Best Esther C Kane CAPS Podcasts (2025)

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65 - Your Home Coach Will See You Now: Breaking Up With Clutter 57:17

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2h ago57:17

57:17

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. What if your home could be the key to rediscovering your authentic self? Michelle Hoff believes it can. As a pioneering "home coach" with over 30 years of experience working in people's living spaces, Michelle has developed a revolutionary approach to decluttering that goes far beyond organizing tips or storag…

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#73 - Holiday Travel with Aging Parents: What to Know Before You Go 11:43

5h ago11:43

11:43

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. Traveling with aging parents over the holidays? Tune in as we discuss the real-life challenges and unforgettable joys of family holiday travel with seniors. In this episode of Senior Safety Advice, you’ll discover practical, up-to-date tips on travel planning, packing essentials, staying safe on the road or in…

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Daily - Little Things That Mean the World to Seniors 5:58

5h ago5:58

5:58

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. We share why tiny gestures—like a soft hello, a shared coffee, or a Sunday vase of flowers—can mean more to seniors than any grand plan. We offer practical ways to honor dignity, support memory, and turn routine into connection, especially in dementia care. • the neighbor’s flowers as a model of steady care • …

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Daily - Finding Beauty in Daily Routines 6:32

16h ago6:32

6:32

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. We explore how mindful attention transforms daily routines into anchors of calm, connection, and meaning for seniors and caregivers. Through Ellen’s story, practical tips, and sensory exercises, we show how structure supports safety, memory, and joy. • seeing beauty in ordinary moments • how structure supports…

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Annuities and Inflation: Protecting Senior Retirement Income 16:32

11h ago16:32

16:32

Source article: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/what-seniors-should-know-about-inflation-and-annuities-september-2025/ The article from CBS News addresses the impact of rising inflation on seniors and their retirement income strategies, particularly concerning annuities. It highlights how fixed annuities can lose purchasing power over time due to infl…

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Daily - The Power of Listening Without Fixing 7:35

1d ago7:35

7:35

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. We explore the quiet skill of listening without fixing and why it lowers stress, builds trust, and strengthens caregiving bonds. A story about lost independence shows how validation restores dignity and opens the door to real support. • the urge to fix versus the need to feel heard • why reflective listening c…

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Daily - When Family Disagrees About Care Decisions 7:45

3d ago7:45

7:45

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. We share why family conflicts about elder care are rarely about logistics and mostly about values, fears, and love. We walk through five practical steps to move from tension to shared decisions that protect safety, dignity, and connection. • naming emotions to reduce blame • aligning on shared goals of safety,…

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Daily - Making Mealtime a Moment of Joy 9:21

4d ago9:21

9:21

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. Dinner can drift into a blur of chores, especially when you’re cooking for one or juggling the demands of caregiving. We slow things down and show how small, deliberate touches—like lighting a candle, calling a friend, or choosing colorful foods—can transform mealtime into a genuine moment of care. Along the w…

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Daily - Writing a Gratitude Letter to a Caregiver 9:21

5d ago9:21

9:21

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. What if a few honest sentences could ease stress, lift a weary heart, and strengthen the bond between you and the person who cares for you? We explore the quiet power of gratitude letters and how a simple note can turn everyday caregiving into a shared moment of recognition and relief. We start with the realit…

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Navigating Major Medicare Changes for 2026 18:03

5d ago18:03

18:03

Source article: https://www.thestreet.com/health/medicare-changes-millions-of-older-americans-need-to-know-before-2026 The provided text is an article from TheStreet that primarily focuses on significant changes to Medicare programs taking effect in 2026, particularly concerning prescription drug coverage and costs for older Americans. The core mes…

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Daily - How Connection Boosts Brain Health 9:34

6d ago9:34

9:34

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. A healthier mind may be closer than you think—sometimes it’s just one warm conversation away. We take a practical, science-backed look at why the brain thrives on real connection and how small moments of belonging can sharpen memory, stabilize mood, and lower the risk of cognitive decline. From a moving story …

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Caregiver Holiday Stress Reduction Tips 19:45

9h ago19:45

19:45

Source article: https://states.aarp.org/new-hampshire/are-you-a-caregiver-who-feels-stressed-about-the-holidays-reset-your-expectations-and-enjoy-the-little-moments This is an excerpt from an article published by AARP offering advice to stressed family caregivers during the holidays. The article, titled "Are you a caregiver who feels stressed about…

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Daily - Choosing Gratitude Over Guilt 10:29

7d ago10:29

10:29

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. Caregiver guilt has a way of creeping into every corner of the day, whispering that rest is failure and effort is never enough. We tackle that voice head-on and replace it with a steadier guide: gratitude that is honest, compassionate, and grounded in real life. Through a moving story from Esther’s work as an …

