Home Instead

"Can you make something sweet healthier?" 🤔

Food preferences often change throughout the dementia journey, and sweet cravings are common.

In this clip, Aaron Fish introduces the concept of "stealth health" and shares practical ways caregivers can add nutrition and protein while still providing foods that bring comfort and enjoyment.

Hosted by Dr. Lakelyn, this discussion with Michelle Magner, Carrie Aalberts, and Aaron Fish explores real-world dementia care strategies that caregivers can use immediately.

🎧 Watch the full episode of Caregiver Chats wherever you get your podcasts: https://bit.ly/3SdVzpa

What is trauma? And how does it show up in the older adults we care for?

On the latest episode of the Caregiver Chats Podcast, Dr. Lakelyn sits down with healthcare leader and trauma-informed care advocate Jean Hartnett to discuss how past experiences can shape behaviors, emotional responses, and caregiving interactions later in life.

💬 Do you think understanding someone's life story helps you provide better care? We'd love to hear your thoughts. 👇

🎧 Listen to the full conversation here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/72-the-hidden-impact-of-trauma-in-caregiving/id1684948365?i=1000768008035

✨ New Caregiver Chats Episode: Ashley Stevens, a gerontologist, licensed clinical social worker, and dementia educator, talks about what caregivers really need beyond basic self-care.

🎧 Tune in here: https://bit.ly/49LULxG

"You have to go with their pace of life, their level."

Kathryn Bolissian brings lived experience to her role as a Care Pro with Home Instead. As a mother of three, including her youngest daughter who lives with Angelman Syndrome, she knows what it means to navigate medical appointments, long nights, and the quiet responsibility of being someone’s steady advocate.

Clients value the calm she carries into their homes, whether she is preparing comforting homemade meals, creating routines that bring stability, or offering reassurance during uncertain moments. She shows up steady, patient, and ready to help.

Check out all of the 2025 Rising Care Pros of the Year stories here: https://bit.ly/46JGmR2

Charles has always loved learning—his home still filled with books, artifacts, and treasures from a life of exploration.

After a stroke, life changed. But with the support of his Care Pro, Valarie, the things he loves are still part of his days.

From reading together (even with a few laughs along the way) to gardening, cooking, and planning outings, their time is filled with connection and joy.

“We are here to accommodate them. They are not here to accommodate us.”

Because with the right care, life doesn’t stop—it continues with comfort, purpose, and moments that matter. 💚

"I have a ministry of encouraging people."

Joy Karienye brings discipline and purpose to her work as a Care Pro. Before joining Home Instead, she was a professional marathon runner who competed in 23 countries and served as an Adidas ambassador, a routine of 4 a.m. runs that still centers her each day. After immigrating from Kenya, she felt called to caregiving and changed her name to Joy to reflect her mission to help others heal. That determination shows in her care, including helping a 98-year-old client regain strength after a serious injury and come off hospice. Joy helps clients rebuild confidence and connection one steady step at a time.

Meet all of the 2025 Rising Care Pros of the Year: https://bit.ly/46JGmR2