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

Friday Apr 19, 2024

107. Where To Look For Emotional Support In Alzheimer's Caregiving: Dementia Caregiver Tips

Friday Apr 19, 2024

How Do You Find Strength and Comfort in Scripture During Tough Times?
In times of hardship, such as when a loved one is diagnosed with dementia, finding solace in scripture and hymns can be profoundly comforting.

The hymn "When Peace Like a River" embodies this sense of calm amidst life's storms, reminding us that spiritual grounding can bring immense peace and resilience. Drawing on biblical wisdom and the soothing words of hymns can help anchor us, offering strength and perspective when facing the challenges of dementia caregiving.

0:58 Coping with Dementia Diagnosis
2:25 Running a Marathon of Resilience
4:56 Finding Comfort in Heidelberg Catechism
7:05 Assurance in Faith and Resilience
12:29 Biblical Wisdom for Dementia Caregiving
13:09 Building Resilience in Caregiving
23:07 Options for Joining a Coaching Community

To practically apply this spiritual and emotional grounding, incorporating daily scripture reading and prayer into your routine is essential. Creating a prayer journal can serve as a valuable outlet for expressing feelings and reflecting on the journey.

This practice not only helps in managing the day-to-day stresses of caregiving but also enhances your spiritual well-being, reminding you of the ongoing support from your faith community and God’s enduring presence.

Navigating the journey of dementia caregiving is undeniably challenging, but it also presents an opportunity to deepen one's faith and reliance on spiritual practices.

By grounding oneself in scripture, participating in hymn singing, and maintaining a routine of prayer and reflection, caregivers can find the necessary strength and peace to manage their responsibilities. Remember, you are not alone in this journey—spiritual resilience and community support are always available.

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

Caring for your loved one with dementia doesn't have to be stressful! 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

Are You A Christian Dementia Caregiver Struggling To Cope With Caregiving?
Get Free Guidance Now!
Join the Monthly FREE Ask The Christian Dementia Coach Sessions
Biblical Principles & Science Backed Solutions to Manage Dementia Caregiving with Confidence
https://dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/ask

Wednesday Apr 17, 2024

106. Overcoming Fear, Frustration And Fatigue: A Christian Perspective On Dementia Caregiving

Wednesday Apr 17, 2024

Have You Felt Overwhelmed by the Responsibilities of Dementia Caregiving?
Dementia caregiving can indeed be daunting. The journey is often filled with fear, frustration, and fatigue.

Yet, understanding how to manage these feelings effectively is crucial. It’s comforting to know that faith can be a powerful tool in this journey. Remembering that you're not alone, and that strength and courage can be found through spiritual support helps immensely.

2:07 Recurring Nightmares and Coping Strategies
6:45 Practical Steps to Overcome Fear in Caregiving
12:26 Ask the Dementia Coach Segment Announcement
13:04 Importance of Seeking Support and Caregiver Well-being
13:24 Understanding the Analogy of the Frog
22:52 Workshop Invitation for Managing Challenging Behaviors
31:37 Recap on Overcoming Fear, Frustration, and Fatigue

While dementia caregiving is challenging, it doesn't have to be a journey made in isolation. Equip yourself with knowledge, plan for the future, and engage with a community. Allow faith to guide and strengthen you, and remember to take care of your own needs as well. Through these steps, caregivers can find a sense of control and peace amidst the challenges.

Caring for your loved one with dementia doesn't have to be stressful! 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 Apr 15, 2024

105. How One Widower Found Loving Purpose After Dementia Caregiving With Dennis Dulniak

Monday Apr 15, 2024

Have you ever wondered what life looks like after the caregiving journey ends? In this episode, we explore the profound journey of a widower who found new purpose and joy after his intense role as a dementia caregiver concluded.

Dennis Dulniak, a widower with a passion for dementia caregiving, discusses his foundation, Nana's Books (https://www.nanasbooks.org/), which provides educational resources to Title I schools.

Inspired by his late wife Nancy, who had dementia, Dennis emphasizes the importance of creating positive memories despite the challenges. He advocates for support for caregivers and aims to change attitudes towards dementia through early education.

