"And people kept saying to her, well, why don't we have something like that in Ohio? Why don't we have something like that in Ohio? And so she never intended to start a nonprofit organization, but she got enough feedback that people really wanted to have the option to at least start working on it." Molly McMahon Graziano - Director of Outreach for Ohio End of Life Options
We’re talking about the sensitive and essential topic of end-of-life options, an area many of us encounter as caregivers for family members, yet one that often leaves us searching for guidance and support.
We sit down with two expert guests: Molly McMahon Graziano, Director of Outreach for Ohio End of Life Options, and Kathleen Carmody, owner of Senior Matters Home Health Care and Consulting, a certified death Doula and dementia practitioner.
We explore the resources available for those facing terminal illness, clarify the distinctions between hospice and the evolving role of the death doula, and shed light on important legal and practical considerations.
The episode also touches on the deeply personal nature of dying. And how, with the right knowledge and support, families can honor their loved ones’ wishes while navigating the challenging end-of-life journey.
Whether you’re currently supporting someone at the end of life, considering how to start these tough conversations, or simply want to better understand the options available, this conversation offers practical insights, heartfelt stories, and a wealth of resources to help you plan with compassion and confidence.
3 Key Takeaways
Death Doulas Offer Practical & Emotional Support: Unlike hospice, death doulas can provide around-the-clock, highly personalized care for both the patient and family, addressing everything from hands-on support to legacy planning and navigating the complex emotional landscape that comes with losing a loved one.
Empowered Choices Begin with Conversation: States differ widely in what end-of-life options are available, but the most important tool is open dialogue. Family discussions, advance directives, and clear communication about wishes ensure loved ones’ preferences are heard and respected.
Proactive Planning Makes the Hardest Times Easier: Start planning before a crisis. Resources like palliative care consults, practical tools (hello, Next of Kin boxes!), and organizations like Ohio End of Life Options and national groups (e.g., Compassion & Choices) are key to navigating care, easing burdens, and ensuring dignity for everyone involved.
If you like this episode, please let us know. We appreciate the feed back, and your support of offset costs of producing the podcast!
Moments
00:00 "Founding Senior Matters Home Care"
06:51 "Dying with Dignity at Home"
07:33 Ohio End of Life Options Founded
11:13 Home Care's Role in End-of-Life
16:10 Support for Caregivers and Doulas
18:24 Prepared for Parental Loss
24:00 Advocating for Transparent Medical Information
28:33 "Encouraging Palliative Care Consultations"
32:28 "Clarifying U.S. Medical Aid Laws"
37:06 "Hospice Enrollment and Aid in Dying"
39:57 "Start Conversations on End-of-Life"
42:04 Planning Elder Care Options
We would love to hear from you.
Give us your feedback, or suggest a topic, by leaving us a voice message.
Email us at hello@lookingforwardourway.com.
Find us on Bluesky and
Popular Podcasts
CrimeLess: Hillbilly Heist
It’s 1996 in rural North Carolina, and an oddball crew makes history when they pull off America’s third largest cash heist. But it’s all downhill from there. Join host Johnny Knoxville as he unspools a wild and woolly tale about a group of regular ‘ol folks who risked it all for a chance at a better life. CrimeLess: Hillbilly Heist answers the question: what would you do with 17.3 million dollars? The answer includes diamond rings, mansions, velvet Elvis paintings, plus a run for the border, murder-for-hire-plots, and FBI busts.
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.