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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
Thursday Dec 07, 2023
Thursday Dec 07, 2023
In Episode 63 of "Dementia Caregiving for Families," we tackle the critical issue of stress in dementia caregiving.
The episode opens with eye-opening statistics about the challenges faced by unpaid caregivers, including the extensive hours of assistance they provide and the emotional toll it takes, often leading to depression and anxiety.
We underscore the tendency of caregivers to overlook their own health needs due to the overwhelming demands of caregiving.
In this episode:
0:02:21 The Story Behind Episode 63
0:07:59 The Importance of Caregiver Readiness and Support
0:12:14 Frustration with Lack of Support from Healthcare System
0:14:06 Healthcare System: A Cause of Stress in Dementia Caregiving
0:16:49 Lack of Education about Dementia Implications
0:21:16 Strategies for Managing and Reducing Caregiver Stress
0:22:19 Journaling and Gratitude in the Face of Negativity
0:25:01 Deep Breathing and Building a Support System
0:30:41 A Supportive Community for Dementia Caregivers
Our discussion is driven by a deep commitment to supporting dementia caregivers, highlighting the essential need for self-care.
We explore effective strategies for stress management and the importance of building a robust support system.
Listeners are encouraged to connect with us for more collaborative solutions.
Throughout the episode, we shed light on the significant impact of caregiver support in reducing the subjective burden.
We stress the importance of the caregiver’s perception of their role and how even minimal support can be transformative.
Our personal frustration with the healthcare system's inadequate resources and education for primary caregivers is candidly shared, emphasizing how this contributes to increased caregiver stress.
The complexities of navigating the healthcare system and understanding dementia add further strain.
As we confront the reality of dementia caregiving, we emphasize the importance of having early and ongoing conversations about end-of-life preferences and quality of life.
We also highlight the inevitability of needing round-the-clock care in dementia's later stages, urging caregivers to plan for this.
To combat stress, we recommend therapeutic practices such as journaling, focusing on daily gratitude, prayer or meditation for spiritual strength, and deep breathing exercises for immediate stress relief.
This episode is a heartfelt call to acknowledge the vital role of caregivers and to provide them with the necessary support and tools to navigate their challenging journey.
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 Dec 04, 2023
Monday Dec 04, 2023
We introduced the transformative concept of retrogenesis, providing a compassionate lens to view the regression often experienced by individuals with dementia, helping us walk in their shoes and see the world through their eyes.
0:02:05 Dementia with Grace: Elevating Quality of Life
0:05:18 Understanding Retrogenesis and its Impact on Dementia
0:07:22 Navigating Dementia Caregiving with Effective Communication Strategies
0:13:30 Creating a Supportive Environment for Caregivers and Loved Ones
0:14:47 The Stigma of Mental Health and Personality Changes
0:15:37 Recognizing the Lack of Support for Dementia Caregivers
0:17:07 The Importance of Preparation in Dementia Caregiving
0:22:53 Supportive program for family caregivers of people with dementia
0:24:03 Helping Those in Need: Schedule a Call for Assistance
0:25:02 Insights on Elevating Quality of Life for Dementia Caregivers
0:26:36 Embracing Longitudinal Care for Dementia Patients at DementiaCareGiving.org
We then ventured into the art of effective communication, a cornerstone in dementia caregiving.
We didn't just talk about strategies; we explored how to weave them into the fabric of daily interactions, emphasizing the importance of proactive, empathetic communication tailored to the evolving needs of someone with dementia.
Here, the PEACE framework emerged as a beacon, guiding caregivers in nurturing meaningful connections.
A poignant part of our conversation was addressing the often-veiled stigma surrounding dementia.
We openly discussed the barriers and the silence, advocating for a culture of support and understanding.
We likened dementia caregiving to a marathon, emphasizing the power of early and consistent support to navigate this journey with resilience and grace.
Self-care emerged as a theme of paramount importance.