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#64 - Overcoming Resistance: Helping Loved Ones Accept Home Modifications 12:44

6h ago12:44

12:44

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. The moment you suggest installing grab bars in your aging parent's bathroom, you're met with immediate resistance. "I'm not that old yet," they insist, despite a recent stumble that could have been serious. This emotional tug-of-war plays out in millions of homes across America, where well-meaning safety sugge…

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#72 - Healing Harmonies: Music Therapy in Senior Care 14:08

7d ago14:08

14:08

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. Music reaches parts of the brain that remain resilient even when memory fades. For seniors facing health challenges, cognitive decline, or emotional struggles, this neurological phenomenon transforms music from simple entertainment into powerful therapy. The Senior Safety Advice Podcast delves into music thera…

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Daily - Ways to Help Your Loved One Feel Needed 11:26

8d ago11:26

11:26

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. Purpose changes everything, especially when daily roles shrink after retirement, health setbacks, or losing the car keys. We share a compassionate, practical roadmap to help aging loved ones feel needed again—without grand gestures or complicated plans. Starting with Frank, a former engineer who rediscovered h…

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Medications and Falls: A Growing Threat to Seniors 15:57

1d ago15:57

15:57

Source article: https://nypost.com/2025/09/11/health/prescription-drugs-linked-to-rise-in-fall-related-deaths-for-seniors/ The provided article from the New York Post, originally published by Fox News, discusses a potential link between prescription drugs and a rise in fall-related deaths among seniors. It highlights how the risk of death after a f…

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Daily - Saying “Thank You” to Yourself as a Caregiver 8:09

10d ago8:09

8:09

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. The quiet heroism of caregiving rarely gets named, let alone thanked. We shine a light on a simple, science‑backed shift—self‑gratitude—that can lower stress, improve sleep, and restore the heart behind your daily care. Drawing on years as an occupational therapist and personal experience as a caregiver, Esthe…

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Daily - Creating Family Rituals That Include Aging Parents 10:27

11d ago10:27

10:27

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. The smallest traditions often carry the most weight. We unpack how simple, repeatable moments—morning calls, shared meals, music hours, even watching the same show—can help aging parents feel included while easing the emotional load on caregivers. Drawing on occupational therapy experience and current research…

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Daily - How to Stay Connected When You Feel Isolated 11:08

12d ago11:08

11:08

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. Feeling unseen can happen even in a full house. We sat down to name the quiet ache of loneliness and chart a human, practical path back to connection—one small step at a time. Through Esther’s story of Helen and the research linking loneliness to serious health risks, we unpack why isolation isn’t just about b…

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Daily - Gratitude Tools That Lighten Caregiving Days 7:06

13d ago7:06

7:06

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. Heavy days don’t always need heavy solutions. We dig into a deceptively simple practice, gratitude, and show how it can soften the sharp edges of caregiving without asking you to ignore reality. Through two intimate stories from home health and occupational therapy, we illustrate what changes when you look for…

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#63 - The Role of Adaptive Clothing and Wearable Technology 13:18

7d ago13:18

13:18

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. What happens when fashion innovation meets senior care needs? A quiet revolution is transforming daily life for older adults and their caregivers. The latest episode of the Aging in Place Directory podcast dives deep into the world of adaptive clothing and wearable technology – not as gadgets for the tech-obse…

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#71 - Exploring Genealogy: Tracing Your Family Tree 13:45

14d ago13:45

13:45

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. Tracing your family tree transforms dry facts into living history while keeping your mind sharp and creating meaningful connections across generations. Genealogy research reveals where you came from and adds depth to your own life story through unexpected discoveries. • Start with what you know—record your det…

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Retiree's Guide to Credit and Identity Protection 16:07

9d ago16:07

16:07

Source article: https://www.foxnews.com/tech/how-safeguard-your-credit-score-retirement-fraud-identity-theft-rise-among-seniors This Fox News article, "How to safeguard your credit score in retirement as fraud and identity theft rise among seniors," emphasizes the critical importance of credit protection for retirees, who are frequent targets of fi…

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Real-World Effectiveness of RSV Vaccine in Older Adults 12:35

12d ago12:35

12:35

Article source: https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/respiratory-syncytial-virus-rsv/rsv-vaccine-older-adults-92-protective-against-poor-outcomes-real The provided text, originating from the University of Minnesota's Center for Infectious Disease Research & Policy (CIDRAP), primarily offers an overview of a real-world study estimating the effectiveness of th…

