Dementia Caregiver Support for Christians: Tips for Alzheimer’s & Dementia Caregivers to Manage Stress, Prevent Burnout & Handle Difficult Behaviors

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Are You a Christian Caregiver Overwhelmed by Dementia or Alzheimer’s? Find Faith-Based Support and Real Solutions. Dementia caregiving is overwhelming, exhausting, and emotionally draining—but you don’t have to figure it out alone. If you’re struggling with caregiver stress, burnout, difficult dementia behaviors, family conflict, or making major care decisions, this podcast equips you with practical, faith-driven strategies to make dementia care easier, less stressful, and more peaceful. This podcast is for Christian spouses, adult children, and family caregivers looking for real answers to their biggest caregiving challenges. Whether you’re dealing with aggression, sundowning, resistance to care, or navigating end-of-life decisions, you’ll gain clear solutions, expert insights, and the support you need to approach caregiving with confidence. Answering Your Most Pressing Dementia Caregiving Questions: ✅ How can I survive dementia caregiving without burnout? ✅ What does dementia caregiving look like from a Christian perspective? ✅ How do I handle aggressive dementia behaviors like hitting, yelling, or refusing care? ✅ What causes sundowning, and how do I stop it? ✅ When is it time for a memory care home? How do I make the right decision? ✅ How can I help my loved one who refuses care? ✅ Why do people with dementia repeat themselves, and how do I stay patient? ✅ How do I know if I’m making the right caregiving decisions? ✅ What are the stages of Alzheimer’s disease, and how can I prepare? ✅ How can I balance self-care and caregiving without guilt? Why Christian Dementia Caregiving is Different Unlike general dementia caregiving podcasts, this show integrates Biblical wisdom into every conversation, helping you find strength and peace even in the hardest seasons. If you’ve ever asked, “Where is God in this?”, you’ll find practical, faith-based guidance to navigate the emotional, physical, and spiritual challenges of caregiving. This podcast will help you: ✔️ Find peace and purpose in your caregiving journey ✔️ Cope with stress and burnout using faith-driven techniques ✔️ Prepare for every stage of dementia with confidence ✔️ Make tough caregiving decisions with clarity and spiritual wisdom Join Our Caregiver Community Caregiving doesn’t have to be lonely. Join our free caregiver community, get access to workshops, and find the encouragement you need to make dementia caregiving easier and more sustainable. 🔹 Subscribe & Listen Now for weekly episodes with insights, strategies, and real solutions to make dementia caregiving less stressful. 🔹 Get Free Caregiver Resources & Support: ThinkDifferentDementia.com 📧 Email: lizette@thinkdifferentdementia.com 🙏 May the Lord bless and keep you, and see you in the next episode.

Episodes

2 days ago

238. Is Using Your Parent’s Money For Dementia Respite Care The Right thing To Do

2 days ago

As a Christian caregiver, you may feel torn between honoring your aging parent and taking care of yourself. The guilt runs deep—especially when it comes to spending your parent’s money on paid care.

In Episode 238, we hear from Jamila, an only child caring for her 96-year-old mother. Her question is one many caregivers silently carry:
“Is it okay to use my mom’s money to hire help so I can take a break?”

Jamila left the conversation with clarity and peace. Not because her circumstances changed overnight, but because she realized she didn’t have to feel guilty anymore.

Christian caregiver, hear this:
👉 You are not dishonoring your parent by needing help.
👉 You are not selfish for using their resources to care for them well.
👉 You are not failing—you are faithfully stewarding what God has placed in your hands.

Ever Wonder How To Know What Is Causing Your Caregiver Stress?
Take Our FREE Caregiver Stress Assessment Today!
https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/quiz

Join our monthly free workshop "How To Immediately Reduce Dementia Caregiver Overwhelm and Stress In 3 Easy Steps"
https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/wsl

Join the FREE Dementia Caregiver Support Facebook Group today for more support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/dementiacaregiversupportforchristians

Are You A Christian Dementia Caregiver Struggling To Cope With Caregiving?
Join the FREE "Ask the Dementia Coach" Monthly Meet Up! And be on the podcast, get support and your questions answered.
https://dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/ask

Enjoy our podcast? Please take a moment to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify —it really supports our show!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dementia-caregiver-support-for-christians-conversations/id1716187550

6 days ago

237. Is Therapeutic Lying In Dementia Caregiving The Right Decision?

6 days ago

Have you ever heard your loved one say, “This isn’t my home,” or “I want to go home”—even while they’re sitting in the house they’ve lived in for years?

