Home Instead - Southwest Allegheny County

08/16/2025

08/12/2025

“There’s no do-overs in grief, and so there’s a ton of second guessing in grief.” — Lisa Pahl

It’s never easy to talk about death. But avoiding it? That can leave our loved ones with conflict, confusion, and a heavy burden of “what ifs.”

In this episode of , Dr. Lakelyn sits down with hospice social worker and co-creator of The Death Deck, Lisa Pahl to explore the real consequences of not planning ahead.

Starting the conversation now won’t take away the pain of loss, but it can offer clarity, connection, and peace when it matters most.

🎧 Listen to wherever you get your podcasts.

Apple: https://apple.co/3RuALpz?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=dhfacebook&utm_content=app.dashsocial.com%2Fhomeinsteadinc%2Flibrary%2Fmedia%2F561943606
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cArqqi?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=dhfacebook&utm_content=app.dashsocial.com%2Fhomeinsteadinc%2Flibrary%2Fmedia%2F561943606

08/05/2025

“Families often wait too long to access hospice care. The truth? Hospice can provide months of support—not just days.”

In this clip from our conversation with Lisa Pahl, hospice social worker and co-creator of The Death Deck, we explore the compassionate side of end-of-life care—supporting caregivers, guiding through symptoms, and holding space in life’s most tender moments.

🎧 Listen to the full conversation on Caregiver Chats wherever you get your podcasts. ⤵
Apple: https://apple.co/3RuALpz?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=dhfacebook&utm_content=app.dashsocial.com%2Fhomeinsteadinc%2Flibrary%2Fmedia%2F561941864
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cArqqi?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=dhfacebook&utm_content=app.dashsocial.com%2Fhomeinsteadinc%2Flibrary%2Fmedia%2F561941864

08/04/2025

We’ve cooked up something yummy for our care community. 😋🍉 Save this refreshing watermelon feta salad recipe for your next meal prep win. Perfect for warm-weather caregiving days!

✨ Bonus: It comes with meaningful conversation starters to help you connect while you share. ✨

Tag us in your photos enjoying it with your loved one—we’d love to see your summer caregiving moments! ☀️

08/04/2025

We’ve cooked up something yummy for our care community. 😋🍉 Save this refreshing watermelon feta salad recipe for your next meal prep win. Perfect for warm-weather caregiving days!

✨ Bonus: It comes with meaningful conversation starters to help you connect while you share. ✨

Tag us in your photos enjoying it with your loved one—we’d love to see your summer caregiving moments! ☀️

08/04/2025

Another throwback to the one and only Mary Maxwell at our 2009 Convention. With her signature humor, she reminded us what it means to age with dignity—and to laugh along the way (especially when you can’t find your car). 😅💚

08/01/2025

It’s hotter than a pepper sprout out there! 🥵

And while we all might be cranking up the AC, older adults need a little extra care to stay safe and comfortable this season.

Here’s a few summer tips for older loved ones:

💧 Keep drinks flowing — Hydration is key. Try lemon water, herbal iced tea, or fruit-infused water for a refreshing twist.

🌿 Stick to shade — Morning and evening are best for fresh air. Think porch chats, garden strolls, or birdwatching under a tree.

🍓 Eat the rainbow — Seasonal foods like berries, melons, cucumbers, and tomatoes are easy, colorful, and packed with nutrients.

🎶 Play their favorite music — It can lift spirits, stir memories, and create connection in an instant.

👂 Be present — Whether it’s a phone call, a visit, or simply sitting nearby, your time means more than you know.

Share this post to shine a light on summer safety for older adults. 🔃

07/31/2025

It’s hotter than a pepper sprout out there! 🥵

And while we’re all reaching for iced drinks and fans, older adults need a little extra care to stay safe in the summer heat.

Here’s your caregiver-approved summer safety toolkit for aging loved ones:

💧 Hydrate with variety – Water is essential, but try chilled fruit, herbal iced tea, smoothies, or even popsicles to keep it fun and refreshing.

👒 Dress smart – Light, breathable clothing and wide-brimmed hats help regulate temperature and protect sensitive skin.

🌬️ Cool it down – If there’s no AC, use fans, cold washcloths, or even a bowl of cool water for hands and wrists to provide quick relief.

🌿 Time outdoor activities wisely – Early mornings or evenings are safest. A short stroll, porch chat, or birdwatching can bring joy without overheating.

👂 Connect with care – Sometimes, just being present — listening, sharing a memory, or sitting together — is the best form of comfort.

Let’s keep our older adults safe, seen, and supported this summer.

🔁 Share this post to spread the word about senior summer safety.

07/30/2025

“As a caregiver, you're always juggling three things: independence, safety, and the third we could describe as like joy or comfort.” — Adria Thompson

When you're making decisions on behalf of someone else, the stakes feel higher, and the guilt runs deeper. In this episode of Caregiver Chats, Dr. Lakelyn and Adria unpack the emotional complexity of caregiving and introduce the idea of choosing a priority in the moment.
Whether your loved one is in the early or late stages of dementia, knowing whether to lead with independence, safety, or joy can guide your choices—and ease some of the pressure. 💚 Tune in wherever you get your podcasts. 🎧 https://apple.co/3RuALpz

07/28/2025

Ever ask someone with dementia what they think?

“Do you like this shirt?” “Should I shave my goatee?”

David Troxel does, and here’s why: when you ask for someone’s opinion, it shows you value them. And for those living with dementia, feeling valued goes a long way.

