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Are you a Christian Caregiver overwhelmed by the challenges of dementia or Alzheimer’s? Do you find yourself asking questions like: “How can I survive dementia caregiving?” or “What does dementia caregiving look like from a Christian perspective?” This podcast is designed for you. We offer real hope and help by providing practical, faith-driven solutions to make dementia care easier. Answering Your Most Pressing Questions: How to survive dementia caregiving? Caregiving is a long journey that can be emotionally and physically exhausting. This podcast helps you not only survive but thrive by grounding your caregiving approach in faith. What is dementia caregiving from a Christian perspective? Explore how Biblical principles can guide your caregiving journey, offering strength and hope even in the most challenging times. How do I care for elderly parents with dementia? Discover practical strategies for providing care that honors your loved ones, while managing the daily responsibilities that come with dementia caregiving. What are common dementia behaviors, and how do I manage them? Dementia can bring challenging behaviors like agitation or confusion. Learn how to manage these behaviors with grace and faith, using proven caregiving techniques and Biblical insights. How do I cope with dementia behaviors through faith? Faith can be a powerful tool in caregiving. We’ll discuss ways to keep your faith strong, helping you cope with even the most difficult dementia-related behaviors. What are the stages of Alzheimer’s disease, and how can I prepare? Understanding the stages of Alzheimer’s can help you prepare for what’s to come. We break down each stage, offering insight into what you can expect and how to care for your loved one. How do I know if my parent has dementia symptoms? Early detection is key. Learn about the common symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer’s so you can seek help and make informed decisions for your loved one. Can I practice self-care while being a dementia caregiver? Yes, and it’s essential. Caregiver burnout is real, and this podcast offers practical advice on balancing caregiving with self-care, so you can maintain your health while caring for someone else. How do I provide spiritual care for someone with dementia? Explore ways to integrate spiritual care into your daily caregiving routines, helping your loved one maintain their connection to faith even as their cognitive abilities change. When should someone with dementia go into a care home? Deciding when it’s time to transition your loved one to professional care is never easy. We discuss how to approach this decision with faith, peace, and clarity. What are the best Christian dementia support groups, and how can I find them? Connecting with a community that understands your journey is crucial. We guide you on where to find Christian dementia caregiver support groups that align with your values. What are the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease? We cover the symptoms of Alzheimer’s in detail, helping you recognize signs early and providing guidance on how to navigate the journey ahead. Why Christian Dementia Caregiving Is Different: Unlike other caregiving podcasts, Christian Dementia Caregiving offers a unique combination of faith-based caregiving and practical solutions. Grounded in Biblical principles, we provide strategies that help you manage the emotional, physical, and spiritual challenges of dementia caregiving. We address the specific needs of Christian caregivers, helping you: Find peace in your caregiving journey. Cope with stress using faith-driven techniques. Prepare for each stage of Alzheimer’s with confidence. Prevent caregiver burnout through faith and practical self-care strategies. Make difficult decisions about care homes, end-of-life care, and more with spiritual clarity. Join Our Christian Caregiver Community: Caregiving doesn’t have to be lonely. Through this podcast, you’ll find a supportive community of like-minded Christian caregivers who understand your struggles and offer the encouragement you need. Together, we can make dementia caregiving easier while glorifying God, despite the diagnosis. Subscribe and Connect: Subscribe to the podcast today to get regular insights and support. We cover everything from practical tips to faith-based encouragement, offering you the tools and hope you need to succeed in your caregiving role. Visit thinkdifferentdementia.com for additional resources, free workshops, and support to help you navigate your caregiving journey. Email: lizette@thinkdifferentdementia.com Website: https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com May the Lord bless and keep you, and see you in the next episode.
Episodes
Monday Feb 05, 2024
Monday Feb 05, 2024
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by medication management in dementia care?
Managing medications for a loved one with dementia can feel like navigating a labyrinth. This episode introduces a beacon of hope, PillMap, a simple yet ingenious solution to this complex challenge.
