Able to Care

Fall Prevention Tips: How to Safeguard Seniors at Home and in Care

In this episode, we delve into one of the major risks facing older adults: falls. With 1 in 3 people over 65 and half of those over 80 experiencing at least one fall per year, the impact on well-being and mobility can be severe. The episode discusses the causes of falls, including reduced muscle strength, balance issues, and medication side effects. It also covers practical tips to prevent falls at home and in residential care, such as decluttering, securing rugs, improving lighting, and introducing handrails. Additionally, we explore the importance of maintaining independence, promoting mobility, and incorporating exercises like Tai Chi to keep older adults active. Prevention, rather than cure, remains the key message, with insight into risk factors and solutions to help reduce falls and their consequences. Tune in for vital advice on how to keep yourself or your loved ones steady and safe.Key timestamps:00:00:00 - Introduction to Fall Risks 00:02:00 - Common Causes of Falls in Older Adults 00:04:00 - Environmental Hazards and How to Mitigate Them 00:06:00 - Role of Exercise in Fall Prevention 00:10:00 - Practical Tips for Reducing Fall Risks in Residential Care00:19:30 - Final Thoughts and ResourcesKey Messages:Preventing Falls: Maintaining Independence in Older Adults Falls are a leading cause of injury for adults over 65, impacting mobility and well-being. Learn how to prevent falls and protect your loved ones' independence and long-term health.Simple Home Adjustments That Drastically Reduce Fall Risks Discover how reducing clutter, securing handrails, and enhancing lighting can transform homes into safer environments for older adults, preventing falls and improving quality of life.Fall Prevention Strategies to Boost Confidence and Health From balance exercises to proper footwear, explore practical fall prevention tips to help seniors stay mobile, confident, and healthy.Enjoyed this episode? Don't miss out on future conversations! Make sure to subscribe to our podcast for upcoming episodes featuring insightful guests and fantastic hosts. Stay connected! Follow us on social media @abletraining on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram, @abletocarepodcast on TikTok) for behind-the-scenes content, updates, and community engagement. Want to delve deeper into topics discussed on the show? Visit our training website https://www.able-training.co.uk/ for valuable resources and courses to support caregivers on their journey. Thank you for listening! Your support means the world to us. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations

Transforming Family Communication: Expert Parenting Tips with Dr. Jane Gilmore

In this episode of the Able to Care podcast, host Andy Baker sits down with Dr. Jane Gilmour, a consultant clinical psychologist at Great Ormond Street Hospital and course director at University College London. Dr. Gilmour, co-author of "How to Have Incredible Conversations with Your Child," shares her extensive experience in child development, neuropsychology, and managing challenging behaviours in children. They dive into practical strategies for improving communication between caregivers and children, highlighting the importance of emotional literacy, visual tools, and drawing exercises to enhance conversation and connection. Dr. Gilmour also discusses how to foster supportive environments for children, particularly those in the care system, and offers valuable insights on building stronger relationships through meaningful interactions.How to Have Better Conversations with your Child:https://www.amazon.co.uk/Have-Incredible-Conversations-your-Child/dp/1787756408The Incredible Teenage Brain:https://www.amazon.co.uk/Understanding-Teen-Brain-Gilmour-Jane/dp/1785925571Key Timestamp:00:00:00 – Introduction 00:01:10 – Overview of Dr. Gilmore’s Work and Books00:02:30 – The Importance of Emotional Literacy in Children00:10:10 – Using Drawing as a Tool for Communication with Kids00:20:00 – Understanding the Four Compass Points: Who Are You, How Are You00:29:00 – Building Trust and Relationships with Children Through Conversations00:38:45 – Real-Life Impact and Feedback from Families Using the Book00:47:20 – Fostering Emotional Literacy in Different Care Settings00:55:30 – How to Apply these Tools with Teenagers and Adolescents01:01:50 – Conclusion and Where to Find Dr. Jane’s ResourcesThe Power of Emotional Literacy –Teaching children to identify and articulate their emotions is crucial for their mental health and relationship-building. Using tools like drawing can make these conversations more accessible for kids.Engaging Through Creativity – Simple, creative methods like drawing and storytelling can open up meaningful conversations with children, allowing them to express feelings they may otherwise struggle to communicate.Flexibility in Communication – Understanding that communication doesn’t always need to be verbal or intense. Incorporating non-verbal cues, like shared activities or allowing breaks, helps foster a safe and supportive space for children to express themselves.Enjoyed this episode? Don't miss out on future conversations! Make sure to subscribe to our podcast for upcoming episodes featuring insightful guests and fantastic hosts. Stay connected! Follow us on social media @abletraining on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram, @abletocarepodcast on TikTok) for behind-the-scenes content, updates, and community engagement. Want to delve deeper into topics discussed on the show? Visit our training website https://www.able-training.co.uk/ for valuable resources and courses to support caregivers on their journey. Thank you for listening! Your support means the world to us. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations

ABC Analysis Explained: A Comprehensive Guide for Caregivers and Educators

In this episode of the Able to Care podcast, host Andy Baker delves into the powerful tool of ABC analysis to better understand and address challenging behaviours in care and education settings. Learn how to break down incidents into Antecedents, Behaviours, and Consequences to uncover the root causes of behaviours and develop effective strategies for support. Andy also highlights the importance of focusing on both maladaptive and adaptive behaviours, offering practical advice on how to use this method to enhance well-being and communication. Whether you're a caregiver, educator, or parent, this episode provides valuable insights for fostering a more person-centred approach to behavioural management.Make sure to click here to join the exclusive waiting list for Andy’s debut Targeting the Positive Book! https://mailchi.mp/fd4fa9041b83/targeting-the-positiveKey Timestamps[00:00:22] Introduction to ABC Analysis [00:01:21] The Relationship Between Behaviour and Unmet Needs [00:03:04] What is ABC? (Antecedents, Behaviour, Consequences) [00:05:02] Avoiding Assumptions in Behavioural Analysis [00:09:08] Using Patterns in ABC Charts for Behavioural Insights [00:11:32] Real-Life Examples of ABC in Action [00:15:17] The Importance of Recognizing Adaptive Behaviours Key Messages:Understanding Behaviour as Communication: The ABC analysis framework helps caregivers and educators recognize that all behaviour is a form of communication, driven by unmet needs or stress. By understanding the triggers and consequences, we can better support individuals in managing their behaviours.Importance of Objective Documentation: When using ABC charts, it's crucial to document behaviours and their antecedents factually, avoiding assumptions or judgments. This objective approach ensures a clearer understanding of the behaviour and its causes.Recognizing and Encouraging Adaptive Behaviours: Alongside addressing challenging behaviours, it's equally important to identify and reinforce adaptive behaviours. By focusing on what works well, caregivers can help individuals develop healthier strategies for coping with stress and meeting their needs.Enjoyed this episode? Don't miss out on future conversations! Make sure to subscribe to our podcast for upcoming episodes featuring insightful guests and fantastic hosts. Stay connected! Follow us on social media @abletraining on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram, @abletocarepodcast on TikTok) for behind-the-scenes content, updates, and community engagement. Want to delve deeper into topics discussed on the show? Visit our training website https://www.able-training.co.uk/ for valuable resources and courses to support caregivers on their journey. Thank you for listening! Your support means the world to us. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations

How to Support Sensory Needs in Children: Expert Insights with Monique Thoonsen

In this episode of the "Able To Care" podcast, discover essential strategies to support children and adults with sensory processing needs as host Andy Baker engages with Monique Thoonsen, a leading expert and author in the field. Monique shares her insights on how educators, parents, and caregivers can foster inclusive environments by understanding sensory modulation and incorporating practical approaches to enhance learning and well-being. Whether you're a teacher, parent, or caregiver, this episode provides actionable advice on creating supportive spaces for those with sensory differences. Don't miss this insightful conversation packed with expert knowledge and practical tips.Making Sense of Your Senses Workbook: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Making-Sense-Your-Senses-Solutions/dp/1839978023Sensory Solutions in the Classroom:https://amzn.eu/d/0RQclC1Key Timestamps[00:00:00] Introduction[00:01:00] The Importance of Sensory Processing[00:02:08] What is Sensory Processing?[00:05:00] Sensory Integration in the Classroom[00:08:00] Challenges in Sensory Modulation[00:15:00] Writing and Inspiration Behind the Books[00:24:00] The Fan Model and Polyvagal Theory[00:31:00] Strategies for Supporting Sensory Needs[00:47:00] Importance of Modelling and Communication[00:55:00] Final Thoughts and TakeawaysKey Messages:Understanding Sensory Processing is Crucial: Sensory processing plays a vital role in how individuals navigate the world. By understanding and supporting sensory needs, educators, parents, and caregivers can create more inclusive and effective environments for learning and well-being.Practical Strategies for Support: Incorporating movement, adjusting sensory input, and using simple tools like the fan model can significantly improve focus, behaviour, and emotional regulation for individuals with sensory processing differences.The Importance of Empathy and Communication: Building awareness and empathy for sensory differences is crucial. Open communication and modelling self-regulation strategies can help children and adults alike navigate sensory challenges more effectively.

