Ep.135 April Ibarra on Navigating Elder Care, Family Dynamics, and Empowering Caregivers

If you're a woman over 50, you likely find yourself facing the emotional and logistical challenges of caring for aging family members. Our guest, April Ibarra, a social gerontologist and my Faster Way client, is here to share her wisdom and guide you through this crucial journey. From teaching exercise classes in nursing homes to helping companies with health and wellness, April's path led her to her true passion—elder care advising. Now, she’s dedicated to helping families like yours navigate the complexities of aging.In this conversation, we delve into the unique burdens often carried by women over 50, including the delicate balance between respecting an older adult's autonomy and recognizing when they may need more support. We discuss how caregiving can impact family dynamics—especially for daughters and daughters-in-law—and why mediation and listening are so important. April and I emphasize that you are not alone in this journey, and seeking support is essential.As a caregiver, it’s easy to put yourself last. But self-care is key to being there for others. April shares her personal experience as a Faster Way client and how her holistic approach to health—focusing on nutrition, fitness, and sleep—helps her manage the demands of life while also aging well herself. We also discuss her new venture, Aging Advisor, which aims to empower families with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed decisions about elder care or caring for an ill partner.If you're ready to take control of your health and caregiving responsibilities, join us for a conversation filled with compassion, practical advice, and insights that will help you approach these challenges with grace and confidence. Let April’s journey inspire you to take action—both for yourself and for your loved ones.You can find April Ibarra at:https://www.aprilibarra.com/https://www.instagram.com/askaprilaboutaging/_________________________________________If you’re doing “all the right things” and still feel stuck, adding a layer of support may be an option. I’ve partnered with a trusted telehealth platform offering modern solutions for women in midlife—including micro-dosed GLP-1 and other peptide therapies.https://elliemd.com/michelefolan - Create a free account to view all products.Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/askingforafriend_pod/✨ Sign up for my weekly newsletter: https://michelefolanfasterway.myflodesk.com/i6i44jw4fqLike to connect? Email me at [email protected] Transcripts are created with AI and may not be perfectly accurate.Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.