The Midlife Squeeze

Assisted Living Didn’t End Our Caregiving | Brad’s Story

October 6, 2026·16 min
Episode Description from the Publisher

Episode SummaryWhat happens when you have a plan for aging parents, but life doesn’t go according to plan?Erica sits down with Brad Jankowski to share his family’s caregiving journey after his father was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Brad shares what it was like becoming the default caregiver, transitioning his father to assisted living, and discovering that the caregiving didn’t stop after the move. He also discusses the financial and emotional realities his family encountered along the way.Key Takeaways• Parkinson’s can change a family’s caregiving responsibilities.• Transportation, appointments, and everyday needs can shift onto family members.• Home care can eventually exceed what families can safely manage.• Assisted living does not necessarily end caregiving responsibilities.• Long-term care can create significant financial and emotional challenges.• Planning ahead can give families more options. Chapters00:00 Brad’s Caregiving Story00:27 His Father’s Parkinson’s Diagnosis01:05 Realizing the Change Was Permanent02:04 When Driving Had to Stop02:30 Becoming the Default Caregiver03:26 Living With an Aging Parent03:57 Late-Night Health Emergencies04:58 The Impact on Marriage05:45 Family Support and Caregiving06:21 When Home Care Became Unsustainable07:28 Choosing Assisted Living08:09 Caregiving After Assisted Living08:46 The Financial Impact of Care09:22 Brad’s Experience With Long-Term Care Insurance10:25 What Brad Wishes Families Knew11:58 Longevity and Outliving Your Money12:47 The Emotional Weight of Caregiving14:47 Erica’s Closing Thoughts Connect with BradBrad Jankowski is a shareholder at Nason Yeager in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, with experience in estate planning, corporate and real estate matters.https://nasonyeager.com/attorneys/jankowski/Follow the ShowNew episodes release twice a month. Follow The Midlife Squeeze on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube.Instagram: @TheMidlifeSqueezeConnect with EricaInstagram: @TheFamilyMoneyPlannerTake the free Family Assessment at FAMOPlan.com.Guest NoteBrad’s comments about long-term care insurance reflect his personal views and his family’s experience. They are shared for educational purposes and are not a recommendation of any insurance product.DisclaimerThe information discussed on this podcast is for general educational purposes only and is not a recommendation of a product or strategy. Nothing discussed should be considered investment, tax, legal, medical, or financial advice. Consult with qualified professionals before making financial or investment decisions. The views expressed are those of the speakers and may not reflect the views of Ausdal Financial Partners. Securities and advisory services are offered through Ausdal Financial Partners, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC and registered investment adviser. Ocean Crest Wealth Management and Ausdal Financial Partners, Inc. are independently owned and operated. Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal.Keywords / Hashtags#MidlifeSqueeze #Caregiving #AgingParents #Parkinsons #CaregiverSupport #AssistedLiving #FamilyCaregiving #ElderCare #SandwichGeneration

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