EP456 - Elder Care Essentials: Tough Talks and Legal Prep with Kathleen McGuinness

E456 · Physician's Guide to Doctoring with Bradley B. Block, MD

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This episode is sponsored by: Set For Life

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As physicians reach mid- and late-career stages, many face the challenge of managing medical issues for their aging parents. In this episode, Dr. Bradley Block interviews Kathleen McGuinness, who shares insights from her personal experience caring for her parents and husband. Kathleen offers effective strategies for navigating legal documents such as wills and medical power of attorney, initiating difficult conversations about care, and using technology to stay connected.

She also addresses sibling dynamics, cognitive decline, mental health, and medication compliance, providing actionable insights for physicians balancing professional and personal responsibilities. Whether you’re dealing with multi-generational care or geographic distance, this episode equips you with tools to support aging loved ones effectively.

Three Actionable Takeaways:

Prepare Legal Documents Early: Ensure aging parents have a will, durable power of attorney, medical power of attorney, advanced healthcare directive, and HIPAA release form in place while they’re still healthy to avoid complications later.
Use Technology for Connection and Care: Leverage tools like Alexa for reminders, CareZone for medication tracking, and CaringBridge to share updates with family, reducing the burden of care coordination.
Involve Professionals for Tough Conversations: Engage a geriatric care manager or social worker to navigate discussions about moving to assisted living or managing cognitive decline, minimizing family power dynamics.

About the Show:

The Physician’s Guide to Doctoring covers patient interactions, burnout, career growth, personal finance, and more. If you're tired of dull medical lectures, tune in for real-world lessons we should have learned in med school!

About the Guest:

Kathleen McGuinness is a certified dementia practitioner, senior home safety specialist, and end-of-life specialist. As the head of a home care company and a commissioner on the Montgomery County Commission on Aging, she brings decades of experience supporting families through the complexities of elder care. Her personal journey as a caregiver for her aging parents and husband informs her empathetic and practical approach.

Contact Kathleen:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kmcguinness/
Email: km7720@gmail.com

About the Host:

Dr. Bradley Block is a board-certified otolaryngologist at ENT and Allergy Associates in Garden City, NY. He specializes in adult and pediatric ENT, with interests in sinusitis and obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Block also hosts The Physician’s Guide to Doctoring podcast, focusing on personal and professional development for physicians.

Want to be a guest?

Email Brad at brad@physiciansguidetodoctoring.com or visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to learn more!

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