Senior Care Made Simple: An ElderCare Podcast

They Called It 'Just Forgetfulness' - But It Was Something Worse

In this episode, we take a close look at dementia—in particular, the early warning signs. Whether you're concerned about a loved one or want to stay informed for your own health, we'll guide you through the subtle cognitive and behavioral changes that often go unnoticed. Join Andrea Albertini and Lucy Torres of Horizon Care Services as they discuss memory loss, language difficulties, personality shifts, and when it's time to seek professional advice. Early detection can make a meaningful difference—let’s talk about why.
Have a topic or want to reach out? Drop us a line here:seniorcaremadesimplepodcast@gmail.comNeed the finest and most reputable home care in South Florida, visit www.HorizonCareServices.com
Need assistance with the next steps for an aging family member, visit www.eldercarefinders.com
Need a physician to come to wherever you (or a loved one) may be in South Florida, visit www.HorizonMobilePhysicians.com
 

When An Elderly Loved One Goes In The Hospital...But Doesn't Come Back Out (At Least...Not Immediately)

This week, join Andrea and Lucy with guest Pamela Fuess, Administrator of Ventura Health & Rehabilitation Center as they discuss the important of patient advocacy and transitional care. In this episode, they unpack what really happens when an elderly patient is discharged from the hospital—but isn’t quite ready to return home.
From skilled nursing facilities to short-term rehabilitation and everything in between, Pamela shares her frontline insights on how decisions are made, what families need to know, and how what to look for when "shopping" for a quality rehabilitation center for your loved one during this crucial time.
Whether you're a caregiver, a healthcare professional, or simply planning ahead, this episode offers practical advice, compassionate guidance, and a closer look at the system behind post-hospital care.
Looking for more information regarding Ventura Health & Rehabilitation Center in Boynton Beach, Florida? Reach out to Pamela Fuess at pfuess@venturahrc.com.
Have a topic or want to reach out? Drop us a line here:seniorcaremadesimplepodcast@gmail.comNeed the finest and most reputable home care in South Florida, visit www.HorizonCareServices.com
Need assistance with the next steps for an aging family member, visit www.eldercarefinders.com
Need a physician to come to wherever you (or a loved one) may be in South Florida, visit www.HorizonMobilePhysicians.com

Home Care Isn’t Just for Seniors: Post-Surgery Help for Any Age

This week we are SMASHING the common misconception that home care is only for older adults. Andrea and Lucy explore how home care services can be a vital resource for people of any age recovering from surgery—whether it's a 25-year-old healing from a sports injury or a 45-year-old post-appendectomy.
We discuss the types of non-medical support home care professionals can offer, such as medication reminders, meal prep, mobility assistance, and even companionship during recovery. You’ll hear real-world examples and insights on how short-term home care can ease stress, speed recovery, and help avoid hospital readmissions.
Whether you're caring for an aging parent or preparing for your own surgery, this episode will help you rethink what home care really means.
About the show:Join Andrea Albertini, Founder and CEO of Horizon Care Services, Inc, and co-host Lucy Torres for frank discussions on numerous topics in an effort to help educate seniors (and their kids) to navigate the difficult waters of home care. Getting older isn't easy, but knowing the ins and outs and intricacies of finding trustworthy and quality care, allows the journey into aging to be charged with confidence.Have a topic or want to reach out? Drop us a line here:seniorcaremadesimplepodcast@gmail.comNeed the finest and most reputable home care in South Florida, visit www.HorizonCareServices.com
Need assistance with the next steps for an aging family member, visit www.eldercarefinders.com
Need a physician to come to wherever you (or a loved one) may be in South Florida, visit www.HorizonMobilePhysicians.com

No CAN'T Always Mean No! When Parents Say No: Navigating Refusal of Care with Compassion and Clarity

