MAY 2020
Like Mother, Like Daughter
THE MOTHER-DAUGHTER BOND
By Carrie Vittitoe
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here is a special bond between mothers and daughters, whether that relationship is only a few years old or many decades long. These mother-daughter pairs remind us of what makes that connection so unique.
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A YOUNG MOTHER/DAUGHTER
Madison Durr and her husband, Dalton, live in Versailles, Kentucky, on a thoroughbred farm, which gives their almost 2-year-old daughter, Sadie Jane, lots of space to run around. “We have plenty of places to roam and explore,” Madison says, adding that there are horses literally in her front yard. Seeing the world through a young child’s eyes is like seeing it for yourself for the first time, and it does feel magical. “Sadie has made my life so much more fun! Watching her learn and grow every day is, by far, my favorite thing I’ve ever done,” Madison says.
Our cover model Madison and her daughter Sadie Jane.
3A “MODEL” MOM AND HER DAUGHTERS
Kaneisha Hoosier-Gravell (left) and her sister Keyasia (not pictured) share a love of cooking with their mother Cynthia (right) that goes beyond just the stove or oven. Their creativity comes in not only the preparation of the food but the decorating and display of the food on the table.
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Cynthia Hoosier has had a life full of unique experiences. She worked as a model for many years, which allowed her to travel and work for some of the top European fashion designers. A love of travel deepened into an over-three-decade career as a flight attendant for American Airlines. She is also a published author of two books. With all this on her resume and under her belt, she might be an intimidating presence to her two daughters, Kaneisha Hoosier-Gravelle and Keyasia Hoosier. However, they have only ever seen their mother as an inspiration. “I just wanted to be like her,” Kaneisha says. That feeling of pride goes both ways. “As a mother, I am so proud to witness the perseverance of each of my daughters as they continue to grow as young women. My heart is filled with so much pride,” Cynthia says.
THE MOTHER-DAUGHTER BOND MOTHER-DAUGHTER 3THE WORK PARTNERSHIP
Working together, for some families, could jeopardize their close relationships, but Amanda says she and her mom are committed to keeping work at work. “If [working together] starts to impair our relationship as mother and daughter, we’re not willing to sacrifice that,” Amanda says.
Jean Schumm, the president and founder of Operation Parent, is the mother of five children and has the opportunity to work with her daughter, Amanda Gale, who is the director of community partnerships at the nonprofit. Jean founded the organization 14 years ago to support parents as they navigate the sometimes treacherous waters of raising children, especially pre-teens and teenagers. She and her husband faced their own parenting challenges.“The kids we were struggling with? One of them was Amanda,” she says with a laugh. About three years ago, Jean asked Amanda to join the organization. “I had seen so many miracles at work, and I wanted her to see them,” Jean says. Since joining Operation Parent, Amanda has brought her marketing skills and social media finesse to the office, which is very different from how Jean operates. While Amanda is paperless and likes to work from home, Jean carries a pen and notepad and likes to meet face-to-face with others. “These differences between us have shown us how our organization has to change to connect to today’s young parents,” Jean says.
3“MODEL” DAUGHTERS AND THEIR MOM When Denise Richardson thinks about what she wants for her daughters Chelsea and Kenedraa, she says, “I want them to make something of their lives that I wasn’t able to accomplish.” Denise says she had a child at a young age and lost her own mother soon after, which forced her to forge her own path. She is proud of what her daughters have accomplished in their young lives. Chelsea is a student at the University of Louisville and an Army reservist, while Kenedraa attends Jefferson Community and Technical College and models in magazines and fashion shows. We photographed Denise and her daughter Kenedraa Richardson last year at Churchill Downs. Although Denise faced challenges as a young mother, her daughters understand how difficult that experience was for her. “We admire our mom’s strength; she always made sure we had the things we needed to succeed,” they say. For her part, Denise admires her girls’ determination to get through college and accomplish the goals they set for themselves.
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Photo by Melissa Donald
THE BASICS OF CARING FOR YOUR KIDS’ TEETH
Jenna Schulten, DMD, and owner of Dupont Pediatric Dentistry, teaches children how to brush.
PROMOTION | By Tiffany White
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eing proactive about your child’s dental hygiene at an early age is the key to preventing cavities, says Jenna Schulten, DMD and owner of Dupont Pediatric Dentistry. Based on guidelines from The American Academy of Pediatrics, children should start going to the dentist after their first birthday or first tooth eruption. Afterward, a child should visit the dentist every six months. “We’ve had parents who bring their kids in for their first dental check-up at age 5 or 6. When we take X-rays of their teeth, we find a lot of decay and the parents are shocked,” she says. Dr. Schulten also says parents should limit their child’s snacking to protect their teeth. “Now that everyone is home, it is important to watch for frequent snacking because it can keep food on the teeth longer and makes your child’s caries risk high.” Dr. Schulten gives all patients a caries risk assessment which determines their likelihood for developing cavities. In between dental visits, she suggests using fluoridated toothpaste. “You don’t need to use a lot of toothpaste. Children between the ages of 1 and 2 need a rice-sized amount of toothpaste, and children between the ages of 2 and 5 only need a peasized amount,” she says. When selecting a toothbrush for your child, Dr. Schulten suggests choosing whatever works best for your child — whether it is a mechanical or manual toothbrush. “For younger kids, the head of the toothbrush needs to be smaller to fit in the back of the mouth. You should always use soft bristles to protect the gums.” Do not use mouthwash until your child learns how to spit. 3934 Dutchmans Lane | Louisville, KY 40207 502.897.0625 | dupontpediatricdentistry-louisville.com
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INSPIRING BOOKS
IMPORTANT HISTORICAL TOPICS Marie Bradby, a former full-time journalist, began writing for children after becoming pregnant with her son. “One day I went shopping for books for him before he was born,” she says, “I couldn’t find any books that featured children of color in characters or illustrations.” At this point, Marie decided she would write those books herself. Marie says diversity
in childrens’ books “builds empathy, keeps stereotypes from being perpetuated, and exposes children to new and exciting voices.”
