For my mom on her birthday Oct 1
Welcome to Elder Journey Insights
October 1st would have been my mom’s 89th birthday, and I can’t think of a more meaningful way to honor her than by launching this new space: Elder Journey Insights. (Which I did by email on October 1st. Only now adding to my website as I continue to learn the technology.)
This blog, along with my speaking platform and memoir which I hope to have published in the near future, is dedicated to one purpose—helping individuals and families prepare for and navigate the many twists and turns of elder care. My hope is that what I share here will give you the tools, perspective, and encouragement I wish I’d had when my family was suddenly thrust into decisions we weren’t ready to make.
Our Family’s Turning Point
Almost six years ago, we discovered just how serious my mom’s memory decline had become. Like many families, we weren’t prepared. It was overwhelming—emotionally and logistically. Four years ago, after countless conversations, decisions, and setbacks, Mom moved into a memory care community in South Florida, not far from the home she loved.
There were days when the journey felt impossibly heavy. But there were also moments of surprising beauty—unexpected laughter, kindness from friends and strangers, and the reassurance that we were doing the best we could for someone we loved so much.
Why I’m Writing
After Mom passed away 18 months ago, I felt both the emptiness of loss and the urgency to share what we had learned. Out of that came my memoir, now seeking publication. In writing it, I realized that our story is not unique—millions of families are walking similar paths. But while the details may differ, the core challenges remain the same:
How do you prepare for what’s coming when you don’t know what to expect?
How do you balance respect for your loved one’s independence with the realities of declining health?
How do you hold on to your own life while caring for someone else’s needs?
This blog is my way of offering real stories and practical advice, so you don’t have to feel as lost or as alone as we did.
What You Can Expect Here
Twice a month, I’ll share:
Practical advice on planning, caregiving, and navigating the elder care system
Personal stories that highlight the struggles and small victories of this journey
Encouragement and resources to help you prepare for what lies ahead
I’ll also provide updates on my speaking engagements, events, and the publication of my memoir. For those of you in the Cincinnati area, I’m currently offering free speaking sessions for community groups, churches, and organizations—because I believe these conversations are too important to put off.
A Birthday Memory
Since today is my mom’s birthday, I’ll close with one story.
When she turned 85, just weeks after moving into memory care, I made the hard choice not to visit in person. I worried my presence might unsettle her and cause her to beg to go home. Instead, I sent gifts, arranged visits from friends, and ordered a cake big enough to share with all three wings or neighborhoods as they called them in her new community. Later, I heard how much she smiled that day—surrounded by new friends, enjoying her cake, and presents with her little dog by her side.
It wasn’t the birthday I had imagined, but it turned out to be one of the happiest moments of that season. And it reminded me that even in the hardest transitions, joy can still find its way in.
Walking This Journey Together
If you’re facing decisions about aging parents, caregiving, or planning ahead for your own future, I invite you to join me here. Sign up for my Blog, follow along on Instagram or Facebook, or reach out directly. You don’t have to walk this journey alone.
For my mom, on her 89th.
And for all of us learning how to love, honor, and prepare for the elder years.
With gratitude,
Donna