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In this heartfelt episode of Dementia Discussions, I’m joined by the incredible Kitty Norton, a former assistant editor turned caregiver, blogger, and filmmaker. Kitty shares her inspiring journey from her mother’s dementia diagnosis to becoming her primary caregiver, a role that profoundly changed her life. We explore her transition into advocacy through her candid blog, Stumped Town Dementia, and her documentary film Wine, Women, and Dementia, which is now airing on PBS.
Kitty brings her signature humor and raw honesty as we discuss caregiving challenges, family dynamics, and how humor can be a lifeline in even the most difficult moments. From navigating the "rage stage" to finding unexpected community in caregiver forums, Kitty’s story is one of resilience, love, and laughter in the face of adversity.
Episode Highlights:
[0:46] - Welcoming Kitty Norton and diving into her mom’s dementia diagnosis.
[3:20] - Kitty’s early realizations about her mom’s condition and navigating the diagnosis process.
[8:10] - Making the courageous decision to move to Portland and care for her mom Full-time.
[11:10] - Stories from the “rage stage” and how dementia changed her mom’s personality.
[17:03] - The life-saving guidance of geriatric psych specialists and forums.
[29:32] - How Kitty’s blog, Stumped Town Dementia, became a lifeline for caregivers worldwide.
[38:40] - Creating Wine, Women, and Dementia: A journey of healing and storytelling.
[49:23] - PBS distribution and Kitty’s mission to bring caregivers together through her film.Connect with Kitty Norton:
Kitty Norton’s blog: Stumped Town DementiaWine, Women, and Dementia documentary: Official WebsiteDo you have a caregiving story to share? Barbara would love to hear from you! Please leave her a message at 310-362-8232 or send her an email through DementiaDiscussions.net. If you found value in today's episode, please don't forget to rate, follow, share, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue producing this content.
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In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Sherri, a devoted caregiver whose husband Ray has been diagnosed with Lewy body dementia. Sherri shares her journey, from noticing the first subtle changes in Ray's behavior to the emotional and practical challenges they face today.
We delve into how Ray's fearless personality and active lifestyle shifted dramatically as the disease progressed, and how Sherri has had to adapt to these changes. This episode is a touching reminder of the resilience and love that caregivers embody, and it offers insights and advice that can help others facing similar struggles.
Episode Highlights:
[01:32] - Sherri describes her husband Ray's fearless personality before his diagnosis.
[07:25] - Discussing the changes in Ray’s behavior and the initial signs of cognitive decline.
[10:50] - The difficulty in getting a proper diagnosis and the eventual discovery of Lewy body dementia.
[18:57] - Sherri's efforts to keep Ray active and engaged despite his resistance.
[22:29] - The tough decision to stop Ray from driving and the emotional impact it had on him.
[30:28] - Sherri shares the emotional and practical challenges of adjusting to Ray's cognitive changes.
[43:33] - The importance of support groups and meditation in Sherri's caregiving journey.
[48:51] - Sherri’s strategies for maintaining patience and emotional stability.
Do you have a caregiving story to share? Barbara would love to hear from you! Please leave her a message at 310-362-8232 or send her an email through DementiaDiscussions.net. If you found value in today's episode, please don't forget to rate, follow, share, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue producing this content.
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Eksik bölüm mü var?
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In this heartfelt episode of Dementia Discussions, I'm joined by Robin Degtjarewsky, a listener who reached out to share her inspiring story about caring for her mother, who lives with dementia. Robin opens up about her journey from dealing with her mother's hoarding issues to managing her care from a distance and navigating the challenges that come with dementia. Robin shares the unexpected silver linings that have brought her closer to her mom and offers valuable tips for other caregivers facing similar challenges.
Join us as we delve into Robin's personal experiences, the emotional rollercoaster of caregiving, and the practical steps she took to ensure her mother received the best possible care. Whether you're a caregiver yourself or want to understand the complexities of dementia, this episode offers a compassionate and insightful perspective.
Episode Highlights:
[1:24] - Introduction of Robin and the episode's focus on her caregiving journey
[5:29] - Discussing the early signs of dementia and Robin's realization that something was wrong.
[10:06] - Robin's emotional response to her mother's forgetfulness and the initial stages of her diagnosis.
[16:54] - The transition from hoarding to assisted living and the emotional impact on Robin.
