Kare For Kūpuna

#93: Caring For Your Spouse vs Parents

In this heartfelt episode, Trina and Lani dive into one of the toughest realities many caregivers face — the difference between caring for your spouse and caring for your parents.
They open up about their personal experiences watching their own parents transition into caregiving roles for one another, and the emotional toll it can take.
Caregiver burnout is real — and in this episode, Trina and Lani shine a light on how to prevent it. Whether you’re caring for a spouse or a parent, they share practical tips on how to protect your energy, your relationships, and your peace of mind.
💡 For spouses: Protect your intimacy and partnership.💡 For parents: Set boundaries and communicate your needs.
If you or someone you love is walking through the caregiving journey, this episode is for you.

#92: What Medicare Does NOT Cover!

Think Medicare covers everything? Think again! In this episode, Trina and Lani break down some of the most common misconceptions about Medicare coverage — and reveal the top things Medicare does NOT cover that often surprise people.
They dive into important details like:
Why Medicare only covers 80% of approved costs (and what that means for you)
How dental care isn’t covered unless it’s medically necessary in a hospital setting
Why vision services like contacts and eyeglasses aren’t included
If you’re on Medicare or about to enroll, this episode is a must-listen. And since it’s AEP (Annual Enrollment Period), now’s the perfect time to review your plan.
💻 To have your plan checked by Trina or Lani — two licensed Medicare agents with years of experience — visit: https://www.kareforkupuna.com/contact-us

#91: The Tough Talk

In this heartfelt episode, Trina and Lani open up about one of the hardest conversations many families face — “The Tough Talk” — when it’s time to discuss the possibility of your kūpuna moving into a senior living or care home. 💜
Both share their personal experiences having this emotional discussion with their own parents, the challenges that come with it, and the signs that it might be time to consider extra support.
They also offer practical advice on how to approach the topic with love, patience, and empathy — while honoring your parent’s independence and dignity. 🌺
Whether you’re a caregiver, a family member, or simply preparing for the future, this episode is a must-listen reminder that having “The Tough Talk” is really an act of compassion — not guilt.

#90: Get Your Medicare Plan Checked NOW

Aloha, Kūpuna! 🌺 In this episode, Trina and Lani remind you that the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is officially open — and now’s the time to make sure your coverage still fits your needs.
With over 20 years of combined experience as licensed Medicare agents, Trina and Lani explain why it’s so important to review your plan each year, what changes you can make during AEP, and how small adjustments could save you money or improve your benefits.
If you’d like Trina or Lani to personally go over your plan and help you explore your options, you can schedule a free review here:👉 https://www.kareforkupuna.com/contact-us
Tune in, stay informed, and take care of your health coverage this AEP season! 💙

#89: Expo Sponsor: Premier Benefit Consultants

This week, Trina and Lani turn the mic on themselves to share who they are beyond the podcast—licensed Medicare specialists with a heart for Hawaiʻi’s kūpuna. Hear how each got started, why they stayed, and the real-life wins that keep them going.
You’ll learn:
What we actually do as independent Medicare brokers (we compare all the plans, not just one carrier).
Common myths (No, Medicare isn’t “free”—and yes, skipping Part D can cost you later).
Smart “Medicare hacks” (apply for Extra Help & Medicare Savings Programs, and work with a broker to simplify choices).
AEP survival tips from the field (snacks, shakes, and leaving your agent a voicemail 😉).
If you or a loved one is confused about coverage, we’re here to make it clear—with aloha.
👉 Have Medicare questions? Contact Trina or Lani: https://www.kareforkupuna.com/contact-us

#88: Expo Sponsor: AlohaCare

Trina and Lani sit down with Vicki DeSilva of AlohaCare, a nonprofit, community-rooted health plan serving Hawaiʻi for 30+ years. Vicki shares her personal “why,” how AlohaCare was founded by community health centers, and what whole-person care looks like for our kūpuna—beyond doctor visits.
You’ll hear about:
Plans for kūpuna: Medicare Advantage for dual-eligible members (Medicare + QUEST/Medicaid).
Culturally rooted supports: VAS offerings like hula, ʻIpono (healthy food), hoʻoponopono, and lomi lomi—plus dental and more.
Hands-on help statewide: Care navigators & CHWs on every island connecting members to transportation, meals, phones, housing resources, and appointments.
Access stories that matter: How AlohaCare helped a blind member with ESRD get Medicaid/Medicare restored and continue life-sustaining care.
What’s next: Expanding access in rural communities so no kūpuna is left behind.
Stick around for a fun rapid-fire round (tea > coffee ☕️➡️🍵, childhood jams, and the one superpower Vicki would choose—healing 💜).
👉 Meet AlohaCare at our first-ever Kūpuna Kare Expo: Oct 11, 10am–3pm, Prince Kūhiō Plaza (Hilo).

#87: Expo Sponsor: Devoted Health

This week, we’re spotlighting one of our main Expo sponsors: Devoted Health — and the way they care for members like they’re ‘ohana. 💜Trina and Lani sit down with Ka‘ili and John to talk about what sets Devoted apart and how they make Medicare feel personal, supportive, and simple.
Here’s what we cover:
A warm, human experience: from welcome texts/calls and easy ID cards to a member portal that actually helps.
Care that goes further: Devoted Medical nurse practitioners support local doctors and help members manage chronic conditions 24/7.
Benefits members rave about: gym access in Hawai‘i, $0 CGMs on many plans for members with diabetes, and a $150 allowance toward a fitness wearable.
Learning together: Medicare 101 resources and events with trusted local partners (like us!) so kūpuna can choose confidently.
It’s an uplifting conversation about healthcare that puts people first.

#86: Expo Sponsor: Healing with Aloha

In this episode, Trina and Lani sit down with special guest Tanea Dalpivo, owner of Healing with Aloha and a VIP sponsor of the very first Kūpuna Kare Expo! 🌺
Tanea shares her inspiring journey of starting Healing with Aloha, her passion for helping kūpuna, families, and individuals facing challenges like anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and relationship struggles. 💜 She breaks down common misconceptions about therapy, talks about powerful “breakthrough moments” with clients, and emphasizes the importance of emotional regulation, compassion, and self-forgiveness.
Whether you’ve ever wondered what therapy is really about or simply want to learn how healing with aloha can transform lives, this episode will open your eyes and warm your heart.
👉 Don’t miss this chance to get to know Tanea — and be sure to meet her in person at the Kūpuna Kare Expo on October 11th at Prince Kūhiō Plaza in Hilo!To learn more about Tanea and her work, visit her website:https://www.healing-with-aloha.com/