About the Guest:

Margaret Hodgkinson is a dedicated mum, grandma, and teacher currently balancing her life while caring for her ageing mother. She has recently navigated the intricate and often frustrating system of aged care in New South Wales, Australia. Her journey through dealing with health, legal, and financial challenges of elder care provides her with unique perspectives and wisdom invaluable to those facing similar situations.

Key Takeaways:

• Initiate Early Conversations: Start discussing aged care plans with your parents well before it becomes a critical need for easier transitions.
• Understand Legalities: Learn about NCAT, enduring power of attorney, and other legal instruments crucial for managing elderly care.
• Leverage Support Networks: Utilize available services like social workers, community seminars, and a trusted solicitor to navigate the system smoothly.
• Maintain Mental Health: Caregivers need to ensure they look after their well-being through emotional support and time management.
• Proactive Financial Planning: Organize finances early on, including understanding pensions, assets assessments, and planning for aged care costs.

Notable Quotes:

1. "It's only a natural reaction. Yes, they were managing on a day-to-day basis, but I was becoming more concerned..."
2. "You've either die young or get old. So what's your option? They're your options, basically." 
3. "I enjoy seeing my kids and grandkids going for a walk, especially in the bush." 
4. "It is really hurtful because you're wanting the best for them and yet they're treating every decision you make with intense suspicion."

Resources:

NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal

Anglicare Sydney - Retirement Living, Home Care and Residential Aged Care | Anglicare

Click here to contact Janet & Amelia or ask them a question or click here to contact the She Wasn't Born Yesterday team!

She Wasn’t Born Yesterday, hosted by Janet Evans, a former M&C Saatchi advertising creative and Dr Amelia Haines, a sexual and relationship therapist, who have written Australia’s first book on empty nest syndrome called Empty Next.

Visit Empty Nest Chicks for more resources, click here for their book, or join the discussion on Facebook.

Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.