[25:09] - Navigating the ups and downs of caregiving, including moments of gratitude and frustration.
[34:52] - The importance of enjoying small moments and building a stronger relationship despite the challenges.
[41:04] - Meditation and mindfulness as coping mechanisms for stress and anxiety
[46:01] - The role of a supportive network, including family and friends, in managing the caregiving journey.Do you have a caregiving story to share? Barbara would love to hear from you! Please leave her a message at 310-362-8232 or send her an email through DementiaDiscussions.net. If you found value in today's episode, please don't forget to rate, follow, share, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue producing this content.
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In this episode, I sat down with Melanie, a member of my dementia with Lewy body support group at the UCLA Mary S. Easton Center. Melanie bravely shares her journey as the sole caregiver for her husband, Monty, who's facing a multitude of health challenges, including multiple system atrophy (MSA), diabetes, and dementia.
Through our candid conversation, Melanie opens up about the daily struggles and joys of caring for her beloved husband while striving to maintain her own identity. Her story is one of resilience, love, and finding gratitude in the face of adversity. Monty is a former composer, musician, and rabbi who was diagnosed with MSA in 2019. In addition to MSA, Monty also has type 1 diabetes, mild to moderate dementia, and is currently undergoing dialysis for stage five kidney failure.
Episode Highlights:
[1:14] - Melanie introduces her husband, Monty, and his background as a composer, musician, and rabbi.
[3:14] - Monty's diagnosis of multiple system atrophy (MSA) and its two subtypes, MSA-C and MSA-P.
[6:36] - Monty's age and retirement shortly after his diagnosis.
[8:22] - The progression of Monty's dementia and its impact on his work and daily life.
[11:30] - Challenges with eating and Melanie's strategies to help Monty maintain his dignity.
[16:49] - The impact of Monty's retirement on his mental health.
[23:17] - Melanie's exhaustion and the importance of support groups in her life as a caregiver.
[26:56] - Melanie's strategies for self-care, including naps, living in the moment, and finding humor.
[32:28] - The lack of support from family members and the strain it puts on Melanie as the sole caregiver.
[38:45] - Melanie's fear of losing her own identity and holding on to personal interests.
[44:03] - Melanie's plans to start her own MSA support group for caregivers in the Pacific Time Zone.
[45:16] - The importance of being of service to others and finding gratitude in the face of adversity.
Do you have a caregiving story to share? Barbara would love to hear from you! Please leave her a message at 310-362-8232 or send her an email through DementiaDiscussions.net. If you found value in today's episode, please don't forget to rate, follow, share, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue producing this content.
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In today's episode, we go on a personal journey of caregiving with my guest, Kim, a long-time listener of our podcast and a daughter navigating the complex world of dementia care for her mother. Kim's story is not just moving—it's filled with insights that only a dedicated caregiver can offer. Whether you're a caregiver yourself or just someone interested in understanding the reality of living with dementia, this episode promises to enrich your perspective.
Episode Highlights:
[00:25] - Kim shares how the podcast has been a lifeline in dealing with her mother's dementia.
[02:11] - Kim talks about her mother's initial symptoms and the onset of her dementia journey.
[05:27] - Discussion on managing dual caregiving roles as Kim's mother's condition progresses alongside her boyfriend's Parkinson's diagnosis.
[08:38] - Exploring the effects of sensory loss on dementia symptoms.
[14:59] - Kim recounts the emotional decision to move her mother into assisted living.
[19:11] - Adjustments and challenges with her mother's care in the assisted living facility.
[25:21] - Evaluating the necessity and timing of transitioning to memory care.
[30:35] - Managing complex family dynamics and the impact of caregiving on personal lives.
[39:56] - The personal toll of caregiving and maintaining a balance in personal life.
Do you have a caregiving story to share? Barbara would love to hear from you! Please leave her a message at 310-362-8232 or send her an email through DementiaDiscussions.net. If you found value in today's episode, please don't forget to rate, follow, share, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue producing this content.
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In today's episode, I have the pleasure of welcoming Skylar, a young caregiver who has been navigating the complex world of dementia care for her mother. Two years ago, Skylar stepped into the role of primary caregiver, a journey filled with both adversity and profound personal growth. Join us as we explore Skylar's experiences, from managing daily care challenges to making tough decisions about assisted living. This conversation promises insights not only into the practical aspects of caregiving but also into the emotional resilience required in such a role.
