In today's episode, Faye and Sheila are joined by Mary Lynn, an end-of-life doula. Together, they discuss the complex relationship between life and death and how doulas can provide companionship and support to those nearing the end of their lives. The show will delve into the changing roles of doulas, from supporting life at its beginning to providing comfort at its end. This episode covers the evolution of the doula model of non-medical end-of-life care and Mary Lynn describes what an end of life doula is and how she found herself in the position. Faye, Shelia, and Mary Lynn talk about the nuances of navigating sensitive conversations surrounding death, including advanced care planning and legal matters for aging individuals. Additionally, the three examine the invaluable role doulas play in bridging gaps within patient support. Mary Lynn shares her experiences and offers resources for comprehensive doula training programs. Learn more about end of life doulas and Mary Lynn at thedyingyear.org  This episode on YouTube:  A3 Aging Ann Arbor is the source for all things aging. Topics include, How to stay healthy and sharp, how to maneuver challenges that come along with the aging process and programs and resources available for support. For more episodes, visit: https://www.a3agingannarbor.com/     For more information about Senior Helpers, visit: https://www.seniorhelpers.com/    

  In this episode, Faye and Sheila discuss heartwarming ways to bring holiday cheer to seniors. They share that even small acts of kindness, like helping with tree decorations or delivering homemade cookies, can make a big difference in the lives of the elderly during the holidays (and every day!). If you're in Ann Arbor, they also talk about local festivities that are perfect for the whole family, especially seniors. Here are some of their festive suggestions: - Treat them to a scenic drive to admire the dazzling local holiday lights. - Attend services together at their neighborhood church. - Explore the magical wonders of Greenfield Village - https://www.thehenryford.org/current-events/calendar/holiday-nights-in-greenfield-village/  - Experience the Michigan International Speedway lights -  https://nitelitesshow.com/  - Share a cozy evening watching their beloved Christmas movie at home. - Catch a movie at the Dementia Friendly Saline theater - https://www.dfsaline.org/movies  - Discover unique treasures at local craft shows. Wishing you and your loved ones a joyous holiday season and a Merry Christmas from A3 Aging Ann Arbor! This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/JeZSVVKw7lE  A3 Aging Ann Arbor is the source for all things aging. Topics include, How to stay healthy and sharp, how to maneuver challenges that come along with the aging process and programs and resources available for support. For more episodes, visit: https://www.a3agingannarbor.com/    For more information about Senior Helpers, visit: https://www.seniorhelpers.com/   

Welcome to part two of Faye and Shelia's conversation with Sharon McRill, the founder and president of The Betty Brigade, a location, organization, and handyman company based in Ann Arbor, Michigan. As they continued their conversation, Sharon shared anecdotes from her experience in home maintenance and organizing, as well as their new handyman subscription services.  Sharon explains how her team prioritizes safety when dealing with hoarder jobs, pest infestations, and hazardous conditions such as asbestos and mold. She also outlines the range of services The Betty Brigade offers, including seasonal tasks and organizing services that help clients manage home maintenance. Additionally, they discuss The Betty Brigade's unique recycling and donation mechanisms that support various causes, such as the Brides Project and Coats for Cubs. Toward the end of their conversation, Sharon discusses the importance of embracing change in aging well. If you're interested in learning more about Betty Brigade, visit www.BettyBrigade.com  This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/hsBYUQrFCJs  A3 Aging Ann Arbor is the source for all things aging. Topics include, How to stay healthy and sharp, how to maneuver challenges that come along with the aging process and programs and resources available for support. For more episodes, visit: https://www.a3agingannarbor.com/   For more information about Senior Helpers, visit: https://www.seniorhelpers.com/   

This week, Faye and Shelia are excited to introduce Brittany Patton, the Director and Supervisor of Ann Arbor Senior Center. Brittany shares how she got involved in senior care and her passion for encouraging physical activity among older adults. She also discusses the wide range of activities the Senior Center offers and explains why these activities are so important for seniors' minds and bodies.  Faye, Shelia, and Brittany discuss their interest in Blue Zones, and Brittany delves into the various principles that are essential for a high-quality, long life. She highlights a few principles that resonate with her the most and emphasizes how everyone can adopt these daily habits. By incorporating them, people can find meaning in their daily lives and age gracefully. Finally, Brittany opens up about her personal experience caring for her mother during her final days. She reflects on how this experience has influenced her approach to work and her perspective on living a meaningful life. Get in touch with Brittany and her team at the Ann Arbor Senior Center here www.a2gov.org, [email protected] or by calling 734-794-6250. This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/hsBYUQrFCJs  A3 Aging Ann Arbor is the source for all things aging. Topics include, How to stay healthy and sharp, how to maneuver challenges that come along with the aging process and programs and resources available for support. For more episodes, visit: https://www.a3agingannarbor.com/  For more information about Senior Helpers, visit: https://www.seniorhelpers.com/  

In this episode, Faye and Shelia are joined by Sharon McRill, the founder and president of The Betty Brigade, a relocation, organization, and handyman company based in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Sharon talks about how moving can be one of the most stressful experiences for a person and how her team at Betty Brigade creates custom plans to approach each move differently according to their client's needs.  The discussion also covers different hoarding situations and how Betty Brigade approaches them while working with other resources in the community to help those in need.  Towards the end of the episode, Betty Brigade makes an exciting announcement about the launch of their Handyman subscription service. However, as there's so much more to discuss, so this episode is only part one of two with Sharon. Stay tuned for more! If you're interested in learning more about Betty Brigade, visit www.BettyBrigade.com . This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_wzt0BOveOo  A3 Aging Ann Arbor is the source for all things aging. Topics include, How to stay healthy and sharp, how to maneuver challenges that come along with the aging process and programs and resources available for support. For more episodes, visit: https://www.a3agingannarbor.com/ For more information about Senior Helpers, visit: https://www.seniorhelpers.com/ 

