Caring for My American Dad in Peru: An Alzheimer’s Caregiving Odyssey
Barbara Drake-Vera’s caregiving journey in Peru, caring for her American father with Alzheimer's, is a unique and eye-opening story that sheds light on cultural differences in elder care. While Barbara lived in Lima, Peru with her Peruvian husband, her widowed father was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. He lived in a four-bedroom home he previously shared with his late wife in Florida, USA, and it was soon determined he could not live alone at home.
As the only child, Barbara felt compelled to come to his assistance. She knew that elder care was manageable and affordable in Lima, where multigenerational families living together was the norm. So, she and her husband made the unconventional decision to move her dad to Peru to be cared for in their home. This was a radical change for him, a proud and independent American man, World War II veteran, and former postal worker in his eighties. Together, they navigated the cultural nuances of caregiving within a Latin community that, in spite of their challenges, led to success.
Barbara, the author of Melted Away: A Memoir of Climate Change and Caregiving in Peru,had had a difficult relationship with her father for many years, but this caregiving journey helped heal old wounds.
Quotes
“Caring for someone with dementia can be a real gift, but you don't think of it at the time because you're just trying to get through each day.” - Barbara Drake-Vera
“I decided to be compassionate. It wasn't forgiveness, but I chose not to let the past be my present.” - Barbara Drake-Vera
“My father, who was a self-absorbed, narcissistic jerk, was never such a nice person as when he was finally treated for Alzheimer's and cared for in Peru.” - Barbara Drake-Vera
In this episode, you will:
Explore the impact of cultural differences in elder care and learn how diverse perspectives can enrich the caregiving experience for individuals with Alzheimer's.Discover the benefits of multigenerational living for Alzheimer's caregiving and how it can positively influence the well-being of both the individual with Alzheimer's and the caregivers.Learn effective strategies for transitioning elders with Alzheimer's to new environments and understand the importance of creating a supportive and familiar space for them.
After the podcast
Purchase Melted Away: A Memoir of Climate Change and Caregiving in Peru
Note: We are an Amazon Associate and may receive a small commission from book sales.
Learn more about Barbara Drake-Vera
About the Podcast
AlzAuthors is the global community of authors writing about Alzheimer’s and dementia from personal experience to light the way for others.
Our podcast introduces you to our authors who share their stories and insights to provide knowledge, comfort, and support. Please subscribe so you don’t miss a word. If our authors’ stories move you, please leave a review. And don’t forget to share our podcast with family and friends on their own dementia journeys.
We are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization totally reliant on donations to do what we do. Your generosity will help cover our many operating costs, which include website hosting and maintenance fees, service charges to keep things running smoothly, and marketing expenses to promote our authors, expand our content, improve our reach, and more. Our ongoing work supports our mission to lift the silence and stigma of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. To sustain our efforts please donate here.
Ideas and opinions expressed in this podcast belong to the speakers and not AlzAuthors. Always consult your healthcare provider and legal and financial consultants for advice on any of the topics covered here.
Thanks for listening.
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December 3, 2024
by
Untangling Alzheimer’s & Dementia, an AlzAuthors Podcast
Stress Isn’t Causing Your Medical Condition, But Could Be Making It Worse
Stress can worsen or exacerbate almost any medical condition. This doesn’t mean that your symptoms are all in your head but it does mean that having a healthy outlet for your stress is an important part of your treatment plan. Paul Folger is a journalist/news anchor who has ulcerative colitis – and lots of stress. He's talks about how he's navigated having this condition while also having a successful career in broadcast news.
