The Value of Wrinkles
By Isabel
Come explore how to love the older generation (and ourselves more).
The Value of WrinklesOct 21, 2021
Ep 67: How the Grandkid Investigator Kit is Supporting Nonprofits
Learn what The Value of Wrinkles is doing to support nonprofits and how you bring more GOOD into the world through buying the Grandkid Investigator Kit. I'm also sharing the special perks for those who purchase the kit from Feb 1-9th!
Highlights
What I'm doing to support a nonprofit this month
If you purchase the kit between Feb 1-9th, you'll be invited to a special LIVE Zoom session for a Q+A so you can get help using kit right away!
30% of sales between Feb 1-9 will be donated to the Caregiving Support Network!
What does the Caregiving Support Network do and why did I choose them?
Resources Mentioned
Faith Community Monthly Meetups - Join with other Christians/ministry leaders who want to support caregivers/older adults in their congregations. Register at www.valueofwrinkles.com/churchworkshops.
Link to my interview on Good Morning Washington where I got to talk about the Grandkid Investigator Kit!
Buy the Grandkid Investigator Kit and support the Caregiving Support Network too!
Learn about the Caregiving Support Network.
Let's connect sign up for my newsletter | find me on instagram | check out my facebook page | contact meLooking for more? grab my book The Value of Wrinkles | explore the store
Ep 66: Why You Should Visit Your Parents In January
Website: valueofwrinkles.com
Sign up for my newsletter: valueofwrinkles.com/signup
Instagram: @isabelctom
BONUS: Welcome to 2024!
It's been a few months since the last episode. That's because I've been working behind the scenes on some exciting projects.
Follow along and let's connect in 2024!
Ep 65: The Passage Pastors Need to Share About Grandparents
Today I'm breaking out the Bible and using the Discovery Bible Method to break down 1 Timothy 5:4 and why it's important to share particularly with youth groups/teens/young adults. If you're a pastor, preacher, youth pastor or ministry leader, listen to this episode to hear what the Bible instructs us to do in regard to grandparents.
Shownotes available at valuefowrinkles.com/listen.
Resources mentioned:
- Grand Monday Nights - YouTube (Subscribe, LIKE and Share these videos!)
Intro done by Barb Lorenz, Host of Grand Monday Nights with The Legacy
Ep 64: Resources for Celebrating Grandparents Day in Your Church
In this episode, we'll explore meaningful ways to honor and celebrate Grandparents Day within your faith community. In this episode, Isabel will guide you through three simple steps you can use to create a special and heartwarming Grandparents Day celebration that truly shows your appreciation for the older generation. Prayer and gift ideas included!
Highlights:
- We'll talk about the topic of celebrating Grandparents Day in faith communities.
- The lack of focus on honoring grandparents' in churches.
- The growing importance of honoring grandparents due to increased life expectancy.
- Get three simple steps on how to celebrate grandparents in your church.
Resources mentioned:
- Read 1 Timothy 5:4.
- Two gift ideas for grandparents - https://www.valueofwrinkles.com/store
Shownotes available at valuefowrinkles.com/listen.
Intro by: Bobbie Kogok, grandmother, illustrator/author of Rocky the Christmas Owl and more, bkpenandpaint.com.
Book: The Value of Wrinkles
Sign up for my newsletter: valueofwrinkles.com/signup
Instagram: @isabelctom
Ep 63 (Q+A) How Do you Deal With Parents Who are Really Difficult?
How do deal with aging parents who are difficult, challenging, sometimes stubborn and resistant? Dealing with elderly family members who are difficult can leave you as an adult child or grandchild stressed and frustrated. Listen to today's episode to get three tips on how to care for "difficult" family members.
Highlights:
- 3 things to remember when you have "difficult parents"
- Not think of them as a "difficult person"
- It will take longer and more energy to care for someone who is challenging. The video I have below will help.
Resources mentioned:
- The Silver Post (intro done by the founder) The Silver Post coupon code for $5 off the annual subscription - Go to https://www.hello.thesilverpost.com/ and use this code on an annual subscription. This is a super fun and easy way to connect with family especially if you're busy.
- Podcast episode from Montgomery Hospice Center for Learning, "Working with Challenging Families" with social worker Lisa Frank
- FREE video from the Prepare to Care course. Show this video to your aging parents/older loved ones - valueofwrinkles.com/talk (also available in Mandarin now!)
Shownotes available at valuefowrinkles.com/listen.