Join Faye and Sheila as they talk with Kate Tselios, the Director of Visiting Angels, a company committed to providing a wide range of home care services for those in need. Kate's journey in senior care began in college, where she discovered her passion for working with the aging population. She has a diverse background working in the industry, starting at the Ann Arbor & Dexter Senior Centers; she then moved to assisted living before falling in love with home care services. Kate highlights how home care can be tailored to meet seniors' unique and evolving needs. She also talks about the "secret" to aging well and the positive changes seniors can make in their daily lives. Faye, Sheila, and Kate discuss what the future of home care could look like and how Ann Arbor's senior community is a great place not only to work, but a great place to age.    Learn more about Kate and her organization at www.visitingangels.com/annarbor  This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/cNu9g0SMuDE  A3 Aging Ann Arbor is the source for all things aging. Topics include, How to stay healthy and sharp, how to maneuver challenges that come along with the aging process and programs and resources available for support. For more episodes, visit: https://www.a3agingannarbor.com/ For more information about Senior Helpers, visit: https://www.seniorhelpers.com/   

This week, Faye and Sheila are joined by James Giordani, founder of Clear Computing, a company that works with older adults and technology.  James found passion in helping older adults be more comfortable around new and changing technology, and utilize it to their benefit. He emphasizes the importance of motivation and personalized plans in helping older adults embrace technology. James also addresses the growing problem of hacking and scam operations, advising caution and seeking second opinions.  James can be found at https://clear-computing.net    This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_SxEhaoQoWQ    A3 Aging Ann Arbor is the source for all things aging. Topics include, How to stay healthy and sharp, how to maneuver challenges that come along with the aging process and programs and resources available for support. For more episodes, visit: https://www.a3agingannarbor.com/  For more information about Senior Helpers, visit: https://www.seniorhelpers.com/ 

Sheila and Faye welcome Sue Prynn, to discuss the upcoming Alzheimer's Association walk event in Washtenaw County and information about the various activities and attractions at the walk, such as the promise garden ceremony and the two-mile walk. They provide information on the support and resources offered by the Alzheimer's Association, including education programs, support groups, and a helpline.  Join the walk on Sunday, October 8, 2023, at the Pioneer High School. Registration and participation in this event is completely free.  Helpful links:  Link to Washtenaw County Walk website: act.alz.org/washtenaw Link to Michigan Chapter website: alz.org/gmc   Sue Prynn serves as the Development Manager at the Alzheimer's Association and began her tenure with the organization in March 2019. Currently embarking on her fifth Walk season with the Washtenaw County Walk to End Alzheimer's, she maintains an unwavering commitment to advocating for individuals and families impacted by Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. Her dedication also extends to the vital mission of educating and raising awareness about Alzheimer's and the Alzheimer's Association.   This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/syixsgf_0w8    A3 Aging Ann Arbor is the source for all things aging. Topics include, How to stay healthy and sharp, how to maneuver challenges that come along with the aging process and programs and resources available for support. For more episodes, visit: https://www.a3agingannarbor.com/  For more information about Senior Helpers, visit: https://www.seniorhelpers.com/ 

This week, Faye and Sheila sit down with Jim Mangi to discuss the incredible work being done by Dementia Friendly Saline.  Faye shares her experience of working with Dementia Friendly Saline and the importance of educating people on proper caregiving. Dementia Friendly Saline started with a dementia awareness lecture series in the small town of Saline,Michigan attracting a significant number of attendees each week.  Realizing the immense need for dementia information and support, they joined the nationwide effort called Dementia Friendly America. Together with the city government, medical, faith, and residential communities, Dementia Friendly Saline created a package to make the town a recognized dementia-friendly community.  This episode explores the importance of breaking the stigma associated with dementia and providing support and dignity to individuals living with the disease. Through heartfelt conversations and personal anecdotes, the episode highlights the impact of Dementia Friendly Saline's work in creating a community that embraces and supports those affected by dementia.   This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/dFLTmf_aUH0    A3 Aging Ann Arbor is the source for all things aging. Topics include, How to stay healthy and sharp, how to maneuver challenges that come along with the aging process and programs and resources available for support. For more episodes, visit: https://www.a3agingannarbor.com/  For more information about Senior Helpers, visit: https://www.seniorhelpers.com/ 

In this episode of Aging Ann Arbor, Faye & Sheila discuss various important topics related to aging, caregiving, and resources available in Ann Arbor including wills and power of attorney, as well as the importance of trusts for financial support. They also provide valuable insight on the importance of staying active and services available for the aging community in Ann Arbor, from field trips, community events, to getting home repairs to assist in physical limitations.   This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/PLmBwOo88P4    A3 Aging Ann Arbor is the source for all things aging. Topics include, How to stay healthy and sharp, how to maneuver challenges that come along with the aging process and programs and resources available for support. For more episodes, visit: https://www.a3agingannarbor.com/  For more information about Senior Helpers, visit: https://www.seniorhelpers.com/