Navigating Life's Unexpected Falls: The Power of Advocacy and Support with Elizabeth A. Edwards

In this 43-minute episode of The Navigating Solo™ Podcast, host Ailene Gerhardt speaks with Elizabeth A. Edwards, who shares her personal experience of navigating life after a traumatic fall, highlighting the importance of community support and the challenges she faced living alone.   From navigating the healthcare system to rallying her "root sisters" and patient advocates, Elizabeth opens up about how her experiences have reinforced the significance of having a strong support network, legal documents like advance directives, and access to community resources.    Her story illustrates the vital role of adaptability, self-advocacy, and support systems as we age.   Resources Mentioned During Our Conversation:   Professional Associations:

• American Association of Daily Money Managers (AADMM)
• Patient Advocate Certification Board who confers the Board Certified Patient Advocate (BCPA) Credential
• Society of Certified Senior Advisors who confers the Certified Senior Advisor (CSA) Credential 

Advance Care Planning Resources:

• Honoring Choices: A program that provides advance care planning tools.
• The Conversation Project: A resource focused on helping individuals discuss their end-of-life wishes with loved ones.
• Five Wishes: An advance directive resource helping people plan for future healthcare decisions.
• Next Avenue Article on Shaking Up Advance Care Planning

National Resources Mentioned:

• Senior Planet by AARP: A technology education program offering classes for seniors.
• GetSetUp: an online platform that celebrates every older adult, offering opportunities for physical, mental, and social growth and enabling participation in communities

Resources Located in Idaho:

• The Idaho Statesman Article About Population, January 15, 2024
• Learn Idaho (Lifelong Education and Aging Resource Network): An organization that offers free educational resources and senior technology classes in the Boise area.
• HAPPEN (Healthcare Associates Providing Positive Education and Networking): A professional network offering educational sessions and healthcare resources in Boise.
• Idaho Careline 211: A phone line providing resources and support for non-emergency services in Idaho.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------   Connect with Elizabeth A. Edwards:

• Website: www.blackswanmoneymanagement.com
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethanneedwards

 

Connect with Host Ailene Gerhardt, BCPA, CSA:

• Beacon Patient Solutions LLC: BeaconPatientSolutions.com, Email: [e-mail]
• The Navigating Solo Network™: NavigatingSolo.com Email: [e-mail]