care Influencer"": Known as "The Senior Care Influencer" Lance is a Writer, Author, Influencer, and Healthcare professional with over 20 years in the healthcare industry. Lance A. Slatton is a senior case manager at Enriched Life Home Care Services in Livonia, MI. He is also host of the award winning podcast & YouTube channel All Home Care Matters and Co-Host of Conscious Caregiving with L & L with Lori La Bey along with The Care Advocates and The Caregiver's Journal. Lance is also the new President of AlzAuthors. Lance's book, "The All Home Care Matters Official Family Caregivers' Guide" was the recent recipient of the 2024 International Impact Book Awards. To learn more about Lance A. Slatton and Lori La Bey you can visit their websites.

All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome the team from Rock Steady Boxing as guests to the show. About Ryan Cotton, President/CEO: Ryan Cotton currently serves as President & CEO for Rock Steady Boxing. His involvement with the organization started in 2009 when he served on the Board of Directors for a decade. Although he serves all RSB boxers around the world, his favorite RSB boxer was his father who was a Parkinson's fighter until his last days. Ryan's education is in physical therapy where he had a 22-year clinical career before moving into his role at RSB. He holds a Masters in Physical Therapy from the University of Evansville, and a Doctorate in Health Science from the University of Indianapolis. About Chris Timberlake, Director of Education & Training Rock Steady Boxing: Chris has been with Rock Steady since 2006 and currently serves as the Director of Training and Education at RSB developing and delivering training in the RSB method to new coaches around the world. She is a caregiver to Tom, who was diagnosed with Parkinson's in 2000, and understands all too well the needs of people struggling with Parkinson's. Having trained hundreds of people with Parkinson's as well as being immersed as a care partner has given Chris a uniquely intimate perspective on how to battle this disease. She is a Certified Personal Trainer through the American College of Sports Medicine and her personal experience is an instrumental part of Rock Steady's "Cornerman" support. About Sandra Benton, RSB Boxer, Retired business owner and hairstylist: Sandra Benton was a business owner for 48 years working as a hairstylist and retiring at age 67. She was diagnosed with PD in April of 2023 and started RSB in July of that year. About Jim Lindgren, RSB Boxer, Retired reporter and editor: Jim Lindgren had a career as a newspaper reporter and editor for 25 years before becoming an editor for a market research company and retiring 2 years ago at age 66. He was diagnosed with PD at the age of 61. About Rock Steady Boxing (RSB): Rock Steady Boxing (RSB) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of people with Parkinson disease through a specialized, non-contact boxing-based fitness program developed to specifically address the symptoms of Parkinson disease. Founded in Indianapolis in 2006, RSB is built on the belief that individuals with Parkinson's can fight back against the progression of their disease through rigorous, targeted exercise The RSB program is multimodal and incorporates boxing techniques, strength training, balance work, and cognitive challenges to address the motor and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson's. Backed by growing evidence that high-intensity exercise can slow symptom progression, RSB has become a leader in exercise-based approaches to managing the disease. Today, Rock Steady Boxing supports a global network of more than 800 affiliate programs that deliver its training in local communities, including gyms, rehabilitation centers, and community organizations. Through comprehensive coach training, ongoing education, and a strong support system, RSB ensures that its programs are accessible, adaptable, and effective for individuals at all stages of Parkinson's. Beyond physical improvements, the organization fosters a powerful sense of community and empowerment among participants, helping them build confidence, connection, and resilience. As it continues to expand its reach, Rock Steady Boxing remains committed to its mission of enabling people with Parkinson's to live healthier, more active lives.

All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Joseph Pianetta as guest to the show. About Joseph Pianetta: With 43 years in the printing industry, Joe Pianetta knows what it takes to create something truly exceptional. As the founder of Crayon Cards, he's channeled that expertise into a beautifully crafted coloring book experience — one where quality meets personalization. You'll love the results, and you'll be amazed at how easy it is to create a custom coloring book that tells your story. About Crayon Cards: Crayon Cards is a personalized coloring book store that turns your own photos into custom coloring books. Here's how it works: you upload your favorite photos, our system converts them into line-art illustrations, and a printed book is shipped to your door. A Photo Coloring Book becomes a Reminiscence of the past with the fun of coloring. The product is for seniors, particularly as a memory and cognitive engagement tool in remembrance of their life's accomplishments or a Family album. And for children, as a creative, screen-free activity using their own family photos, birthdays or vacations. Connect with Crayon Cards: Official Website: https://crayoncards.com/

