Welcome to the Unlocking Senior Resources podcast! I’m Larry Wagner, and today I sit down with Rebecca and Dana from Livewell Care Management for an eye-opening conversation about individualized concierge care for seniors. We unpack how care managers can help families navigate the overwhelming complexities of aging, from crisis moments to proactive planning, and everything in between.
Have you ever wondered when’s the right time to seek professional care management? Or what exactly a care manager does? This episode tackles those questions head-on. We talk candidly about the challenges of caregiving, the emotional roadblocks that come with aging, and why even a little bit of help can preserve so much independence. Whether you’re a senior yourself or supporting someone you love, this episode is packed with practical insights and compassionate advice.
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Timeline Summary:
- [0:00] – Introduction
- [0:51] – Meet Rebecca and Dana from Livewell Care Management and hear what brought them into senior care.
- [1:30] – Rebecca explains what a social gerontologist is and why individualized, white-glove care makes a difference.
- [3:07] – Dana shares her journey as an occupational therapist moving from crisis care to proactive, holistic senior support.
- [4:12] – We explore why families often wait for a crisis before seeking help, and how planning ahead can prevent chaos.
- [5:40] – A frank discussion about caregiver burnout and the unique pressures faced by family caregivers, especially women in the “sandwich generation.”
- [8:15] – Rebecca breaks down what care management really involves, from coordinating doctors to home safety assessments, and why their team’s collaborative, interdisciplinary approach sets them apart.
- [14:10] – The importance of having a boots-on-the-ground ally when adult children live far from aging parents.
- [18:10] – Stories of resistance seniors show when facing change, and how objective professionals can mediate family dynamics while maintaining autonomy and dignity.
- [22:11] – Why spending money on care should be seen as an investment in quality of life, and overcoming the stigma around using resources meant for seniors’ own well-being.
- [26:09] – How even small concessions, like letting someone help set up medications, can help seniors retain independence longer.
- [41:42] – A powerful takeaway: there’s no wrong time to engage care management. Livewell’s team is ready to support seniors and families 24/7.
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3 Key Takeaways:
- Proactive Planning Prevents Crisis: Most families wait until something goes wrong to seek help. Starting early gives seniors and their loved ones more options and peace of mind.
- Caregiver Burnout is Real: Providing care without support often leads to exhaustion, resentment, and mistakes. Even small amounts of professional assistance can dramatically reduce caregiver stress.
- Maintaining Independence Requires Teamwork: Accepting a little help now, like medication management or home safety updates, can help seniors stay independent longer while balancing safety and autonomy.
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Links & Resources
- LiveWell Care Management: Reach out for a complimentary consultation or to learn more about their services.
- Email: Dana Williams at danawilliams@livewellcm.com
- Leave the Key Home Buyers: For seniors considering selling their home without the hassle, visit leavethekey.com or call (631) 388-7771.