Kimber Westmore, the founder of PillMap, has a career deeply rooted in fire life safety. Her passion for reducing medication errors was sparked by a personal mission to shield her parents from the risks of mis-medication. The inception of PillMap occurred at her family's kitchen table during Sunday dinners, born out of a desperate need to keep both family and paid caregivers well-informed.
PillMap, known for its effectiveness, is now utilized in every state. It serves as a comprehensive guide to help with management of a pillbox and accompanies patients to various health-related appointments, including visits to doctors, pharmacies, and emergency rooms.
Tragically, Kimber lost her husband to a heart attack 12 years ago. She is a mother to four children and a doting grandmother to four grandchildren. Her personal experiences and family-centric approach have been pivotal in shaping the compassionate vision behind PillMap.
0:04:09 Introducing Kimber and her product PillMap
0:09:14 The practicality and benefits of using PillMap
0:17:39 Simplifying Medication Instructions for Effective Communication
0:19:45 Pill Map: Lowering Medication Errors and Saving Lives
0:29:17 Challenges of the Healthcare System
0:30:46 Practical Improvements to the Product and Contact Information
0:32:28 Making Pill Map Locally
0:35:00 Continuing Support and Promotion for Pill Map
0:35:38 Pouring Heart and Soul into Serving Success Seekers
You can find Kimber Westmore on:
https://pillmap.com/
https://pillmap.com/product/pillmap-with-pen/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimber-westmore-a0603031/
https://www.facebook.com/PillMap
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-caregiving-for-families/id1716187550
Get more information on how to help a parent living with dementia. Join our next free workshop.
https://www.dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/wsl
Join our Facebook Group at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1301886810018410
Become a Founding Member of Our Exclusive Academy!
Only 54 Founding Family Slots Available for Extraordinary Caregivers.
https://www.dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/start
Thursday Feb 01, 2024
Thursday Feb 01, 2024
Caregiving in dementia is often discussed in terms of challenges and solutions. But have you considered the role of art in this journey?
This episode brings a fresh perspective on using art to deepen connections with those living with dementia.
Artfully Aging is a watercolor art program designed for seniors of all skill and care levels. Locally, in St. Louis, Artfully Aging offers live in person watercolor sessions in senior living communities as well as a variety of community settings.
In addition to the live art sessions they offer seniors and senior organizations across the US the ability to order from a menu of projects on their website. This second option includes prepared ready to paint watercolor projects with access to accompanying "How To" videos shipped to seniors and/or their caregivers or activity staff. The holistic approach makes each art session meaningful and therapeutic.
Give Away:
Artfully Aging will give away (4) separate packets of (5) ready to paint watercolor projects (of their choosing) to the first four individuals who email in their request to support@artfullyaging.com
0:02:53 Introducing Artfully Aging and Creativity in Aging
0:05:14 Transitioning from Design to Stay-at-Home Motherhood
0:06:20 Struggling to reinvent myself during the recession
0:07:46 Discovering passion for serving seniors through art
0:08:55 From DIY to a New Business Model
0:10:23 Creativity and Aging: Benefits of Engagement
0:12:07 The Therapeutic Power of Art
0:14:52 Creating Connections and Sharing Stories through Art
0:18:15 Embracing Imperfection and Overcoming Intimidation in Art
0:22:57 Art as a Therapeutic Experience
0:28:22 Connecting Through Art: How to Get Started
You can find Artfully Aging on:
artfullyaging.com
contact@artfullyaging.com
Blog: https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/art-in-aging-and-dementia-caregiving/
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-caregiving-for-families/id1716187550
Get more information on how to help a parent living with dementia. Join our next free workshop.
https://www.dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/wsl
Join our Facebook Group at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1301886810018410
Become a Founding Member of Our Exclusive Academy!
Only 54 Founding Family Slots Available for Extraordinary Caregivers.
https://www.dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/start
Monday Jan 29, 2024
Monday Jan 29, 2024
How often do we realize the profound impact music can have, especially for those on a dementia journey? This episode brings to light the transformative role of music therapy in dementia care.