Dennis invites listeners to support Nana's Books and join his men's support group to foster compassion and understanding around dementia and disabilities.

For those who are currently caregivers or those who see caregiving on the horizon, this episode is a call to reflect on the personal changes and growth that come from such profound experiences. It’s also a prompt to consider how to transform personal challenges into actions that benefit others, turning grief into a driving force for good.

The end of the caregiving journey could be the beginning of another beautiful chapter. Let this story inspire you to think about how you can extend your journey’s impact beyond caregiving, creating a lasting legacy that honors your loved one and supports your community.

Sponsor a book at https://www.nanasbooks.org/

Caring for your loved one with dementia doesn't have to be stressful! 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

Friday Apr 12, 2024

104. Is Resilience Important as a Christian Caregiver in Dementia Care?

Friday Apr 12, 2024

Are you familiar with the Heidelberg Catechism and its relevance to building resilience as a Christian caregiver in dementia care?
If not, you're about to discover why it's crucial for navigating the caregiving journey with strength and grace.

7:05 Finding Comfort in Christ's Sovereignty
12:29 Developing Resilience in Dementia Caregiving
24:33 Importance of Educating Yourself in Caregiving

In the marathon of dementia caregiving, resilience is your running mate. Just as runners don't attempt a marathon without training, caregivers need to build resilience to sustain themselves through the long journey ahead. But what exactly is resilience?

It's the capacity to stay strong and hopeful, drawing from your faith and biblical truths to face trials and challenges head-on.

Caregiving is undeniably challenging, but with resilience built on the solid foundation of faith and the support of a caring community, you can navigate this journey with hope and grace.

Let the Heidelberg Catechism's message of comfort in Christ's sovereignty inspire you to face each day with renewed strength, knowing you're never alone in this journey.

Remember, building resilience in dementia caregiving isn't just about enduring hardship; it's about growing in faith and witnessing God's faithfulness in every step.

Read the Blog: https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/christian-caregiver-in-dementia-care

Email me: lizette@thinkdifferentdementia.com

Message me at Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thinkdifferentdementia/

Caring for your loved one with dementia doesn't have to be stressful! 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

Wednesday Apr 10, 2024

103. The 3 Most Common Mistakes Christian Dementia Caregivers Make

Wednesday Apr 10, 2024

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the multitude of tasks and responsibilities on your plate as a caregiver, especially from a Christian perspective? You're not alone. Many find themselves struggling to balance caregiving with other life duties.

In this episode, we uncover three typical mistakes Christian dementia caregivers make and offer guidance to overcome them.

2:45 Personal Struggles of a Family Caregiver
6:05 Mistake 1: Not Planning for Inevitable Changes
14:23 Announcement: Ask the Dementia Coach Segment
15:48 Mistake 2: Neglecting Unique Christian Role
20:52 Seeking Help and Wise Counsel
22:36 Mistake 3: Not Beginning with the End in Mind
29:34 Encouragement to Seek Assistance and Well-Being Assessment

By recognizing and addressing these common mistakes, Christian dementia caregivers can navigate their roles more effectively, ensuring both they and their loved ones receive the care and support needed. Remember, you're not alone in this journey.

Seeking assistance, leaning on your faith, and planning strategically can transform the caregiving experience into one of growth, love, and fulfillment.

Read the Blog: https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/christian-dementia-caregivers/

Ask the Dementia Coach: https://www. dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/ask

Email me: lizette@thinkdifferentdementia.com

Caring for your loved one with dementia doesn't have to be stressful! 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 Apr 08, 2024

102. How Designing Your Home Care Team Immediately Relieves Dementia Burden With Mike George

Monday Apr 08, 2024

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the responsibilities of caregiving for a loved one with dementia? Many caregivers navigate this journey alone for far too long, unaware of the immense relief that building a home care team can bring.

This episode features Mike George from Soaring Families (https://www.soaringfamilies.com/), where the discussion revolves around designing a home care team for family caregivers of individuals living with dementia. The focus is on relieving caregiver burden and ensuring endurance for the caregiving journey. Mike shares his personal experience as a family caregiver and emphasizes the importance of building a support team to share the load effectively.

