Episode 28: Best Practice Considerations for Aging Services Pros: End-of-Life Care Planning

About the Episode:

End-of-life care is a critical aspect of the aging journey, as it focuses on providing comfort, dignity, and support to every individual. It involves complex emotional, physical and spiritual approaches to care, depending on each individual’s needs. For Aging Services Professionals, it is essential to be well-prepared to address any concerns clients may have as they navigate care options. 

From medical expertise to proper communication, counseling, and care collaboration, professionals can make this experience one that is easier to navigate for families and loved ones. Tune into our latest ComForConnections podcast episode to learn more about end-of-life care planning. Obtain insights and resources from Karen Faith Gordon, owner of Karen Faith, LLC, to help clients make informed decisions that support their quality of life.

Click to Listen to the Episode:

About Karen Faith Gordon:
Karen has spent her career guiding individuals and families who are navigating the aging process. “Meeting people where they’re at” is a guidepost for Karen as she seeks to support clients in achieving their optimal well-being. Her scope of practice focuses on life transitions, including retirement, caregiving, relocation, changes in lifestyle due to a diagnosis, end-of-life, grief, and loss. 

Dementia is one of the most frequent diagnoses Karen sees in her practice, as she works with both the person experiencing the diagnosis as well as the loved ones affected by changes associated with the disease process. Integrating principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness, Karen works with clients to help them process emotions, learn new skills of communication, practice self-compassion, and find ease through the challenges of aging.

Episode Notes:

• How Karen Faith, LLC, supports clients on their aging journey
• Understanding end-of-life care and how aging services professionals can help their clients through this process
• Options for end-of-life care and how aging services professionals can help clients determine the best option for their needs
• Considerations aging services professionals should have in mind when discussing end-of-life care planning with their clients, especially about individuals who can’t self-advocate due to disability or another physical condition
• Understanding grief counseling, its benefits, and who should pursue it
• Tips and resources for aging services professionals who are helping clients with end-of-life care decisions 

Episode Resources:

• karenfaith.llc
• Transitional Care – How We Can Help – ComForCare
• Providing Care and Comfort at the End of Life – National Institute on Aging
• What Are Palliative Care and Hospice Care? – National Institute on Aging
• End-of-life Care – Mayo Clinic
• End of Life Care – HealthyAging.org