[00:32] - Introduction to the show and welcoming Skylar[02:07] - Skylar's initial challenges with her mother’s dementia during the pandemic[07:19] - The realization and acceptance of her mother’s condition and the informal diagnosis[14:32] - Skylar's journey in securing legal documents and planning for long-term care[19:59] - The decision to move her mother to an assisted living facility and the emotional toll it took[24:02] - Adjustments and life in the assisted living facility, including the recent move to memory care[31:19] - The daily realities and evolving needs of living with dementia[40:06] - Skylar reflects on personal growth and the support systems that have helped her navigate her role as a caregiver
Episode Timeline:Do you have a caregiving story to share? Barbara would love to hear from you! Please leave her a message at 310-362-8232 or send her an email through DementiaDiscussions.net. If you found value in today's episode, please don't forget to rate, follow, share, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue producing this content.
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Dr. Sherry Yafai joins me to discuss cannabis as a treatment for many symptoms that arise with dementia. As an emergency room physician turned cannabis clinician, Dr. Yafai shares her expertise on using cannabis for issues like anxiety, sleep disturbances, and pain. We discuss appropriate dosing, cannabis formulations, and most importantly - seeing a specialist versus experimenting on your own.
Dr. Yafai stumbled into the world of medical cannabis while working in the ER, with patients mentioning using cannabis for issues like arthritis pain and chemotherapy side effects. She was skeptical at first but dove into the research to learn more. Now she consults with patients to create personalized cannabis treatment plans to replace or enhance traditional pharmaceutical options.
Episode Highlights:
[09:42] - Coming "out of the closet" to colleagues about being a cannabis doctor.
[15:39] - Why doctor recommendation makes cannabis legitimate medicine vs. recreational.
[22:22] - Using THC for improved sleep-in dementia patients.
[28:55] - Risk of addiction/dependence with medical cannabis.
[32:26] - Various formulations like chocolate, honey, tea.
[35:47] - Start low, go slow philosophy with dosing.
[43:31] - Reach out for professional guidance from a cannabis clinician.
Connect with Dr. Sherry Yafai:
· Website: https://sherryyafaimd.com/
· The Releaf Institute: https://thereleafinstitute.com/
· Cannabis Clinicians: https://www.cannabisclinicians.org/
Do you have a caregiving story to share? Barbara would love to hear from you! Please leave her a message at 310-362-8232 or send her an email through DementiaDiscussions.net. If you found value in today's episode, please don't forget to rate, follow, share, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue producing this content.
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In this episode, I speak with Dr. Gabrielle "Dr. Gabby" Mahler, a mobile dentist who makes house calls to patients, the majority of whom have varying stages of dementia. Dr. Gabby explains how she can perform cleanings, fillings, crowns, extractions, and denture fittings in clients' homes and residential facilities. She also shares creative strategies for providing oral hygiene care to those who refuse it or cannot do it themselves.
About my Guest: Dr. Gabrielle “Dr. Gabby” Mahler
Dr. Gaby has been practicing mobile dentistry for 14 years. She started working with retirement homes early in her career which exposed her to the immense need for at-home dental care options for older adults and people with disabilities. She now owns a mobile practice serving clients throughout LA.
Episode Highlights:
[05:11] - Transitioning from traditional dentistry to mobile dentistry.
[10:49] - The surprisingly wide range of procedures possible in the home.
[16:41] - Attempting dentures on dementia patients.
[23:21] - Preserving patients' joy of eating.
[24:56] - How medical insurance applies to mobile dentistry.
[35:01] - Educating caregivers on proper oral hygiene routines.
[43:15] - Detecting dental issues in uncommunicative patients.
[48:39] - How to prepare food for safe eating.
[53:21] - Caring for removable dentures and partials.
[1:01:02] - The differences treating dementia patients.
Connect with Gabrielle Mahler, DDS:
Website - https://www.inhomedentalcare.com/
Do you have a caregiving story to share? Barbara would love to hear from you! Please leave her a message at 310-362-8232 or send her an email through DementiaDiscussions.net. If you found value in today's episode, please don't forget to rate, follow, share, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue producing this content.