Our guest, Alexis Baker is a board-certified music therapist of 10 years and owner of Bridgetown Music Therapy, which she founded in 2017. She is passionate about using music to make a difference in the lives of older adults, especially those living with dementia.
0:01:38 Long-Term Support for Dementia Caregivers
0:04:26 Welcome to Dementia Caregiving for Families
0:06:25 Alexis' Journey into Music Therapy and Passion for Dementia Care
0:17:08 The Power of Music in Memory and Impact
0:19:07 Starting a Business in Music Therapy for Dementia Care
0:21:09 Adapting Music Therapy Services During COVID
0:30:27 Personal Experience with Alzheimer's and Inspiration
0:34:36 Join the Dementia Caregiving for Families Facebook Group
You can find Alexis on:
Website: https://www.bridgetownmt.com
Email: Alexis@bridgetownmt.com
FB: facebook.com/bridgetownmusictherapy
IG: instagram.com/bridgetownmusictherapy/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/bridgetownmt/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bridgetownmt
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-caregiving-for-families/id1716187550
Get more information on how to help a parent living with dementia. Join our next free workshop.
https://www.dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/wsl
Join our Facebook Group at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1301886810018410
Become a Founding Member of Our Exclusive Academy!
Only 54 Founding Family Slots Available for Extraordinary Caregivers.
https://www.dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/start
Thursday Jan 25, 2024
Thursday Jan 25, 2024
How Can Rehabilitation Therapy Benefit Dementia Care?
In this episode, we have three rehabilitation professionals joining us: Cindy, who is a physical therapist, Christina, who is a speech therapist, and me, an occupational therapist. Together, we discuss how rehabilitation therapy can benefit individuals living with dementia and their family caregivers.
We explore the impactful role of rehabilitation therapy in dementia care. The episode offers valuable insights into how physical, occupational, and speech therapies can significantly aid those living with dementia.
Cindy and Christina founded AECorner in 2015 because they saw too many seniors struggling every day to care for themselves. The majority of their clients have the same goal and that is to remain as independent as possible in their homes. Many times, this goal can be achieved by simply having the right tools.
AECorner.com is a trusted resource for family caregivers looking for equipment and techniques to help senior loved ones safely age in place and help caregivers work smarter and not harder while providing daily care.
AECorner’s mission is to increase senior and caregiver safety during daily care and to improve and maintain the individual’s highest level of functional independence at home.
- 0:03:19 The Trifecta: PT, OT, and ST Working Together
- 0:12:02 Importance of Communication in Dementia Care
- 0:14:12 Advocating for Early Access to Therapy Services
- 0:17:14 Recognizing the Importance of Change in Condition
- 0:19:19 The Power of the Phrase "Change in Condition"
- 0:27:29 Path of Treatment for Dementia Caregiving
- 0:29:55 Importance of Trust and Personal Connection in Dementia Care
- 0:37:06 Practical Tips for Caregivers and Value of Subscription Model
- 0:39:02 Connecting with the Caregiver Support Team at AECorner.com
- 0:40:12 Pouring Heart and Soul into Serving Success Seekers
You can find Christina and Cindy on: YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/AdaptiveEquipmentCorner
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adaptiveequipmentcorner
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aecorner15
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindy-and-christina-aec
AmazonShop: https://amzn.to/4b95D7S
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-caregiving-for-families/id1716187550
Get more information on how to help a parent living with dementia. Join our next free workshop.
https://www.dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/wsl
Join our Facebook Group at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1301886810018410
Become a Founding Member of Our Exclusive Academy!
Only 54 Founding Family Slots Available for Extraordinary Caregivers.
https://www.dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/start
Monday Jan 22, 2024
Monday Jan 22, 2024
Are You Ready to Embark on a Courageous Caregiving Journey?