Marie is an historical fiction writer, covering the 1800s through the 1960s, from times of slavery through the beginning of integration. Throughout her storytelling, she covers a number of heavy issues, although she notes that she uses her characters and their predicaments to keep things light. “There’s a funny side to almost anything,” she says. Marie has received multiple awards and honors for the following titles, More Than Anything Else; The Longest Wait; Momma, Where Are You From?; Once Upon a Farm; and Some Friend.
“There’s a funny side to almost anything.” — Marie Bradby, author
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After Marie’s experience with a girls’ book club at a local elementary school, and learning they were anxious for a follow up to Some Friend, she has been hard at work on its sequel, Some Trip.
“I’ve always tried to answer important questions as they relate to children and to address them in an entertaining and informative way that looks at the present and the past.”
BY LOCAL AUTHORS By Meredith Walston
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hese books will inspire your children with stories of regular people turned heroes, positive influences, and cultural diversity, love, and humor.
DIVERSE POSITIVE CHARACTERS WISHES AND CHARITY Meet Jane Brown, a first time author, who is using her own personal inspiration to inspire children. Jane, a Louisville resident, was visiting family in England when she received the news that she was becoming a grandmother. That very evening, Jane saw from her window a rabbit in the bright light of a full moon. That sight, she says, is what gave her the idea for her debut work, My Moon Wish. Focusing on the power of children’s wishes, Jane
has partnered with the Make-a-Wish foundation, where all proceeds from My Moon Wish are donated to her local chapter of Kentucky, Ohio, and Indiana. Both author and illustrator, Jane, a long-time artist who had primarily worked with colored pencil and ink, used My Moon Wish as a way to expand her artistic technique. In order to attain the more vibrant colors she desired for this book, Jane shares that she taught herself to use Procreate, a digital illustration application on her iPad, for the imagery. “The whole idea of this first book was to give money to a charity,” Jane says. ”Make-a-Wish fit so well. Why not go to the moon to wish?” My Moon Wish is dedicated to her first grandson, Ollie. Jane is currently in the plan-
ning stages for a second book, to be dedicated to her second grandson, George, and hopes to find an equally fitting charity to partner with in the future.
“The major part of the book, and Make-a-Wish, has become about taking it into classrooms and teaching children about the power of a wish.” Jane says. “ It is more about philanthropy and giving back.”
Tiffany Robinson is using her background in and passion for public health issues to create stories for children, representing families of African descent. A five-time published author, Tiffany has written books for young children focusing on a variety of everyday issues that can affect all families including how to get along with others, understanding those who are differently-abled, various family interactions, and introducing a new baby to the family.
“I think it’s important for all kids to see diverse characters and African American families who are positive and living average lives based in present times,” Tiffany says. “That is really important to me.” Tiffany is in the final stages of her next book, which will center on a mother who has been deployed, leaving a baby at home. Tiffany herself is a military veteran, deployed for several months while her first son was very young. Inspired by her own experiences, she wants to tell a story from the perspective of a mother who is away and the emotional impact that can have on a family, while still keeping the story on a level that is relatable to children.
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INSPIRING BOOKS BY LOCAL AUTHORS EVERYDAY HEROES Tytianna Nikia Maria Wells, CEO and founder of Honey Tree Publishing, has self published seven books since its creation in 2013. Prompted by a desire for more freedom and control over her work, Honey Tree was formed. “I have such a strong love and appreciation and respect for stories,” Tytianna says. “I’ve always been intrigued by stories.” Coming from a family of artists and storytellers, she adds, “Storytelling has always been very important in my life growing up.” Tytianna’s first book, Sweet Pea & Sugar Tea’s Country Family Adventures, turned into a four volume series that she both authored and illustrated. Targeted toward early readers and up, Tytianna notes that “early exposure is important.”
With empowering stories of everyday heroes, she writes with a focus on family, identity, history, and community. She used this series to touch on a number of issues including black history, homelessness, adoption, anti-bullying, forgiveness, and hope.
All of Tytianna’s work includes an interactive component. For example, The Bridge Kids: An African Heritage Family Activity Book follows six characters’ daily lives taking place in three cities around the world, including Louisville. With coloring pages, stories, puzzles, and more, she has found a way to engage young readers while they learn about different cultures.
Tytianna has also written for more mature readers, including a book of poems entitled The Healing Tree and the award-winning When Hip Hop Met Poetry: An Urban Love Story. “I learned at a young age to appreciate the power of storytelling, and the power of words,” Tytianna says, “because words are powerful.”
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HUMOR AND HEART Amanda Driscoll is a Louisville native and longtime artist. After becoming a mom, she transitioned from her background and education as an artist and graphic designer, into a successful author and illustrator of children’s picture books. “Picture books are such an important part of the reading process,” Amanda says. “To me,
picture books are where the love of reading really begins.”
Currently working on her fourth book, Little Grump Truck, to be released in 2021, Amanda has also written Duncan the Story Dragon, Wally Does Not Want a Haircut, and Klondike, Do Not Eat Those Cupcakes! When asked which of these books has been her favorite, she says, “That would be like picking a favorite child!” Excited to be writing her first female character in the upcoming Little Grump Truck, Amanda says she tries to keep the themes and emotional impact of her stories universal for all children. “I like the characters to show a range of emotions,” she says. “To have humor and heart. I want to make kids laugh
but also want them to have a solid takeaway from the book.”
WHAT SHOULD A CAREGIVER BE DOING? By Carrie Vittitoe
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he decision to hire a caregiver for a loved one might come after long, slow deliberation, or it may need to happen quickly if a loved one experiences an unexpected hospitalization. Either way, families must consider a number of issues to make the best, most informed decisions for their loved ones.
DECIDE WHAT CAREGIVING LOOKS LIKE FOR YOUR SITUATION
EXPECT AN ASSESSMENT AND A CARE PLAN Most reputable home health companies will perform an assessment of the patient to determine what needs he or she has and then provide a care plan that details what caregiving will specifically look like. “Having some sort of a written contract is a good idea,” Elisabeth says. “It eliminates possible confusion. When a caregiver is supported and knows what their expectations are, they provide the best level of care.” A care plan not only protects the client, ensuring that caregiving requirements are spelled out, it also protects the caregiver from being tasked with services that are beyond his or her scope.