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Joining me in this episode is Kevin Jameson, founder and CEO of the Dementia Society of America. Kevin shares his personal journey of caring for his wife who was diagnosed with dementia, which led him to start this organization. He provides an in-depth look at the various types of dementia, the importance of early diagnosis, and lifestyle changes we can make to reduce our risk.
About My Guest, Kevin JamesonKevin started the Dementia Society of America after his wife was diagnosed with dementia in her late 50s. He became her primary caregiver and realized there were few resources available, prompting him to start this nonprofit organization. As a leading voice in the dementia field, Kevin is dedicated to providing education, improving quality of life, and funding research.
Episode Highlights:
[00:55] - Introducing my guest, Kevin Jameson, Founder of the Dementia Society of America.
[04:14] - Kevin shares his emotional story of his wife Ginny’s journey to a dementia diagnosis.
[10:50] - After the diagnosis, Kevin and his wife started traveling the world, seizing the day.
[12:24] - The emotional transition from home care to a care facility and hospice.
[15:20] - The Dementia Society of America was founded in 2003.
[16:28] - We discuss the myths about most dementia cases.
[20:18] - Simple lifestyle changes we can make to reduce dementia risk factors.
[25:04] - Minor changes in cognitive impairment are hard to spot, there is no lightning moment.
[32:56] - How clinical trials have advanced.
[33:48] - Overview of the Dementia Society's programs.
Links & Resources:
Dementia Society of America: https://www.dementiasociety.org/
Do you have a caregiving story to share? Barbara would love to hear from you! Please leave her a message at 310-362-8232 or send her an email through DementiaDiscussions.net. If you found value in today's episode, please don't forget to rate, follow, share, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue producing this content. -
In this episode, we invite back special guest, Tami Anastasia. I had the pleasure of meeting Tami at an Aging Life Care Association Conference, where Tami's expertise in dementia care stood out. Tami is not just a dementia consultant; she's also an educator and the author of "Essential Strategies for the Dementia Caregiver: Learning to Pace Yourself." Tami's primary focus is on supporting primary caregivers or care partners, those who shoulder the responsibility of caring for a loved one with dementia. Through her private practice, she offers a wide range of support services. This includes counseling and emotional assistance, but she doesn't stop there. Tami provides invaluable guidance on domestic care strategies tailored to the unique challenges of caring for someone living with dementia. Tami's impact extends beyond the realm of family caregiving. She conducts professional in-service trainings, equipping other healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills they need to care for individuals living with dementia effectively. Tami's commitment to the dementia caregiving community is further evidenced by her involvement in caregiver support groups throughout the Northern California Bay Area, with a primary focus on the San Jose region. She plays an active role in these groups, offering guidance and support to those facing the challenges of dementia care.
Timeline Summary:
[05:16] - Coping with dementia caregiver stress
[10:40] - Dementia care and communication strategies
[15:58] - Dementia caregiving challenges and fears
[26:12] - Dementia and its impact on thinking and behavior
[30:12] - Supporting caregivers of people with dementia
[40:58] - Dementia care strategies and emotional support
If you enjoyed hearing Tami share her insights and advice about being a dementia caregiver, be sure to follow Dementia Discussions to catch future episodes. Consider giving the show a 5-star rating and leaving a review to help more families impacted by dementia discover the podcast. Until next time!
Do you have a caregiving story to share? Barbara would love to hear from you! Please leave her a message at 310-362-8232 or send her an email through DementiaDiscussions.net. If you found value in today's episode, please don't forget to rate, follow, share, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue producing this content. -
The holidays can be an especially difficult time for dementia caregivers. In this compassionate episode, expert Tammy Anastasia shares her top strategies to reduce caregiver stress, honor feelings of grief, and create new meaningful traditions.
I had the pleasure of meeting Tami at an Aging Life Care Association Conference, where Tami's expertise in dementia care stood out. Tami is not just a dementia consultant; she's also an educator and the author of "Essential Strategies for the Dementia Caregiver: Learning to Pace Yourself." Tami's primary focus is on supporting primary caregivers or care partners, those who shoulder the responsibility of caring for a loved one with dementia. Through her private practice, she offers a wide range of support services.
Episode Highlights:
[00:37] - The mixed feelings caregivers face during the holidays. Let go of comparing to past holidays.
[02:48] - What's one tradition you could modify to make things easier?