Betsy Wurzel, is a lifelong caregiver and passionate advocate for cognitive impairment and caregiving.
Betsy's journey started at age 4 when her mother's illness ignited her calling to be a caregiver. She later became an LPN, exploring various roles before marrying Matthew Sloan in 1980.
But it was Matt's memory issues and later diagnosis of Early Onset Alzheimer's that set Betsy on an advocacy mission. She fought relentlessly for Matt's proper diagnosis and end-of-life care, defying initial disbelief due to his age.
In 2018, Betsy's advocacy reached a wider audience when her videos caught the attention of Jeanne White, leading to her own show, "Chatting with Betsy." In 2019, she founded the #KickAlzheimersAss Movement Group on Facebook, ensuring no one faces caregiving alone.
In 2021, Betsy received the Caregiving Visionary Advocate Award, a testament to her unwavering commitment. Her journey continues as she remains a caregiver, driven by the promise she made to Matt.
Discover Betsy's incredible story, her advocacy for cognitive impairment, and her unwavering dedication to caregivers in this impactful episode.
0:03:04 Frustration with Doctors' Denial of Memory Problems
0:07:56 Stunned by Incompetence of Hospice Care System
0:09:57 Struggles with the Healthcare System
0:13:35 Dementia and Pain: Misconceptions and Personal Experience
0:17:49 The Emotional Journey of Loss and Separation
0:19:48 Lack of Compassion and Support in the Healthcare System
0:22:13 The Need for Early Intervention in Caregiving Journey
0:26:22 Celebrating Life and Joy Amidst Caregiving Challenges
0:30:35 Shifting mindset and overcoming negativity in caregiving journey
0:33:54 Grieving with hope and valuable life lessons from caregiving
0:36:19 Betsy's Show - Bringing Visibility to Dementia Caregivers
0:39:18 Challenging the Defeatist Attitude in Healthcare
SOCIAL LINKS: Facebook page: Betsy E.Wurzel Personal https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100005271496390&mibextid=2JQ9oc
#Kick Alzheimer's Ass Movement Group Page https://m.facebook.com/groups/545809349256035/?ref=share&mibextid=I6gGtw
LinkedIn page
https://www.linkedin.com/in/betsy-wurzel-90a7b61a8
Chatting with Betsy on Spreaker
https://www.spreaker.com/show/chatting-with-betsy
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-caregiving-for-families/id1716187550
If you would like more information on how to help a parent living with dementia. Join our next free workshop.
https://www.dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/wsl
Join our Facebook Group at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1301886810018410
Become a Founding Member of Our Exclusive Academy!
Only 54 Founding Family Slots Available for Extraordinary Caregivers.
https://www.dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/start
Thursday Jan 18, 2024
Thursday Jan 18, 2024
Curious About Parkinson's and Its Impact on Dementia?
In our latest episode, we delve into the complex world of Parkinson's disease, particularly its connection with dementia. This enlightening discussion offers a blend of personal insight and professional expertise, making it a valuable resource for caregivers and families alike.
0:00:01 A Wonderful Interview with George Ackerman about Parkinson's Disease
0:02:56 Introducing Parkinson's Disease
0:06:44 Understanding the signs and symptoms of Parkinson's Disease
0:10:27 Exploring the link between Parkinson's Disease and dementia
0:15:46 Understanding Parkinson's disease and its medication effects
0:28:33 Join the Founding 54 Membership for Dementia Care Support
https://www.dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/start
0:30:22 Not All Parkinson's Disease Patients Develop Dementia
Parkinson's Disease: More Than Just Tremors
The conversation begins by shedding light on Parkinson's disease, a neurological condition often misunderstood as merely causing tremors. However, it's much more. We explore the key symptoms: tremor, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), rigidity, and postural instability. These symptoms profoundly impact patients' lives, but understanding them is the first step in effective management.
To our listeners: How has understanding more about Parkinson's changed your approach to caregiving or supporting a loved one? Share your stories and join our community for continued learning and support.