Intro by: Carolyn Dalle-Molle, Co-founder of The Silver Post
Book: The Value of Wrinkles
Sign up for my newsletter: valueofwrinkles.com/signup
Instagram: @isabelctom
Ep 62: Why I'm Shy About Sharing my Prepare to Care Digital Course
Today I'm sharing why I've been shy about talking about my digital course, even though I'm the most passionate about it. The Prepare to Care digital course is a course that supports caregivers and even those who are not yet caregivers but want to love and honor their elders well.
Highlights:
- The type of Instagram posts I love reading and following
- Why I'm rarely share my digital course when I should be sharing it more
- Doctors and the type of doctors you want
- The bad news I bring
- Why you're probably fearful about talking with your older loved ones about certain things
- Have the tough talks
Resources mentioned:
- #bujo #outfitideas
- FREE video from the Prepare to Care course. Show this video to your aging parents/older loved ones - valueofwrinkles.com/talk
- This is available in Mandarin thanks to my friend Xiu-Hong.
Shownotes available at valuefowrinkles.com/listen.
Book: The Value of Wrinkles
Sign up for my newsletter: valueofwrinkles.com/signup
Instagram: @isabelctom
Ep 61: Resources for Homeschool Families with Grandparents
Today I'm sharing a great intergenerational resource for homeschool moms who want to connect their kids with grandparents. This resource called the Family Resource Guide by Rhondalyn Richardson can be used as part of your homeschool curriculum Rhondalyn, a homeschool mom, uses her Family Worship Guides to help families study the history and Scripture behind famous hymns. She includes fun and engaging activities for the kids and the hymns are sure to be a winner with Christian grandparents. Listen to today's episode to see how this resource can be an effective way to help your children connect with their grandparents.
Shownotes available at valuefowrinkles.com/listen.
Resources mentioned:
- The Solid Rock Family Worship Guide (28 Devotions), $12
- How Great Thou Art Family Worship Guide (28 Devotions), $12
- Episode 58 (Behind the Scenes): Grandkid Investigator Camp
- The Inspired Business Sales Funnel Club- This is the Christian business group that I am a part of. If you'd like to learn more or join, visit HERE. (This is an affiliate link. When you join, it will allow me to get a small commission to support my small business. Thank you!)
- Fill-in-the-blanks Fun (My Childhood Home Edition), $4.97
Today's intro: Agent Brock Mooch from the 2023 Grandkid Investigator team
Ep 60: (Q+A) Did you ever have to say farewell to someone who was passing on?
Have you ever wondered what it is like to be with someone who is actively dying? I'm sharing with you my experience and while the end of life is not always something we talk about, I hope that it will benefit and comfort those who listen.
Listen to episode 59 to know why I'm answering questions. Also, sign up for my email list and send me questions you might like answered either in future episodes or in the database library I'm creating.
Shownotes available at valuefowrinkles.com/listen.
Sign up for my newsletter: valueofwrinkles.com/signup
Instagram: @isabelctom
Today's intro: Alexis Baker from Bridgetown Music Therapy
Ep 59: The Q+A episode and Why I'm Doing It
I'm starting a new type of episode on The Value of Wrinkles podcast and tell you why today. Have specific questions about caring for an aging parent? Feeling completely confused or don't even know what questions you need to ask? If you're starting out this journey as a caregiver OR you're simply an adult child or grandchild who has a question and wants to support your grandparent or aging parent, get ready for these Q+A episodes!
If you have a question about how to love, honor, value, care, or encourage someone as they age, send it my way! Email thevalueofwrinkles(at)gmail.com with "Q+A" in the subject line.
Shownotes available at valuefowrinkles.com/listen.
Resources mentioned:
- Join my email list at https://www.valueofwrinkles.com/signup
- The Value of Wrinkles: A Young Perspective on How Loving the Old Will Change Your Life Moody Publishers from Amazon
Ep 58 (Behind the Scenes): Grandkid Investigator Camp
Giving a behind-the-scenes into why I almost cancelled grandkid investigator camp!
Shownotes available at valuefowrinkles.com/listen.
Resources mentioned:
Ep 57: Free Resources I Offer and Why You Need Them!
1. FREE PDF - 3 Things Your Aging Parent is Thinking But May Never Tell You
2. FREE VIDEO to help you talk about the difficult issues
3. Episodes from this podcast
Episodes for churches
Episodes for Asian Americans
Episodes with practical tips
Episodes about aging and dealing with birthdays
The Silver Post Subscription - Get a discount by using the code "ISABEL" for an annual subscription
Ep 56: What to do When You Don't Know Where to Start
If you are trying to prepare for when your aging parent declines or you're already in the thick of caregiving, today's episode will help you know where to start when you are overwhelmed and have no idea where to start.