Caregivers, we see you, we hear you, and we urge you not to wait for burnout to reach out for support.
Remember, you're not alone in this.
Caring for a loved one with dementia is a team effort, and every caregiver deserves a network of support, understanding, and practical help.
To further extend our support, we invite you to visit DementiaCaregivingMadeEasy.com/start
Here, we've crafted a program that's a haven of support, education, and coaching, designed to equip you and your family with the skills to navigate this caregiving marathon.
Imagine a community where multiple family members can come together, learn, and grow, all for the price of one.
In the spirit of helping and healing, we're offering a 20-minute call for personalized guidance.
This episode was just the beginning. We're here to walk alongside you, offering our hands, hearts, and knowledge. If you're inspired to dive deeper, join our group coaching program at DementiaCaregivingMadeEasy/start.
Let's embark on this journey together, elevating the caregiving experience and enriching the lives of our loved ones with dementia.
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 Nov 30, 2023
Thursday Nov 30, 2023
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 Nov 27, 2023
Monday Nov 27, 2023
In this episode, we explore the complex issue of challenging behaviors in dementia care.
We examine various frameworks for understanding these behaviors, such as the behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia, the control and connect model, and the distinction between behaviors stemming from symptoms versus underlying causes.
We also consider the societal impact on these challenging behaviors and share insights from a case study in our Facebook group.
In this episode:
0:00:00 Introduction to Challenging Behaviors in Dementia
0:00:58 Unpacking Challenging Behaviors and Society's Contribution
0:01:40 Welcome to Dementia Caregiving for Families
0:04:53 The Challenges of Dementia Caregiving
0:09:00 A Different Approach to Addressing Challenging Behaviors
0:09:11 Symptom-Based vs. Underlying Cause-Based Approach to Challenging Behaviors
0:11:24 Control and Connect: A Different Approach to Challenging Behaviors
0:14:19 Recognizing the signs of something wrong
0:15:59 Understanding the impact of changes in behavior due to dementia
0:18:39 Changing interactions with a loved one with dementia
0:21:11 Exploring the impact of external factors on behavior changes
0:22:24 Analyzing behavior as a means of control or connection
0:25:48 Understanding the importance of allowing time for the brain to process
0:27:21 The PEACE Framework: Person-Centered Approach to Dementia Care
0:28:30 Workshop Details and Introduction
As someone deeply committed to enhancing dementia caregiving, I acknowledge the obstacles that caregivers face within the healthcare system.
To ease this burden, I'm crafting a seminar that tackles dementia management from a healthcare provider's angle, drawing from extensive research into challenging behaviors.
In discussing intervention strategies, we touch on medication management but advocate for a more comprehensive approach that seeks to understand and address the root causes, always keeping the individual's well-being at the forefront.
Medication should be a considered option, but not the go-to solution.
We then examine the symptom-based method, which zeroes in on behaviors directly linked to the brain's physical changes, such as hallucinations.
Equally crucial is identifying cause-based behaviors that may arise from feelings of fatigue, being overwhelmed, or sensory overstimulation.
The intriguing control and connect concept introduced by Teepa Snow sheds light on why certain behaviors may emerge—as attempts to either exert control over the environment or to seek connection with others.
I reflect on society's role in defining "challenging" behaviors and the realization that our responses can exacerbate the discomfort and confusion experienced by those with cognitive impairments.
From my personal journey with my father, I share the profound effect of embracing his repetitive conversations without correction, contributing to his sense of calm and security.
The narrative continues with an insight into my mother's care, where I discovered that it was my response to her behavior, rather than the behavior itself, that created anxiety.
A transformation in how I engaged with her led to remarkable improvements.
A related anecdote from our Facebook community illustrates how interpreting a loved one's behavior through the lens of control or connection can open pathways to understanding and adjusting care strategies.
As the brain changes, behaviors that were once manageable can trigger extreme reactions.
The podcast concludes with practical tips for family caregivers to mitigate these behaviors.
