How Can You Advocate for an Aging Parent?

Kim Hegwood | February 18, 2025

In this episode of Life Happens, host Kim Hegwood sits down with Loretta Veney to discuss the crucial role of advocating for aging parents. Loretta shares why advocacy from adult children is so important and how to recognize when it’s time to step in to support your parent’s needs. She provides invaluable tips on how to communicate effectively with doctors and medical staff, ensuring your loved one’s concerns are heard and addressed.

The conversation also dives into advocating for family members in assisted living or nursing home settings. Loretta explains the role of an ombudsman and how this professional can assist families in navigating complex care decisions. She also highlights other essential professionals who can be valuable allies in advocating for aging parents.

This episode is a must-listen for families seeking guidance on protecting and empowering their loved ones as they age.

Contact Loretta:
Email: Lorettawoodwardveney@lorettaveney.com
Website: www.lorettaveney.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/lorettawoodwardveney

About Loretta:
Loretta Woodward Veney is an inspirational speaker and certified LEGO® Serious Play® facilitator who offers a wealth of information, encouragement, and humor to her audiences. Loretta is the author of Being My Mom’s Mom, Refreshment for the Caregiver’s Spirit, and Colors Flowing from My Mind. In 2006 after her beloved mother Doris was diagnosed with dementia, Loretta began learning everything she could about the disease becoming a fierce advocate for her Mom in the process.

Loretta and her Mom have been featured in the Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, The NY Times, and a PBS special. Loretta’s engagement with her Mom using LEGO bricks and her facilitation of LEGO Serious Play workshops for those with dementia and their caregivers resulted in her and her Mom being chosen as one of Robin Roberts Thriver Thursday recipients, which was previewed on Good Morning America in November 2021. In September 2023, Loretta received a Maude Award, given to individuals and companies using innovative methods for engaging with those with dementia. Though her mom passed in January of 2022 the legacy they created continues through Loretta’s work throughout the United States and Europe.

Contact Kim Hegwood

Elder Law Attorney Website: https://www.yourlegacylegalcare.com/

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FREE Books on Dementia Care: https://www.yourlegacylegalcare.com/books

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