Shownotes available at valuefowrinkles.com/listen.
Book: The Value of Wrinkles
Sign up for my newsletter: valueofwrinkles.com/signup
Instagram: @isabelctom
Today's intro: Alexis Baker from Bridgetown Music Therapy
Ep 55: Making Grandparent Time Fun This Summer with Author Roxy Wiley
Will your kids be spending time with grandparents this summer? Listen to this interview with author of DIY Camp Grandma, Roxy Wiley, to get tips to making grandparent time more fun!
Highlights:
- The goal of camp is FUN!
- What age limits would you set on planning Camp Grandma?
- What happened when she had one grandson among many granddaughters?
- Find a theme that incorporates what you love to do!
- Roxy talks about how she uses her love language of gift giving to make camp fun.
- What advice does Roxy give now that her grandkids are older?
Resources mentioned:
- Get Roxy’s book, DIY Camp Grandma - https://amzn.to/3N8Mr0
- Sign up for Roxy’s newsletter that comes out every Friday at http://diycampgrandma.weebly.com.
Other things mentioned:
- Interested in registering your kids for my upcoming Grandkid Investigator Summer Meetups? Email me at thevalueofwrinkles(at)gmaildotcom.
Today’s intro was done by Bea, a friend of mine who taught me how to make tasty cakes. Still have the recipe.
Connect - Join my email list at https://www.valueofwrinkles.com/signup
Book: The Value of Wrinkles: A Young Perspective on How Loving the Old Will Change Your Life Moody Publishers from Amazon
Website: https://valueofwrinkles.com
Shownotes available at https://www.valueofwrinkles.com/listen
Update May 2023
Taking a break this week! See you for episode 55 next week!
Other episodes: https://valueofwrinkles.com/listen
Website: valueofwrinkles.com
Sign up for my newsletter: valueofwrinkles.com/signup
Instagram: @isabelctom
Ep 54: How to Celebrate Your 40th Birthday
Today's episode I'm sharing how I celebrated my birthday and four things I intentionally focused on that have helped me be grateful for my age! God has been faithful and I'm so thankful!
Full shownotes at https://valueofwrinkles.com/listen
Website: valueofwrinkles.com
Sign up for my newsletter: valueofwrinkles.com/signup
Instagram: @isabelctom
Ep 53: Erasing Shame as an Asian American with DJ Chuang
Today DJ Chuang tells how he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and openly shares about his mental health journey as an Asian American male.
DJ Chuang works as a digital strategy consultant and is Director of Christian Asian Mental Health (camh.network) to advance compassion and care in Asian American churches for everyone. He co-hosts the Erasing Shame podcast (erasingshame.com and graduated from Virginia Tech. He blogs at djchuang.com and lives in Orange County, California.
Introduction done by : Felicia Gunawan (Check out Episode 51 to hear from her)
A special thanks to AARP for sponsoring the Asian American series of The Value of Wrinkles podcast!
Ep 52: What Seniorcare Resources are out there for Asian American families?
May is AANHPI Heritage Month! In this episode I'm going to help you find more support as you care for your Asian elder.
- Imagine going to a foreign country and trying to get around.
- Why I was intimidated to do this episode.
- Two reasons why it's hard to find senior services for Asian elders
- What's Asian speaking vs. Asian owned senior care services
- What's an ABC? American-born Chinese
- 3 places to find senior care services/resources for your Asian elder
FULL SHOWNOTES at valueofwrinkles.com/listen
Grab a copy of my book!
Wondering how you can bless older people in your life or community? Read my book to hear my story of how I found a career path in the aging services/senior care field.
The Value of Wrinkles: A Young Perspective on How Loving the Old Will Change Your Life.
Introduction done by : Caroline Goon
A special thanks to AARP for sponsoring this American series of The Value of Wrinkles podcast!
Ep 51: Caring for Our Asian Elders through Food w/ Felicia Gunawan, Functional Nutrition Advisor
Caring for parents or grandparents is different in Asian culture. Today I chat with Felicia Gunawan, who is an Indonesian Functional Nutritional Advisor. We talk about how food can be used to care for our elders as they age, when they're sick, or simply need some comfort. If you are an Asian adult child or caregiver, be sure to tune in for insight, encouragement, and inspiration.
This podcast is sponsored by AARP. For full shownotes go to valueofwrinkles.com/listen and click on Episode 51.