All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Brenda Freed as guest to the show. About Brenda Freed: Brenda Freed, MA, is the co-founder of Mackenzie Meets Alzheimer's, a family-centered educational program created to help children, parents, caregivers, and families better understand Alzheimer's disease and dementia. With a background in music education and music therapy, Brenda brings a compassionate, creative, and accessible approach to helping families stay connected with loved ones throughout the dementia journey. Through Mackenzie Meets Alzheimer's, Brenda helps provide meaningful tools, videos, music, activities, and guidance designed to make difficult conversations easier for children and families. Her work reflects a deep commitment to education, connection, and helping families create positive moments with loved ones living with Alzheimer's or another form of dementia. About Mackenzie Meet Alzheimer's: The Mackenzie Meets Alzheimer's Program (MMAP) is a family-centered, multimedia educational program designed to help parents, children, educators, and healthcare professionals navigate the challenges of Alzheimer's disease. Created especially for families in the "sandwich generation," it provides practical tools, guidance, and meaningful activities that support positive interactions between children and loved ones living with Alzheimer's from diagnosis through the severe stage. The program helps children and their families stay meaningfully connected throughout the journey. At the heart of the program is the Mackenzie Meets Alzheimer's Awareness Program (MMAAP), a 5-video educational series covering each stage of the disease, along with guidance for adults raising children while caregiving. The program also includes a quick reference guide, transcripts, and accessible audio and visual resources to support a wide range of learning needs. Importantly, the MMAAP helps children understand Alzheimer's in age-appropriate ways and gives them simple, meaningful activities they can do with their loved one to maintain connection and nurture the relationship. Complementing the video series is the Mackenzie Meets Alzheimer's Disease Picture Book, a gentle, child-friendly introduction to Alzheimer's. The book follows a young girl learning how to understand and connect with her grandmother as the disease progresses. It includes a QR code for a free Story Song download whose lyrics are the text for the book—making the learning experience engaging, memorable, and accessible for young children and early readers. The complete MMAP is also a valuable resource for Adult Day Centers and Memory Care Communities, offering a ready-to-run educational program for families. It helps answer common questions proactively, reducing the need for staff to repeatedly provide the same explanations. This allows them to focus more on care and connection. Together, the program and book go beyond education—they empower families to create meaningful moments, maintain connection, and build positive memories throughout the course of Alzheimer's and other dementias.

All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Jennifer Spoeri as guest to the show. About Jennifer Spoeri, Executive Director, National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA): Jennifer Spoeri is the Executive Director of the National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA), a position she has held since August 2021. With over 18 years of experience in Adult Protective Services (APS), Jennifer brings a wealth of expertise in program development, leadership, multidisciplinary teams and advocacy for vulnerable populations. Prior to her role at NAPSA, she served as the APS Director in Philadelphia, PA, where she led the city's APS program and secured one of the first VOCA (Victims of Crime Act) grants designated for APS. Additionally, she was an integral member of the Philadelphia Financial Exploitation Prevention Task Force and the Philadelphia Hoarding Task Force. Jennifer has long been a dedicated advocate for the APS community, having served on NAPSA's Board of Directors for five years before assuming her current role. As Executive Director, she has served on numerous advisory boards, led several major grants, and played a pivotal role in the creation and development of the National APS Training Center. She holds a bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of Kentucky and a master's degree in gerontology with a concentration in Healthcare Administration from Notre Dame of Maryland University. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, reading, taking art classes and spending time with family, friends, her partner Kevin and their dog, Beauregard. About the National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA): The National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA) is a national nonprofit organization that supports Adult Protective Services programs and professionals across the United States. Formed in 1989, NAPSA provides a forum for APS programs to share information, solve challenges, strengthen professional practices, and improve services for older adults and adults with disabilities who may be experiencing abuse, neglect, exploitation, or other forms of mistreatment. NAPSA's work helps elevate the role of Adult Protective Services in protecting vulnerable adults and connecting them with support, safety, and resources.

All Home Care Maters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Roy Remer as guest to the show. About Roy Remer: Roy Remer is the author of Zen Caregiving: How to Care for Yourself While Caring for Others. An educator and end-of-life caregiver since 1997, he is executive director of Zen Caregiving Project in San Francisco and lead creator of the Mindful Caregiving Education curriculum. A dedicated practitioner in the Soto Zen tradition, Remer is a student at San Francisco Zen Center. About the Zen Caregiving Project: Formerly Known as Zen Hospice Project was founded in 1986 to address suffering in San Francisco. Rooted in Zen Buddhist tradition, we began training volunteer caregivers to serve dying residents at two sites of service. Their world renowned volunteer caregiver training has evolved to become the foundation of our Mindful Caregiver Education, which we teach nationally. In 2015, we began taking our unique approach to care out into the world in order to allow caregivers anywhere to benefit from our course offerings.

All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome Cory Fosco as guest to the show. About Cory Fosco: Cory Fosco is the author of The Question of When: A Practical Guide to Knowing When It's Time for Assisted Living, Memory Care, or Skilled Nursing. Cory has spent 34 years in long-term care, beginning in social work and admissions and now working in healthcare technology. He is also the author of the chapbook Empty Streets (Alien Buddha Press, 2024), which contains a Pushcart Prize-nominated story, and his short work has appeared in Superstition Review, Hippocampus, and other publications. Cory holds an MA in Creative Nonfiction from Northwestern University and a BA in Creative Writing from Loyola University Chicago. Cory lives in Chicago with his wife Cyndi.

The Care Advocates is brought to you by the All Home Care Matters Media team and focuses on providing family caregivers and their loved ones with support, resources, and discussion on the issues facing them in the matrix of long-term care. The Care Advocates are co-hosted by Lance A. Slatton & Dr. George Ackerman. The Care Advocates are honored to welcome Anne Smith as guest to the show. About Anne Smith: Anne Smith shines a light on the often-overlooked realities of Parkinson's disease and the profound impact it has on both those living with the condition and the family members who care for them. In this powerful conversation with Lance A. Slatton, Anne discusses the growing number of Parkinson's diagnoses, the emotional toll of watching a loved one's health decline, and the financial challenges many families face after stepping away from careers to become full-time caregivers. Her insights offer a candid look at the sacrifices, struggles, and resilience required when navigating life with Parkinson's disease. Anne also addresses one of the most important and sensitive topics in caregiving: caregiver burnout. Drawing from her own experiences and observations within caregiver communities, she speaks openly about exhaustion, sleep deprivation, frustration, and the emotional strain that can accompany caring for a loved one with Parkinson's. This meaningful discussion serves as both an educational resource and a reminder that caregivers need support, understanding, and compassion just as much as those they care for.