Message me at: https://www.instagram.com/thinkdifferentdementia/
Enjoy our podcast? Please take a moment to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts—it really supports our show!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dementia-caregiving-for-families/id1716187550
Book a Call with Lizette
https://www.dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/book-a-call-meeting-with-lizette
Are you helping someone you love with dementia?
The First Thing You Need To Know Is... You Are Not Alone!
Join our FREE workshop here: https://www.dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/wsl
Join our Facebook Group at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1301886810018410
Monday Jan 15, 2024
Monday Jan 15, 2024
Ever Wondered How Deep the Caregiver's Journey Goes?
Welcome to our latest episode, where we explore the heartfelt and resilient journey of a caregiver navigating the challenges of Parkinson's disease.
0:00:01 Introduction: Dr. George Ackerman's Mission
0:03:04 George's Personal Connection to Dementia Caregiving and Parkinson's Disease
0:05:26 The Impact of Dementia Hallucinations and Delusions
0:12:06 Challenging Symptoms and Difficulties of Caretaking
0:14:33 Finding Hope and Support in Sharing Journeys
0:20:39 Embracing Animals and Faith for Support
0:21:22 Supporting Parkinson's Foundations and Fundraising Efforts
0:23:27 Misconceptions and Stigma Surrounding Parkinson's Disease
0:25:16 Heartbreak and Frustration with Unresponsive Organizations
0:27:29 Reflecting on the Journey and Offering Advice for Others
0:29:31 Dedication and Support for Parkinson's Caregivers
0:31:31 The Conversation Podcast
The story begins with a son's devotion to his mother, who battled Parkinson's for 15 years. The final years were particularly challenging, marking a significant shift in their lives. This transition from child to caregiver reveals the deep emotional and practical struggles encountered daily.
Dr. George Ackerman is from Brooklyn, N.Y. Now residing in Florida, he works in the fields of law, police, and education. George lost his mother, Sharon Riff Ackerman on 01/01/2020 due to Parkinson’s Disease.
George wanted to honor his mother and continue to help in the Parkinson’s awareness cause and did not know how to bring change.
With my family, we started TogetherForSharon® as a family for the purpose of keeping my mother, Sharon Riff Ackerman’s, memory alive and to share the message of Parkinson’s Awareness and hope for a cure.
Today https://www.togetherforsharon.com/ reaches thousands of individuals across the country for PD Awareness.
George currently interviews individuals throughout the Parkinson’s community including various foundations, caregivers, and Parkinson’s warriors to help share their stories and causes.
Website https://www.togetherforsharon.com/
Email togetherforsharon@gmail.com
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-a-00871a82/
TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@togetherforsharon1
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/togetherforsharon112020
Twitter https://twitter.com/togetherforsha1
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/togetherforsharon/
& Threads
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIeBLOelhaLQNvgeNMzu-5g
Enjoy our podcast? Please take a moment to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts—it really supports our show!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dementia-caregiving-for-families/id1716187550
Book a Call with Lizette
https://www.dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/book-a-call-meeting-with-lizette
Are you helping someone you love with dementia?
The First Thing You Need To Know Is... You Are Not Alone!
Join our FREE workshop here: https://www.dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/wsl
Join our Facebook Group at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1301886810018410
Thursday Jan 11, 2024
Thursday Jan 11, 2024
Are You Ready to Rethink Dementia Caregiving?
In this episode of "Dementia Caregiving for Families," we delve into a touching and insightful conversation about dementia caregiving. Our guest Debbie Compton, having cared for three family members with cognitive impairments, shares her personal experiences and the lessons she learned along the way.
A Journey of Love and Challenges
The podcast begins with a powerful story of how our guest's life changed drastically when her family members needed immediate care. She talks about the challenges of managing their conditions, including vascular dementia and Parkinson's, and the hard lessons learned about the unpredictability of these diseases.
