In this episode of Caring Conversations, Melissa Therrien and Shanna Hakala discuss the critical environmental risks faced by seniors, focusing on slips, trips, falls, air quality, chemical safety, fire risks, temperature regulation, and the role of smart technology in enhancing home safety. They provide practical tips for families to help their loved ones maintain independence while minimizing hazards in the home.
May 20, 2025•32 min•Ep. 11
In this episode of Caring Conversations, Melissa Therrien and Liz Lewington discuss Ohana Care, a home care service that emphasizes personalized, relationship-based care. They explore the various services offered, the importance of caregiver-client relationships, and the unique approach to care management. The conversation also covers how families can initiate care, the role of care managers, and the significance of personalized care plans. Additionally, they address common questions about careg...
Apr 08, 2025•41 min•Ep. 10
In this conversation, Liz Lewington and Melissa Therrien discuss the importance of aging well through preventative care. They cover various aspects of senior care, including home safety, fall prevention, medication management, nutrition, staying active, mental health, and accessing support resources. The discussion emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to senior care, focusing on maintaining independence and quality of life.
Mar 25, 2025•29 min•Ep. 9
In this episode of Caring Conversations, Melissa Therrien and Liz Lewington discuss the critical role of home care in supporting post-operative recovery, particularly after hip and knee surgeries. They explore the importance of preparation for surgery, effective pain management, and the need for professional support during recovery. The conversation emphasizes the significance of communication between healthcare providers and families to ensure a safe discharge from the hospital and a smooth tra...
Feb 11, 2025•37 min•Ep. 8
In this episode of Caring Conversations, hosts Liz Lewington and Melissa Therrien discuss the intricacies of starting a career in caregiving with HR manager Heather Connors from Ohana Care. They explore the various roles within caregiving, the hiring process, the importance of company support, and the balance between work and personal life. The conversation also touches on growth opportunities, the impact of technology, and the challenges faced in recruitment. The episode emphasizes the value of...
Feb 04, 2025•43 min•Ep. 7
In this episode of Caring Conversations, Melissa Therrien and Liz Lewington delve into the sensitive topic of palliative care, discussing its importance, misconceptions, and the emotional aspects surrounding end-of-life care. They explore the differences between palliative care and hospice care, share personal experiences, and emphasize the need for early conversations about palliative options. The episode highlights the role of healthcare teams, the significance of family support, and the activ...
Jan 21, 2025•48 min•Ep. 6
In this episode of Caring Conversations, Melissa Therrien and Liz Lewington discuss the vital role of companionship in the mental and emotional well-being of individuals with dementia. Joined by caregiver Jamie McGurgin, they explore the importance of personalized care, the impact of touch, and effective de-escalation techniques in caregiving. The conversation emphasizes the need to understand dementia beyond labels and stigmas, advocating for a compassionate and individualized approach to care....
Jan 14, 2025•46 min•Ep. 5
In this episode of Caring Conversations, hosts Melissa Therrien and Liz Lewington discuss the complexities of dementia care, focusing on the signs and symptoms of dementia, the importance of empathy in caregiving, and the dynamics of family communication. They emphasize the need for understanding behaviors, the significance of companionship, and the necessity of self-care for caregivers. The conversation highlights the importance of education and support for families navigating the challenges of...
Dec 17, 2024•52 min•Ep. 4
Summary In this episode of Caring Conversations, Liz Lewington and Melissa Therrien discuss the sensitive topic of initiating conversations about in-home care with loved ones. They explore the importance of addressing care needs early, navigating resistance and denial, and the role of caregivers in family dynamics. The conversation emphasizes the need for pragmatic approaches to home care, financial considerations, and the emotional aspects of caregiving. The hosts encourage families to have the...
Dec 10, 2024•36 min•Ep. 3
In this episode of Caring Conversations, Melissa Therrien and Liz Lewington discuss the complexities of home care funding in Alberta and British Columbia. They explore various support programs, including Alberta's Client-Directed Home Care Invoicing Program and the fully funded options available through Alberta Health Services. The conversation also delves into BC's CSIL program, highlighting the challenges and barriers faced by individuals seeking home care support. The hosts emphasize the impo...
Dec 03, 2024•31 min•Ep. 2
Click here to watch a video of this episode. Summary In this episode of Caring Conversations, hosts Melissa Therrien and Elizabeth Lewington explore the world of in-home care, addressing common myths and misconceptions while highlighting the importance of personalized care. They discuss who can benefit from in-home care, the proactive nature of support, and the role of technology in enhancing care. The conversation emphasizes the significance of building trust with families and the collaborative...
Nov 27, 2024•38 min•Ep. 1