Resources mentioned:
- Get FREE access to part of my Prepare to Care digital course. Here's a way to respectfully start conversations with parents, grandparents or older loved one. Yes, even if they don't want to talk about it, this resource will help. Go to https://valueofwrinkles.com/talk to grab this. Various translations to come!
- Episode 18: Loving our Grandparents and Parents with Food
Website: valueofwrinkles.com
Sign up for my newsletter: valueofwrinkles.com/signup
Instagram: @isabelctom
Ep 50: Three (or Four) Things to Remember When Caring for an Asian Elder
Today I'm beginning a series that is specifically for Asian Americans caring for their older loved ones. Asian elders have different needs and our families also have different dynamic than other cultures. Isabel Tom explores the challenges of caring for our Asian elders while also offering three (or four) reminders for the Asian caregiver. Resources mentioned: AARP Resources: (coming soon!) FREE video to help you start conversations with your older loved one: valueofwrinkles.com/talk Book: The Value of Wrinkles: A Young Perspective on How Loving the Old Will Change Your Life, get it from Moody Publishers for 50% off for their Book Lovers Sale on April 25 or from Amazon. Connect: Want to be friends? My email list is where I connect the MOST with followers - Get on the list at https://www.valueofwrinkles.com/signup Shownotes available at https://www.valueofwrinkles.com/listen Introduction done by : Tricia Sandiego, Sr. Advisor for AARP’s Caregiver and Health Team A special thanks to AARP for sponsoring the Asian American series of The Value of Wrinkles podcast!
Website: valueofwrinkles.com
Sign up for my newsletter: valueofwrinkles.com/signup
Instagram: @isabelctom
Ep 49: How to Bring Your Grandparent on an Outdoor Adventure
Today I discussed with Brad and Grandma Joy how we can help older adults have more opportunities to experience and enjoy nature. Learn from this pair how you can bring your grandparent or older family member on an outdoor adventure! Brad and Grandma Joy have now visited 62 out of 63 national parks and in this episode share tips on how old and young can enjoy the outdoors together.
Resources mentioned:
Book: The Value of Wrinkles: A Young Perspective on How Loving the Old Will Change Your Life, get it from Moody Publishers for 50% off for their Book Lovers Sale on April 25 or from Amazon.
Connect: Want to be friends? My email list is where I connect the MOST with followers - Get on the list at https://www.valueofwrinkles.com/signup
Shownotes available at https://www.valueofwrinkles.com/listen
Thank you Nevin for helping with today's introduction!
Ep 48: A New Intergenerational Activity that is TRULY Fun
I have had a ton of parents ask me how they can get their child to connect with the grandparents. In today's episode, I'm introducing a fun, educational, and meaningful intergenerational activity that grandchildren can do with their grandparents or that can be used just to build better relationships between the old and young.
Highlights:
- Madlibs with a twist
- Three reasons why you'll love Fill-in-the-blanks Fun
- Where you can get it
Resources mentioned:
- Get Fill-in-the-Blanks Fun for $3.97 at https://www.valueofwrinkles.com/store.
- Get an annual Silver Post subscription to connect with grandparents who are long distance for $45. Use coupon code "ISABEL" for $5 off your annual subscription!
Website: www.valueofwrinkles.com
Full shownotes at valueofwrinkles.com/listen.
Ep 47: What's the ideal age to talk with your parents about senior care?
Highlights from today's episode:
- Doctors are also asking this same question
- How weddings and end of life are quite similar
- Learn the ideal age when you should talk to your parents about senior care
- Get a resource that will help you start talking about the future with your older loved ones
Resources mentioned:
- Prepare to Care digital course, enroll NOW at https://www.valueofwrinkles.com/prep-to-care
- American Association of Family Physicians article on Discussing End-of-Life Care with Your Patients
- Grab this FREE resource to help you with talking to your parents about future care, end of life issues, what to do if a crisis occurs at https://www.valueofwrinkles.com/talk
Today's Intro was brought to you by:
Wren Robbins, my podcast strategy coach, https://wrenrobbins.com/
Check out her Don't Wing It podcast to get tips on podcasting https://wrenrobbins.com/dontwingit.
Website: Valueofwrinkles.com
Connect on Instagram @isabelctom or facebook.com/thevalueofwrinkles
Ep 46: Betty Mills, Speaking Up Even When Your Name (or Someone Else's) is on the Line
Ever been in a situation where you feel like something was wrong and you didn't know whether you should speak up? Having courage to speak up is no easy thing. Betty was a nurse anesthetist in the army. As I took some time to reflect on Betty's life, particularly in her younger years, I found her story insightful, entertaining, and also inspiring. Listen and learn from Betty Mills share about situations in her life where she chose to speak up.