0:01:18 Introduction: Dementia Caregiving for Families
0:02:13 Introduction and background of the interviewee, Debbie Compton
0:08:16 Transition to discussing the care plan for Debbie's dad
0:12:53 Practical Evaluation and Blessings of Caring for Loved Ones
0:13:40 The Importance of Building a Caregiver Team
0:25:24 Strategies for Effective Communication with Dementia Patients
0:27:50 Finding Joy and Creating Memories in Dementia Care
Debbie Compton is a three-time caregiver for parents with different forms of Dementia, Alzheimer’s , Parkinson’s and Vascular Dementia. She is a Certified Caregiving Consultant, Certified Caregiver Advocate, Educator for the Alzheimer’s Assoc. speaker, and author of 9 books.
Debbie’s first book, Caregiving: How to hold on while letting go, offers actionable steps for caregivers as well as questions to ask doctors, in-home caregivers, facilities, and more. It is full of humor and inspiration.
Debbie is the founder of The Purple Vine LLC, whose mission is to empower caregivers with the tools and strategies needed to reduce stress, block burnout, and learn to laugh again.
Debbie believes it’s okay to get knocked down, but it’s not okay to stay down.
Debbie’s website is
http://www.thepurplevine.com/
On it you can read blog posts, join the e-mail family, read about some of her books, find some free gifts, and book a speech or consultation.
The SPECIAL FREE GIFT for Lizette’s audience is https://thepurplevine.com/18-ways-to-improve-brain-function/
Be sure to enter the password FREE23 to get instant access
To view all Debbie’s books, click here:
https://amzn.to/3Sa0qoN
To connect on LinkedIn
http://www.linkedin.com/in/debbie-compton-speaker-author-caregiver
Follow on FaceBook
http://www.facebook.com/Caregiving.Book
To schedule a consultation, book a speech, or get acquainted,
Click here: https://calendly.com/debcompton1/initial_meet
Enjoy our podcast? Please take a moment to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts—it really supports our show!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dementia-caregiving-for-families/id1716187550
Book a Call with Lizette
https://www.dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/book-a-call-meeting-with-lizette
Are you helping someone you love with dementia?
The First Thing You Need To Know Is... You Are Not Alone!
Join our FREE workshop here: https://www.dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/wsl
Join our Facebook Group at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1301886810018410
Monday Jan 08, 2024
Monday Jan 08, 2024
Are you a caregiver feeling overwhelmed by the demands of dementia care? This episode provides valuable insights into maintaining your health and well-being while caring for a loved one with dementia.
0:02:07 Importance of Maintaining Health and Well-being as a Caregiver
0:04:02 Putting Your Oxygen Mask on First: Taking Care of Yourself
0:05:58 The Sacrifice of Family Caregivers
0:07:25 Importance of Spiritual Health for Caregivers
0:08:10 Leaving and cleaving: Establishing new households
0:10:09 Making decisions as a family caregiver and considering limitations
0:20:29 The Choice to Be a Caregiver or Not
0:22:22 The Decision to Help a Loved One in Need
0:22:53 Focusing on the Future in Relationships and Caregiving
0:24:14 Avoiding Toxic Facebook Groups for Dementia Caregivers
0:28:30 Three Ways to Maintain Health and Well-being as a Caregiver
0:32:46 Welcome to the Success Seeker Podcast!
Understanding the Caregiver's Role
The episode begins by emphasizing the importance of maintaining the caregiver's health and well-being. It acknowledges the challenges of caring for someone with dementia and stresses the necessity of self-care for caregivers. Lizette, an occupational therapist and caregiver, brings her professional and personal experiences to provide practical advice and emotional support.
Key Strategies for Caregivers
Several strategies are discussed to help caregivers manage their responsibilities effectively:
Prioritizing Physical, Mental, and Spiritual Health: The host emphasizes the importance of balancing physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of health. This holistic approach ensures caregivers do not neglect any part of their well-being.