[08:26] - Don't judge your own limitations. Give yourself permission to do less and say no.
[13:19] - Name tags can ease social awkwardness when your loved one can't remember people.
[21:35] - A caregiver calendar of festive activities for every day of December.
[23:40] - Schedule holiday activities during your loved one's best time of day.
[26:28] - Reach out to caregivers so they don't feel lonely and isolated.
[30:10] - Take a drive to see festive light displays.
[31:58] - Allow yourself to feel sadness and loss. Find ways to comfort difficult emotions.
[35:48] - Take 10 festive minutes every day just for you as a holiday gift to yourself.
[38:05] - You are a gift to the person you care for.
Connect with Tami Anastasia:
Website: https://tamianastasia.com/
If you enjoyed hearing Tami share her insights and advice about being a dementia caregiver, be sure to follow Dementia Discussions to catch future episodes. Consider giving the show a 5-star rating and leaving a review to help more families impacted by dementia discover the podcast. Until next time!
Do you have a caregiving story to share? Barbara would love to hear from you! Please leave her a message at 310-362-8232 or send her an email through DementiaDiscussions.net. If you found value in today's episode, please don't forget to rate, follow, share, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue producing this content.
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In this heartfelt episode, I welcome back Jay Swerdlow, a longtime support group member. Jay shares the difficult journey of placing his wife Andy, who has Alzheimer's disease, into memory care. He discusses the challenges of caring for her at home as her disease progressed and delusions worsened. Though it broke his heart, Jay knew he had to make the difficult decision to move Andy to a care facility for both of their wellbeing. He talks about visiting her regularly, dealing with her not always recognizing him, and finding acceptance with where they are in this ongoing journey of a dreadful disease.
Jay Swerdlow is a member of the UCLA Mary S. Easton Alzheimer's Disease Research Center support group, which Barbara co-leads. Jay has been married to his wife Andy for 58 years before she was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2019. Since 2021, Andy has been living at a memory care facility.
Timeline Summary:
[01:36] - Andy was a schoolteacher diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 2019.
[03:47] - Andy's constant asking to go see her deceased parents was a daily struggle.
[05:30] - Jay's initial mistakes responding to Andy's questions before joining a support group.
[09:20] - Challenges during the difficult transition of moving Andy into memory care.
[14:04] - The ongoing difficulty of bringing Andy back to the care facility after taking her on outings.
[16:44] - Andy not understanding celebrating her 80th birthday.
[19:12] - Jay visits Andy three times a week at her care facility.
[23:02] - Andy still recognizes their sons when they visit.
If you enjoyed hearing Jay share his family’s dementia journey, be sure to follow Dementia Discussions to catch future episodes. Consider giving the show a 5-star rating and leaving a review to help more families impacted by dementia discover the podcast. Until next time!
Do you have a caregiving story to share? Barbara would love to hear from you! Please leave her a message at 310-362-8232 or send her an email through DementiaDiscussions.net. If you found value in today's episode, please don't forget to rate, follow, share, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue producing this content. -
Today I welcome Debbie, a dedicated wife caring for her husband who is living with Lewy body dementia (LBD). Debbie shares the daily ups and downs of managing her husband's diagnosis, coping strategies that help her stay resilient, and advice for other caregivers walking a similar path.
Debbie’s husband was diagnosed with LBD about 5 years ago but exhibited some mild symptoms 10 years prior. He was once an outgoing, successful man who is now grappling with memory loss and confusion. Debbie describes her husband’s strong denial about his diagnosis and his insistence that he’s fine, despite clear changes.
Throughout their candid conversation, Debbie reflects on the grief of losing her life partner, the new burden of solo decision-making, and her evolution as a caregiver. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining joy, identity, and self-care while caregiving. Debbie found outlets like yoga, art class, and coffee dates with friends help tremendously.
Timeline Summary:[02:10] Debbie introduces her husband and his LBD diagnosis.
[03:50] Denial about his dementia and telling the family.
[05:20] Keeping the humor alive even in the midst of grief.
[06:52] The daily “dance” of taking medications.
[09:35] Debbie problem-solves home issues alone now without his input.
[13:14] Feeling overwhelmed about storm damage on their property.
[14:38] Changing roles to make household decisions.
[16:04] Can handle one task well, but not multiple steps.
[19:30] Morning meditation to set a daily intention and stay patient in communication.
