Lighting the Path

Information and education related to hospice and end of life experiences.

How to Reduce Caregiver Stress Using the DAWN Method 04/29/2025

How to Reduce Caregiver Stress Using the DAWN Method In this episode, we welcome Jill Couch, a DAWN Dementia Care Specialist, Trainer, and Occupational Therapist, who brings years of expertise helping families and professionals navigate the challenges of dementia care. Jill explains how the DAWN Method offers a strength-based, person-centered approach that transforms the caregiving experience for both families and professionals. The DAWN Method helps caregivers reduce their stress and find deeper meaning in their roles by focusing on the skills retained by people living with dementia, rather than what has been lost. Jill highlights how this approach not only improves the well-being of those with dementia but also empowers caregivers to feel more confident and less burdened. The conversation also explores how the DAWN Method provides training for professional caregivers-whether in home care, assisted living, or healthcare settings-giving them practical tools to enhance their confidence, reduce workplace stress, and improve outcomes for their clients. Jill shares stories from her work with Better People Care and offers practical advice for anyone supporting a loved one or working professionally with dementia. Key Topics Covered: What is the DAWN Method and how is it different from traditional dementia care? How strength-based, person-centered care can reduce caregiver stress and foster hope. The emotional and practical benefits for families and professional caregivers using the DAWN Method. Real-life examples of how DAWN training has improved care environments and caregiver satisfaction. How to access DAWN Method training and resources for families and professionals. Resources Mentioned: of dementia care agency DAWN Method training and certification programs for families and professionals Connect with Harbor Hospice & Beacon Hospice: Follow . Follow . For more information about Harbor Hospice, please visit For more information about Beacon Hospice, please visit For more information about HarborCare & BeaconCare Palliative Services, please visit Please send your questions or comments to the podcast host at . /episode/index/show/7b6788ca-4023-4014-ab53-1011fba2c6fe/id/36339740

Better Dementia Care: Insights and Advice From Expert Jill Couch 04/15/2025

How to Navigate Caregiving with Dementia Darling Carrie Aalberts 04/01/2025

Dementia Darling Reveals the Practical Realities of Caregiving 03/18/2025

Learn About the Beautiful Work of the Hospice Volunteer 03/04/2025

From Struggle to Support: One Caregiver's Mission to Empower Others 02/18/2025

Alzheimer's Care From the Heart: A Caregiver's Candid Perspective 02/04/2025

Our Exceptional Hospice Professionals Share Their Insights and Perspectives 01/21/2025

How to Navigate Feelings of Guilt and Regret in Grief 01/07/2025

How to Navigate Feelings of Guilt and Regret in Grief In this episode, grief specialist Gary Roe discusses how survivors can manage feelings of guilt after the death of a loved one. Roe explores the difference between guilt and regret and offers methods for finding forgiveness and reducing emotional baggage. Guilt vs. Regret Roe explains that while often used interchangeably, guilt and regret are distinct emotions: - Guilt is the feeling we experience when we knowingly do something wrong, usually related to ethical, moral, or legal reasons. - Regret is the emotion we feel when looking back on past actions, realizing we could have handled situations differently. Strategies for Managing Guilt and Regret Roe shares several strategies for managing these difficult emotions: 1. Release these feelings through talking, writing, or creative expression 2. Seek support: Talk to someone who listens well and loves you[3]. 3. Practice self-compassion: Remember that you're doing the best you can with the information you had at the time. Reducing Emotional Baggage To lighten the load of guilt and regret, Roe suggests: - Accepting that you can't change the past: Focus on what you can control in the present. - Practicing forgiveness: Both for yourself and others involved in the situation. - Honoring the deceased: Find ways to celebrate their memory and continue their legacy. - Seeking professional help: If guilt or regret persist, consider talking to a grief counselor or therapist. You can visit Gary's website for free resources and contact information at . Connect with Harbor Hospice & Beacon Hospice: Follow . Follow . For more information about Harbor Hospice, please visit For more information about Beacon Hospice, please visit For more information about HarborCare & BeaconCare Palliative Services, please visit Please send your questions or comments to the podcast host at . /episode/index/show/7b6788ca-4023-4014-ab53-1011fba2c6fe/id/34740185

The Enormous Effect of Grief on Personal Relationships 12/24/2024

The Enormous Effect of Grief on Personal Relationships In this episode, we welcome grief specialist Gary Roe, author of several books on grief, to discuss how loss impacts relationships. Gary shares insights from his extensive experience and personal journey with grief. This episode offers valuable insights for those navigating grief and its effects on past, present, and future relationships. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the grieving process and learn strategies for maintaining and rebuilding connections during difficult times. The Impact of Grief on Relationships --Grief profoundly affects relationships in various ways: - Changes in relationship dynamics: Grief can alter the nature of connections with friends, family, and partners. - Communication challenges: The overwhelming emotions of grief can make it difficult to express feelings and thoughts. - Emotional rollercoaster: Grieving individuals may experience a range of emotions, including anger, which can strain relationships. --The Five Stages of Grief and Their Effects on Relationships 1. Denial: This initial stage can lead to disbelief and numbness, potentially causing withdrawal from loved ones. 2. Anger: Grieving individuals may lash out at those closest to them, creating conflict and misunderstandings. 3. Bargaining: This stage might involve attempts to restore or rebuild relationships, which can be challenging. 4. Depression: Isolation and loneliness may occur, impacting social connections. 5. Acceptance: Gradually, individuals come to terms with their loss and may be ready to open up to new experiences and relationships. For more information, visit . Connect with Harbor Hospice & Beacon Hospice: Follow . Follow . For more information about Harbor Hospice, please visit For more information about Beacon Hospice, please visit For more information about HarborCare & BeaconCare Palliative Services, please visit Please send your questions or comments to the podcast host at . /episode/index/show/7b6788ca-4023-4014-ab53-1011fba2c6fe/id/34539515