In this moment, David Troxel shares simple ways to connect through kindness, humor, and everyday activities. Because with dementia care, even 30 seconds of connection can brighten their lives. 🧠💚

🔗 Visit the link to learn more: https://bit.ly/4nafqQZ?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=dhfacebook&utm_content=app.dashsocial.com%2Fhomeinsteadinc%2Flibrary%2Fmedia%2F545746360

07/27/2025

🧠 While there’s no cure for Alzheimer’s, there are steps you can take to support brain health.

In this video, Dr. Lakelyn shares simple, science-backed tips for preventive care—like staying socially connected, getting regular exercise, and keeping your mind active.

💜 Small habits can make a big difference.

🎥 Watch and learn easy ways to keep your brain healthy as you age.

👉 Follow us for more brain health and caregiving tips year-round.

07/26/2025

After answering the call to caregiving, Betty June Harp is officially retiring at the vibrant age of 90. 🎉

She’s been the heart of so many meaningful moments with our Louisville team, and while we’ll miss seeing her smile each day, we’re celebrating all she’s given—and all that’s ahead.

Congratulations on your retirement, Betty June. You’re a legend, a light, and yes, finally a lady of leisure. 💜

With all our love,
Your Home Instead family

07/25/2025

Supporting a loved one with dementia doesn’t require grand gestures—it’s often the smallest, most consistent moments that make the biggest difference.

With the right approach, emotional connection, and trusted in-home care, family caregivers can help their loved ones feel secure, included, and appreciated every day.

Learn more about how to help your loved one with dementia feel valued and connected: https://bit.ly/4nafqQZ?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=dhfacebook&utm_content=app.dashsocial.com%2Fhomeinsteadinc%2Flibrary%2Fmedia%2F550116593

07/25/2025

Save this post as your go-to guide for helping older adults stay safe, cool, and cared for all summer long. ⤵

🍋 Try lemon water, herbal iced tea, smoothies, or fresh fruit to make staying hydrated fun and social.

👒 Choose light, breathable fabrics, wide-brimmed hats, and sun-safe accessories to stay cool outdoors.

🕰️ Plan morning porch chats, evening walks, or outdoor music sessions when temperatures are lower.

🧊 Use simple cooling hacks like fans, chilled washcloths, or soaking hands in cool water.

Check out more care resources to help older adults feel seen, safe, and supported: https://bit.ly/40RvDAY

07/25/2025

Save this post as your go-to guide for helping older adults stay safe, cool, and cared for all summer long. ⤵

🍋 Try lemon water, herbal iced tea, smoothies, or fresh fruit to make staying hydrated fun and social.

👒 Choose light, breathable fabrics, wide-brimmed hats, and sun-safe accessories to stay cool outdoors.

🕰️ Plan morning porch chats, evening walks, or outdoor music sessions when temperatures are lower.

🧊 Use simple cooling hacks like fans, chilled washcloths, or soaking hands in cool water.

Check out more care resources to help older adults feel seen, safe, and supported: https://bit.ly/40RvDAY

07/24/2025

“No one can do it 24/7."

Even the most devoted caregivers need time to recharge. Respite care isn't just a luxury, it’s a necessity for your well-being and your loved one’s continued care at home. Whether it's for a coffee break, a workout, or simply a moment of quiet, taking time for yourself helps you show up stronger.

💬 How do you make time for yourself as a caregiver?

🎧 Listen to wherever you get your podcasts – link in bio to hear the full episode. ⤴

07/14/2025

What do you say when your child asks, “Why doesn’t Grandma remember me?”

If you’re navigating dementia in the family, this quick guide shares 5 ways to help kids stay connected with a grandparent who has memory loss—plus where to find age-appropriate support tools. 👇

💚Check out more tips and resources here: https://bit.ly/4nyVqYE

07/09/2025

Supporting a loved one with dementia doesn’t require grand gestures—it’s often the smallest, most consistent moments that make the biggest difference.

With the right approach, emotional connection, and trusted in-home care, family caregivers can help their loved ones feel secure, included, and appreciated every day.

Learn more about how to help your loved one with dementia feel valued and connected: https://bit.ly/4nafqQZ

07/09/2025

Ever ask someone with dementia what they think?

“Do you like this shirt?” “Should I shave my goatee?”

David Troxel does, and here’s why: when you ask for someone’s opinion, it shows you value them. And for those living with dementia, feeling valued goes a long way.

In this moment, David Troxel shares simple ways to connect through kindness, humor, and everyday activities. Because with dementia care, even 30 seconds of connection can brighten their lives. 🧠💚

🔗 Visit the link to learn more: https://bit.ly/4nafqQZ

07/08/2025

Aging isn’t a journey you have to navigate alone. Home Instead provides customized care plans and trusted caregivers to give you peace of mind.

06/21/2025

Worried that forgetfulness could be more than just aging? 🧠 You’re not alone and you don’t have to figure it out alone, either.

Swipe through to learn:
✔️ What’s normal vs. not in memory changes
✔️ The habits that help protect brain health
✔️ What caregivers can do early on

Caring for someone with memory loss starts with understanding the signs—and knowing where to turn for support. 💜

Follow us for more trusted resources, and read the full article: https://bit.ly/4006Qu5

06/15/2025

This Father’s Day, go beyond the card and support Dad from heart to brain. 💚
Here are 5 simple ways to check in on his health: ↓
🫀 Ask about his heart.
“Have you had your blood pressure checked lately?”

🧠 Keep his brain engaged.
“Want to play a game or share a favorite memory?”

🍽️ Share healthy meals.
“Let’s cook something with brain and heart-healthy ingredients.”

😴 Talk about rest and stress.
“How are you sleeping these days? Anything weighing on you?”

🚶‍♂️ Move together.
“Up for a walk after dinner?”

Because keeping Dad strong is one of the best gifts you can give. 🔁 Share this with someone who loves their dad, too.