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#62 - Where to Find Money When Your Home Needs to Age With You 17:55

14d ago17:55

17:55

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. Navigating the financial aspects of aging in place presents challenges for many seniors, but numerous funding options exist to help with home modifications that promote safety and independence. • Government programs like Medicaid waivers can fund ramps, bathroom changes, and doorway widening depending on your …

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#70 - Interview With Dennis Lippy and Rick Thaxton of Accessible Living Atlanta 58:43

21d ago58:43

58:43

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. The words we use shape the choices we make. That’s why we trade the phrase “aging in place” for “accessible living,” a shift that unlocks dignity, smarter design, and real independence for people of every age, from a child with cerebral palsy to a caregiver protecting their back during daily transfers. With Ri…

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Virtual Nature Boosts Well-being in Dementia Patients 9:05

23d ago9:05

9:05

Source article: https://stories.tamu.edu/news/2025/07/29/nature-inspired-virtual-reality-boosts-emotional-well-being-in-older-adults-living-with-dementia/ This source describes a pilot study conducted by Texas A&M University exploring the benefits of nature-inspired virtual reality for older adults with dementia. The study found that regular VR ses…

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Optimal Lighting for Senior Health and Safety 25:09

26d ago25:09

25:09

These sources collectively discuss the profound impact of lighting and environmental design on human health and safety, particularly for older adults and patients. They highlight how Evidence-Based Design in healthcare can improve patient outcomes by incorporating natural light and views, while also addressing the negative effects of poor design li…

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#61 - Seasonal Home Safety Checks for Older Adults 12:18

21d ago12:18

12:18

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. Seasonal home safety checks are crucial for older adults who wish to maintain independence and prevent accidents while aging in place. Taking inspiration from a meticulous neighbor who prevented major maintenance issues through regular upkeep, I share practical advice for making your home safer through each se…

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#69 - Smart Monitoring Creates Peace of Mind Without Invading Privacy 43:45

28d ago43:45

43:45

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. Kabir Bhatia introduces Hello Everyday, an innovative monitoring device for seniors that works without Wi-Fi and provides peace of mind without invasion of privacy. • Created by three co-founders after personal experiences with aging parents • Functions without Wi-Fi or app downloads using cellular connectivit…

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Shielding Vision: Eye Care for Healthy Aging 11:56

23d ago11:56

11:56

Source article: https://news.blueshieldca.com/2025/07/28/july-is-dry-eye-awareness-month-5-ways-to-protect-your-vision-as-you-age This Blue Shield of California news release highlights July as Dry Eye Awareness Month, offering five key strategies for older adults to safeguard their vision as they age. It explains how to identify dry eye symptoms an…

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Unlocking Independence: The New Era of Home Design for Older Adults 10:18

26d ago10:18

10:18

Aging in place is much more than just remodeling a home, it's about dignity. And that's what I love about this beautiful article by Jamie Gold. The article highlights eight key principles from the ASID report, such as designing for autonomy, alleviating isolation, and prioritizing connectivity, all aimed at creating homes that support independence,…

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#68 - Compassionate Decluttering: The Art of Letting Go with Empathy 57:12

1M ago57:12

57:12

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. Michelle Hoff shares her unique approach to decluttering as a "home coach," focusing on compassion, self-reflection, and creating spaces that reflect our authentic selves. Her book "Compassionate Decluttering" offers a fresh perspective on the emotional aspects of letting go of possessions while honoring our v…

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#60 - Aging in Place with Pets: Creating a Safe Environment for Both 14:50

28d ago14:50

14:50

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. The bond between humans and their animal companions takes on special significance as we age. A wet nose nudging your hand or a warm body curled at your feet isn't just comforting—it's life-enhancing. Scientific research confirms what pet owners already know: sharing your home with an animal companion lowers bl…

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Technology's Role in Combating Loneliness for Older Adults 10:58

30d ago10:58

10:58

By Esther C Kane CAPS, C.D.S.

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Bathroom Safety and Accessibility for Seniors 18:01

1M ago18:01

18:01

Sources include: https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/health-products/g46754896/best-toilet-seat-risers/ https://www.rehabmart.com/post/aging-in-place-how-to-get-your-home-ready https://www.budgetdumpster.com/blog/how-to-improve-bathroom-safety https://agesafeamerica.com/budget-friendly-bathroom-modifications-for-seniors/ https://www.arthritissupplies.…

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#67 - How to Create a Memory Box for Loved Ones with Dementia 11:53

1M ago11:53

11:53

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. Memory boxes serve as powerful tools for people with dementia, creating bridges to cherished memories while reducing anxiety and promoting happiness. We explore why memory boxes work, how to create them, and their therapeutic benefits for both the individual with dementia and their caregivers. We walk through …