December 3, 2024
by
Speak Up For Your Health
310: Tackling Metabolic Disease: A Call to Action for Healthcare Providers
In this episode of Solving Healthcare, hosted by Dr. K, we explore the critical topic of metabolic disease. Dr. K shares his insights on its growing impact and discusses actionable strategies for healthcare providers to play a more proactive role in prevention, management, and patient education.Listen now on Apple & SpotifySPONSORBetterHelp is the largest online counseling platform worldwide. They change the way people get help with facing life's challenges by providing convenient, discreet and affordable access to a licensed therapist. BetterHelp makes professional counselling available anytime, anywhere, through a computer, tablet or smartphone.Sign up HERE for 10% off | Use discount code “solvinghealthcare”OFFERSGYATA NUTRITIONGyata Nutrition is now live! Founded by Dr. Kwadwo Kyeremanteng, Gyata Nutrition offers top-quality supplements, including New Zealand Whey Protein Isolate, Collagen, Magnesium, and Fish Oil—all Health Canada-approved.Get your Gyata Strong Bundle and save 50%Visit gyatanutrition.com and use promo code kwadcast15 to save on your order now!LMNTWe're excited to announce our partnership with LMNT, a pioneer in superior hydration solutions. The key to proper hydration isn't just water—it's water plus electrolytes. This balance is vital to avoid issues like muscle cramps and energy dips, often caused by the dilution of electrolyte levels from excessive water intake, a condition known as hyponatremia.Enter LMNT, an electrolyte drink mix that's tasty, convenient, and free from sugar or artificial additives. Co-created by Robb Wolf and Luis Villasenor, LMNT provides optimal ratios of sodium, potassium, and magnesium, ensuring not only health and performance benefits but also a delightful taste experience with flavours like Orange Salt, Citrus Salt, and the new Watermelon Salt.To celebrate our partnership, we're offering you a free sample pack.Simply visit DrinkLMNT.com/kwadcast and start your journey to better hydration. LMNT stands behind their product with a no-questions-asked refund policy.Together with LMNT, we're redefining hydration. Remember, it's not just about water—it's about water PLUS electrolytes. Stay hydrated, and stay healthy!LMNTEXAMINE.COMBest source for evidence based nutrition and supplement information.Exclusive Offer for Kwadcast FollowersWe are thrilled to roll out a special offer exclusively for the subscribers of Kwadcast.substack.com, made possible by our new partnership:* 7-Day Free Trial: Start your journey with Examine.com with no strings attached. Explore their exhaustive resources and see how they can aid in meeting your health and wellness objectives.* Discounted Subscription Plans: Enjoy a special discount on Examine.com’s membership, tailored just for you:* Monthly Subscription: Originally $29, now just $25 — a saving of 14%.* Yearly Subscription: Typically $198, now only $171 — saving you 14% as well.Get Your Discounted AccessReady to dive in? Simply use this special link to access these exclusive discounts. The link will direct you to a sign-up page where your discounts will be automatically applied at checkout.Discount LINK for Examine.comSolving Healthcare Media with Dr. Kwadwo Kyeremanteng is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Thanks for reading Solving Healthcare Media with Dr. Kwadwo Kyeremanteng! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kwadcast.substack.com/subscribe
December 3, 2024
by
Solving Healthcare with Dr. Kwadwo Kyeremanteng
Holiday Stress and Wellness Edition: How to Avoid Gaining Weight During the Holidays
Host: Darryl S. Chutka, M.D.
Guest: Tara Schmidt, RDN, LD
It’s not uncommon to gain a pound or two each year as we get older. For many, most of our annual weight gain occurs during the holidays. It’s a time of celebration and is filled with parties and events, often with high calorie foods and drinks. Holidays can also be stressful, and many find some relief of stress by eating. Weight gain during the holidays occurs so easily and quickly, yet losing this weight can be quite challenging and can take months. In fact, some studies have shown that weight put on during the holidays never comes off. How do we deal with the abundance of food we’re exposed to over the holidays? How should we approach holiday parties? How can we avoid contributing to the problem when we bring food to holiday events? With the holidays approaching, today’s podcast is directed at our own personal health in our “Holiday Stress and Wellness Series” as we discuss “How to Avoid Gaining Weight During the Holidays.” My guest for this podcast is registered dietician and nutritionist Tara Schmidt, RDN, LD, from the Mayo Clinic.
Check out our guest’s podcast, “Mayo Clinic on Nutrition” Here https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/podcasts/on-nutrition/
Connect with the Mayo Clinic’s School of Continuous Professional Development online at https://ce.mayo.edu/ or on Twitter @MayoMedEd.