CARE PLANS CAN CHANGE Elisabeth says it is common for care plans to change. Sometimes this happens because a loved one isn’t keen on bringing a caregiver into the home so the family opts for care to be minimal at first. It often happens that once a caregiver develops a relationship with the client and provides care, the loved one realizes how beneficial it is, which means the care plan is expanded to include other duties. “I think you May 2020 / TodaysWomanNow.com
ASK WHAT IS NOT ALLOWED
Families that are considering hiring a caregiver should ask what the caregivers cannot do or are not allowed to do. “We explain to our caregivers that we do not want them to do anything that is out of their skills of practice,” Elisabeth says. A caregiver who doesn’t feel comfortable transferring a patient from bed to wheelchair, for example, shouldn’t do it, HAVE AN IDEA OF both for their own safety and the client’s. WHAT SPECIFIC When it comes to money and medicine, NEEDS YOUR LOVED some companies have specific rules. “We ONE HAS PRIOR TO don’t allow our caregivers to assist with writing checks or finances. Our caregivers YOUR CAREGIVER are not allowed to fill medication planners,” SEARCH. Elisabeth says.
Caregiving is a huge umbrella term that means different things to different people. Elisabeth Knight, clinical manager at Caring Excellence At Home, says, “What we normally recommend is asking what caregiving looks like, due to the fact that there is such a wide range of services and needs that can be provided.” For some people, caregiving is mostly companionship, while for others, caregiving means helping manage a health issue such as diabetes or stoma care. It is important for families to have an idea of what needs they think their loved one has prior to contacting a company or home health care agency.
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can almost guarantee that if somebody has had a trip to the hospital, they’re going to need an updated care plan when they get home,” she says.
WHETHER TO HIRE AN INDIVIDUAL OR A COMPANY Some families may opt to hire a company that provides caregiving, while other families may use an individual who is not affiliated with an agency. While hiring an individual might be less expensive than hiring a company, working with a caregiving company means the caregiver will be overseen by someone besides the family, which could be reassuring and worth the extra cost. Families that hire individuals need to ask questions about liability protection and insurance to ensure their assets are protected should an accident occur. No matter what type of caregiver a family hires, Elisabeth urges them to get references.
CAREGIVING CHARACTER VERSUS EXPERIENCE “Oftentimes, people look at somebody who has five years, 10 years of experience as a caregiver and think that automatically means they are a good fit for their family member. In our opinion, hiring for character and somebody who enjoys helping others is something that is much more important,” Elisabeth says. Just because a caregiver only has a year of professional experience may not mean much in terms of the quality of care they provide. Sometimes the best caregivers are the ones who have provided care to their own family members. “I can train somebody how to do the work, but I can’t train somebody to have a heart to do this work,” she says.
Questions to Ask A Potential Caregiver Debbie Tuggle, a retired clinical nurse specialist who has been a caregiver for various family members, offers some questions she recommends that families ask if they opt to hire a caregiver privately. Are you willing and able to transport my loved one? Make sure to verify that they have a valid driver’s license and insurance and check for any DUIs. Are you willing and able to do personal care? Some caregivers may be comfortable with bathing and dressing but cannot handle toileting. Are you willing to provide nutrition? Is the caregiver going to cook for and feed your loved one? Are you willing and able to provide exercise safely? A bedbound loved one still needs range-of-motion exercises.
“Hiring for character and somebody who enjoys helping others is something that is much more important” than years of caregiving experience. Elisabeth Knight, clinical manager, Caring Excellence At Home
If there are pets, are you willing to care for them? Debbie says it is important to ask specific questions about a caregiver’s training, such as where he or she received training and asking to see the certificates themselves. However, she also advises families to be fully aware and appreciative of the professional skills of the person they hire. “If you’ve requested a nurse, don’t expect them to do laundry and dishes,” she says. Finally, Debbie says families should be “firm but kind” and avoid becoming chummy with a caregiver. The relationship between the employer and the employee should always remain professional to protect everyone.
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[ caregiver guide ]
NIKKI MERRIFIELD | ANTHOLOGY OF LOUISVILLE
Approaching her job with energy and enthusiasm By Carrie Vittitoe, Photo (at right) by Melissa Donald
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What do you do as a caregiver? My job is to come to work to love on and support my residents by giving them the best possible care I can. I enjoy making them smile and laugh, but on a hard day, I’m a listening ear and a hug if needed. I’m checking up on them. If needed I’m giving showers, I’m doing laundry, or I’m helping get them to bed since I work second-shift. It is individual based on each resident and their level of care. What traits do caregivers need to have? I’m very much a people person. I think if you are a “sit-behind-the-desk” person, this is not the job for you. It’s a busy job, and there’s a lot of work involved. There are multiple tasks you have to complete during your shift. You have to have compassion and patience. I’m very energetic, and I’m constantly on the move with this job. You have to be very loving as well. Caregiving is never just an 8-hour shift. How do you support residents and their families? Being the consistent person for your residents is a good thing because it builds trust. I’m a consistent face and
Submitted photo
lthough Nikki Merrifield’s professional background is in early childhood education, she brings her skillset to her role as a care manager at Anthology of Louisville. Her enthusiasm, energy, and patience served her well when she worked with small children in the past, and these traits continue to serve her with assisted living residents. “I love the very young and the very old,” she says.
Nikki works second shift as a care manager at Anthology of Louisville.
person they see. I’m a listening ear [for families]. Sometimes supporting a family can include being a comfort at the end-of-life stage, even attending a visitation or a funeral. What are some challenges of being a caregiver? Sometimes it is hard to figure out what a resident is communicating, especially if they are frustrated. You have to be a listening ear and have time. You have to sit down and take the time to listen. Because you’ve built relationships, end of life is a hard thing to deal with when you have to let them go. How do you care for yourself to ensure you’re a good caregiver to others? I’m a night owl; I’m not a morning person.