I host a monthly workshop offering the "peace framework," which includes person-centered care, tailored environments, and engaging activities.
The workshop also emphasizes the caregiver's role in these dynamics and provides evidence-based guidance.
We are thankful for the Success Seekers who accompany us on this path of aiding our loved ones with dementia.
Your involvement is invaluable, and we invite you to contribute reviews on Apple Podcasts and participate in our Facebook group, Dementia Caregiving for Families.
Let's collectively strive to bring serenity and ease to the caregiving experience amidst the challenges of dementia.
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
Friday Nov 24, 2023
Friday Nov 24, 2023
In
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 Nov 23, 2023
Thursday Nov 23, 2023
In this episode, we delve into the notion of feeling grateful for a dementia diagnosis. It may appear paradoxical at first, but we explore the ways in which we can discover gratitude in the midst of this challenging situation.
As I say farewell to my husband at the airport, I find myself contemplating the aspects of my marriage and life for which I am grateful.
This introspection leads me to ponder whether it is conceivable to find gratitude within a dementia diagnosis.
In this episode:
0:00:00 Reflecting on the Intriguing Topic of Dementia Diagnosis
0:02:24 Gratitude for Life's Challenges: Boarding School Experience
0:05:19 Finding Strength in Personal Baggage: Embracing Boarding School
0:07:54 Grateful for the Impact of Dementia: New Relationships Formed
0:10:58 A Heartfelt Invitation to Join and Support the Program
To illustrate this concept, I recount a personal anecdote from my time in boarding school, a challenging period in my life that ultimately taught me to embrace every experience and shaped me into the person I am today.
Drawing parallels between that experience and dementia, I emphasize that while we cannot control the presence of dementia in our lives, we can control how we respond to it.
Continuing on, I pose a challenge to our listeners: to find at least one way in which they can be grateful for a dementia diagnosis.
I share examples of my own gratitude, such as the newfound perspective I have gained on my mother's personality and the strengthened bond with my sister that this journey has brought us.
Highlighting the significance of living in the present moment, I stress the importance of finding joy amidst the challenges of caregiving for someone with dementia.
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 Nov 20, 2023
Monday Nov 20, 2023
Today on our program, we're diving into a topic that I haven't delved into much before: caregiver guilt during the holidays. To understand this concept better, I did some research, and here's what I found.
Guilt is typically associated with legal contexts, where one is either guilty or not guilty of a crime. As caregivers, we often experience misplaced guilt, feeling like we're not doing enough when we truly are. This guilt can stem from societal expectations or our own perceived shortcomings.
In this podcast episode:
0:01:14 Understanding Caregiver Guilt and its Effects
0:03:27 Strategies for Managing Caregiver Guilt
0:06:59 Acknowledging and managing caregiver guilt
0:09:39 Reframing negative thoughts and focusing on self-care
0:11:08 Creating space for self-care and making the best decisions
0:15:23 Strategies for Dementia Caregiving during the Holidays
0:16:08 Overcoming Caregiver Guilt during the Holidays
0:17:02 Prioritizing and Enjoying the Holidays as a Caregiver
Additionally, caregivers may feel guilty for taking time for themselves or prioritizing their own needs. However, it's important to remember that we can't pour from an empty cup and that self-care is crucial for our well-being.
November is National Family Caregiver Month, highlighting the rights caregivers have to take care of themselves. It's natural for caregivers to occasionally lose patience or feel frustrated, but we must be gracious and understanding toward ourselves.
Making unpopular decisions is another source of guilt for caregivers, such as taking away a loved one's car or considering assisted living. Balancing caregiving with other responsibilities, like work or marriage, can also evoke guilt.
While it's essential to acknowledge our feelings of guilt, we must challenge the notion that we've done something wrong. Our emotions are valid, but they don't always align with reality. Negative thoughts can spiral, leading to a sense of overwhelm and a belief that things will never improve.