December 3, 2024
by
Mayo Clinic Talks
How Can Hospitals Advance Their Digital Transformation With HIMSS Maturity Models?
HIMSS, The Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) is an American not-for-profit organization dedicated to improving health care in quality, safety, cost-effectiveness and access through the best use of information technology and management systems. One way of helping hospitals advance their digitalization efforts is with the help of maturity models. These are assessment questionnaires that position hospital on a level from 1 to 7 on a maturity scale. They can help hospitals benchmark their current digital position and plan better which steps to take to advance on their digital transformation journey.
So far, HIMSS designed 6 maturity models:
EMRAM - for EMRs,
INFRAM - healthcare IT infrastructure,
AMAM - for analytics,
DIAM - for medical imaging,
CCMM - continuity of care model,
C-COMM - community care outcomes.
In this discussion John Rayner, Senior Director Analytics - EMEA at HIMSS, talks about different maturity models, how hospitals use them, what to be mindful of in digital transformation of healthcare, and more.
Key Takeaways:
HIMSS models provide a structured pathway for hospitals to achieve digital maturity and improve care.
Leadership, clinical engagement, and infrastructure are critical for successful digital transformation.
Interoperability is the cornerstone of modern healthcare, requiring system-wide alignment.
Key benefits for hospitals:
Understanding the current level of digital maturity and identifying gaps.
Setting a roadmap for improvement aligned with global standards.
Enhancing decision-making for procurement and strategy.
Demonstrating progress to stakeholders, ensuring investments lead to measurable outcomes.
Validating digital maturity levels, which can serve as a benchmark or "badge" of excellence.
Video: https://youtu.be/iHMC339XHIo
www.facesofdigitalhealth.com
Newsletter: https://fodh.substack.com/
December 3, 2024
by
Faces of Digital Health
The Mind-Gut Connection: Is it a real thing?
Ever wondered why your gut feels off even when doctors say everything is normal? In this perfect post-Thanksgiving episode, we explore the often misunderstood mind-gut connection with GI expert Dr. Treta Parohit. We delve into chronic GI symptoms that persist despite normal test results and discuss the gut-brain axis and its role in conditions like IBS. Learn about dietary adjustments, psychological treatment options, and lifestyle changes that can help manage these symptoms. And finally, discover how OSHI Health provides virtual, multidisciplinary care for individuals struggling with chronic GI issues.
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Website: https://yourdoctorfriendspodcast.com/
Email us at [email protected]
@your_doctor_friends on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube - Send/DM us a voice memo or question and we might play it/answer it on the show or on socials!
00:00 Introduction and Post-Thanksgiving Greetings
00:01 Understanding Unexplained Tummy Troubles
01:00 Introducing the GI Expert
01:15 The Mind-Gut Connection Explained
02:27 The Importance of Poop in Diagnosing GI Issues
03:19 Stress and GI Symptoms
07:59 Multidisciplinary Approach to GI Issues
11:30 Diet and Lifestyle Modifications
16:29 The Role of Telehealth in GI Care
28:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
December 3, 2024
by
Your Doctor Friends
One-on-One with Natalie Davis CEO, United States of Care
This episode was recorded on Monday, October 21, 2024, at HLTH 2024 in Las Vegas Natalie Davis, co-founder and CEO of United States of Care, joins Eric to share her thoughts on the current healthcare system and how her organization is advocating for a more affordable, dependable, personalized and understandable healthcare system. In addition, Natalie shares insights from the USofCare’s recent research and the policy solutions her organization is advancing to deliver the healthcare experience people want and ensure our healthcare system works better for everyone. About Natalie Natalie believes that making our healthcare system work better for everyone has never been more critical. She is dedicated to bringing together leaders and advocates nationwide who can help create meaningful change in our nation’s inequitable health care system. She brings all her personal and professional experiences to the fight for better health care, working to expand access to quality, affordable health care to help people right now while working towards durable federal policies centered on the needs of people to provide real and lasting solutions for everybody. Natalie Davis has spent nearly two decades shaping American healthcare policy to ensure that all people have access to affordable, quality care. In 2018, she co-founded United States of Care with Andy Slavitt, focusing on a person-centered approach to healthcare solutions and forging partnerships with organizations, advocacy groups, and communities to drive systemic change. Her prior roles include serving as Senior Advisor at CMS, where she supported a major healthcare expansion, and as Director at the Bipartisan Policy Center, where she launched reform initiatives to develop innovative, politically viable healthcare solutions. About the United States of Care United States of Care is a non-profit organization focused on building a healthcare system that serves everyone. Its mission is to ensure people can access affordable, quality care that meets their needs regardless of their background or circumstances. Working with leaders, communities, and individuals nationwide, the United States of Care focuses on developing innovative, non-partisan solutions to healthcare challenges, emphasizing policy, patient experience, and health equity.