What do you do when aging parents refuse the very care they need? In this episode, we dive into one of the most emotionally charged challenges in home care: when a loved one says "no" to help. Whether it’s due to fear, pride, confusion, or denial, refusing care can put families in a difficult position.
Join us as we explore the reasons behind care refusal, the emotional toll it takes on family caregivers, and practical strategies to approach the conversation with empathy and respect. Andrea and Lucy share communication tips, real-life stories, and guidance on balancing autonomy with safety—because sometimes, saying "yes" to care starts with truly listening to "no.
About the show:Join Andrea Albertini, Founder and CEO of Horizon Care Services, Inc, and co-host Lucy Torres for frank discussions on numerous topics in an effort to help educate seniors (and their kids) to navigate the difficult waters of home care. Getting older isn't easy, but knowing the ins and outs and intricacies of finding trustworthy and quality care, allows the journey into aging to be charged with confidence.Have a topic or want to reach out? Drop us a line here:seniorcaremadesimplepodcast@gmail.comNeed the finest and most reputable home care in South Florida, visit www.HorizonCareServices.com
Need assistance with the next steps for an aging family member, visit www.eldercarefinders.com
Need a physician to come to wherever you (or a loved one) may be in South Florida, visit www.HorizonMobilePhysicians.com

The Care Manager is a Critical Role When Creating Patient Advocacy with Guest Hope Garling, MS, COP

In this insightful episode, we speak with Hope Garling, MS, COP, a seasoned care manager from Unicity Care Management, about the critical role care managers play in supporting older adults and advocating for their needs. With years of experience navigating healthcare systems, coordinating services, and standing up for patients' rights, Hope offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it truly means to be a patient advocate in elder care.
From managing complex medical situations to easing the burden on families, Hope shares real-life examples, professional insights, and compassionate strategies that make a meaningful difference in the lives of seniors and their loved ones.
Topics Covered:
How advocacy improves outcomes for older adults
Navigating healthcare systems and avoiding gaps in care
Supporting families during times of transition and stress
Why trust and communication are key in elder care
Whether you're a caregiver, healthcare professional, or simply curious about aging with dignity, this episode offers valuable perspective on the heart and strategy behind elder care management.You can contact Hope Garling, MS, COP, at Unicity Care Management at 561-260-5958.
About the show:Join Andrea Albertini, Founder and CEO of Horizon Care Services, Inc, and co-host Lucy Torres for frank discussions on numerous topics in an effort to help educate seniors (and their kids) to navigate the difficult waters of home care. Getting older isn't easy, but knowing the ins and outs and intricacies of finding trustworthy and quality care, allows the journey into aging to be charged with confidence.Have a topic or want to reach out? Drop us a line here:seniorcaremadesimplepodcast@gmail.comNeed the finest and most reputable home care in South Florida, visit www.HorizonCareServices.comNeed assistance with the next steps for an aging family member, visit:www.eldercarefinders.com
 

The Importance of Estate Planning for Medicaid with Special Guest Jeremy Soffler, Attorney at Law

In this eye-opening episode of Senior Care Made Simple, host Andrea Albertini and co-host Lucy Torres are joined by elder law attorney Jeremy Soffler, J.D. from the firm of Doane & Doane, PA Attorneys at Law to unpack the often misunderstood world of estate planning for Medicaid. Whether you're planning for your own future or supporting aging loved ones, this conversation sheds light on how proper estate planning can protect your assets while ensuring eligibility for long-term care benefits.
Jeremy explains the five-year look-back period and how strategies like asset transfers and spend-downs can make a major difference. He also clears up common myths and offers practical advice to help families avoid costly mistakes.
🔑 Key Topics Covered:
Why Medicaid planning is different from general estate planning
What to do now to prepare for long-term care needs
If you're feeling overwhelmed by the maze of Medicaid rules, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence to move forward.
Special thanks for Doane & Doane, Attorneys at Law: 561-656-0200
To reach Jeremy Soffler, email him at jsoffler@doanelaw.com
About the show:Join Andrea Albertini, Founder and CEO of Horizon Care Services, Inc, and co-host Lucy Torres for frank discussions on numerous topics in an effort to help educate seniors (and their kids) to navigate the difficult waters of home care. Getting older isn't easy, but knowing the ins and outs and intricacies of finding trustworthy and quality care, allows the journey into aging to be charged with confidence.Have a topic or want to reach out? Drop us a line here:seniorcaremadesimplepodcast@gmail.comNeed the finest and most reputable home care in South Florida, visit www.HorizonCareServices.comNeed assistance with the next steps for an aging family member, visit:www.eldercarefinders.com
 

What's the Difference Between Assisted Living, Nursing Homes and Aging at Home?

