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Are You a Christian Family Caregiver Feeling Worn Thin by Dementia or Alzheimer’s?
You’re not the first Christian caregiver to face this—and you don’t have to guess your way through it.
Welcome to Dementia Caregiver Support for Christians, the podcast that helps you stop guessing in the fog, see what’s actually happening, and learn how to steward this season faithfully with Christ-centered care.
Whether you’re a spouse, adult child, or family member trying to walk this journey faithfully, this show meets you at the intersection of practical dementia guidance and biblical clarity for real caregiving decisions—so you can care for your loved one while protecting your marriage, honoring your responsibilities, and remaining anchored in truth
Here, we answer the questions Christian caregivers are actually asking:
✅ What are the stages of Alzheimer’s disease, and how can I prepare for each stage as a caregiver?
✅ How do I survive dementia caregiving without burnout?
✅ How do I handle aggressive or challenging dementia behaviors – like hitting, yelling, or refusing care?
✅ What is sundowning and how can I manage it?
✅ When is it time to move my loved one to a memory care facility or nursing home?
✅ Why does my loved one with dementia keep asking the same questions repeatedly, and how should I respond?
✅ How can I get my loved one with dementia to bathe or maintain hygiene when they resist?
✅ How do I prevent my loved one from wandering or getting lost?
✅ How do I balance caring for my loved one and other responsibilities (kids, job, spouse) without feeling guilty?
✅ What does dementia caregiving look like from a Christian perspective?
✅ How can I maintain my faith and trust in God while caring for someone with dementia?
✅ Why would God allow my loved one to suffer from Alzheimer’s?
✅ How can I cope with caregiver guilt as a Christian?
✅ What does the Bible say about honoring and caring for elderly parents with dementia?
✅ How do I care for my parent with dementia without losing my marriage?
This podcast isn’t just about surviving—it’s about stewarding.
Because caregiving isn’t a detour from your life. It’s part of your calling.
Each episode offers:
✔️ Biblical clarity in the middle of emotional fog
✔️ Practical, research-informed strategies you can actually use
✔️ Guidance that honors your loved one and protects your most important relationships
✔️ Peace that comes from clear discernment, faithful obedience, and knowing you are not carrying this outside of Christ’s care
You won’t find sugarcoating here. You’ll find real help, thoughtful reflection, and truth rooted in Scripture—spoken plainly, practically, and with care.
🎧 Subscribe now to Dementia Caregiver Support for Christians and take the next faithful step forward—with peace, purpose, and a voice you can trust.
📍 Find free resources and tools at: ThinkDifferentDementia.com
📧 Email: lizette@thinkdifferentdementia.com
🙏 May the Lord bless and keep you—and I’ll see you in the next episode.
Episodes
Monday Apr 08, 2024
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.
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
Friday Apr 05, 2024
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.
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
Wednesday Apr 03, 2024
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.
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
Monday Apr 01, 2024
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.
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
Friday Mar 29, 2024
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
Wednesday Mar 27, 2024
Wednesday Mar 27, 2024
Have you ever considered how your beliefs and values influence your approach to caregiving for a loved one with dementia? It's an aspect seldom discussed in caregiving circles, yet it affects how we navigate the challenges and decisions that come with the role.
This episode discusses the intersection of faith and caregiving, offering insights and guidance for those on this journey.
- 3:40 Worldview and Dementia Caregiving
- 7:02 The Providence of God
- 16:13 Worldview in Spousal Caregiving
- 20:15 Christian Caregivers' Challenge
- 34:09 Scholarships Available for Program
For those feeling the weight of caregiving, remember, you are not alone. Faith can be both a source of strength and a guide to finding the support you need.
Whether through joining a community of like-minded caregivers, seeking out resources that resonate with your beliefs, or simply acknowledging the role your faith plays in your caregiving journey, there's a path forward that honors both your loved one and your spiritual convictions.
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
Monday Mar 25, 2024
Monday Mar 25, 2024
Are you caring for a loved one with dementia and feeling overwhelmed? Discovering the right resources can significantly ease your journey. This post highlights three indispensable tools every caregiver should know about. These are not just aids; they are game-changers that can transform your caregiving experience.
- 2:31 The Adaptive Equipment Corner
- 21:52 Understanding Lending Closets
- 38:37 Importance of Respite Care
- 42:29 Essential Resources for Caregivers
- 44:45 Accessing Caregiving Resources
Finding these resources can be a lifeline for caregivers. They offer practical support, ease the financial burden of caregiving, and provide opportunities for better care. Importantly, they also bring peace of mind, knowing you're not alone in this journey.
Don't wait until you're overwhelmed to seek out these resources. Visit Adaptive Equipment Corner to find these tools in your area. Remember, understanding and utilizing these resources can transform your caregiving experience, making it more manageable and rewarding.
You can find Christina And Cindy Hardin-Weiss on:
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
Friday Mar 22, 2024
Friday Mar 22, 2024
Are you stepping into the role of a caregiver for a loved one with dementia without a roadmap? The unexpected twists and turns of dementia caregiving can be overwhelming.
It's akin to embarking on an unplanned vacation, where the excitement of spontaneity can quickly give way to the chaos of being unprepared.
This episode sheds light on the critical importance of planning ahead in dementia caregiving, offering a beacon of hope and guidance for those navigating this challenging journey.
The Power of Preparation
Caregiving for someone with dementia is a path filled with uncertainties. The episode beautifully illustrates this through an analogy of an unplanned vacation, emphasizing the pitfalls of being unprepared.
It's a journey that demands foresight, much like meticulously planning a trip to ensure you have all you need for the destination. Without a plan, caregivers might find themselves ill-equipped, facing the dementia caregiving journey with the wrong set of tools and expectations.
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
Wednesday Mar 20, 2024
Wednesday Mar 20, 2024
Are you one of the many family caregivers who juggle a job while caring for a loved one with dementia? You're not alone! This episode explores the challenges you face and offers helpful strategies to manage your work and caregiving responsibilities.
- 0:05:02 When Crisis Strikes: Navigating FMLA
- 0:08:51 Impact of Caregiving on Employment
- 0:13:01 Balancing Roles: Juggling Work and Caregiving
- 0:15:11 Breaking the Silence: Advocacy for Caregivers
The Impact of Caregiving on Employment
Caring for someone with dementia can significantly impact your work life.
Here's how:
Schedule conflicts: You might need to come in late or leave early for appointments or unexpected situations.
Reduced productivity: Worrying about your caregiving responsibilities can make it difficult to focus on work.
Increased stress: Juggling work and caregiving can be stressful, affecting your health and well-being.
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
Monday Mar 18, 2024
Monday Mar 18, 2024
Do you feel like you're constantly playing catch-up caring for a loved one with dementia? You're not alone. Many caregivers struggle with the daily challenges of dementia. But what if there was a way to make things easier?
This episode explores the importance of having a dementia specialist on your side. You shouldn't rely on generalists for dementia care.
- 0:00:54 Simplifying Dementia Caregiving
- 0:11:14 Avoiding Challenging Dementia Behaviors
- 0:13:03 Importance of Dementia Specialists
- 0:15:17 Dementia Caregiving as a Marathon
- 0:18:55 The Haunting Patient
- 0:19:36 Committing to Finding a Dementia Specialist
Having a dementia specialist on your team is an investment that can save you money in the long run. But more importantly, it can help you create a more positive and manageable caregiving experience for yourself and your loved one.
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.