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#59 - The Impact of Clutter on Seniors’ Mental Health 14:02

1M ago14:02

14:02

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. What happens when a lifetime of treasured possessions slowly transforms from comfort to chaos? The mental health toll of clutter on seniors extends far beyond aesthetics, creating invisible barriers to wellbeing that many families struggle to address. Clutter accumulates gradually, often tied to profound life …

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Interview with Shari Ross - Author of Senior Living made S.I.M.P.L.E. 48:40

1M ago48:40

48:40

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. Most families don’t start planning senior living until a scare forces the issue. We wanted to change that. So we sat down with Sherry Ross, aging and caregiving resource expert and author of Senior Living Made Simple, to turn panic into a plan you can actually follow. Sherry shares her SIMPLE framework to guid…

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#66 - Interview with Shari Ross - Author of Senior Living made S.I.M.P.L.E. 48:35

1M ago48:35

48:35

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. The moment a loved one needs more help, everything can feel urgent, emotional, and unclear. We bring calm to the chaos with a practical, human roadmap that reframes “aging in place” as finding the right match, where safety, independence, and joy actually overlap. Our guest, Sherry Ross, aging and caregiving re…

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Eggs Linked to Lower Alzheimer's Risk 11:31

1M ago11:31

11:31

Source article: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/eating-1-egg-per-week-linked-to-lower-alzheimers-risk-study-finds This medical news article from Medical News Today explores a study suggesting a link between egg consumption and a reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease. The research indicates that eating at least one egg per week may lower the…

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Elderly Engagement: Social Activities and Health Benefits 20:23

1M ago20:23

20:23

Sources include: https://familymattershc.com/social-programs-for-the-elderly/ https://www.proprietorsgreen.com/blog/group-exercise-classes-for-seniors/ https://www.seniorliving.org/cell-phone/apps/social-media/ https://www.downersgrovehc.com/blog/social-activities-for-seniors https://www.gu.org/app/uploads/2021/03/2021-MakingTheCase-FactSheet-WEB.p…

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#65 - My Home Leak Story - A Cautionary Tale 17:15

2M ago17:15

17:15

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. A cautionary tale about how a simple water leak nearly led to unnecessary home demolition and expensive repairs until I stepped in and took control. • Small water leak near the water heater quickly escalated to multiple professionals suggesting extensive repairs • Plumber falsely claimed corroded pipes needed …

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#58 - DIY Home Modifications: What Can You Safely Do Yourself? 13:45

2M ago13:45

13:45

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. DIY home modifications empower aging in place while making homes safer, more comfortable, and more accessible. Smart, targeted improvements can be completed without professional help to transform your living space while saving money. The heart of our discussion focuses on nine specific modifications most peopl…

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Aging Populations Reshaping Global Cancer Trends 17:48

2M ago17:48

17:48

Source article: https://oncodaily.com/oncolibrary/aging-population-and-cancer The source addresses the "silent shift" in global cancer trends, highlighting how the rapidly aging global population significantly alters the landscape of cancer incidence, prevalence, and outcomes. It explains that older adults now account for the majority of new cancer…

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Beware of Hidden Fees in Assisted Living Facilities 16:38

2M ago16:38

16:38

Source: https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/financial-legal/unexpected-costs-assisted-living.html 1. The Problem of Hidden Costs Many families are surprised to learn that assisted living base rates often exclude significant expenses. Over 1 million older Americans in assisted living face unexpected charges that can quickly drain retirement savings or f…

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#57 - The Role of Community Support in Aging in Place 13:58

2M ago13:58

13:58

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. Aging in place is fundamentally about choice and community support, not stubbornness or isolation. A robust network of connections transforms aging at home from merely surviving to genuinely thriving with dignity and independence. • Strong social connections lead to fewer hospitalizations and longer lives • Co…

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#64 - Navigating Medicare: Understanding Your Options and Benefits 12:31

2M ago12:31

12:31

Got a comment or idea? Send us a text. We demystify Medicare's complex alphabet soup and enrollment windows to help you navigate healthcare options for your senior years. From understanding Parts A, B, C, and D to avoiding costly enrollment mistakes, this episode provides clear guidance for making confident Medicare decisions. For more information …

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Loneliness: A Global Health Crisis 9:12

2M ago9:12

9:12

Source article: https://news.un.org/en/story/2025/06/1165101 The provided text from UN News highlights a significant global health crisis: loneliness. According to a new report from the UN World Health Organization (WHO), loneliness is a widespread issue affecting approximately one in six people, leading to serious health risks including an increas…