I enjoy sleeping and spending time with friends. Everyone at work knows I’m a beach person, and that’s my relaxation. When I’m going on vacation, I’m going to the beach. The beach refreshes me and allows me to come back as an all-new person. It gives me the rest I need.
1105 Dorsey Ln Louisville, KY
502.493.6919
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PROMOTION
“WHEN YOU’RE A CAREGIVER, YOUR HEART HAS TO BE IN IT. WHEN YOU’RE THERE FOR THEM AND YOU CARE ABOUT THEM, EVERYTHING YOU DO HELPS MAKE THEIR LIFE BETTER. YOU’RE THERE TO GIVE THEM THE BEST QUALITY OF LIFE.” — NIKKI MERRIFIELD
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[ caregiver guide ] PAM MEREDITH | COMFORCARE HOME CARE
Caring for others since she was a teen By Carrie Vittitoe, Photo by Melissa Donald
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hile not everyone who goes into the caregiving profession has a lifetime of experience, many caregivers do. Pam Meredith, who has been providing personal care as a staff member of ComForCare Home Care since they first opened over six years ago, dates her caregiving experience back to when she was a teenage candy striper at Norton Audubon Hospital. Her three decades of experience, which includes working in skilled care and intensive care cardiac units, gives her the knowledge to know she can handle anything that comes up. What are your responsibilities as a caregiver? We develop a care plan at the outset based upon the family’s needs or wants for their loved one. This can include, but is not limited to, bathing, assisting in getting dressed, meal preparations, medication reminders, and even taking [clients] to doctor appointments.
“MANY TIMES, WE ARE VIEWED AS AN EXTENSION OF IMMEDIATE FAMILY. OFTEN, OUR ELDERLY MAY NOT HAVE ANYONE VISIT, AND WE BECOME THE CLOSEST THING TO FAMILY. THEY MAY CONSIDER US THEIR DAUGHTER OR GRANDDAUGHTER.” — PAM MEREDITH
What traits should a caregiver possess? A good caregiver should have compassion, patience, and a loving heart. What are some of the challenges of being a caregiver? Some of the biggest challenges come about when providing care to someone who is in the dementia journey. So often, someone with this diagnosis will be confused, frustrated, and combative. It is important to be patient and loving and recognize the full range of emotions can be displayed but not when you may expect. What steps do you take to ensure you have the energy and motivation to be a caregiver for others? It is most important to get a good night’s sleep. Be careful not to take personal matters to work and, in reverse, make sure not to take your work concerns home with you. Love yourself, and do your very best!
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“I pray that somebody will take the time and amount of effort I take with my clients and do the same for me,” says Pam Meredith.
308 Evergreen Rd, Suite 140 Louisville, KY
502.254.0850
comforcare.com/kentucky/louisville PROMOTION
[ caregiver guide ] ANN DREISBACH | NAZARETH HOME
Meeting elders right where they are By Carrie Vittitoe, Photo by Melissa Donald
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t Nazareth Home, Ann Dreisbach brings her social work background to her role as program director of Charity Court, the 48-room memory care neighborhood. She strives to ensure the safety and emotional well-being of the elders for whom she cares while also keeping herself abreast of the continuously changing field of dementia care.
“When the families are comfortable, and they know their loved ones are well cared for, the process works best for everybody. It’s easier for staff when the families are comfortable; it’s easier for the elders when families are comfortable,” Ann Dreisbach says.
What do you do as a caregiver? As caregivers in memory care, we do a lot of one-on-one behavior management and intervention. We are a secured neighborhood so some of our elders are, at times, exit-seeking. [I offer] continuous reassurance for anybody who is going through exit-seeking. A lot of times, we can go into the room and turn on music, dim the lights, or do reminiscing therapy that can help someone who is having “YOU CAN’T an agitated day. I [also] do a HELP BUT TAKE lot of memory care education YOUR JOB HOME with the staff. WITH YOU. THESE ARE PEOPLE’S What traits do caregivers LIVES, AND YOU need to have? Our caregivers need the DO BECOME knowledge of dementia care EXTREMELY and the willingness to continue ATTACHED.” to learn. [They need the] ability — ANN DREISBACH to be flexible because each of our ladies is at a different place in their disease progress, and we need to meet each one of them where they are. We need the flexibility of knowing that what works for one does not work for another; what works today for one may not work tomorrow. How do you support residents and their families? The most important thing that I can do for them is actively listen. For a lot of families, this is the first time they’ve had a loved one in a nursing facility or a loved one with any kind of memory impairment. There’s a lot of grief. Hearing and validating that grief is super important. This disease is so unknown on a daily basis that I want families to always know what to expect. How do you care for yourself? I’ve been in long-term care for 20 years now, and it’s still a passion, but it’s because I have made myself a priority so that I can continue to make this job in this field a priority. [I do] lots of walking. If I can get home, get my shoes on, and go for a walk, whether it be alone with my music or with one of my kids or the dog, that’s my go-to for exercise. If I can get out and get the physical exercise of a walk, it also helps to clear my mind a little bit. My boys are very into sports, and it helps to encourage socialization, which I enjoy and is very needed. PROMOTION
2000 Newburg Rd. Louisville, KY
2120 Payne Street Louisville, KY
502.459.9681
502.895.9425
NazHome.org
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Personal Care Directory Personal Care offers residents minimal assistance for bathing, grooming, toileting, and dressing. The resident must be able to move around (even if in a wheelchair or scooter). Some health care is provided and medications are given. These facilities are licensed.
WAYS TO MAKE CAREGIVING EASIER ON YOU Besides this drastic move, there are ways to make life easier.