Resources mentioned:
Episode 21 - Betty Mills, 79, Clean During Commercials
Today's intro was brought to you by Bobbie Kogok, 68.
Learn about Bobbie's books and art at bkpenandpaint.com.
Grab a copy of Rocky the Christmas Owl.
Ep 45: Careers in Aging, What are the Benefits of Working in the Aging Field?
Have you ever wondered what it might be like to serve old people professionally? There are so many benefits and reason to consider serving seniors. Listen to today's episode to find out. In celebration of the upcoming Career in Aging Week on March 26-April 1, 2023, I'm dedicating episode 45 to this topic!
Highlights:
- Intro by Carolyn Dalle-Molle, Co-founder of The Silver Post (listen to episode 44 to get a discount code for The Silver Post and to hear all about it!)
- Benefits of working and serving older adults
- Types of jobs you could consider: Visit AHCA/NCAL or Gerontological Society of America for more career paths in the aging field!
Resources mentioned:
- The Value of Wrinkles: A Young Perspective on How Loving the Old Will Change Your Life
- A shoutout to AARP Intern Program. For more info, visit HERE.
- The two employers - Erickson Senior Living and Montgomery Hospice
Website:
valueofwrinkles.com
Ep 44: 4 Ways to Connect Children with Long Distance Grandparents
You're a busy parent, yet you want your kids to know and connect with their grandparents more. You also know your parents are blessed and excited anytime they get to interact with their grandchildren. That interaction, however, can be awkward or unnatural. How can you help your kids to connect with their grandparents who are long distance?
Resources mentioned:
- Blog post - What do you talk to the grandparents about?
- The Silver Post coupon code for $5 off the annual subscription - Go to hello.silverpost.com and use this code on an annual subscription. This is a super fun and easy way to connect with grandparents that takes into account your busy life!
Website:
Ep 43: Upcoming Changes to The Value of Wrinkles podcast
Ep 42: The Benefits of Starting a Caregiving Ministry First
Today's episode is the last in this series. Check out episodes 39, 40, and 41 to hear the first three episodes specifically made for church who want to focus more on serving the older generation.
Highlights:
- What is a caregiving ministry? In this episode, caregiving ministry refers to ministries that serve those are caring for older loved ones.
- What are the benefits of starting a caregiving ministry first?
- Greater impact and teaching people how to love their own family
- Building connections and stronger community
- Supporting a wide range of people
Resources mentioned:
Other episodes in this church series
- Episodes 39-42: valueofwrinkles.com/listen
Five Love Languages series
- Episodes 8,10, 12, 14, 16
Sign up for church newsletter to hear about upcoming virtual info meeting and discover other resources or tips to building a culture of care for the older generation
Learn more about the Prepare to Care video-based training for churches
- Churches can get a two-week trial to consider this resource for their church
- https://www.valueofwrinkles.com/prepare-to-care-church
Website: valueofwrinkles.com
Instagram: @isabelctom
Ep 41: Is your Church Segmented?
On the podcast today, we are asking the question.. Is your church segmented?
Highlights:
- How can you tell if your church is segmented?
- My thoughts on youth services based on experience
- How many kids were in my Sunday School growing up?
- Will there be pushback when you try to bridge the young and the old?
Articles mentioned:
Interview with Kara Powell https://www.christianitytoday.com/pastors/2009/summer/istheeraofagesegmentationover.html
Missio article
https://www.missioalliance.org/how-loving-the-old-will-strengthen-your-church/
Resources:
Sign up for my church newsletter at valueofwrinkles.com/church
Website: valueofwrinkles.com
Instagram: @isabelctom
Ep 40: 3 Resources Available to Help Your Church Create a Culture of Care for the Older Generation
Here are 3 resources to start using now to help your church create a culture of care for the older generation:
1. Legacy Coalition– Offers support for grandparents to have a greater spiritual impact on their families
Sign up for their newsletter to find out about their Grand Monday nights, Summits and resources
They reach 10,000+ grandparents through their Grand Monday night ministry
On March 6th, I will be their Grand Monday night guest!
