In this episode of Under the Tree, we are joined by Douglas from the Alzheimer's Association to help families better understand Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. Learn the differences between Alzheimer's and dementia, explore other common types of dementia, discover how these conditions affect the brain, and understand why dementia is not a normal part of aging.

Whether you're noticing changes in a loved one's memory, navigating a recent diagnosis, or simply looking to learn more, this episode offers valuable information to help individuals and families better understand dementia and take the first steps toward finding support.

Learn More About the Alzheimer's Association:
Visit: www.alz.org
24/7 Helpline: 800-272-3900

Don't forget to follow us for more conversations that educate, support, and empower caregivers and families!

In this episode of Under the Tree, we are joined once again by Kathy from Hospice of Lansing and Stoneleigh Residence to explore how hospice supports families and caregivers throughout the end-of-life journey. Learn how hospice teams help ease caregiver stress, provide emotional support, involve families in care decisions, and offer services that extend beyond medical care, including support after the loss of a loved one.Whether you're currently caring for a loved one or preparing for the challenges that may lie ahead, this episode offers compassionate guidance and reassurance that families don't have to navigate this journey alone.Learn More About Hospice of Lansing & Stoneleigh Residence:Visit: www.hospiceoflansing.orgDon't forget to follow us for more conversations that educate, support, and empower caregivers and families!

In this episode of Under the Tree, we are joined by Michelle from Chalgian & Tripp Law Offices to help families better understand elder law and the role it can play in planning for the future. Learn what elder law covers, who may benefit from working with an elder law attorney, when families should consider seeking legal guidance, and why planning before a health or caregiving crisis can make such an important difference.Whether you're planning for yourself, supporting an aging loved one, or caring for an individual with a disability, this episode offers helpful information to better understand the legal steps families can take to prepare for the future.Learn More About Chalgian & Tripp Law Offices:Visit: www.mielderlaw.comDon't forget to follow us for more conversations that educate, support, and empower caregivers and families!

In this episode of Under the Tree, host Robert Valasek is joined by Amy Hoyes from Red Cedar Lodge to help families better understand assisted living and the support it can provide. Learn what assisted living includes, who may benefit from it, how care needs are assessed, and how it differs from other options such as independent living, home care, adult day services, and skilled nursing care.Whether you're beginning to explore care options for a loved one or simply planning ahead, this episode offers helpful insight into how assisted living can support safety, independence, connection, and quality of life.Learn More About Red Cedar Lodge:Visit: www.continentalseniorcommunities.com and select Red Cedar LodgeDon't forget to follow us for more conversations that educate, support, and empower caregivers and families!

In this episode of Under the Tree, host Robert Valasek is joined by Mike Bowler of eXp Realty, a Seniors Real Estate Specialist with decades of experience helping older adults and their families navigate housing transitions. Learn why planning ahead matters, what signs may indicate it’s time to begin the conversation, who should be involved in the process, and what resources can help make a later-in-life move less overwhelming.Whether a move is approaching or may still be years away, this episode offers practical guidance to help families start planning while keeping an older adult’s needs, preferences, and wishes at the center of the conversation.Learn More About Mike Bowler:www.mikebowler.com(517)755-6168mike@mikebowler.com

In this episode of Under the Tree, host Robert Valasek is joined once again by licensed health insurance agent Kevin Gebhard to explore the differences between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans. Learn how these options compare, who may benefit from each, what to consider when it comes to costs, doctor networks, and prescription coverage, and some common surprises people may encounter after choosing a plan.Whether you're exploring Medicare options for yourself or helping a loved one make a decision, this episode will help you better understand what to consider when choosing coverage.Contact Information for Kevin:Phone: (248) 820-6888Email: kegbhard01@gmail.comMore info: www.Medicare.govDon't forget to follow us for more conversations that educate, support, and empower caregivers and families!

Navigating senior care is about more than knowing your options—it’s about knowing what questions to ask, what to look for, and where to turn for trusted guidance.In our conversation with Nick and Rachel from CarePatrol Capital Region, we take a closer look at the practical side of finding senior care. From the very first phone call to narrowing down options, evaluating safety and quality, recognizing red flags, and asking the right questions, Nick and Rachel walk us through what families can expect along the way.We also discuss what families in the Greater Lansing area should be aware of and how having local guidance can make an overwhelming process feel more manageable.Start a conversation today:Rachel WilsonCare Transition Manager(517) 730-1361rwilson@carepatrol.comMore information:www.carepatrol.com

Navigating senior care can feel overwhelming, but families do not have to do it alone. In this episode of *Under the Tree*, we sit down with Nick and Rachel from CarePatrol Capital Region to learn how they help families explore senior living and care options, understand available resources, and find support that fits their unique needs—all at no cost to the family.Start a conversation today:Rachel WilsonCare Transition Manager(517) 730-1361rwilson@carepatrol.comMore information:www.carepatrol.com