Anthology of Louisville
1105 Dorsey Ln, Louisville, KY 40223
(502) 966-7077 • anthologyseniorliving.com Number of beds: 53 Cost per day: starts at $167 Special services: Located at the corner of Hurstbourne and Dorsey lanes, Stonecrest of Louisville offers a caring and compassionate staff 24 hours a day. We can provide a spectrum of services tailored for each resident. Our team members are selected for their knowledge and abilities, but also the way they value and honor residents. Owner: Anthology Senior Living Payment Accepted: private, private ins., LTCi, VA
By Brittani Dick
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aring for your loved one can be a rewarding, yet difficult experience. You show love and compassion by making your loved one’s everyday life easier. You selflessly take care of their day-to-day needs, and your giving heart puts a smile on their face. But, we all know pouring from an empty cup is not productive. We recently set out to discover ways to make the caregiving experience easier and less complicated for you. We spoke with a few experts and gathered useful tips to help more efficiently navigate the world of caregiving.
TAKE AWAY THE MEAL PREP
The Forum at Brookside
200 Brookside Dr, Louisville, KY 40243 Louisville, KY 40243 (502) 245-3048 • theforumatbrookside.com
Number of beds: 24 Cost per day: studio $155, Alcove $193, 1 BR $231 Special services: Heartfelt care and skilled staff provide personal care for your loved one’s comfort, quality, and engaged lifestyle. Beautiful campus conveniently located in eastern Jefferson County. Owner: Five Star Senior Living, Inc. Payment Accepted: private, private ins., LTCi
Marian Gosling, coordinator of home delivered meals at Senior Care Experts (SCE), gave us all the details on its convenient meal delivery service that can certainly make your caregiving experience easier. SCE offers a seamless meal delivery program that is cost-efficient and delicious. For a $7/meal fee, meals are prepared by the experienced chefs on the Masonic Homes campus and are then delivered to your loved one’s doorstep. Menus are overseen by a dietician and include a wide variety of options. Since delivery is limited to weekdays only, your loved one can receive frozen meals on Fridays so that they have access to healthy, delicious meals over the weekend. Wondering how to sign up for this service? It’s easy. You’ll submit a short packet that covers your loved one’s food allergies, emergency contacts, pay a $100 deposit, and submit payment information. Meals are delivered between 10am and 12:30pm, and can be left in a cooler or on the doorstep if no one is home at the time of delivery.
PLAY SOME GAMES
Let Our Readers Know What Makes Your Facility Stand Out! List your senior living facility in this space. Call 502.327.8855 to discover more about this opportunity.
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Yahtzee, Uno, Memory Game, a deck of cards, and a children’s coloring book — these are all great items to keep in your arsenal of games and activities to play with your loved one. “Live in their world. Don’t make them live in yours,” said Cindy Caple, who was the primary caregiver for her mother. Cindy stressed the importance of playing games their way and letting them make the rules. “If she didn’t do it correctly, that’s OK. We always let her win,” she says. Cindy’s mom enjoyed activities like sorting a deck of cards by face and painting children’s coloring book pages. “Just a few days before she passed, she
Personal Care Directory Glen Ridge Health Campus
6415 Calm River Way, Louisville, KY 40299 (502) 297-8590 • glenridgehc.com
Number of units: 26 Cost per month: $3,145-$3,700 Special services: Compassionate, tenured staff; licensed RNs 24/7; chef-prepared meals; activities designed to nourish the mind, body and spirit; gated courtyard; salon; skilled nursing, short-term care, therapy services on-site. Owner: Trilogy Health Services, LLC Payment Accepted: private
The Grand Senior Living
9300 Civic Way, Prospect, KY 40059 was playing my grandkids’ Memory Game,” Cindy says. Cindy also discovered a website specifically geared toward activities that help to engage people, even those with some dementia. Jigsaw puzzles, matching games, word games, and other activities can be found at keepingbusy.com.
BUY ADAPTIVE EQUIPMENT Dan Heins, director of IT at Humana Inc. and chairman of the board at Parkinson Support Center of Kentuckiana, says a combination wheelchair and transport chair provides convenience for a caregiver whose loved one has mobility issues. “It’s a regular wheelchair that can be converted to a transport chair with big wheels that can be easily removed. The lighter weight transport chair is so much easier to store in the back of your vehicle, and it’s sturdy enough to handle most patients.” A lightweight transport chair can be purchased through Amazon. If your loved one is suffering from severe arthritis in the knees and hips and standing up from a seated position has become virtually impossible, consider a lift chair. A lift chair is a basic recliner that uses machine power to raise the seat to an upright position, assisting in the painful, unsteady dance of upright mobility. For medical necessities, lift chairs are sometimes covered by Medicare, so check with your physician to see if your loved one qualifies. Lift chairs are also available for rental if the condition is temporary. Locally, chairs can be rented at Gould’s Discount Medical. Kayla Cook, RN, owner of Caring Excellence Personalized Home Care, says caregivers can use a cloth gait belt to help an older loved one out of bed. She says, “The caregiver stands in front of their loved one with legs in a wide stance, knees bent and back straight to prevent caregiver injury. The gait belt is very helpful and prevents painful pulling on loved ones’ arms and skin tears.” She recommends, though, that a loved one sit for 3-5 minutes at the side of the bed before standing up to normalize blood pressure and prevent dizziness. Non-skid slippers or shoes are a must.
ASK FOR HELP Caregivers can order groceries for their loved one to be picked up or delivered to the home. Lynn Welch, director of business development for Home Instead Senior Care, says respite care is another option caregivers can use to alleviate stress — whether they are using a home health agency or requesting help from friends and family. “Take a break for a day or even a week of vacation and while you’re away, stay away. Talk about different things, read a book, take naps, whatever relaxes you and makes you happy. Do things that make you feel good so that you can provide great care for your loved one,” she says.
(502) 310-1542 • thegrand-sl.com
Number of units: 62 Cost per month: efficiency $4,350; 1 BR $5,950; 2 BR $6,800 Transportation available: yes Special services: Weekly housekeeping, laundry service, 24/7 staff on site, activity program, fitness center, 3 meals daily, assistance with medications and care services, Signature Passion Program Owner: Management, Civitas Senior Living Payment Accepted: private, LTCi, VA
Westport Place Health Campus 4247 Westport Rd, Louisville, KY 40207 (502) 893-3033 • westportplacehc.com
Number of beds: 26 Cost per month: $3,574-$4,366 Special services: Compassionate, tenured staff; licensed RNs 24/7; chef-prepared meals; activities designed to nourish the mind, body and spirit; gated courtyard; salon; skilled nursing, short-term care, therapy services on-site. Owner: Trilogy Health Services, LLC Payment Accepted: private
Let Our Readers Know What Makes Your Facility Stand Out! List your senior living facility in this space. Call 502.327.8855 to discover more about this opportunity.