2. Prepare to Care – Offers support to caregivers and families who are caring for an older loved one
created by Isabel Tom, a caregiver/senior care professional
Ability to host groups (leader guide for a 5 week group)
Ability for individuals to use it themselves
Can be utilized to connect with community members who are caregivers
Group discount plans for churches**
3. The Value of Wrinkles Newsletter Exclusively for Churches – Find out about virtual meetings, new resources and get support this year on how to help your church to serve the older generation more in 2023
Sign up for the newsletter at valueofwrinkles.com/church
Other episodes mentioned:
Episode 36: Why Every Church Should Serve the Older Generation
Look out for the next three episodes all dedicated to supporting churches.
Ep 39: Is Your Church Isolating Older Adults Without Knowing It?
Today's episode and the next three is for faith communities that are looking to honor the older generation more intentionally.
Resources mentioned in today's podcast:
Prepare to Care video training course (for churches) - https://www.valueofwrinkles.com/prepare-to-care-church
Website: valueofwrinkles.com
Sign up for my newsletter: valueofwrinkles.com/signup
Instagram: @isabelctom
Bonus Episode: Announcing our February series
Today I'm announcing the next four episodes of The Value of Wrinkles podcast. This is a series just for churches/faith communities that are hoping to honor hte older generation.
Share this series with your church or any church that is looking to honor and serve the older generation. Listen in!
Website: valueofwrinkles.com
Sign up for my newsletter: valueofwrinkles.com/signup
Instagram: @isabelctom
Ep 38: Your Parents are Getting Older...Now What?
Highlights:
Instead of simply worrying about the future, this is what you can do.
How we need training for all sorts of jobs.
What wiping out on the ski slopes has to do with caregiving
How you can prepare so you don't experience the trauma of caregiving
Resources mentioned:
- The Prepare to Care digital course, valueofwrinkles.com. Click on ENROLL (the price will be going up in 2023)
Website:
valueofwrinkles.com
Instagram: @isabelctom
Book: The Value of Wrinkles: A Young Perspective on How Loving the Old Will Change Your Life
Email newsletter: valueofwrinkles.com/signup
Ep 37: Why Serving Older Adults and Their Families is my Passion
Why is serving older adults and their families my passion? Why is it still my passion? There are so many reasons. Check out today's episode to know why I do what I do.
Highlights:
- How do you have the energy to record a podcast after a long day… even when your son is still not in bed at 10:50pm?
- Why I do what Id o
- How my experience living in a multigenerational home helped me understand the older person and the adult child/caregiver
Resources mentioned:
- Book - The Value of Wrinkles
- FREE resource - Three Things Your Aging Parent is Thinking But May Never Tell You
Shownotes available
Ep 36: Why Every Church Needs to Serve the Older Generation
There are so many ways that churches serve the needs of its congregation. Why is it so important that every church serve the older generation? In today's episode, I'll delve into that and give you some thoughts that you may never have considered.
Highlights:
- What message it sends when you have (or don't have) a ministry serving the older generation
- Valuing older adults is not just something the church should do because it’s the right or good thing to do. Valuing older adults is something the church should do because God wants us to and in the Bible even tells us to do.
- Serving the older generation sends a message to everyone else
- Invite the ministry/church leaders in your church to a virtual focus group with me on Jan 24th and 26th. Go to valueofwrinkles.com/faith2023 for more info or to register.
Resources mentioned:
- The Value of Wrinkles: A Young Perspective on How Loving the Old Will Change Your Life, Chapter 8 "Old is Healthy"
- Becoming Sage by Michelle Van Loon
- Virtual Focus Group with Isabel Tom on Jan 24th and 26th for church and ministry leaders
Other related links:
- Episode 23 - How Loving the Old Will Strengthen Your Church
- Article on "How Loving the Old Will Strengthen Your Church" by Isabel Tom
Connect with me:
Website: Valueofwrinkles.com
Email: valuefowrinkles.com/signup
instagram: @isabelctom
Ep 35: The Type of Support I'm Offering Adult Children/Grandchildren in 2023
I'm dedicating this first episode of 2023 to sharing with you the services and products I have available to support adult children and grandchildren in 2023. There will be more, but I wanted to be sure you know what's already available to you RIGHT NOW.
Highlights:
FREE content
- My love for FREE things
- The Value of Wrinkles podcast, every Thursday at valueofwrinkles.com/listen
- My newsletter where I'll share all updates and valuable tips and content to help 30s and 40 somethings who need support as they care for older loved ones. Sign up for it at valueofwrinkles.com/signup
- Blog
Support
- Prepare to Care course (currently $89) and will go up in price soon!
