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 Family Caregiver Feeling Worn Thin by Dementia or Alzheimer’s? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure this out by yourself. Welcome to Dementia Caregiver Support for Christians, the podcast that helps you stop reacting in crisis and start stewarding this season with clarity, calm, and 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 encouragement—so you can care for your loved one without losing yourself, your marriage, or your mind. 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 of mind that you’re not walking this road alone 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

Tuesday Apr 22, 2025

244. How to Connect With a Loved One With Dementia—Even When They Forget Who You Are

Tuesday Apr 22, 2025

What do you do when your loved one with dementia looks at you… and calls you their friend instead of their sister?

It’s a moment that feels like a punch in the gut.
But what if how they feel with you matters more than what they call you?

In Episode 244, we explore the heart of relationship-centered dementia care—focusing on emotional connection over factual memory. Through a real caregiver conversation with Helen, you’ll learn practical ways to reconnect with your loved one, even when their words and memories begin to fade.

As a Christian caregiver, your goal isn’t just to be remembered—it’s to reflect Christ’s love in every interaction.

Even when they can’t say your name, they can still feel His peace through you.

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

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

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

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

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

Friday Apr 18, 2025

243. How To Shift From The Medical Model To Relationship-Centered Dementia Care

Friday Apr 18, 2025

Dementia caregiving often begins where the world tells us to start—with the diagnosis, the symptoms, and the stress. But what if we’ve been starting in the wrong place all along?

In Episode 243, we explore how Christian caregivers can shift from the medical model of dementia care to a relationship-centered, biblically grounded approach—one that brings peace, clarity, and God-honoring purpose to a season that often feels overwhelming.

When we shift from a symptom-focused approach to a relationship-centered, God-first mindset, everything changes. We don’t just survive the journey—we walk it with purpose, peace, and perspective.

Let your caregiving be a reflection of God’s love, order, and truth—not the world’s confusion.

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

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

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

Tuesday Apr 15, 2025

242. Why Cognitive Decline Fluctuates in Dementia (and How to Support Your Loved One)

Tuesday Apr 15, 2025

Have you ever felt confused—or even frustrated—by your loved one’s fluctuating clarity?

One day, they seem mentally sharp and engaged. The next, they can’t follow a simple conversation.

What’s going on?

In Episode 242, we explore why cognitive decline in dementia isn’t a straight line and how you can respond with wisdom, compassion, and a biblical mindset. You’ll hear a real-life coaching conversation packed with practical insight, spiritual encouragement, and helpful tools for everyday caregiving.

If your loved one seems fine one moment and lost the next, you’re not doing anything wrong. It’s part of the dementia journey.

Instead of reacting with frustration or fear, respond with observation and grace. Watch for patterns. Allow rest. Create routines. Let go of guilt.

And most importantly, trust God with the moments you can’t predict. He sees you. He sees them. And He walks with you both—on the clear days and the confusing ones.

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

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

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

Friday Apr 11, 2025

241. How A Biblical Approach To Dementia Caregiving Is Revolutionary In The World

Friday Apr 11, 2025

When we think about dementia caregiving, most of us focus on checklists, medications, behavior changes, and coping strategies. But what if we’ve been approaching it all backward?

In Episode 241, we begin a powerful new series that offers a biblical foundation for caregiving. This isn’t just about managing daily tasks—it’s about understanding who God is, who your loved one is, and what He’s doing in and through you.

This episode introduces a Christ-centered framework that will transform how you think, feel, and live out your caregiving calling.

Dementia caregiving can feel overwhelming. But through the lens of Scripture, it becomes something deeper—a calling filled with meaning, growth, and worship.

Your loved one is not lost in God’s eyes.
And neither are you.

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

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

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

Tuesday Apr 08, 2025

240. How To Be Equipped for The Unexpected Crisis as a Dementia Caregiver

Tuesday Apr 08, 2025

What do you do when your world changes in the blink of an eye?

In Episode 240, we hear a deeply personal story—one that many caregivers quietly fear but few feel prepared for. After months of navigating medical decisions, doctor visits, and emotional stress, the host’s mother passed away suddenly during what was supposed to be a routine procedure.

But this episode isn’t just about loss. It’s about preparation, peace, and faith—even when everything falls apart.

If you’re caregiving for someone with dementia, the day may come when you have to say goodbye. But you don’t have to meet that moment unprepared or alone.

You can plan.
You can trust.
And when the time comes, you can rest in God’s providence—knowing you did everything you could, and that He is faithful through it all.

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

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

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

Friday Apr 04, 2025

239. How To Be Prepared for The Unexpected Crisis as a Dementia Caregiver

Friday Apr 04, 2025

What do you do when the unexpected becomes your reality?

In Episode 239, we hear a deeply personal and emotional reflection on the recent passing of Lizette's mother.

This episode is not just about grief—it's about how preparation, emotional clarity, and faith in God’s sovereignty can carry a caregiver through one of the most difficult moments of their life.

Whether you’re early in your caregiving journey or facing a crisis, this episode offers wisdom grounded in faith, experience, and love.

This episode is a sacred reminder: prepare ahead of time, stay grounded in truth, and trust fully in God’s plan. As Christian caregivers, we don’t grieve as those without hope—we grieve while clinging to a Savior who walks with us through every valley.

Read the blog: https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/how-to-be-prepared-for-the-unexpected-crisis-as-a-dementia-caregiver/

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

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

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

Tuesday Apr 01, 2025

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

Tuesday Apr 01, 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Friday Mar 28, 2025

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

Friday Mar 28, 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tuesday Mar 25, 2025

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

Tuesday Mar 25, 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Friday Mar 21, 2025

235. How To Talk To Your Agitated Spouse With Dementia

Friday Mar 21, 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.