December 3, 2024
by
Bright Spots in Healthcare
TownHall: Navigating Partnerships & Change with John Couris and Sam Nimah
December 3: Today on TownHall Karla Arzola, Chief Information Officer at Rocky Mountain Human Services speaks with John Couris, President and CEO at Florida Health Sciences Center (FHSC) and Sam Nimah, CEO at TriVent Healthcare. The conversation delves into their collaborative approach to improving care for ventilator-dependent patients. They discuss the challenges of change management, the role of multidisciplinary teams, and the integration of evidence-based protocols. What are the challenges hospitals face in change management when introducing new care models? Why is the multidisciplinary team approach crucial in treating ventilator-dependent patients? What lessons can other organizations learn from the partnership between Tampa General Hospital and TriVent Health?Subscribe: This Week HealthTwitter: This Week HealthLinkedIn: Week HealthDonate: Alex’s Lemonade Stand: Foundation for Childhood Cancer
December 3, 2024
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This Week Health: Conference
Beyond Training: Reframing Simulation as a Strategic Healthcare Asset
In episode 89, I sit down with Dr. Rebecca Szabo, a simulation educator from Australia, to explore the transformative impact of healthcare simulation. Our discussion highlights the challenges and opportunities in integrating simulation-based education programs within teaching hospitals, drawing from Dr. Szabo's recent publication in Advances in Simulation.
My special guest is Dr. Rebecca Szabo who provides valuable insights on advancing simulation-based education in teaching hospitals. We discuss strategies for tailoring your approach to different audiences when advocating for simulation, methods for demonstrating its value to decision-makers, and ways to manage the balance between revenue generation and internal cost savings in simulation centers. Dr. Szabo also offers a global perspective on regulatory requirements for simulation, with a focus on Australia's standards. This episode is packed with practical advice for anyone invested in patient safety and healthcare quality through simulation.
In This Episode, Discover How To:
Effectively communicate the benefits of simulation to diverse stakeholders
Navigate the complexities of establishing and sustaining a simulation program
Leverage incentive programs to support simulation initiatives
Balance clinical work with roles in simulation education and research
This episode is a rich resource for healthcare professionals who are passionate about enhancing patient safety and quality improvement through simulation. Whether you're a seasoned expert or new to the field, you'll find practical insights to help you champion and implement effective simulation programs in your organization.
Join us for this thought-provoking conversation that will inspire you to reimagine the role of simulation in healthcare education and patient safety, helping you to build a persuasive case for simulation within your institution.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Gandel Simulation Service
The Royal Women's Hospital
Connect with Dr. Szabo
Linkedin
Instagram
December 3, 2024
by
Heartline
Abby Reynolds Spills the Tea on Pharma’s New Human-First Approach
Today, I’m thrilled to welcome Abby Reynolds, Chief Experience Officer at Pleio (that’s Play-oh!), to dive deep into what it takes to create emotional bonds that inspire patients toward better health. Abby, thanks for joining us today!
We'll explore Abby’s path to Pleio, insights into how pharma can best address emotional burdens impacting adherence, and the power of personalizing patient experiences. From peer-to-patient programs to resources like rebates and educational support, Abby will share what really makes a difference in helping patients stick with their treatments.