We also talk about the challenges faced by family caregivers, particularly in starting the caregiving journey without a structured support system in place. Mike highlights the need for family caregivers to recognize the benefits of creating a care team early on to prevent burnout and stress. The importance of setting up the right environment in the home for caregivers is also discussed, including establishing boundaries and privacy considerations.

The message is clear: don't wait until you're overwhelmed to build your home care team. By starting early, focusing on trust, and customizing your approach, you can create a supportive circle that not only makes caregiving manageable but also enhances the quality of life for both you and your loved one. Reach out, explore your options, and take that first step towards a more supported caregiving journey today.

Caring for your loved one with dementia doesn't have to be stressful! 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

Friday Apr 05, 2024

101. How to Prevent the "Battle of the Bathing" in Dementia Caregiving

Friday Apr 05, 2024

Have you ever faced the daunting challenge of bathing someone with dementia? For many caregivers, this task can lead to stress and conflict, often referred to as the "Battle of the Bathing." In this episode, we uncover three practical strategies to navigate this challenge with grace and understanding.

Understanding Their Story

Firstly, understanding the life history of the person with dementia is crucial. Their past experiences with bathing and personal hygiene can deeply influence their current behavior. For instance, someone who grew up bathing in a lake might be bewildered by modern showering. By appreciating their background, caregivers can tailor their approach, reducing fear and resistance.

Creating a Comfortable Environment

Secondly, the environment plays a significant role. Many bathrooms can be cold, sterile, and intimidating. Transforming this space into a warm, inviting area can make a world of difference. Think spa-like vibes—soft lighting, pleasant scents, and soothing music. Using adaptive equipment like shower benches or specially designed towels can also enhance safety and comfort.

Managing Expectations

Lastly, managing expectations—yours, not theirs—is vital. Recognizing that daily showers may no longer be necessary or feasible is a part of this process. Instead, focus on what is comfortable and manageable for both of you. Observing and adapting to their natural rhythm can help establish a more harmonious routine.

Practical Support for Caregivers

Beyond these tips, support is available. Free workshops offer a chance to learn more and connect with others facing similar challenges. For those seeking deeper assistance, a low-cost group membership program provides ongoing support, enabling caregivers to learn from real-life scenarios and expert advice.

Remember, you're not alone in this journey. By joining the "Dementia Caregiving for Families" Facebook group, caregivers can find a community of support, sharing both challenges and solutions. Together, we can navigate the complexities of dementia care, turning daunting tasks into moments of connection and understanding.

By employing these strategies and seeking support, caregivers can transform the battle of bathing into a peaceful, even pleasant, routine. Let's approach dementia care not just as a series of tasks but as an opportunity to provide love, respect, and dignity to those we care for.

Caring for your loved one with dementia doesn't have to be stressful! 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

Wednesday Apr 03, 2024

100. Walking By Faith: One Christian Caregivers Dementia Care Journey

Wednesday Apr 03, 2024

In the 100th episode, Lizette shares her personal story of transitioning from faith-informed dementia caregiving advice to faith-forward guidance. The speaker, Lizette, an occupational therapist and dementia coach, emphasizes the importance of integrating faith into the caregiving journey for those dealing with dementia in their loved ones.

She discusses the challenges faced by Christian caregivers and the significance of relying on faith to navigate through difficult times.

2:23 Facing Difficult Decisions in Faith
4:49 The Struggle of Faith-forward vs. Faith-informed
7:31 Offering Support through Ask the Dementia Coach
10:38 Conflicted: Faith-informed or Faith-forward?
13:11 Finding Ease in Dementia Caregiving
15:06 Rebranding for Christian Caregivers
17:34 Spreading Awareness and Seeking Support

Lizette reflects on her decision-making process in deciding whether to make the podcast more faith-forward or remain faith-informed. She discusses the internal conflicts and fears associated with being overtly faith-forward in her content, highlighting the vulnerability that comes with openly sharing one's faith and beliefs.

Despite the challenges and hesitations, Lizette expresses her commitment to being more faith-forward in her approach to better serve Christian caregivers in the dementia community.