[22:37] How Debbie knows her husband wants help or attention.
[25:10] Creating art, yoga, and coffee dates for self-care.
[32:21] Debbie’s advice to caregivers: Don’t lose yourself.
Links & Resources:
· Lewy Body Dementia Association: https://www.lbda.org/
· Caregiver support: https://dailycaring.com/
Debbie's story exemplifies the deep bond between spouses facing dementia together. Her resilience, empathy, and self-care practices demonstrate how caregivers can withstand the enormous challenges of this role. Please rate, review, and share this episode if it resonated with you or could help other families touched by dementia. Until next time!
Do you have a caregiving story to share? Barbara would love to hear from you! Please leave her a message at 310-362-8232 or send her an email through DementiaDiscussions.net. If you found value in today's episode, please don't forget to rate, follow, share, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue producing this content.
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I had the pleasure of sitting down with clinical psychologist Dr. Genifer Goldsmith to discuss the immense stress and guilt that comes with being a caregiver. Our collaboration in co-facilitating a caregiver support group at UCLA for Alzheimer's Disease Research and care has been nothing short of enlightening. As someone who facilitates a caregiver support group, we see these struggles firsthand.
Dr. Goldsmith provides research-backed insights on how to cope. One key element emerges as a cornerstone to enhancing a patient's journey: caregiver support. Join us as we unpack the pivotal role caregivers play and discover the profound difference they can make in the progression of dementia.
Caregiving is an immense challenge, but small acts of self-care have a huge impact. Never feel guilty for supporting yourself first - it helps your loved one most.
Timeline Summary:
[02:20] - Stress as a caregiver and what it truly means.
[03:00] - Craving structure within the chaos of unexpected changes in disease progression.
[04:41] - Taking on unfamiliar roles alone like taxes and home repairs adds major stress.
[06:35] - The heartbreak of taking away a loved one's independence and the balancing act between quality of life and safety.
[09:15] - Conflict response: meet them in their reality and avoid conflict.
[11:40] - Supporting caregivers directly impacts disease progression.
[13:33] - Being a caregiver is like running a marathon.
[14:22] - Feeling guilty about prioritizing yourself and how to change it.
[16:20] - Largest percentage ever of older adults and the impact on the family unit.
[17:03] - Comparing societal support for caregivers to new moms and how social media trends can help.
[18:01] - “Being selfish is the most selfless thing a caregiver can do.”
[18:35] - Well-supported caregivers slow disease progression.
[20:15] - Setting up preventative measures to reduce caregiver burden.
[21:31] - Being conscious of your tone.
[23:00] - Start small with 10 minutes of self-care when overwhelmed.
Do you have a caregiving story to share? Barbara would love to hear from you! Please leave her a message at 310-362-8232 or send her an email through DementiaDiscussions.net.
If you found value in today's episode, please don't forget to rate, follow, share, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue producing this content.
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In today’s episode, I speak with another member of my support group, Beth Lanie, a devoted caregiver to her husband Howard, who has been diagnosed with dementia with Lewy bodies. Beth shares her heartfelt experience, providing insights into the challenges, triumphs, and evolving dynamics of caregiving for a loved one with a progressive neurological condition.
Beth discusses Howard's background as an aerospace engineer and their 42-year marriage. She opens up about the initial signs of Howard's memory problems, including difficulties with directions and completing projects. Beth recounts the haunting hallucinations that plagued Howard's nights, and the lengths they went to in order to address them.
The podcast delves into the impact of Howard's diagnosis on their daily lives, their conversations with neighbors, and the gradual progression of his symptoms. Beth also shares valuable tips for self-care amidst the demands of caregiving, emphasizing the importance of taking small breaks and finding moments of respite.Beth's story shines a light on the resilience and love that underpins the caregiver's journey. Tune in to gain a better understanding of the complexities of dementia caregiving and to draw inspiration from Beth's unwavering commitment to her husband's well-being.
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My special guest this week is Valerie Rennert, who opens up about her father's journey with dementia. She shares how their family first became aware of his condition and the ways they tried to support him. Despite the challenges, Valerie emphasizes the silver lining: her father's happiness in the present moment, free from stress.