Plus, we'll look ahead at how pharma can elevate direct-to-consumer engagement in 2025, and how the rise of GLP-1s might shape the human-first approach to patient care.
So, grab your tea and get ready for some real talk on patient experience, empathy, and why pharma should care.
December 3, 2024
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HITea With Grace
This Just In Radio: Live from HLTH 2024 with Tony Nunes and Nick Patel, MD
Recorded live at HLTH 2024, this week’s episode features thought leaders Antonio Nunes from AMD and Nick Patel M.D. of Stealth Consulting, LLC.
🔹 Tony Nunes dives into how advancements in AI are transforming patient care, enhancing digital interactions, and streamlining workflows while emphasizing the importance of data-driven performance in healthcare innovation.
🔹 Dr. Nick Patel explores breaking down silos within healthcare systems, using AI to improve staffing and throughput, and addressing critical challenges like mental health and the aging population through a focus on primary care.
December 2, 2024
by
This Just In Radio Show
490 – AI-Powered Monitoring: Predicting Health Issues and Enhancing Patient Care Remotely
In this episode of Talking HealthTech, host Peter Birch speaks with Serge Lauriou from My Medic Watch about integrating smart technology in healthcare, focusing on their smartwatch applications.This episode was recorded during HLTH 2024 in Las Vegas and discusses My Medic Watch's journey and future direction, highlighting consumer and provider benefits.Key Takeaways:Purpose and Scope: My Medic Watch develops smartwatch applications that detect seizures, falls, and cardiac events, aiming to provide immediate assistance through automated alerts to caregivers.Data and AI Integration: The company is leveraging AI and machine learning to predict medical events before they occur, potentially preventing falls and seizures.Consumer and B2B Shifts: Initially a consumer-focused product, My Medic Watch is transitioning to a B2B model to better integrate into healthcare systems and provide comprehensive patient monitoring.Commercial Smartwatches: The application is designed to work on existing commercial smartwatches, utilising their health data and sensors.Predictive Analytics: Emphasis on capturing continuous health data to create predictive models for medical events, highlighting a proactive approach in healthcare.Check out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.Loving the show? Leave us a review, and share it with someone who might get some value from it.Keen to take your healthtech to the next level? Become a THT+ Member for access to our online community forum, meet-ups, special offers and more exclusive content. For more information visit talkinghealthtech.com/thtplus
December 2, 2024
by
Talking HealthTech
Building a Global Healthcare Platform with Tony Baldassarre
This episode’s Community Champion Sponsor is Ossur. To learn more about their ‘Responsible for Tomorrow’ Sustainability Campaign, and how you can get involved: CLICK HEREEpisode Overview: How can we reimagine medical care for communities disconnected from traditional healthcare systems? Tony Baldassarre is answering that challenge through UniDoc Health's revolutionary H3 Health Cube, a self-contained virtual clinic that brings comprehensive medical appointments to patients previously left behind. With a diverse background spanning security, information technology, and communications, Tony brings an outsider's innovative perspective to healthcare's most pressing challenges. While together, Tony shares how UniDoc Health is creating a mobile, technology-enabled solution that can be deployed anywhere from remote indigenous communities to corporate campuses, all while proving comprehensive medical care can be both accessible and technologically advanced. Join us as we explore how UniDoc Health is turning the vision of healthcare as a fundamental right into a tangible, scalable reality. Let’s go! Episode Highlights:Pioneered a game-changing virtual clinic solution by identifying critical telemedicine gapsEngineered the H3 Health Cube, a rapidly deployable medical platform for diverse environmentsIntegrated advanced medical devices to enable real-time, multilingual diagnostic capabilitiesChampioned healthcare as a fundamental right through inclusive, technology-driven accessLeveraged cross-industry partnerships to drive transformative healthcare innovationAbout our Guest: Mr. Baldassarre is the CEO, President, and director of UniDoc Health Corp, an eHealth Innovator and creator of the H3 Health Cube, a self-contained virtual clinic that enables patients to have comprehensive medical appointments remotely, offering access to physicians and specialists in real-time. He has over 30 years of senior leadership experience with companies ranging from start-ups to established multinational organizations in sectors including security, information technology, and communications. He brings a strong track record of driving growth through strategic initiatives aimed at expanding market share, elevating product visibility, and maximizing revenue, profitability, and shareholder returns. His successes include advancing organic growth in targeted segments through OEM partnerships, strategic alliances, and multi-level distribution networks. A seasoned executive, Mr. Baldassarre has deep expertise in managing corporate operations, international expansion, P&L oversight, product distribution, and marketing and sales initiatives. He also serves as President of LRG Security Canada Inc. and LRG Security Europe. Links Supporting This Episode:UniDoc Website: CLICK HERETony Baldassarre LinkedIn page: CLICK HEREUniDoc Twitter page: CLICK HEREMike Biselli LinkedIn page: CLICK HEREMike Biselli Twitter page: CLICK HEREVisit our website: CLICK HERESubscribe to newsletter:
December 2, 2024
by
Passionate Pioneers with Mike Biselli
#42 – Extending reality to transform surgery – George Papagiannakis – ORamaVR
What will the future of surgery look like?