Establishing Boundaries and Making Decisions: The podcast underscores the significance of establishing boundaries and making informed decisions as a caregiver. It encourages caregivers to prioritize their health and relationships while providing care.
Changing Habits Gradually: The host suggests changing habits one at a time, tying them to existing routines for better success. This approach helps in avoiding overwhelm and ensures sustainable changes in the caregiver's lifestyle.
Seeking Support and Community: Joining supportive communities and seeking help from others in similar situations is highly recommended. The podcast host offers a program designed to assist caregivers in their journey.
Avoiding Negative Influences: Caregivers are advised to steer clear of negative spaces, like toxic online groups, that can impact their mental health.
The episode concludes with an invitation to join the host’s community, providing resources and support for dementia caregivers. This opportunity is a way to transform the caregiving experience from being merely functional to exceptional, emphasizing the use of evidence-based practices to manage stress and promote well-being.
This episode is a valuable resource for any caregiver seeking practical advice and emotional support in their challenging yet rewarding journey.
Blog: https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/health-and-well-being-as-a-caregiver/
Instagram link: https://www.instagram.com/thinkdifferentdementia/
Enjoy our podcast? Please take a moment to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts—it really supports our show!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dementia-caregiving-for-families/id1716187550
Book a Call with Lizette
https://www.dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/book-a-call-meeting-with-lizette
Are you helping someone you love with dementia?
The First Thing You Need To Know Is... You Are Not Alone!
Join our FREE workshop here: https://www.dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/wsl
Join our Facebook Group at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1301886810018410
Thursday Jan 04, 2024
Thursday Jan 04, 2024
Do you feel overwhelmed by a loved one's dementia diagnosis? Are you wondering where to begin and how to cope?
Receiving a dementia diagnosis for a loved one can be a profound shock. It's a moment filled with a range of emotions, from disbelief to concern.
This episode reminds us that these feelings are normal and encourages listeners to take a moment to breathe and process this new reality.
0:02:04 Understanding What to Do After a Dementia Diagnosis
0:06:12 The Importance of Taking a Breath and Analyzing the Situation
0:09:08 Analyzing the Desired Outcome and Planning Ahead
0:13:36 Negative Facebook Groups and the Importance of Selectivity
0:15:11 Taking One Step at a Time in the Dementia Caregiving Journey
The Importance of Building a Support System
You don't have to walk this path alone. Establishing a strong support network, including family, friends, and online communities specializing in dementia care, is vital.
Sharing experiences and seeking advice from those who understand can be incredibly comforting and informative.
Planning for the Future
Early planning is key in dementia care. This includes legal and financial preparations, as well as understanding the evolving needs of your loved one. This episode guides listeners through the importance of being proactive rather than reactive.
Embracing the Journey with Positivity
The journey of dementia care is often long and unpredictable. Embracing each step with patience and a positive outlook is essential. Focusing on what you and your loved one can still enjoy together helps maintain a sense of normalcy and joy.
Seeking Professional Advice and Resources
Professional help can provide clarity and direction. This episode highlights various resources available for caregivers, including healthcare professionals, support groups, and online platforms offering practical advice and emotional support.
The Power of Community
Joining communities that foster a positive and proactive approach to dementia care can be incredibly empowering. Sharing experiences, challenges, and successes with others in similar situations creates a sense of camaraderie and collective wisdom.
Conclusion
This episode is a beacon of hope and guidance for those beginning their journey in dementia care. It advocates for acceptance, strategic planning, and finding strength in community and positivity. This approach helps caregivers navigate the complexities of dementia with resilience and love.
By embracing these principles, caregivers can find a balance between caring for their loved ones and taking care of themselves.
Enjoy our podcast? Please take a moment to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts—it really supports our show!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dementia-caregiving-for-families/id1716187550
Book a Call with Lizette
https://www.dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/book-a-call-meeting-with-lizette
Are you helping someone you love with dementia?
The First Thing You Need To Know Is... You Are Not Alone!
Join our FREE workshop here: https://www.dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/wsl
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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.