In this episode of Message in the Middle, host Marianne sits down with Amy Friesen—award-winning eldercare expert, best-selling author, and host of the Artful Aging podcast. With more than 20 years in the senior housing industry, Amy has become a guiding light for families navigating the emotional and logistical complexities of caregiving, particularly women in the sandwich generation.
Together, we unpack the often-unspoken challenges caregivers face, from navigating senior housing options and financial burdens to managing guilt, family conflict, and isolation. Amy shares her expert advice on balancing self-care with caregiving duties, creating strong support systems, and making confident, informed decisions for aging loved ones.
Whether you're actively caring for a parent, preparing for the future, or simply curious about how to approach aging with compassion and clarity, this episode offers real talk, practical tips, and a big dose of validation.
💬 In this conversation, we cover:
- What inspired Amy’s mission to support caregivers
- Key factors in choosing between aging at home or in a facility
- Unexpected financial considerations and ways to plan ahead
- Strategies for reducing guilt and navigating difficult family dynamics
- How to find support when you’re feeling alone or overwhelmed
- Amy’s vision for how society should better support caregivers
- The one message she hopes every caregiver hears
🔗 Connect with Amy Friesen:
Website: https://www.amyfriesen.com
Podcast: https://www.teaandtoast.ca
Connect with Marianne:
- Website: Message In The Middle with Marianne
- Message In the Middle Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/422430469323847/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MessageInTheMiddle/playlists
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marianne-demello-smith-678b9966
- Email: Contact | Message In The Middle with Marianne
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