If so, you know how painful, confusing, and even heartbreaking that moment can be. In Episode 237, we meet Martina, a spousal caregiver in the Philippines, who asks a question many Christian caregivers have wrestled with:

Is it okay to lie to a loved one with dementia when they’re confused about home?

You don’t have to choose between honesty and compassion. As a Christian caregiver, you’re called to speak truth—but in a way that reflects the love of Christ.

When your loved one says, “I want to go home,” pause. Ask questions. Be gentle. Let them guide the moment—and meet them where they are with grace, not guilt.

Ever Wonder How To Know What Is Causing Your Caregiver Stress?
Take Our FREE Caregiver Stress Assessment Today!
https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/quiz

Join our monthly free workshop "How To Immediately Reduce Dementia Caregiver Overwhelm and Stress In 3 Easy Steps"
https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/wsl

Join the FREE Dementia Caregiver Support Facebook Group today for more support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/dementiacaregiversupportforchristians

Tuesday Mar 25, 2025

236. How To Balance Family, Caregiver Guilt, And Practical Dementia Care Decisions

Tuesday Mar 25, 2025

Is moving your aging parent into your home the best way to care for them—or could it cost you your health and marriage?

In Episode 236, we walk alongside a caregiver caught in one of the most emotional crossroads many Christians face: the desire to honor their parents while also protecting their marriage and family. It’s a raw, real coaching conversation filled with wisdom, faith, and practical guidance.

Caring for your parents is an act of love—but it doesn’t mean sacrificing your marriage, your peace, or your health. Sometimes, the most loving choice is the hardest one: saying no to what they want so you can say yes to what’s truly best.

Let go of guilt. Trust that God sees your heart. And remember—you’re honoring your parents by ensuring they’re cared for, even if it doesn’t look the way you imagined.

Ever Wonder How To Know What Is Causing Your Caregiver Stress?
Take Our FREE Caregiver Stress Assessment Today!
https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/quiz

Join our monthly free workshop "How To Immediately Reduce Dementia Caregiver Overwhelm and Stress In 3 Easy Steps"
https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/wsl

Join the FREE Dementia Caregiver Support Facebook Group today for more support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/dementiacaregiversupportforchristians

Friday Mar 21, 2025

235. How To Talk To Your Agitated Spouse With Dementia

Friday Mar 21, 2025

Can the way you speak to your loved one make dementia caregiving harder or easier? Absolutely.

Many caregivers believe their role is to keep their spouse happy at all costs—but what if that very mindset is making things more stressful?
In Episode 235, we explore a real-life coaching session with Thomas, a husband caring for his wife of nearly 50 years, and uncover the surprising connection between communication, mood, and peace at home.

Dementia caregiving isn’t about fixing everything—it’s about adjusting how you respond. The words you choose, your tone, and your emotions shape the way your loved one feels and reacts.

By focusing on emotional connection over logic, breaking tasks into simple steps, and managing your own stress, you can create a calmer, more peaceful environment for both of you.

You’re not alone in this journey. With faith, patience, and small communication shifts, you can bring more ease into your caregiving experience.

Ever Wonder How To Know What Is Causing Your Caregiver Stress?
Take Our FREE Caregiver Stress Assessment Today!
https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/quiz

Join our monthly free workshop "How To Immediately Reduce Dementia Caregiver Overwhelm and Stress In 3 Easy Steps"
https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/wsl

Join the FREE Dementia Caregiver Support Facebook Group today for more support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/dementiacaregiversupportforchristians

Tuesday Mar 18, 2025

234. How To Not Feel Stuck While Waiting On A Dementia Diagnosis

Tuesday Mar 18, 2025

Are you waiting for a definitive diagnosis before making a plan for your loved one’s care? Many caregivers feel stuck, holding off on decisions until they “know for sure” what’s happening.
But the reality is, waiting can mean missing valuable time to take proactive steps.

In Episode 234, we explore a real-life coaching session with Jodi, a caregiver for her husband recently diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). Together, we unpack why early action—even before a crisis—makes all the difference.

You don’t need to wait for a crisis or a definitive diagnosis to start making positive changes. Small, intentional steps today—from supporting brain health to creating a structured routine—can make a big difference in your loved one’s well-being.