- Prepare to Care course for faith communities is an extremely affordable way to offer the course to many people! L
- Coaching for 30s to 40 somethings who need a sounding board, a listening ear, and insight to make decisions or figure out how to offer the best care for their loved one. Available upon availability. Sign up for email list as I share more about that or email me thevalueofwrinklesatgmail.com so I can share more details and set something up!
Things Mentioned:
- LG Cord Zero from Costco, love this vacuum (and the boxes inside)
- Wren Robbins Podcast Coaching - wrenrobbins.com
Website: valueofwrinkles.com
Book: The Value of Wrinkles: A Young Perspective on How Loving the Old Will Change Your Life
Ep 34: 2022 Wrapup & Behind-the-Scenes Fun Facts
Today's episode I'm coming unfiltered to wrap up the year and reflect on what I enjoyed and want to do more of in 2022.
A huge thank you to all my listeners!
Episodes mentioned:
- Most listened to episode in 2022 was Episode 22: Kay Lam, 78, + my 5-yr-old, A New Friend Through Sign Language
- Interviewed with my daughter by my side on Episode 24, 26, and 28
Connect:
Website: isabeltom.com
Ep 33: How to Connect with Your Asian Grandparent Even When You Can't Speak The Same Language
How can you connect with your Asian grandparent especially when you don't speak the same language? In Asian American families, there is not just a generation gap that makes it hard to build strong relationships with our elders, the language gap also is a huge issue too.
In today's episode I share 5 ways to develop a stronger relationship with your Asian grandparent that can be done now. Whether they speak Chinese, Korean, Japanese, Vietnamese, Tagalog or another Asian speaking language, you can still interact and get to know your grandparent better.
Website: valueofwrinkles.com
Book: The Value of Wrinkles: A Young Perspective on How Loving the Old Will Change Your Life
Ep 32: How You as a Grandkid Can Be a Mood Booster
How can you support your parent who is a caregiver for your grandparent? As a grandkid, you may feel like you can't do anything but standby and watch, but there's actually SO MUCH you can do!
In today's episode, I'll try with you some ideas on how you can improve the quality of life for your entire family, both parent and grandparent.
Shownotes at valueofwrinkles.com/listen
Website: valueofwrinkle.com
Instagram: @isabelctom
Ep 31 – 4 Qualities that Make a Good Gift for Your Parent/Grandparent
Looking for good gifts ideas for your older loved ones? Do you want to get a gift, but maybe you are short on ideas? In this episode, I outline four qualities of a good gift for an older person in your life AND I even share an actual gift that you can use this holiday season! Listen in!
Resources mentioned:
Peach & Paperie - https://peachandpaperie.com
The Silver Post - Grab the coupon code for $5 off annual subscription using "ISABEL"
Silverts - www.silverts.com
Celebrate Age printables - $6.97 for 3 designs (8.5x11) and (8x10)
Book: The Value of Wrinkles: A Young Perspective on How Loving the Old Will Change Your Life
Website: www.valueofwrinkles.com
Ep 30: Why Older Adults Have a Hard Time Giving During the Holidays
It's a question you may have never asked or considered but one that we should consider. When it is a season of giving, why is it hard for our aging parents, grandparents, older neighbors and friends to give?
I'm sharing 3 reasons they may not be giving and what you and I can do about it!
Resources mentioned:
- Get 3 Things Your Aging Parent is Thinking But May Never Tell You at www.valueofwrinkles.com/3things
Ep 29 (Thanksgiving Edition): 4 Ways to Make Thanksgiving Memorable for an Older Adult
Get 4 tips on how to make Thanksgiving super duper special for the older adult in your life. If you're going to see family then be sure to listen to this episode beforehand!
Resources mentioned:
Website: www.valueofwrinkles.,com
Ep 28: Steve Roberts, 79, Remembering Cokie + How Adult Children Can Support A Newly Widowed Parent
Have you ever wondered how you can support an aging parent who is newly widowed? I had the chance to interview Steve Roberts about the loss of his wife, Cokie Roberts, who was an American journalist who just led the way for female leaders not just in journalism but in many other career paths. It really is a special conversation I have to share with you today.
Highlights:
- How Steve’s two children have supported him as he grieves their mother’s death
- Two main points. Be there in ordinary life, not just special occasions + don't be judgmental
- How adult children can be critical of the remaining parent in particular when it comes to remarrying, moving, how they spend their time.
- We talk the public Cokie and the private Cokie and how writing helped Steve Roberts grieve.
Things mentioned:
- Episode 24: Steve Roberts, 79, Why Grandparent?