Today’s Woman / May 2020
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[ caregiver guide ] PATRICIA HARRISON | SYMPHONY AT VALLEY FARMS
Caring for her family and others By Carrie Vittitoe, Photo by Melissa Donald
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any people who become caregivers professionally do so because they have been caregivers personally for their own loved ones. This is the case for Patricia Harrison, a caregiver at Symphony at Valley Farms, who not only took care of her grandmother who had dementia but now cares for her mother. The love and care she brings to her family members at home is the same love and care she brings to the Alzheimer’s and dementia residents in the memory care wing at work. What is your caregiving role? I take care of Alzheimer’s and dementia residents. I assist them with everything, their dressing, their hair care, their nail care. I’m a lead resident assistant (RA) who trains new RAs. I’ve been doing this for eight years since the building went up. It’s a blessing to take care of these residents. We have fun with them. We have a human-size Connect 4 game we play; they see me enjoying it, and they jump right in. We laugh and have a good time together. “IT’S NOT JUST A JOB TO US. WE’RE LIKE A BIG FAMILY. I WANT PEOPLE TO BE AT EASE WHEN THEY PUT THEIR LOVED ONES IN ASSISTED LIVING.” — PATRICIA HARRISON
How does a person be an effective caregiver? A caregiver has to have a heart, and you have to have patience. You have to be able to understand [residents] by developing a relationship with them. It’s not just a job; it has to be like a family. You can’t get in this position just for a paycheck; it’s not about a paycheck, it’s about loving. You have to connect with the residents. How do you support residents and their families? I make the residents feel comfortable and let them know I’m here for them. I have to make them feel that this is their home just like the home they came from. I have to let them be able to trust me. I have to let their families know I will do the best I can do. I try to meet every family’s needs. If I see things they do with their loved one, I try to do it as well. I’ve got their back. How do you keep your spirits up and engage in self-care in order to continue to care for others? I’m very, very involved in church activities. I direct a choir, and when I come to work I sing a lot. That’s how I lift my spirits. Those things will lift other people’s spirits up. They know me as ‘the singing bird.’ To ease myself, I stay ‘churched up.’ I love doing hair and cleaning. Cleaning calms me down a lot. My kids don’t like it. (laughs)
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“For someone to trust you with their mother or their father, it’s awesome,” says Patricia Harrison.
10201 Valley Farms Blvd Louisville, KY
502.937.3028
elegance-living.com/ senior-living/ky/louisville/ symphony-valley-farms PROMOTION
[ caregiver guide ] JENNIE HILL | TWINBROOK ASSISTED LIVING
Greeting everyone with a smile By Carrie Vittitoe, Photo by Melissa Donald
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ennie Hill has spent much of her professional life in jobs that serve the public. She retired from the police department and then moved to long-term care for older adults. “I really do enjoy meeting people, and I love helping people,” she says. As a receptionist at Twinbrook Assisted Living, she is the face that greets residents and their families each day. In addition to handling administrative responsibilities, she serves as a caregiver to anyone who needs help in the building. What is your caregiving role? I’m a receptionist, but I assist with needs [residents] have on a daily basis, such as walking to the dining room and helping them to get seated. I help them when they’re trying to get their mail out of their mailboxes. Everybody has a key, and the box has the number of their apartment “CAREGIVERS on it. Sometimes they get the SACRIFICE TIME wrong key, or they can’t reach AND EFFORT. IT’S it. I take food trays to people A TREMENDOUS who don’t want to come EFFORT, AND down to eat lunch or dinner. YOU HAVE TO What traits should a REIGN IN YOUR caregiver have? EMOTIONS AND I think you have to be very MAINTAIN CALM.” compassionate and very, very — JENNIE HILL patient. You also have to try to understand the client and what it is they need and want. Compassion really helps a lot because they may be confused, upset, or even angry. What are the challenges of being a caregiver and how do you cope with those? The challenge is [reminding myself that] I have to be patient, and I have to show kindness because this person doesn’t understand that I have other people to wait on and help. [I have to explain that] if I don’t come exactly when you call me, I’ll be there, but you have to give me some time. There are times when you can get pretty frazzled or impatient. Sometimes I have to tell myself, “Take a deep breath.” And I do. I might walk down the hallway and regain my composure. I have to give myself a pep talk. I’m practically a senior myself so that’s why I try to be very understanding. In what ways do you support residents’ families? You have to let them know that you really care for their loved one and that you are trying to take care of their loved one’s needs. You have to really listen to them as well. They have concerns that they’re voicing. You have to do a lot of listening and reassuring them that we’re working hard to make their loved one is being taken care of. PROMOTION
“I really love my job. When you have really good bosses and really nice people that you see on a daily basis that you assist, that helps a lot,” Jennie Hill says.