Uncertainty is part of the journey, but God equips us with wisdom, strength, and faith to act now. Trust in His guidance, take proactive steps, and know that you are not alone in this process.

Ever Wonder How To Know What Is Causing Your Caregiver Stress?
Take Our FREE Caregiver Stress Assessment Today!
https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/quiz

Join our monthly free workshop "How To Immediately Reduce Dementia Caregiver Overwhelm and Stress In 3 Easy Steps"
https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/wsl

Join the FREE Dementia Caregiver Support Facebook Group today for more support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/dementiacaregiversupportforchristians

Friday Mar 14, 2025

233. How To Avoid Sibling Conflict In Dementia Care

Friday Mar 14, 2025

When a parent starts showing signs of dementia, many families assume that someone else will step up to take care of them.
But what happens when no one does?

We walk through a real-life coaching session with Jodi, a long-distance caregiver facing the reality of her mother’s cognitive decline. Her biggest challenge?
Figuring out who will take on the responsibility—and how to have that tough conversation.

Caregiving shouldn’t fall on one person by default. Waiting too long to discuss roles and responsibilities can lead to stress, conflict, and burnout.

The best way to support your loved one—and each other—is to plan ahead, communicate openly, and work as a team.

Even if you live far away, you can still help. Every contribution matters. Start the conversation today.

Ever Wonder How To Know What Is Causing Your Caregiver Stress? Take Our FREE Caregiver Stress Assessment Today! https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/quiz

Join our monthly free workshop "How To Immediately Reduce Dementia Caregiver Overwhelm and Stress In 3 Easy Steps" https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/wsl

Join the FREE Dementia Caregiver Support Facebook Group today for more support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/dementiacaregiversupportforchristians

Are You A Christian Dementia Caregiver Struggling To Cope With Caregiving? Join the FREE "Ask the Dementia Coach" Monthly Meet Up! And be on the podcast, get support and your questions answered. https://dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/ask

Enjoy our podcast? Please take a moment to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify —it really supports our show! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dementia-caregiver-support-for-christians-conversations/id1716187550

Tuesday Mar 11, 2025

232. How to Transition Your Loved One with Dementia Away from Independent Medication Management

Tuesday Mar 11, 2025

One of the hardest parts of dementia caregiving is knowing when to step in—especially when it comes to medication management. Your loved one may want to stay independent, but as mistakes happen, safety must come first.

We dive into a real-life coaching session where Shauna, a dementia caregiver, faces the difficult transition of taking over her mother’s medication management.

Taking over medication management is a tough transition, but it’s a necessary step to keep your loved one safe. Approach it with patience, empathy, and a plan.
By involving them in small ways and focusing on their well-being, you can make this change feel supportive rather than restrictive.

You’re not just managing pills—you’re providing peace of mind for both of you.

Read the blog: https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/independent-medication-management/

Ever Wonder How To Know What Is Causing Your Caregiver Stress?
Take Our FREE Caregiver Stress Assessment Today!
https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/quiz

Join our monthly free workshop "How To Immediately Reduce Dementia Caregiver Overwhelm and Stress In 3 Easy Steps"
https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/wsl

Join the FREE Dementia Caregiver Support Facebook Group today for more support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/dementiacaregiversupportforchristians

Friday Mar 07, 2025

231. What Is The Burden Of Dementia Caregiving Really? Decision Fatigue

Friday Mar 07, 2025

Do you ever feel like your brain is just done?
The endless choices in caregiving—what to cook, how to respond, when to step in—can leave you mentally drained. This exhaustion is called decision fatigue, and it’s one of the biggest burdens of dementia caregiving.

We explore why decision fatigue happens, how it affects caregivers, and the biblical and practical solutions to reduce it.

God has provided wisdom, rest, and community to support you—you don’t have to do it all alone.

Decision fatigue is real, but it doesn’t have to define your caregiving journey. By creating routines, limiting choices, seeking support, and trusting God’s plan, you can lighten the mental load and find peace in caregiving.

Ever Wonder How To Know What Is Causing Your Caregiver Stress?
Take Our FREE Caregiver Stress Assessment Today!
https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/quiz

Join our monthly free workshop "How To Immediately Reduce Dementia Caregiver Overwhelm and Stress In 3 Easy Steps"
https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/wsl

Join the FREE Dementia Caregiver Support Facebook Group today for more support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/dementiacaregiversupportforchristians

Read the blog: https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/decision-fatigue/

Tuesday Mar 04, 2025

230. How To Reframe Dementia Caregiving From Frustration To Fun

Tuesday Mar 04, 2025

When caring for a loved one with dementia, our instinct is often to correct, guide, or keep them on track. But what if the best way to connect wasn’t about following the rules—but breaking them?