According to Dr. George Papagiannakis, we must count on virtual simulation.
After all, simulators are an integral part of professional training in highly demanding fields like aviation or F1. So why not medicine?
The approach might seem futuristic, but George and his team at ORamaVR share a vision that makes a lot of sense.
Integrating extended reality in surgery means increasing the volume of hours spent operating.
It means preparing each surgery on a virtual patient with properties close to the real case.
It means simulating complications and unforeseen situations safely.
And it means reducing the risk of errors in the real world.
Following his motto "never first time with the real patient", George immerses us in the universe of extended reality and reveals its potential for medicine and surgery.
What is extended reality?
What makes a good virtual medical simulation?
And what is the impact of this technology today and in the future?
Many questions that George addresses with passion and enthusiasm, in a conversation reminiscent of Ready Player One!
Timeline:
02:49 - Addressing the millions of fatal medical errors worldwide
05:20 - Defining extended reality and underlying technologies
07:31 - Medical applications of extended reality
10:52 - The impact of extended reality on medical training and practice
16:25 - What makes a virtual medical environment feel real
23:32 - How to recreate the feel of touch and dexterity virtually
29:28 - Enabling all healthcare professionals to create virtual environments with AI
What we also talked about with George:
Prof. Shafi Ahmed
Apple Vision Pro
Magic Leap
Microsoft HoloLens
NHS
The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp by Rembrandt
IKEA
Global illumination
Dall-E
ChatGPT
NotebookLM
Frost & Sullivan
Meta
We cited with George some of the past episodes of the series:
#9 - Creating the Gran Turismo of surgery - Raimundo Sierra - Virtamed
#12 - Unleashing the power of digital health - Daniel Kraft - Digital.Health
#32 - Accelerating radiology with AI - Amine Korchi - Radiologist
#36 - Turning healthcare preventive with full-body MRI scans - Andrew Lacy
As mentioned by George during the episode, we recommend taking a look at some of the simulations available on the official YouTube channel of ORamaVR, it will bring to life many aspects that we discuss in the episode!
You can follow ORamaVR’s activities on LinkedIn, Instagram, and get in touch with George via LinkedIn!
If you want to give me feedback on the episode or suggest potential guests, contact me over LinkedIn or via email!
And if you liked the episode, please share it, subscribe to the podcast, and leave a 5-star review on streaming platforms! 🙏
There’s now a bi-monthly newsletter around the podcast where you will be informed of the latest episodes and kept posted on the latest medical tech progress, subscribe here!
Lastly, don’t forget to follow our activities on LinkedIn and our website!
December 2, 2024
by
Impulse – Meeting Healthcare Pioneers
[SNIPPET] – George Papagiannakis on reaching proficiency in medicine with virtual reality
To discover the whole episode type "#42 - Extending reality to transform surgery - George Papagiannakis - ORamaVR" on your preferred streaming platform.
December 2, 2024
by
Impulse – Meeting Healthcare Pioneers