The speaker announces the rebranding of the podcast to focus more specifically on providing support to family caregivers of individuals with dementia from a Christian perspective. She emphasizes the importance of combining evidence-based practices with faith-based solutions to offer comprehensive guidance to caregivers.

Lizette invites both believers and non-believers to engage with the podcast, offering valuable insights and practical tips for managing caregiver stress and improving the caregiving experience.

In concluding the episode, Lizette encourages listeners to share the podcast with others in similar caregiving situations, seek support from their church community, and engage in open discussions about the challenges of dementia caregiving.

She highlights the significance of finding hope in faith, especially during the difficult journey of caring for someone with dementia.

Caring for your loved one with dementia doesn't have to be stressful! 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 Apr 01, 2024

99. How One Simple Tool For Professional Healthcare Providers Can Make Dementia Caregiving Easier With Chris Kelsey

Monday Apr 01, 2024

Ever left a doctor's appointment feeling more lost than when you entered? You're not alone.

Many find the healthcare system overwhelming, especially when faced with a new diagnosis or treatment plan. Recognizing this challenge, an innovative solution has emerged, aiming to simplify the healthcare journey for dementia caregivers and their loved ones.

The episode features a conversation with Chris Kelsey from Paths, a platform designed to aid family caregivers in navigating the healthcare system, especially concerning dementia care.

VillagePaths.com was born out of a personal journey where the founder experienced the shortcomings of the healthcare system firsthand. The platform aims to simplify the healthcare journey by providing curated steps of information to help patients and caregivers navigate complex situations.

3:33 Paths Platform Introduction with Chris Kelsey
6:19 Paths Backstory and Motivation
9:56 Coping with Dementia from a Christian Perspective
11:21 Barriers to Dementia Care Education
15:02 Challenges in Healthcare System Education
16:24 Importance of Family Caregiver Coordination
20:12 Lack of Stress Assessment in Healthcare
26:19 Coordinating Caregivers in Families
31:19 Healthcare Navigation Challenge
34:43 Overcoming Misbeliefs about Dementia Care
35:52 Beginning Caregiving Journey with Hope

As healthcare continues to evolve, so too must the resources available to those navigating its complexities. Paths offers a promising solution for dementia caregivers, providing a clearer, more manageable approach to healthcare education and coordination.

By embracing innovative solutions like Paths, we can ensure that caregivers are equipped not only with the knowledge they need but also with the hope and support that can make all the difference on their caregiving journey.

Caring for your loved one with dementia doesn't have to be stressful! 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

Friday Mar 29, 2024

98. One Mistake A Dementia Caregiver Makes By Not Traveling With Kathy Smith Shoaf

Friday Mar 29, 2024

Have you ever reconsidered a long-held belief because of a new experience? Imagine the profound impact of such a change, especially in the context of dementia caregiving.

Today, we're exploring an inspiring journey that challenges common misconceptions about travel with person living with dementia and unveils the enriching possibilities it holds.

03:04 Kathy: Registered nurse, specializing in geriatric neurology
08:48 Personalized cruise experience with seamless logistics
12:57 Cruise impact on caregivers' advice; therapy example
20:16 Embrace change and make lasting memories
25:13 Continuous learning leads to living joyfully and confidently
33:09 Unexpectedly connected with people during airport layover

Kathy Smith Shoaf RN is a Travel Expert with 20+years of clinical and management experience in Geriatric, Rehabilitation and senior housing as an RN and ATP. She realized after years of counseling with families that the QUEST to enjoy life "Should Never Have to Stop". Her ability to overcome Fear and Anxiety about travel... Makes "Dreams Come True".

You can find Kathy on EliteCruisesAndVacationsTravel.com. As an RN and experienced Group Travel Expert, Kathy has created travel opportunities in a wide range of exclusive Cruise, Land Tour, and Topical Social Itineraries.
Experienced in Luxury/ VIP, Faith-Based, Accessible, Dementia, Senior, Diabetes, Cancer Care, educational /CEU and Topical group cruise events.

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

Caring for your loved one with dementia doesn't have to be stressful! 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

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.