3525 Ephraim McDowell Dr Louisville, KY
502.452.6330
twinbrookassistedliving.com
Today’s Woman / May 2020
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Calming Down:
ANXIETY IN YOUR LOVED ONE By Tonilyn Hornung
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veryone experiences a bit of anxiety. My palms get sweaty the moment I realize I have to parallel park. I’m worried I’ll misjudge the space and bump into another parked car. Wondering if I was the only person who felt these twinges of nervousness, I asked my husband what made him anxious. He said, “Your parallel parking.” According to the National Alliance on Mental Health, anxiety in small doses can help “keep us alert and cautious to avoid accidents.” It’s when this anxiety prevents us from engaging in everyday activities that a larger anxiety disorder may be the root cause. How can we gauge when anxiety might be a deeper issue for ourselves or a loved one? Dr. Christian D. Furman, medical director of the Trager Institute/Republic Bank Foundation Optimal Aging Clinic says, “Anxiety is an internal feeling, and only you can judge for yourself. It starts as a feeling of unrest and not being calm.” Dr. Furman says that if you’re able to take deep breaths through your anxiety and go about your day, your anxiety is functioning at a level that works for you. Difficulties arise when a person’s anxiety begins to interfere with their daily routine. Crippling feelings of panic and fear take over and it becomes a struggle to accomplish tasks like eating, sleeping, or going to work. These are all outward signs of an inward struggle. Along with feelings of overwhelming worry and foreboding, physical symptoms can manifest. “Chest pain, not being able to breathe, and feeling like you’re having a heart attack are all symptoms of anxiety,” Dr. Furman says. These symptoms can set the stage for a much talked about and overpowering physical expression of anxiety: The Panic Attack. “The worst symptoms of anxiety go toward panic attacks. They have
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“Meditation, yoga, and breathwork all help to alleviate a great many symptoms of anxiety disorder.” a flavor to them where the sufferer believes that there is a catastrophe that is going to occur,” says local Psychiatrist Dr. David Easley. Panic attack symptoms can include feelings of intense fear and worry accompanied by physical sensations like shortness of breath, heart palpitations, dizziness, and nausea. The good news is there are many medical and non-medical treatment options available. These run the gamut from talk therapies, to mindfulness practices, to medication. When seeking help for anxiety, “a good first step would be to talk to your primary care provider. They can offer help and also refer you to a professional,” Dr. Furman says. One professional referral might include talking to a counselor or therapist. “Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a good way to explore the intensity of the emotions involved,” Dr. Easley says. CBT is an appropriate treatment for people of all ages and is a version of “talk therapy” that focuses on present-day circumstances and emotions and generally doesn’t spend a great deal of time delving
Dr. Christian D. Furman
into past events. The focus is placed on what a person is telling themselves in the current moment that might result in their anxiety. It’s proven to be helpful for many patients. Another successful treatment option is mindfulness practice. Dr. Furman says, “Meditation, yoga, and breathwork all help to alleviate a great many symptoms of anxiety disorder. All of these techniques work, and it’s really individualized.” Trained counselors are able to guide a patient through these modalities to give them a practice designed specifically for them. Dr. Easley adds, “With techniques such as meditation or exercise, these are healthy ways sufferers have learned to distract from physical symptoms like a racing heart or rapid breathing.” Medication is also a way sufferers can find relief from the exhausting cycle that anxiety creates. “Nonhabit forming medications can be prescribed by a licensed professional,” Dr. Easley says.
CAMP DIRECTORY
Assumption Enrichment and Athletic Camps Assumption High School is the place to be this summer! Campers will enjoy stimulating new experiences in a safe and caring environment. Assumption offers multiple enrichment camps in areas including drama, hand lettering, girl empowerment, art, and mythology to name a few. In addition, our top-ranked coaches will lead athletic camps in volleyball, soccer, basketball, field hockey, cross country, softball, lacrosse, cheer, and archery. There are affordable opportunities for every interest! Multiple camps are available to both girls and boys in grades K-11 beginning in early June and run throughout the summer. Camp sizes are limited and will fill up fast! Early registration is recommended. Visit ahsrockets.org for a complete list of camps, dates, times, and easy online registration. Or call 502.271.2675 for more information.
Camp J Splash into Summer Summer Camp is a transformative experience that your children will remember for the rest of their lives. Every camper will discover, grow and learn within the supportive and safe environment that Camp J provides.
Aqua-Tots Swim Lessons
Best in Class Education Center
Get your child water-safe by enrolling in swim lessons at Aqua-Tots! With small class sizes and a year-round 90-degree pool, your kids will have a SPLASH-tastic time learning life-long swimming skills. Since 1991, Aqua-Tots has been an industry leader in swimming instruction and serves our Louisville families with consistent and quality lessons. Not only will your child learn to love the water, they will leave feeling confident and accomplished after each lesson.
Learning Rocks! School’s out for the summer, but the learning doesn’t have to stop! Best in Class Education Center offers a variety of summer camp programs to engage children in learning to sharpen their academics over the summer, while having fun. No summer s-l-i-d-e here!
With classes starting as young as 4 months, AquaTots is great for children of all ages and swimming abilities. Our state-of-the-art swim schools are designed with you in mind; our goals are to keep your family safe and to ensure your family enjoys every swimming class. Call today to schedule a free trial swim lesson at 502.242.6388! To learn more, visit aqua-tots.com/ location/usa/kentucky/louisville.
Camp Palawopec A good old-fashioned fun camp in the hills of Brown County, Indiana. Activities include swimming, mountain biking, canoing, soccer, basketball, climbing, campfires every night, Indian lore, crafts, horses, archery, etc. Great summer fun in a relaxed outdoor setting.
We offer two types of summer camp experiences:
One staff for every three campers.
1. T raditional Summer Camps that include daily swimming, and a variety of special areas including sports, art, science, music, drama and much more.
AGES:
Ages: 8 – 15 years
COST:
One week session = $795 Two week session = $1495 Three week session = $2195
2. S pecialty Camps that range from cooking, sports, STEAM, theatre, dance and much more. There is something for every camper, at every age! Registration and more information can be found online at www.jcclouisvillecamp.org or by calling the camp office at 502.238.2718. 44 May 2020 / TodaysWomanNow.com Virtual JCC Bringing Community To Your Home
DATES:
Our summer program focuses on problem solving and critical thinking experiences through Math and English exercises and game play. Also enjoy various other activities from Best in Class and our partners’ programs such as: Arts & Crafts • Coding • Financial Literacy • Health & Nutrition • STEM Activities • And More MON-THU: Throughout June and July SESSION 1: 9am-1pm, $150, English, Math, & Play SESSION 2: 1:30pm-4pm, $99, Additional fun (TBD) *Combined session and full program discounts available. After-hours extension available. Boost academic skill confidence over the summer, gradually one week at a time or intensely with a full 6-week program, as is best for YOUR child! Call or text 502.874.4100 or email LouisvilleSE@BICedu.com for more information TODAY!