Therefore, it's crucial to be mindful of our thoughts and not dwell in a space of guilt. By reframing our mindset, we can navigate the challenges of caregiving with resilience and hope.
Caregiver guilt is a common experience, with feelings of not doing enough and taking time for oneself causing guilt. Managing emotions and making decisions different from what others prefer can also lead to guilt.
However, I encourage a shift in perspective during the holidays. I suggest taking a moment to list all the things done for our loved one, realizing that we are indeed doing enough. Misplaced expectations from both sides can contribute to guilt, but focusing on self-care is essential.
I emphasize the analogy of putting on your oxygen mask before helping others, highlighting the importance of respite care and seeking support. I emphasize reframing frustrations and understanding that loved ones cannot control their circumstances.
Making decisions with the best available information is crucial, even if they may not be popular. Balancing responsibilities can be achieved by putting structures in place ahead of time.
During the holidays, I suggest smaller gatherings and creating space without guilt. I stress that as long as the person needing care is taken care of, it is okay to prioritize spending time with our own family. Saying no to overwhelming demands is okay, and prioritizing the well-being of loved ones is key.
I acknowledge my own misplaced guilt and provide strategies to navigate caregiver guilt during the holiday season.
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 Nov 20, 2023
Monday Nov 20, 2023
In this episode of "Dementia Caregiving for Families," Lizette discusses the four possible plans for individuals living with dementia, addressing the lack of conversation and clarity surrounding these plans within the healthcare system.
Many caregivers are given brochures on dementia without a thorough explanation of the four ultimate outcomes, leading to confusion and overwhelm.
The first outcome Lizette highlights is the need for 24-hour care, which is not clearly communicated from the beginning of the dementia process. The second outcome is that dementia is considered a terminal condition, even though not everyone will die from it.
Lizette then introduces a quadrant diagram to present the third and fourth outcomes. In the bottom left corner is at-home intermittent care, where the person with dementia receives occasional supervision while still living in their own home or a family member's home. In the bottom right corner is at-home 24-hour care, where the person requires round-the-clock supervision in a family member's home.
These four plans aim to provide clarity and guidance for caregivers navigating the challenges of dementia caregiving.
In this podcast episode:
0:01:03 The Four Plans for Dementia Caregiving
0:02:01 Lack of Information on Dementia Care Options
0:03:18 The Unspoken Reality: 24-hour Care for Dementia Patients
0:05:35 Terminal Processes: Cancer, Head Injuries, and Dementia
0:06:39 Understanding the Need for 24-hour Supervision with Dementia
0:08:00 Intermittent and 24-hour Care Options for Dementia Patients
0:15:12 Empowering Family Caregivers with Clear Plans
0:17:10 Supporting Independent Living with Intermittent Supervision
0:20:10 Serving the Success Seekers with Heart and Soul
Moving on, Lizette explains the four available plans in detail. The first two plans involve the person living at home with intermittent or 24-hour supervision provided by family members or paid caregivers.
The third plan is assisted living or memory care, offering intermittent supervision in a facility-based setting. Lastly, the fourth plan entails 24-hour care in a skilled nursing facility.
Lizette acknowledges that these options may not be feasible or affordable for everyone and encourages listeners to consider their own constraints and make the best decision based on their unique circumstances.
Lizette emphasizes that these decisions are not set in stone and can be changed. They advise listeners to take an active step forward and make the next decision they feel is necessary, reassuring them that they don't need to have all the answers right away.
Sharing their personal situation of supporting their parents to live in their own home with intermittent assistance, Lizette reminds listeners that decisions can be adjusted if needed.
In conclusion, Lizette emphasizes that all plans can be changed and none of them are irreversible. They encourage caregivers to start the journey, reminding them of the four main plans available: nursing home, assisted living facility, 24-hour care at home, or self-care.
Lizette hopes that this discussion has helped listeners feel less overwhelmed and gain clarity about the available plans.