- Episode 26: Steve Roberts, 79, Maintaining Connections on Both Sides of the Political Spectrum
**Special deal - Sign up for my email list at valueofwrinkles.com/signup and get a $40 off coupon for my Prepare to Care course. Unsubscribe at any time.
- Prepare to Care digital course
- Get Steve's book, Cokie: A Life Well Lived by Steven Roberts
Let’s Connect:
Website: Valueofwrinkles.com/listen
Instagram: @isabelctom
Facebook: www.facebook.com/thevalueofwrinkles
Ep 27: How Counselors Help Us Become Older and Kinder
Counselors help us with our mental health, but have you ever thought about how they can help us age well. That's right, they help us to become nicer older people!
Highlights:
- How counseling has been worth the money
- How the stereotype of the grumpy old person has come about
- Why your older loved one may be extremely difficult or "grumpy"
- What counseling can do for you as you age
- Get the FREE resource that can help you understand your aging parent.
Resources:
Ep 26: Steve Roberts, 79, Maintaining Connections with Both Sides of the Political Spectrum
Highlights:
How to maintain good connections on both sides of the political spectrum
What you should expect in the journalism profession
Why it is so hard for young journalists today
Advice fro those who get stressed reading political news.
Resources mentioned:
Episode 24: Steve Roberts, 79, Why Grandparent?
New FREE resource - 3 Things Your Aging Parent is Thinking But May Never Tell You
Steve's newest book - Cokie: A Life Well-Lived
Connect with Isabel:
Website: valueofwrinkles.com
*The links in these show notes may be Amazon affiliate links. This means when a person purchases an item using this link, I will get a small commission. This helps The Value of Wrinkles continue to create good quality content.
Ep 25: How Hard Will Caregiving Be?
In today's episode, I’m going give you an idea of what caregiving will be like for you. This episode is for those of you who have parents, grandparents, or aging relatives or friends that are healthy for the most part but let’s say you’re realizing that they’re getting up there in age.
Outline:
- One truth you need to know before you get into caregiving (3:21)
- A short exercise to help you know what your caregiving experience will be like (6:34)
- Score your exercise so you can get an idea what you're up against. (10:14)
- Learn what to do next and how you can prepare. (12:00)
Resources mentioned:
Prepare to Care - Intro rate ($89) HERE
Ep 24: Steve Roberts, 79, Why Grandparent?
In today's episode I interview Steve Roberts, American journalist and author of Cokie: A Live Well Lived.
- Why is being a grandparent so important?
- Steve’s present for his daughter when she moved back to the area
- His message to grandparents
- Thoughts on what happens when the grandkids get older
- How he drives his grandchildren to school
- Did they teach them how to drive?
- My advice to any grandparents
Things mentioned:
- Steve's NEW book about Cokie - Cokie: A Life Well Lived
- Article by Steve - The Gift of Grandparents featuring Isabel in the Bethesda Magazine
- Gift a copy of The Value of Wrinkles to a grandparent or request a signed copy at thevalueofwrinklesatgmaildotcom.
*The links in these show notes may be Amazon affiliate links. This means when a person purchases an item using this link, I will get a small commission. This helps The Value of Wrinkles continue to create good quality content.
Ep 23: How Loving the Old Can Strengthen Your Church
Society says that older adults are a burden, does the church believe that too? Shownotes available at isabeltom.com/listen. For the full article, visit https://www.missioalliance.org/how-loving-the-old-will-strengthen-your-church/.
Start a support group in your faith community to support caregivers: https://isabel-tom.mykajabi.com/prepare-to-care-church
PODCAST UPDATE Fall 2022
Great news to tell you - after five month break, The Value of Wrinkles podcast is back! Stay tuned for new episodes every other Thursday. Follow the podcast or go to isabeltom.com/listen to get the newest and latest episode.
Ep 22: Kay Lam, 78, + My 5-yr-old, A New Friend Through Sign Language
A full transcript is included for today's podcast episode at isabeltom.com/listen. Click on Episode 22 to get the full transcript. A special thanks to Kay Lam for sharing her story with The Value of Wrinkles podcast.
In today’s episode you’ll get to meet Kay Lam, who is an Asian American 78-year-old who is also deaf. She has become a source of courage for this mom and my little guy. In fact because of sign language, my son has made friends with Kay. Sign language brought us together and I am so thankful!
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Enroll in my Prepare to Care digital course at isabeltom.com/course.
Website: Isabeltom.com
Book: The Value of Wrinkles: A Young Perspective on How Loving the Old Will Change Your Life! Available wherever books are sold.