Valerie fondly remembers her father, who was larger than life and incredibly intelligent. However, as the years went by, they began to notice changes in his memory and cognitive abilities. While his short-term memory is affected, he surprises everyone with his ability to engage in deep conversations, only to repeat them shortly after. We also learn about his passion for playing bridge and how, even in his current state, he continues to enjoy the game.
She reflects on the difficult decisions they've had to make and the regrets of not transitioning him to an independent living facility sooner. Despite the challenges, Valerie expresses gratitude for the amazing caregivers who provide round-the-clock support for her father.
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Today I'm joined by Noma Kaz, a seasoned caregiving professional specializing in dementia care. Throughout our conversation, Noma shares her extensive knowledge and experience in the field, helping us explore the intricate dynamics of caregiving for dementia patients, the qualities to seek in an ideal caregiver, and the necessary steps to ensure their effective integration into your loved one's life. I'm confident that this episode will provide you with both comfort and practical advice for navigating the often challenging journey of dementia care.
[0:04] How care is activities of daily living.
[1:57] How the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected the caregiving industry
[8:13] The challenges of becoming a caregiver.
[15:16] Being "down on a day to day basis"?
[22:21] What is shadowing and how does it work?
[29:35] Bringing in a "driver".
[33:02] The most concerning part of hiring independently.
[39:05] Long term care insurance.
[45:14] What's the most common cause of dementia in patients?
[52:36] Hiring the right person for your loved one.
Follow Noma on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/noma-kaz/
Visit Noma's website: https://lifelinecompanionservices.com/
Do you have a caregiving story to share? Barbara would love to hear from you! Please leave her a message at 310-362-8232 or send her an email through DementiaDiscussions.net. -
Franne Golde opens up about her journey with her husband, Paul, who was diagnosed with a disease they knew very little about. Our conversation covers the challenges of finding care for Paul, the timing and benefits of hospice care, and several tools and book recommendations for all caregivers. It's a show that addresses difficult topics, but it's also an important conversation to have.
It all began with an early misdiagnosis from a doctor, who called her "a neurotic Jewish housewife." Franne shares how she wrote an article about their journey and how Maria Shriver contacted her, which led to an overwhelming amount of love and support. Franne's use of her platform to inspire others to share their story is truly inspiring.
She discusses the important tools that helped Paul, including music, yoga, and her commitment to give him his best life and seize the day. Paul's motto, "keep on keepin’ on," is a testament to his resilience even when he couldn't speak anymore. Franne also shares about the slivers of light during the darkest of times and the amazing support her family of caregivers gave him.
https://www.enhancedmoments.com/
Do you have a caregiving story to share? Barbara would love to hear from you! Please leave her a message at 310-362-8232 or send her an email through DementiaDiscussions.net. -
Finding strength in a community of other caregivers, in this powerful episode, I’ll speak to Amy Kent, a member of my support group who is caring for both of her parents with dementia. Amy shares her personal story of the day-to-day struggles of caregiving, from hiring caregivers to managing their declining health. She also talks about the emotional toll of caregiving and the financial strain it can cause. But despite the difficulties, Amy has found solace in our support group, and she's now helping others who are going through similar experiences. Her story is both heart-wrenching and inspiring, and I think it's a must-listen for anyone who is caring for someone with dementia or is interested in the topic.
Do you have a caregiving story to share? Barbara would love to hear from you! Please leave her a message at 310-362-8232 or send her an email through DementiaDiscussions.net. -
It’s amazing how much music comes up in these conversations where we delve into the experiences of those caring for loved ones with dementia. In this episode, James Savage shares his personal journey caring for his wife as her ability to converse fades, he finds himself feeling increasingly isolated and alone, with music providing a vital lifeline in filling the silence.
James is a songwriter and has turned his lyrics towards themes of loss and memory, reflecting on his experiences caring for his wife. He is even in the process of writing a musical about a support group, with the hope of bringing greater awareness to the often thankless and unnoticed job of caregiving. Through participation in our support group, James has found solace and support, and is building his capacity for empathy.
Despite his sadness at her diminishing ability to communicate and connect with loved ones, James remains hopeful for her future. He shares a poignant lyric from his musical that conveys the emotions of loss through his experience, reminding us of the importance of empathy and understanding in the face of such challenges.
Do you have a caregiving story to share? Barbara would love to hear from you! Please leave her a message at 310-362-8232 or send her an email through DementiaDiscussions.net. - Daha fazla göster
