Home Instead

09/24/2026

When dementia changes the way someone communicates, it can be easy to wonder what they are able to understand or feel. But moments of connection can still surprise us.

In this powerful story from Caregiver Chats, gerontologist Dr. Julie Masters shares how a simple question brought a meaningful response from a man in the final day of his life.

For anyone loving and caring for someone with memory changes, this is your reminder to keep talking, keep sharing and keep being present. 💚

Listen to the full episode with Dr. Lakelyn wherever you get your podcasts: https://bit.ly/4h6Pwvm

09/17/2026

At the end of life, it can feel like there is so much to do, say and get right. 🫂

But sometimes, the most meaningful thing we can offer someone we love is simply our presence.

In this Caregiver Chats conversation, Dr. Lakelyn is joined by gerontologist Dr. Julie Masters to talk about the emotions that can come with end-of-life caregiving, from identity shifts and saying goodbye to finding connection through life review and memory changes.

If you are navigating this season with someone you love, you are not alone. 💚 Listen to the full episode wherever you get your podcasts.

https://bit.ly/4h6Pwvm

09/16/2026

After a dementia diagnosis, it's common for families to pull back from social situations, but isolation can make the journey even harder.

Even when someone has difficulty finding words or remembering names, they may still recognize the emotions, relationships, and people who help them feel safe.

A familiar voice. A favorite song. Holding a hand. Simply sitting together. These moments of connection still matter.

What helps your loved one feel comforted and close to you? Learn more at homeinstead.com 🫂

09/09/2026

Have you ever felt like something was different with someone you love, even if you could not explain exactly why?

Dementia can affect much more than memory. Changes in communication, judgment, mood, behavior, or problem-solving can sometimes appear before significant memory loss.

Trust your instincts. If something feels different, it is okay to ask questions and seek support.

Learn more at homeinstead.com 🫂

09/09/2026

How do you feel after spending time with your parents? 🤔

Dr. Lakelyn is joined by licensed mental health counselor Rebecca Johnson for an honest conversation about one of caregiving's most complicated and often unspoken realities, caring for a narcissistic parent.

🎧 Watch the full episode of Caregiver Chats wherever you get your podcasts: https://bit.ly/3V3ebtc

09/04/2026

Have you ever wondered if a loved one’s changes were “just part of getting older?”

Dementia is not a normal part of aging.

If you have noticed changes in someone you love and are carrying questions you do not quite know how to ask, you are not alone. We are here to help families find support and take the next step when they are ready.

Learn more at homeinstead.com 🫂

09/04/2026

From sharpening proper technique at the sink to walking in our clients’ shoes during hands-on empathy exercises, this group poured their whole hearts into learning together. Caregiving can sometimes feel isolating, but seeing them wrap up class by exchanging numbers to stay connected was the absolute best part. I’m truly grateful and humbled to be part of such an incredible group—and to watch genuine community take root from day one. 🙌💛🫂

09/03/2026

Have you ever heard “dementia” and “Alzheimer’s” used as if they mean the same thing?

It is understandable. But dementia is an umbrella term for symptoms that affect memory, thinking, and everyday life. Alzheimer’s disease is one specific type of dementia.

Learning the language around a diagnosis can help families feel more prepared for the road ahead.

Learn more at homeinstead.com 🫂

09/03/2026

Are we helping, or are we making assumptions based on age? Sometimes the best way to support an older adult is simply to ask what they want and need. By listening first, we can help preserve independence.

What do you think? When does helping cross the line into ageism? 🤔

09/01/2026

Narcissistic parents don’t inspire their children to care for them. Sometimes, the well of loving memories and connection has run dry. 💔

In this Caregiver Chats conversation, Dr. Lakelyn and licensed mental health counselor Rebecca Johnson unpack one of caregiving’s most complicated and often unspoken realities: caring for a narcissistic parent.

If this is part of your story, you are not alone. 💚 Listen to the full episode wherever you get your podcasts: https://bit.ly/3V3ebtc

08/27/2026

There’s more to the Iowa State Fair than corn dogs and butter sculptures—it is also a place for meaningful conversations. 🎡🌭

Dr. Lakelyn spent the day at the Home Instead booth talking with fairgoers about aging, caregiving and the many ways families can find support.

One conversation that will stay with her was with Marv, who cared for his late wife, Sharon. He shared how meaningful Home Instead’s support was for them—a powerful reminder that care can make a real difference for both the person receiving it and the family member beside them.

She also stopped by the Iowa Department of Transportation booth to talk about one of the harder caregiving conversations: driving. Starting early, leading with empathy and focusing on safety can help make the conversation feel less like taking something away and more like supporting independence.

Grateful for everyone who stopped to share their stories, questions and wisdom. Stay tuned for more from the fair! 💜 Iowa DOT Iowa State Fair

08/12/2026

Book knowledge is important, but experiencing what our seniors go through is what makes our caregivers truly exceptional. 🌟

This week, our training class tackled a hands-on empathy exercise. Wearing distorted glasses and gloves with popsicle sticks to simulate arthritis and vision loss, our team tried to perform daily tasks like hanging clothes and reading directions. It was incredibly challenging, and it sparked amazing conversations about the realities our aging population faces every day.

Building this kind of genuine empathy is a cornerstone of our training process. It’s not just about knowing HOW to help, but truly understanding WHY that help matters so much. 🤝💙

07/22/2026

We had a wonderful time connecting with the sweet residents and staff at Jordan Oaks health event. Such a blessing to be there!
Jordan Oaks Gracious Retirement Living

07/19/2026

07/17/2026

A huge thank you to the dedicated caregivers who joined us for today’s training session! 💚

The group brought incredible energy and focus to mastering gait belt safety. We spent valuable hands-on time practicing, adjusting, and perfecting our techniques—specifically focusing on proper belt application and correct hand placement to ensure the highest safety standards.

Our clients are in exceptionally safe hands with this team. Outstanding work today, everyone! 👏

07/11/2026

We had so much fun in our caregiver class this week! 🙌
Our team got hands-on practice with sliding boards, focusing on how to make transfers as safe and smooth as possible for our clients. The biggest takeaways? Always using the gait belt properly and keeping an eye on hand placement so no one gets a finger pinched under the board!
Safety first, always—but we love having a good time while we learn! 💚

07/03/2026

🍉 Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint & Cucumber

Looking for a refreshing summer dish to share with a loved one? This simple salad combines juicy watermelon, crisp cucumber, creamy feta, fresh mint, lime juice, and olive oil for a light and flavorful treat.

Simply toss together:
• 4 cups cubed watermelon
• 1 sliced cucumber
• ½ cup crumbled feta
• ¼ cup fresh mint
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Chill, serve, and enjoy. ☀️

While you're sharing a meal, try sparking a meaningful conversation:
💚 What was your favorite thing to do in the summer as a kid?
🌱 Did you ever grow watermelon in your garden?
💬 What summer song or memory always makes you smile?

If you're caring for an aging loved one this summer, Home Instead offers caregiver tips, resources, and trusted in-home care support to help you on the journey. ❤️

05/22/2026

Welcome to the team, Theresa! 🌟
We are absolutely thrilled to introduce our newest Nurse to the family! Theresa brings so much expertise, passion, and heart to our team, and we couldn’t be happier to have her on board.
She jumped right into action this week, participating in our training classes and mastering our client safety protocols, including precise PPE techniques.

04/15/2026

Had an incredible class this week! Really appreciated the mix of online learning and hands-on practice. It makes such a difference when our Care Pros can actually apply what they are reading about. They might have enjoyed practicing with the gait belt a little too much! They are ready to put these skills to work.