Timely Tips on Ways to Manage Grief at the Holidays 12/10/2024

Timely Tips on Ways to Manage Grief at the Holidays In this podcast episode featuring grief specialist Gary Roe, the discussion centers on managing grief during the holidays, a time often marked by intensified emotions for those experiencing loss. Here are the key points covered in the episode: Why Grief Intensifies During the Holidays Emotional Triggers: The holidays can amplify feelings of grief due to memories associated with loved ones who have passed. Traditions that once brought joy may now serve as painful reminders of absence. Isolation: Many people feel alone in their grief during this time, leading to feelings of sadness and disconnection from others who may not understand their experience. Challenges of Grieving During the Holidays Expectations vs. Reality: Society often promotes a cheerful holiday spirit, which can clash with an individual's personal experience of grief, creating additional pressure. Coping Mechanisms: Some individuals may resort to unhealthy coping strategies, such as overeating or withdrawing from social interactions, as they navigate their pain. Strategies for Managing Grief Acknowledge and Process: Gary emphasizes the importance of acknowledging one’s feelings rather than suppressing them. He introduces the acronym A.I.R.: Acknowledge what you are feeling. Identify how those feelings affect you. Release those feelings through expression—be it talking, writing, or creating art. Seek Support: Engaging with loved ones who can listen and provide comfort is crucial. Sharing experiences can help alleviate feelings of isolation. Personalize Your Grief Journey: Recognize that everyone grieves differently. It’s essential to find what works best for you, whether that’s honoring memories in a new way or creating new traditions. Conclusion Gary Roe's insights remind listeners that grief is a personal journey without a set timeline. He encourages individuals to embrace their feelings and seek support as they navigate through the complexities of loss, especially during emotionally charged times like the holidays. For more resources and support from Gary Roe, visit his website at . Connect with Harbor Hospice & Beacon Hospice: Follow . Follow . For more information about Harbor Hospice, please visit For more information about Beacon Hospice, please visit For more information about HarborCare & BeaconCare Palliative Services, please visit Please send your questions or comments to the podcast host at . /episode/index/show/7b6788ca-4023-4014-ab53-1011fba2c6fe/id/34355365

Our Exceptional Hospice Professionals Share Their Insight and Perspectives, Part 3 11/26/2024

How to Cope With Grief During the Holidays 11/12/2024

Susanne White Offers Timely, Helpful Support to Tired Caregivers 10/29/2024

An Experienced Caregiver Reveals Valuable Life Lessons She Learned 10/15/2024

Our Exceptional Hospice Professionals Share Their Insight and Perspective, Part 2 10/01/2024

Our Exceptional Hospice Professionals Share Their Insight and Perspective, Part 1 09/17/2024

Empowering Caregivers: The Daughterhood Journey with Rosanne Corcoran 09/03/2024

The Caregiving Journey: Lessons from 12 Years With Mom 08/20/2024

Providing Practical Support for Caregivers When it's Needed the Most 08/06/2024

Providing Practical Support for Caregivers When it's Needed the Most In this episode, we explore the vital role of caregiver support groups in helping family caregivers manage the multifaceted stresses of caring for a loved one with a life-limiting illness. Our guest, John Wayland, a spiritual counselor and facilitator for a caregiver support group at Harbor Hospice, shares his insights and experiences on the practical benefits of these groups. Key Discussion Points: Introduction to Caregiver Support Groups: Definition and purpose of caregiver support groups. Overview of the types of support provided: physical, emotional, and spiritual. Guest Introduction: Background of John Wayland. His role as a spiritual counselor and facilitator at Harbor Hospice. Practical Benefits of Support Groups: How support groups help caregivers handle stress and prevent burnout. The importance of sharing experiences and learning from others in similar situations. Practical tips and knowledge shared in these groups that make caregiving easier. Emotional and Spiritual Support: The role of emotional support in maintaining caregiver well-being. Spiritual support and its impact on coping with the challenges of caregiving. Encouragement and Community Building: Stories of encouragement and support from fellow group members. Building a community and sense of belonging among caregivers. Facilitation and Participation: John’s approach to facilitating the group sessions. How participants can join and what to expect in a typical session. Resources and Links: For more information about Harbor Hospice or Beacon Hospice support groups, visit their website at or . Current caregiver support groups are being offered at Harbor Hospice of Lufkin, Harbor Hospice of Lake Charles, Harbor Hospice of Gulf Coast (Rockport), and Harbor Hospice of East Kansas City (Independence, MO). Call to Action: If you are a caregiver feeling overwhelmed, consider joining a support group. You don’t have to do it alone. Reach out to local resources or online support groups to find the help and community you need. Tune in to this insightful episode to learn more about how caregiver support groups can make a significant difference in your caregiving journey. /episode/index/show/7b6788ca-4023-4014-ab53-1011fba2c6fe/id/32448232