Derby Dinner Playhouse Performing Arts Academy - Summer Musical Theatre Camp Derby Dinner Playhouse Summer Musical Theatre Camp is a one-week performing arts camp for students ages 7 to 17 exploring drama, music, and dance. Taught by Derby Dinner theatre professionals and focusing on creative dramatics and scenes, songs, and dance from Broadway musicals, the camp culminates in a final sharing on the Playhouse stage. Five Weeks of Options Week 1: June 8-12 Week 2: July 6-11 Week 3: July 13-18 Week 4: July 20-25 Week 5: July 27-August 1
Coed sessions: May 31-June 6, June 7-13, June 28-July 4, July 5-11, July 12-18 Boys session: June 14-20, June 21-27 Girls session: July 19-25, July 26-August 1
Tuition: $175
3497 N Clay Lick Rd, Nashville, Brown County, IN, 47448 • 812.988.2689 camppalawopec.com • mail@camppalawopec.com
Limited Availability – Register today! For more information contact wallace@derbydinner.com or visit derbydinner.com/classes
Ages: 7 to 17 Time: 9am to 3pm
Weeklong Sessions, $225, June 22-26 and July 6-10 Ages 9-12 At this camp, kids run the place. Sam Swope JA BizTown is a 7,000 square foot mini metropolis where they hold jobs, receive paychecks and run their own businesses! JA BizTown is home to Kroger, UPS, Stock Yards Bank, LG&E, WDRB-TV and other regional corporations. By working in one of 16 JA BizTown shops, kids learn what it takes to run a successful business, manage a debit card and checking account, and work as a team. • Indoor academic camp • Daily lessons, hands on activities and games • Afternoon snack provided At all camps, kids will experience two complete JA Biztown simulations – with different jobs. Concepts learned and applied at camp include: Entrepreneurship, Interviewing for a Job, Business Expenses, Marketing, Customer Service, Profit and Loss, Teamwork, Personal banking, AND MUCH MORE! 1401 W. Muhammad Ali Blvd (40203) | 502.561.5437
Kentucky Science Center School’s Out Science Camps Is your child ready for a fun experience at a place they love? At Kentucky Science Center’s Schools Out Summer Camp, your child will develop skills and make friendships that will last a lifetime. Our camp encourages all campers to play, tinker, and investigate the world around them with plenty of time to explore their favorite science center. Challenge your child’s mind with a breakout style escape room and learn how the master puzzle makers develop their craft. Take a look behind the cape of a superhero or villain and the technology they created to enhance their powers. Or come back to camp for favorites like LEGO robotics, Potter’s Potions, and Exploding Science! All camps are hands-on, interactive, and engaging – the best way to combat summer slide and keep your kids ready to learn all year long. Do Science with us! Week-long camps for ages 4-14 begin June 1 and continue through August 7. Prices range from $250-$280. Call 502.561.6100 or visit kysci.org/camp to register.
Oldham County Schools Arts Center Summer Camps in Theatre, Visual Arts, Music and Dance New camps every week! June 8 – July 31 Are you hoping to improve your acting, auditioning, or musical theatre skills? Would you like to dance to tunes from the NEW Frozen movie or go on a Scooby-Doo mystery adventure? Do you prefer to explore painting, mixed media or clay sculpting? Dream of playing in a Rock Band or learning a new instrument? Summer is a great time to try something new, improve a skill and have a fun time with some newly made friends! You can do it all with over 40 camps for ages 4 -18! Most camps are half-day which can be combined to create a full day camp experience. Ballet/Tap classes and private music/voice lessons are also available. Please call the Arts Center at 502.241.6018 for more information or visit www.ocsartscenter.org for a complete listing of camps and to register online.
Whet Your Palette
YMCA – Camp Piomingo
YMCA - Summer Day Camp
We are in our 8th year of camp and are excited to focus on five more unique artists to our summer camp this year. Along with our camp favorites, we have added some new camp themes and five new artists!
YMCA Camp Piomingo is the region’s premiere overnight camp for kids ages 6-16. Campers share outdoor adventures and experience fun activities like high ropes, the zip line, horseback riding and swimming in our awesome aquatics center. Our experienced and high-energy staff help campers gain self-esteem, make new friends and develop interpersonal and leadership skills.
Your child can enjoy a happy summer that lives forever! At the Y, campers will discover a sense of accomplishment and belonging, while staying active and engaged. One week or the whole summer, your child will build confidence and friendships in an enriching environment.
2020 Art Camp Themes: • Dots & Dots & Dots & Dots • Messy Slimy • Alice in Fairyland • Animals & Shadows • By the Sea
• Flowers & Bugs • Monsters! Ah! • Pixar & Disney • Marvel & D.C. • Harry Potter
Your child will grow on the inside …. by being outside.
Multiple camp themes offered every week through summer. WHEN: Starts May 25th AGES: Age groups 4-6, 7-9 and 10-12. COST: Starts at $95
We offer a variety of overnight and equestrian camps from June 7 – August 1. Nestled in the beautiful woods of the Otter Creek Outdoor Recreational area just 45 minutes south of Louisville, a week at YMCA Camp Piomingo will create memories that will last a lifetime.
All Day options and One Day camp options available. Discounts for siblings and all day camping. Space is limited. Register early!
Visit us online at ymcacamppiomingo.org or call us at 502.942.2616. Reserve you bunk today risk-free. Delays or cancellations will be fully credited.
WhetYourPalette.com | 502.438.8865
The Y is for everyone. Financial assistance is available.
Choose from over 30 locations in Jefferson, Bullitt, Clark, Floyd and Oldham counties. We offer a full day of exciting activities for ages 3-15 including field trips, swimming, sports, games and plenty of fun. Staff focus on safety and helping children thrive, while modeling our core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. Register online at ymcalouisville.org. Sign-up today risk-free. Delays or cancellations will be fully credited. The Y is for everyone. Financial assistance is available.
Today’s Woman / May 2020
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CAMP DIRECTORY
Junior Achievement of Kentuckiana JA BizTown Camp 2020