Susan Houts: Caregiver Tips for Easing Anxiety and Prioritizing Self-Care While Traveling

I have a small but important correction to share. In the podcast, you’ll hear Susan mention that there are two types of personal in-home care companies, one that hires I-9 Employees and one that hires W-2 Employees. Instead of I-9, she meant to say 10-99 employees, meaning that home care registries utilize contractors (10-99 employees) and home care agencies utilize W-2 Employees. W-2 employees complete I-9 forms. Thank you for noting this correction, and enjoy the following podcast.

Guest Introduction: 

Hey there, friend! Welcome to Exploring the Seasons of Life: Travel Edition! I’m Cindy MacMillan, your host and founder of Pangea World Travel Agency.

Whether you’re a busy midlife professional, an empty nester, or a woman with a heart for adventure, you’re in the right place!

This podcast isn't just about travel—it’s about how travel connects with the broader themes of life: growth, discovery, and reinvention. Join me and inspiring guests as we share personal stories of adventure and meaningful transformation. We’ll explore everything from hidden travel gems to life-changing experiences.

So grab your coffee, get cozy, and let’s embark on this adventure together!

Now, it’s my pleasure to introduce today’s guest, Susan Houts.

Susan Houts is a world traveler, former educator, and current Community Liaison for Assisting Hands Home Care here in Brevard, Florida. After serving as an Associate Professor of Public Speaking and Interpersonal Communication at Eastern Florida State College for 12 years, she transitioned into Senior Care after seeing the need for community education in this area. She grew up in Rockledge, Florida, and currently lives in Palm Bay with her husband of 16 years, Aaron.

Here’s a glimpse of our conversation: 

2:15 I’ve spoken to many people who are afraid to leave because they’re the primary caregiver for someone. But this can be a great opportunity to benefit both the person receiving care and the caregiver, allowing them to continue living their lives without worry.

6:01 In our community, there's a phrase that resonates with travelers: 'Take your oxygen first.' On a plane, they always instruct you to put your own oxygen mask on before helping a child or anyone else. The reason is simple: if you pass out, you won't be able to help anyone.

6:46 It's important to prepare in advance by reaching out to the community and using resources like Assisting Hands and the healthcare community to set up care ahead of time. If you leave it as an afterthought, you might find yourself on your trip, unable to fully enjoy it because you're constantly worried about what's happening at home.

8:35 If you have a company, ask others for recommendations. When we have a loved one in need of care—whether it's a senior or someone with health issues—it often feels like we're the only ones going through it. It feels very personal and can affect every part of our lives. But remember, you're not alone in this.

13:36 The really interesting thing about care, especially that I've learned in the senior care world, is that everybody's needs are completely different. Completely different, right?

34:33 I’d like to share one more tip I got from a friend who is a senior care advisor. I love her advice: when you're looking for support, whether before your trip or even during, focus on getting help with the task you dislike the most.

You can find Susan Houts at:

Website  |   Susan Houts, Certified Dementia Practitioner

 Thank you for tuning in to Exploring the Seasons of Life: Travel Edition! I’m Cindy MacMillan, and I’m truly grateful to have you on this adventure with me.

If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to share it with your friends, post about it on social media, or leave a rating and review. Thanks to your support, we can inspire even more travel enthusiasts like yourself!

I’d love to connect with you! Follow me on Instagram @pangeaworldtravelagency for more travel inspiration and updates.

Until then, keep exploring and embracing the journey. I can’t wait to see you next time!