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Hello, I’m Donna Stothfang. I write, speak, and share insights on elder care—particularly the critical importance of preparation as we enter our golden years. I encourage individuals and families to be proactive and aware, drawing from my own journey through my mother’s memory decline.
My Personal Journey
I watched my mother’s memory fade over time, and the experience was both heart-wrenching and eye-opening. As her abilities diminished, I realized how unprepared we were for the decisions and responsibilities that came with her care. And considering that the bulk of my mother’s diminishment came during the early part of the COVID-19 pandemic while all of her children lived hundreds or thousands of miles away from her, we were particularly challenged on how best to care for her. Those circumstances drove me to research, learn, and become an advocate for planning ahead.
Preparation is paramount. Too many families wait until a crisis forces urgent decisions. By then, stress is high, options are limited, and emotions run wild. That’s what happened to our family. Through my writing and speaking engagements, I emphasize:
The legal and financial safeguards of power of attorney
Practical steps to organize medical directives, financial documents, and estate plans
Workable support strategies to help maintain physical safety and emotional security for aging adults
How clear communication among loved ones can prevent conflict
Where, when and how to seek outside assistance
My Work as a Writer and Speaker
My style as a writer and speaker is personal, straightforward and empathetic—I share real anecdotes from my family’s experience alongside evidence-based best practices. Presentation attendees and readers tell me they walk away feeling empowered and less overwhelmed by the complexities of elder care.
My Work as a Celebrant
Prior to being called to oversee my mother’s caregiving, I answered an invitation to become a certified funeral celebrant for Cincinnati’s historic Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum. Since then, I have performed more than 50 services, working closely with families to create meaningful send-offs that celebrate the lives of their loved ones. As needed, I continue to work with families to craft highly personalized eulogies and elegantly constructed ceremonies. I continue to juggle this unique calling while sounding the herald on elder preparation through my Elder Journey Insights initiatives.
Let’s Connect
I’m inspired to spark conversations that lead to real change one person and family at a time. If you’re interested in booking a speaking engagement, partnering on content, or simply learning more about elder care planning, please reach out. Together, we can ensure that families face the future with confidence, clarity, and compassion.