My Place CT Blog and Podcast

In this episode, Candace Low, formerly the Executive Director of Independence Unlimited, and now an independent consultant that helps create communities of belonging, shares her story about downsizing her home. She talks openly about the challenges, support and comfort she experienced during this move. Find out how Candace is living her life to the fullest in the place she now calls home.… Listen Now >

Three major motorcycle accidents in the last 16 years may have altered Andrew’s body and mind, leaving him to struggle daily with pain, short-term memory loss and PTSD, but he retains a wonderfully positive outlook on life. As his t-shirt says, “He is hooked on life.” Andrew works hard to maintain his physical health in order to enjoy his family and his animals. He hopes he will find a way to enjoy fishing again as he continues to recover.… Read More >

Dr. Mónika Lopez, Associate Professor of Economics at Connecticut College, explores family caregiving with a focus on the expanding role of men as caregivers. Dr. Lopez looks at caregivers and care recipients as a partnership and examines how gender and culturally-based differences impact this dynamic—made stronger by a more supportive community. Learn why we need to take care of the caregiver and find out where the future of family caregiving is headed.… Listen Now >

Christy Kovel, Director of Public Policy for the Alzheimer’s Association Connecticut Chapter, shares her own story of “Life After Loss.” Christy lost her partner of 20 years after a long illness. While being public about her loss—speaking at public venues and helping her local hospital start a new support group—Christy takes us on her personal journey as a younger widow who is remaining open and moving forward.… Listen Now >

Doug is a goal setter and hard worker. He worked in the service and sales industries for over twenty years. He achieved the height of success, owning his home and his car. But he worked over twelve hours per day, ate for convenience, and did not prioritize exercise, social events and family time. Things changed two years ago when his lifestyle caught up with him and an illness put Doug in the hospital for a lengthy stay. When he was in the hospital, he was unable to walk. Doug knew he needed rehab and went to a nursing home… Read More >

“Live Well with Cognitive Change” explores how a holistic model of care can positively impact the lives of people living with cognitive change. Stephani Shivers, Chief Operating Officer - Community Services, and Daniel Belonick, Director of Counseling Services for LiveWell Alliance help us understand what it means to live in a dementia-friendly environment and why aging with resiliency can make all the difference in quality of life.… Listen Now >

Kristopher Thompson, Coordinator of the New England Assistive Technology Center, shares his vision of the future in “Assistive and Smart Technology: Getting More Out of Life.” With smart technology built in to our electronic devices, we are “leveling the playing field” for people of all ages and abilities. With new opportunities for customization, learn how more people are leveraging technology to get just what they need to help live their best lives.… Listen Now >

“Getting It Right for LGBT” looks at how an important initiative in Connecticut is helping LGBT older adults and people with disabilities have a welcoming and inclusive experience when accessing long-term services and supports. Molly Rees Gavin, President of Connecticut Community Care (CCC), explains how the Getting It Right initiative she helped champion has created openness, sensitivity and in turn, positive outcomes. Learn how the quality of life is evolving for our LGBT neighbors, one family at a time.… Listen Now >

Pamela lived in long-term care facilities for nearly ten years. After a decade in skilled care, her conservator, considers this a “really good discharge” as Pamela has maintained her health and well-being very well in the community with the help of Money Follows the Person. The transition coordinator was instrumental in making this a quick and smooth process along with the facility social worker.… Read More >

Livable Cities: Ready When You Are” explores how New Haven is creating a more livable community for people at every stage of life with respect to transportation—the hub of any community. Doug Hausladen, Director of Transportation and the Acting Director of the Parking Authority for the City of New Haven, delves into how the city is creating more livability by connecting to people’s everyday lives. Learn what New Haven is doing to take care of “the whole person, their whole life.… Listen Now >

Susan, former Emergency Room nurse found herself on the other side of the healthcare system after being diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. She became so sick from the chemotherapy that at one point she needed 24/7 care and was admitted to a skilled nursing facility. For eleven months she spent up to 3 hours a day working with the physical therapists in the rehabilitation gym determined to get stronger. As she started gaining back her strength, a housing coordinator from Money Follows the Person (MFP) introduced her to how this program could help her transition back to her town with supports.… Read More >

Connecticut has plans to help people literally get back on their feet. Several towns in Connecticut will be offering Tai Ji Quan: Moving for Better Balance® (TJQMBB), an evidence-based program that reduces falls among older adults by 55%. Dianne Stone, Director of the Newington Senior and Disabled Center explains.… Read More >

Service dogs can do amazing things. They can remind someone to take their medication. They can detect imminent seizures and help with recovery. They can open doors, fetch a phone, and act as a person’s eyes and ears. but they aren't pets. Here are some things to consider before taking on a four-legged partner.… Read More >