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 Nov 20, 2023
Monday Nov 20, 2023
In this episode of Dementia Caregiving for Families, I open up about my unexpected journey into caregiving for my dad. As a therapist, I never anticipated being thrown into this role, and the news of my dad being hospitalized was devastating.
The thought of placing him in a nursing home was something I couldn't bear, knowing the emotional toll it takes on both the caregiver and the person being cared for.
Despite knowing it would only be temporary, I couldn't bring myself to do it. This sudden caregiving responsibility was thrust upon me due to my mom's health issues in the past. I found myself overwhelmed and exhausted as it disrupted my own life and responsibilities.
Unfortunately, my dad's health deteriorated rapidly, and I had to fight with healthcare professionals to ensure he received the necessary care. In the end, he ended up back in the hospital, even sicker than before.
In this episode:
0:01:02 Unexpected Phone Call Changes Everything
0:02:03 The Fear of Nursing Homes and Caregiving Responsibilities
0:05:12 Crisis Mode: Dad Readmitted to the Hospital
0:13:09 Choosing to be a caregiver and making a plan
0:14:03 Enforcing the plan and being in control
0:15:12 Overcoming overwhelm and becoming an empowered caregiver
0:16:21 Transitioning from reactive to proactive caregiving
0:19:17 Identifying whether you are an overwhelmed or empowered caregiver
0:20:55 A Heartfelt Invitation to Join Our Supportive Community
It became evident that a significant crisis was unfolding. My parents could no longer be left alone, so my husband and I made the decision to move them in with us temporarily.
However, this period was incredibly challenging and overwhelming for me. Juggling work, taking care of my parents, and facing numerous obstacles took its toll.
It was a devastating time, but it brought about a realization - I had a choice in how I approached caregiving. I made the decision to become a proactive caregiver, and it transformed my life overnight. I discovered that there are two types of caregivers: those who are drowning and overwhelmed, and those who are successful and manage to come out relatively unscathed.
The power to be a proactive caregiver lies within me, not my parents. The successful caregivers I've encountered intentionally took on the role and created a caregiving plan. They had a sense of control and were able to navigate the challenges.
Now, I want to know where our listeners are in their caregiving journey. Are they still overwhelmed and reacting to every situation, or have they become empowered and proactive?
If they're still struggling, I'm here to offer support and guidance to help them transition into becoming proactive caregivers.
We need to shift our mindset about dementia caregiving and put practical strategies in place to assist caregivers. It's important to remember that caregiving isn't a sprint, but a marathon, and preparation plays a crucial role.
In today's episode, we delve into the significance of planning ahead in the caregiving journey. Just like embarking on a vacation, one wouldn't set off on an epic trip without preparing.
The same applies to caregiving. Dementia caregiving is a long and challenging journey that requires proactive planning to prevent burnout. The first step towards becoming an empowered caregiver is actively deciding to assume the role.
We encourage our listeners to join our community, subscribe to the podcast, and share it with other family caregivers. Together, we can navigate the complexities of dementia caregiving and find peace of mind and ease.
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 Nov 13, 2023
Monday Nov 13, 2023
In the Dementia Caregiving for Families podcast, we delve into the important topic of improving the quality of life for individuals living with dementia and the caregivers who support them. With my background as an occupational therapist, I recognize the challenges that family caregivers face and the limited resources available to them.
Our healthcare system often overlooks the needs of dementia patients and their families, leaving them without the necessary guidance and support. This realization has fueled my passion to create this podcast, where we aim to provide reliable dementia education, practical caregiving skills, and effective strategies to address challenging behaviors.
By subscribing to this podcast and joining our Facebook group, you will gain access to valuable information and a supportive community. Together, we can navigate the complexities of dementia caregiving and choose a path that brings peace of mind to ourselves and improves the well-being of our loved ones.
Join us on this journey to better understand dementia and caregiving. Let's empower ourselves with the tools and knowledge to make a positive difference in the lives of those affected by dementia. Together, we can choose an easier path in dementia caregiving.
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
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.