In this episode, we dive into one of the most important—and often confusing—decisions many families face: choosing the right care setting for an aging loved one. What’s the real difference between assisted living, a nursing home, and aging at home with support? We break it all down: the level of care, costs, independence, safety considerations, and how to know what’s right for your situation. Whether you’re planning for your own future or helping a parent or relative, this conversation will give you the clarity and confidence you need to take the next step.
Tune in to learn:
What assisted living really includes (and doesn’t)
When a nursing home becomes the best option
How aging at home can work—and when it might not
Questions to ask, and red flags to watch for
Real-life examples to help guide your decision
A must-listen for caregivers, adult children, and anyone thinking ahead about aging with dignity and support.Join Andrea Albertini, Founder and CEO of Horizon Care Services, Inc, and co-host Lucy Torres for frank discussions on numerous topics in an effort to help educate seniors (and their kids) to navigate the difficult waters of home care. Getting older isn't easy, but knowing the ins and outs and intricacies of finding trustworthy and quality care, allows the journey into aging to be charged with confidence.Have a topic or want to reach out? Drop us a line here:seniorcaremadesimplepodcast@gmail.comNeed the finest and most reputable home care in South Florida, visit www.HorizonCareServices.comNeed assistance with the next steps for an aging family member, visit:www.eldercarefinders.com
 

Beware The DOZENS Of HIDDEN FEES Deep Within Assisted Living Facilities!

In a revealing episode of the Senior Care Made Simple podcast, Andrea and Lucy delve into the often-overlooked issue of hidden fees in Assisted Living Facilities. This episode uncovers how seemingly minor costs—such as laundry services, medication administration, and transportation—can quickly add up, blindsiding families who thought they had a clear understanding of monthly expenses. The podcast sheds light on the lack of transparency in billing practices and emphasizes the importance of asking detailed questions before signing a contract. By exposing these hidden charges, the episode empowers listeners to make more informed decisions and advocate for fairer pricing in senior care.Andrea Albertini, Founder and CEO of Horizon Care Services, Inc, hosts frank discussions on numerous topics in an effort to help educate seniors (and their kids) to navigate the difficult waters of home care. Getting older isn't easy, but knowing the ins and outs and intricacies of finding trustworthy and quality care, allows the journey into aging to be charged with confidence.Have a topic or want to reach out? Drop us a line here:seniorcaremadesimplepodcast@gmail.comNeed the finest and most reputable home care in South Florida, visit www.HorizonCareServices.com

Never Never Never Hire Strangers as Caregivers! Mom Might Buy Them A Car!

In this episode, Andrea and co-host Lucy Torres, Director of Marketing for Horizon Care Services, discuss why it's so incredibly dangerous to hire strangers as caregivers! From draining bank accounts to mom buying the caregiver a BMW, these stories are alarming.
Andrea Albertini, Founder and CEO of Horizon Care Services, Inc, hosts frank discussions on numerous topics in an effort to help educate seniors (and their kids) to navigate the difficult waters of home care. Getting older isn't easy, but knowing the ins and outs and intricacies of finding trustworthy and quality care, allows the journey into aging to be charged with confidence.Have a topic or want to reach out? Drop us a line here:seniorcaremadesimplepodcast@gmail.comNeed the finest and most reputable home care in South Florida, visit www.HorizonCareServices.com

Do You Even Know What Home Health Care Is? We're Going To Walk You Through It!

Andrea Albertini, Founder and CEO of Horizon Care Services, Inc, hosts frank discussions on numerous topics in an effort to help educate seniors (and their kids) to navigate the difficult waters of home care. Getting older isn't easy, but knowing the ins and outs and intricacies of finding trustworthy and quality care, allows the journey into aging to be charged with confidence.In this episode, Andrea and co-host Lucy Torres, Director of Marketing for Horizon Care Services, start the conversation with a simple question...Do YOU know what home health is?
Have a topic or want to reach out? Drop us a line here:seniorcaremadesimplepodcast@gmail.comNeed home care in South Florida, visit www.HorizonCareServices.com