If It's Not One Thing, It's Joanna

Episode 23: Fingers Crossed Is Not A Plan With LTC Expert Raymond Lavine

In this episode, we kick off a brand-new series focused on navigating the complex world of long-term care insurance (LTC). Financial services veteran Raymond Lavine breaks down why the industry has historically gotten a "bad rap" and why so many people skip out on purchasing these specialized plans. Far from just an "old geezer" issue, Raymond highlights how unexpected illnesses, accidents, and early-stage cognitive shifts can happen at any stage of life—and how standard health insurance leaves a massive gap after 90 days. Sharing stories from his own serious health events to Raymond's own mother—who utilized her policy 18 years until she was 103!—this episode dives deep into the financial truth of senior care. Although many feel LTC is a wealthy family's solution, Raymond walks us through practical entry points for the wider public, including innovative new products and robust short-term care alternatives - aiming to deliver what we all want at our most vulnerable: attention, visibility, and choices. Listener Call-Out: Have you navigated long-term care insurance for your own loved ones? Did it save your financial life, or did you hit unexpected roadblocks? Reach out to us for a chance to come on the show at ifitsnotone@gmail.com, or connect on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn at If It's Not One Thing, It's Joanna.

Episode 22: Jim Mangi's Dementia-Friendly Cities of Hope

In this moving episode, we sit down with environmental scientist turned dementia care advocate Jim Mangi, who opens up about his unexpected journey caring for his wife, Kathleen, following her early-onset Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Driven by his experience over their 17-year journey, Jim founded Dementia Friendly Services, a grassroots, independent, nonprofit aimed at helping individuals with dementia live in their communities with less difficulty and more dignity. Jim shares the profound impact of his "Memory Cafes"- vibrant, judgment-free social events featuring live music, drum circles, and interactive games. He also details his successful efforts certifying Saline and other Michigan municipalities as "Dementia-Friendly Communities" through education and first-responder training. Ultimately, Jim offers powerful advice for families navigating memory loss, reminding listeners that dementia is a disease of broken equipment, not a disgrace. https://www.dementiafriendlyservices.org/

Episode 21: How AgeWays Surfs the Senior Tsunami with Julie Lowenthal

We dive back into the vital world of caregiving resources, emphasizing that finding support is an ongoing journey rather than a one-time task. Karin shares a serendipitous encounter at a dog park that introduced them to Julie Lowenthal from AgeWays (formerly the Area Agency on Aging) - an organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families navigating aging and dementia. We discuss the overwhelming nature of tracking down these services, which, when found, become game changers for families. Julie not only reviews the broad support that AgeWays offers but also outlines the deeper realities of resource availability. She notes how many programs rely on government funding and community support, making awareness crucial as the "senior tsunami" approaches. Being proactive today, before crises occur is the best way to ensure peace of mind for tomorrow. And CONTEST ALERT: We're on a mission to come up with a term for family members who become caregivers. Give us your submissions, and we shall announce a winner in an upcoming episode! Send your submissions to ifitsnotone@gmail.com [ifitsnotone@gmail.com]. https://www.ageways.org/ [https://www.ageways.org/] https://www.ageways.org/caregiver-services/trualta-family-caregiver-online-learning/ [https://www.ageways.org/caregiver-services/trualta-family-caregiver-online-learning/]

Episode 20: Karen Therapy With Karen Faith Gordon

In this much needed episode on mental health, the siblings sit down with Karen Faith Gordon, a licensed clinical social worker specializing in aging and elder care. After properly exorcising society's memetic tic of the "entitled Karen," the new soul sisters and Andrew dive into how to address the mental and emotional challenges around senior care. From seniors living with dementia to their families and caregivers walking alongside them, the emotional toll is undeniable - but there is help out there! Exploring everything from the delicate tradeoffs of living well vs living long to the value of sense-checking agonizing decisions with a community perspective, KFG helps us find moments of peace in the chaos. https://karenfaith.llc/

Episode 19: The Case For Lying To Your Mother With Dr. Catherine Madison

In this episode, we embrace the gray areas of dementia care with help from Dr. Catherine Madison, author of Navigating Memory Loss: Essential Questions And Answers On Alzheimer's And Dementia. Dr Madison introduces us to anosognosia - when we don't remember what we don't remember - and how to cope with it. We discuss the challenge and necessity of unlearning things we were taught as children, and how Hogeweyk - an innovative dementia village in the Netherlands is letting things happen. There’s a bittersweet update on Mom’s new penchant for solo musical numbers and tips for the tough work of crafting end of life instructions while you still can.  Links: https://www.amazon.com/Navigating-Memory-Loss-Essential-Alzheimers/dp/B0FMGR232F [https://www.amazon.com/Navigating-Memory-Loss-Essential-Alzheimers/dp/B0FMGR232F] https://www.mdmemorycare.com/ [https://www.mdmemorycare.com/] https://hogeweyk.dementiavillage.com/ [https://hogeweyk.dementiavillage.com/]