In Episode 230, we explore how letting go of structure and embracing playfulness can create meaningful moments of joy, connection, and peace in dementia caregiving.

Dementia caregiving isn’t about following the rules—it’s about creating meaningful connections. When you let go of expectations and focus on joy, laughter, and presence, caregiving becomes less stressful and more fulfilling.

Forget the rules, embrace the moment, and cherish the time you have with your loved one. Those small moments of joy will become the memories you hold onto forever.

Ever Wonder How To Know What Is Causing Your Caregiver Stress?
Take Our FREE Caregiver Stress Assessment Today!
https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/quiz

Join our monthly free workshop "How To Immediately Reduce Dementia Caregiver Overwhelm and Stress In 3 Easy Steps"
https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/wsl

Join the FREE Dementia Caregiver Support Facebook Group today for more support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/dementiacaregiversupportforchristians

Read the blog:

https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/reframe-dementia-caregiving/

Friday Feb 28, 2025

229. What Is The Most Important In Dementia Caregiving? Saving Time, Money, or Effort?

Friday Feb 28, 2025

As a dementia caregiver, you’re constantly making decisions.
Should you spend more time with your loved one, invest in outside help, or find ways to conserve your energy? Every choice has trade-offs, and prioritizing the wrong thing can make your journey harder.

Lizette explores the reality of these trade-offs and how to decide what’s best for your situation.

Caregiving comes with tough choices, and there’s no perfect way to balance time, money, and effort. Some days, you’ll feel overwhelmed. Other days, you’ll wish you could do more. That’s okay.

If today feels heavy, take a deep breath and ask: What’s one small change I can make to ease my load? Start there.

Ever Wonder How To Know What Is Causing Your Caregiver Stress?
Take Our FREE Caregiver Stress Assessment Today!
https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/quiz

Join our monthly free workshop "How To Immediately Reduce Dementia Caregiver Overwhelm and Stress In 3 Easy Steps"
https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/wsl

Join the FREE Dementia Caregiver Support Facebook Group today for more support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/dementiacaregiversupportforchristians

It's time to chose ease...

Are you a family caregiver who is dealing with dementia in your life and you feel overwhelmed with the never-ending challenges you face, and don’t know where to turn for help?

Are you searching for answers to your questions about dementia, joining countless Facebook groups but find them toxic and a waste of your precious time?

Do you want to face your dementia caregiving journey in a proactive way, but feel confused about where to even start?

Are you juggling your marriage, your kids, your work, your faith and your loved one’s life and still feel like you are letting everyone down?

Learning the skills you need to simplify your dementia caregiving may seem hard.

But not learning the skills you need to simplify your dementia caregiving journey will be even harder.

It is time to choose your “hard”.

The choice is 100% yours.

I know what I chose: I chose to have ease in my dementia caregiving journey.

Hey, Dementia Success Seeker!

I’m Lizette Cloete. 30 + year veteran occupational therapist turned into a dementia educator, coach and consultant and I am a daughter of dementia.

In this podcast you will learn the truth that the only way to increase the ease of your dementia caregiving journey rests squarely in YOUR hands.

The way you actively prepare and what you believe about dementia caregiving makes all the difference.

>>>You will gain the practical skills you need to simplify care.

>>>You will be challenged by what it means to be a successful caregiver, teaching you to harness the power of the most powerful caregiving tool that you have: your mindset.

>>>And you will learn exactly what dementia is (and is not), how dementia changes the brain and what you can expect next in your dementia caregiving journey.

You will find a community of like minded family caregivers, helping someone with dementia and you will not be alone anymore.

My mission is to help the unsung heroes who are in the midst of dementia caregiving, with the skills to simplify your dementia care journey so that you don’t feel overwhelmed and burn out.

I help you find clarity and certainty using the latest evidence based research, so you have perseverance for this marathon.

I approach dementia caregiving using faith informed principles that allow you to navigate this journey with peace of mind.

So, warm up your coffee, grab a notebook and pen and be ready to be a Dementia Success Seeker.

It’s time to choose your easy.