Overcoming Burnout: How Mindset and GPS Can Change Your Life

In this episode of the Able to Care podcast, host Andy Baker dives into the power of mindset and how it can help caregivers, educators, and parents navigate the daily challenges they face. Andy introduces a practical tool—Gratitude, Perspective, and Service (GPS)—that can reshape how we perceive and manage difficult situations. By focusing on gratitude, shifting our perspective, and finding ways to serve others, listeners can learn to silence their inner critic and embrace a more positive, resilient approach to life’s hurdlesTedTalk:https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=JUXJROvVlCIl39dn&v=RcGyVTAoXEU&feature=youtu.beKey Timestamps:00:00- Introduction 00:35- Challenges of Caregiving02:22 - The Inner Opponent and Self-Care04:22 - Understanding and Reframing Stress06:36 - The Power of Perspective08:36- The GPS Tool: Gratitude, Perspective, Service14:43- Application of GPS in Daily Life and ConclusionKey Messages:Embrace Mindset Shifts to Overcome Challenges: Learn how adjusting your mindset can significantly impact your ability to cope with the daily struggles of caregiving, whether for loved ones, students, or others in need.Harness the Power of GPS: Gratitude, Perspective, and Service: Discover a practical tool—Gratitude, Perspective, and Service (GPS)—that can help reframe your thinking, reduce stress, and improve your overall well-being.Transform Stress into a Positive Force:Understand how to view stress not as a burden but as a catalyst for growth and resilience, leading to a more fulfilling and balanced life.Enjoyed this episode? Don't miss out on future conversations! Make sure to subscribe to our podcast for upcoming episodes featuring insightful guests and fantastic hosts. Stay connected! Follow us on social media @abletraining on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram, @abletocarepodcast on TikTok) for behind-the-scenes content, updates, and community engagement. Want to delve deeper into topics discussed on the show? Visit our training website https://www.able-training.co.uk/ for valuable resources and courses to support caregivers on their journey. Thank you for listening! Your support means the world to us. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations

Inclusive Education and Financial Literacy: A Neurodivergent Entrepreneur’s Journey

In this compelling episode of the Able to Care Podcast, host Andy Baker sits down with Louisa Wilcox, a remarkable mother of two children with special educational needs, including one son with cerebral palsy. Louisa shares her powerful journey of advocating for her son, winning a court case against a local authority for his educational needs, and balancing her role as a multi-business owner. As the CEO of Let's Get Wealthy, Louisa empowers high-achieving neurodivergent entrepreneurs and corporate companies by teaching essential financial literacy. Tune in as we explore the challenges and triumphs of parenting a child with disabilities, the importance of mental health, and Louisa's mission to make financial education accessible for all. Lets Get Wealthy Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@letsgetwealthyfe ADHD & Money Podcast: https://sites.libsyn.com/433374 Scope: https://www.scope.org.uk/Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction02:30 - Louisa's Journey into Motherhood 06:45 - Discovering and Managing Cerebral Palsy 11:20 - Advocacy and Winning a Court Case 16:00 - Balancing Motherhood and Business 20:40 - The Mission of Let's Get Wealthy 25:10 - Financial Literacy for All 30:00 - Mental Health and Resilience 34:50 - Navigating the Healthcare System 39:30 - The Power of Community and Support 44:15 - Advice for Parents of Children with Disabilities 48:00 - Closing Thoughts and Future PlansKey Messages:Empowerment through Advocacy: Louisa Wilcox shares her inspiring journey of advocating for her son with cerebral palsy, overcoming legal challenges, and balancing the demands of motherhood with her entrepreneurial ventures. Her story highlights the importance of resilience and determination in facing life's obstacles.Supporting Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs: As the founder of Let's Get Wealthy, Louisa discusses her mission to empower neurodivergent individuals through financial literacy and business support. She emphasises the need for inclusive financial education that is accessible to all, regardless of their neurological differences.Community and Mental Health in Parenting: Louisa offers valuable insights into the role of community support in raising a child with disabilities and the significance of maintaining mental health and resilience. Her advice serves as a guide for parents navigating similar challenges, underlining the power of support networks.Enjoyed this episode? Don't miss out on future conversations! Make sure to subscribe to our podcast for upcoming episodes featuring insightful guests and fantastic hosts. Stay connected! Follow us on social media @abletraining on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram, @abletocarepodcast on TikTok) for behind-the-scenes content, updates, and community engagement. Want to delve deeper into topics discussed on the show? Visit our training website https://www.able-training.co.uk/ for valuable resources and courses to support caregivers on their journey. Thank you for listening! Your support means the world to us. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations

Building Stronger Bonds: Book Review on Effective Communication with Your Child

In this episode of the "Able to Care" podcast, host Andy Baker explores the essential topic of effective communication with children through a review of the book How to Have Incredible Conversations with Your Child by Jane Gilmour and Bettina Honan. This insightful episode emphasises the importance of building strong parent-child relationships, especially when engaging with neurodiverse children. Andy discusses how this book offers practical tools and exercises to enhance emotional intelligence and create meaningful conversations. If you're looking to improve communication and strengthen your connection with your child, this episode is a must-listen.How to Have Incredible Conversations with your Child: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Have-Incredible-Conversations-your-Child/dp/1787756408Timestamps:00:00:00- Introduction 00:02:00- Overview of the Book: How to Have Incredible Conversations with Your Child 00:04:00- Importance of Conversations in Social-Emotional Development 00:07:00- Key Concepts from the Book: Who Are You & How Are You 00:09:00 - Practical Tools for Parents 00:12:00 - Challenges and Benefits of Effective Communication 00:15:00 - Conclusion and RecommendationsKey Messages:The Importance of Conversations: Effective communication is crucial for children’s social-emotional development, especially in the context of challenges like social isolation during lockdownsPractical Tools for Parents: The book ‘How to Have Incredible Conversation with Your Child’ offers valuable tools and activities that help parents engage in meaningful conversations with their children, promoting better relationships and understandingBuilding Emotional Awareness: Teaching children to recognise and manage their emotions through conversations is essential for their overall well-being and personal growth.Enjoyed this episode? Don't miss out on future conversations! Make sure to subscribe to our podcast for upcoming episodes featuring insightful guests and fantastic hosts. Stay connected! Follow us on social media @abletraining on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram, @abletocarepodcast on TikTok) for behind-the-scenes content, updates, and community engagement. Want to delve deeper into topics discussed on the show? Visit our training website https://www.able-training.co.uk/ for valuable resources and courses to support caregivers on their journey. Thank you for listening! Your support means the world to us. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations

Empowering Vulnerable Care: Jayne Connery’s Mission to Transform Elderly Care Standards

In this episode of the Able to Care podcast, host Andy Baker sits down with Jayne Connery, founder of the Care Campaign for the Vulnerable (CCFV). Jayne shares her inspiring journey from a successful career in the airline industry to becoming a passionate advocate for elderly care, driven by her personal experience with her mother’s care. The discussion highlights the importance of transparency, safety, and the implementation of independent safety monitoring in care homes. Jayne also emphasises the need for family and provider collaboration to enhance care delivery and the wellbeing of both residents and caregivers. This episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in or interested in the care sector, offering valuable insights into the future of care and the role of technology in safeguarding vulnerable individuals.Resources: Care Campaign for the Vulnerable (CCFV).- https://www.carecampaignforthevulnerable.com/Care Protect: https://care-protect.co.uk/Key Timestamps00:00:00- Introduction 00:01:00 - Care Campaign for the Vulnerable Overview 00:05:59 - Introduction of Safety Monitoring00:09:59 - Initial Resistance to Safety Monitoring00:14:59 - Changing Mindsets in the Care Sector00:19:59 - Addressing Concerns and Privacy 00:24:59 - Positive Impact of Safety Monitoring 00:29:59 - Use of Safety Monitoring for Training 00:34:59 - Jane's Personal Experience with Safety Monitoring00:39:59 - Future Goals for Care Campaign for the VulnerableKey Messages:Safety Monitoring in Care Homes: Independent safety monitoring is essential to ensure the safety and well-being of elderly residents, protecting them and supporting care providers.Collaboration with Care Providers: Working together with care homes to implement safety monitoring systems enhances care quality and transparency.Personal Experience as a Catalyst: Jane's personal journey, inspired by her mother's care experiences, drives her advocacy for better transparency and safety in elderly care.Enjoyed this episode? Don't miss out on future conversations! Make sure to subscribe to our podcast for upcoming episodes featuring insightful guests and fantastic hosts. Stay connected! Follow us on social media @abletraining on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram, @abletocarepodcast on TikTok) for behind-the-scenes content, updates, and community engagement. Want to delve deeper into topics discussed on the show? Visit our training website https://www.able-training.co.uk/ for valuable resources and courses to support caregivers on their journey. Thank you for listening! Your support means the world to us. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations

Inclusion Beyond Buzzwords: A Deeper Dive

In this Able to Care episode delves deep into the concept of inclusion. Andy highlights how inclusion goes beyond being a buzzword, intricately linking it with equality and diversity. Reflecting on past discussions about the Kitwood flower and its importance in emotional and psychological well-being, Andy emphasises the need for an inclusive approach in care environments, especially for those with dementia. This episode also explores practical aspects of inclusion in daily routines, decision-making, and workplace dynamics, stressing the importance of listening to and valuing every individual's unique preferences and needs. Join Andy as he unpacks the dictionary definition of inclusion and discusses the significance of equality of opportunity in creating environments where everyone feels valued and respected. Tune in to learn how inclusion can transform care practices and foster a more inclusive society.Key Timestamps:00:00:00 - Introduction 00:00:21- Inclusion Definition and Importance00:02:12 - Inclusion in Dementia Care 00:05:02 - Inclusion in Decision-Making and Preferences00:09:04 - Inclusivity in Training and Education00:18:55 - Conclusion Key Messages:The Importance of Inclusion:Inclusion goes beyond being a buzzword; it's about ensuring equal access to opportunities and resources for everyone, particularly in care settings. Inclusion means valuing and respecting every individual’s preferences, cultural backgrounds, and personal choices, thereby promoting a more equitable and supportive environment.Person-Centred Care: The episode emphasises the significance of person-centred care, especially for individuals living with dementia. This approach focuses on the emotional and psychological well-being of individuals, recognizing the importance of their autonomy and control in decision-making processes. Person-centred care involves understanding and catering to individual preferences, likes, and dislikes to create a more inclusive and effective care environment.Inclusivity in Practice: Practical steps for promoting inclusivity include educating oneself about different cultures and needs, advocating for inclusive practices, and being open to learning from mistakes. It's crucial to provide information in accessible formats, involve individuals in decision-making, Enjoyed this episode? Don't miss out on future conversations! Make sure to subscribe to our podcast for upcoming episodes featuring insightful guests and fantastic hosts. Stay connected! Follow us on social media @abletraining on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram, @abletocarepodcast on TikTok) for behind-the-scenes content, updates, and community engagement. Want to delve deeper into topics discussed on the show? Visit our training website https://www.able-training.co.uk/ for valuable resources and courses to support caregivers on their journey. Thank you for listening! Your support means the world to us. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations

From Struggles to Strength: Charlie Beswick’s Inspirational Story of Parenting Twins with Disabilities

In this episode, we have the privilege of hosting Charlie Beswick, a remarkable mother, entrepreneur, author, and advocate. Charlie is the driving force behind several influential businesses and the author of the Amazon bestseller, Our Altered Life, which narrates her journey as a mother to twin sons, including Harry, who was born with complex disabilities. Charlie's mission centres on providing essential support, guidance, and resources to parents and professionals working with individuals with both visible and invisible disabilities, cultivating a supportive and understanding community.Join us as we delve into Charlie's inspiring story, exploring the challenges and triumphs of raising a child with unique needs, the development of her impactful projects, and the valuable lessons she's learned along the way.Key Timestamps:00:00:01 - Introduction00:00:25 - Guest Introduction: Charlie Beswick00:01:41 - The Birth and Challenges00:03:10 - Early Struggles and Guilt00:05:54 - Navigating Parenthood with Twins00:07:16 - Family and Community Support00:09:42 - Addressing Grief and Anger00:12:12 - Lack of Postnatal Support00:15:54 - Dealing with Facial Differences00:18:38 - Oliver’s Experience and Support00:21:41 - Handling Harry’s Care and Sensory Needs00:24:05 - Promoting Self-Care and ResilienceKey Messages:Embrace and Navigate Challenges with Positivity: Charlie shares her journey of raising twins, one of whom, Harry, has Goldenhar syndrome and autism. She emphasises the importance of facing challenges head-on and finding positivity in difficult situations. Her story highlights resilience, the significance of mental strength, and the need for a positive outlook when dealing with unexpected life events.Importance of Community and Support Systems: Charlie discusses the vital role of family, friends, and community in her journey. She underscores how having a supportive network can make a significant difference in coping with the demands of raising a child with special needs. Self-Care and Mental Health Awareness: Charlie talks about the necessity of self-care and recognizing one's mental health needs, especially for parents and caregivers. She stresses that acknowledging and addressing one's emotions, including feelings of guilt, grief, and anger, is crucial.Enjoyed this episode? Don't miss out on future conversations! Make sure to subscribe to our podcast for upcoming episodes featuring insightful guests and fantastic hosts. Stay connected! Follow us on social media @abletraining on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram, @abletocarepodcast on TikTok) for behind-the-scenes content, updates, and community engagement. Want to delve deeper into topics discussed on the show? Visit our training website https://www.able-training.co.uk/ for valuable resources and courses to support caregivers on their journey. Thank you for listening! Your support means the world to us. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations