Dementia Caregiver Support for Christians: Conversations To Make Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care Easier Today By Reducing Stress, Overwhelm and Burnout

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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

Wednesday Jun 12, 2024

130. How to Know Whether Only Memory Loss Is The First Sign Of Dementia

Wednesday Jun 12, 2024

Have you ever wondered if memory loss is the only sign of dementia? In this episode of "Dementia Caregiving for Families," we dive into this myth.

Many believe memory loss is the first and primary sign of dementia. But is it? We explore some lesser-known signs and types of dementia that go beyond just memory loss in this episode.

Recognizing these lesser-known signs can help in early detection and better management of dementia. Being informed and attentive to subtle changes in behavior, communication, and daily activities is crucial for caregivers.

Join our "Ask the Dementor" monthly meetups for more insights and support on your caregiving journey.
https://dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/ask

Visit our website ThinkDifferentDementia.com for more resources and connect with our community for shared experiences and practical advice. Stay hopeful and proactive, and remember, you are not alone in this journey.

May the Lord bless you and keep you strong. See you in the next episode!

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.
3 Tips How to Avoid Challenging Dementia Behaviors For Christians
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.
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Monday Jun 10, 2024

129. Wine, Women and Dementia: How One Woman Found Community With Kitty Norton

Monday Jun 10, 2024

Have you found joy in your dementia caregiving journey?

Caring for a loved one with dementia can be challenging. But it can also be a journey filled with unexpected joy and community. In this episode of the "Dementia Caregiving for Families" podcast, Lizette welcomes Kitty Norton, who has created a unique documentary titled "Wine, Women, and Dementia." https://www.winewomenanddementia.com/

In 2016, Kitty Norton left her job as an NBC assistant editor in Los Angeles, for her hometown of Portland, Oregon, to walk, stumble, and crawl with her mother with dementia to death’s door.

While doing so, she authored the dementia caregiver blog Stumped Town Dementia, writing tales of dementia life which resonated deeply with readers around the world.

Kitty created and directed the dementia family caregiver documentary, "Wine, Women, & Dementia," to honor this journey with her mother, to spread awareness of the caregiver side of the equation in dementia, and to celebrate family caregivers; to let them know they are not alone, and are worthy of being seen and respected alongside their person living with dementia on this difficult road to the end of life.

Lizette also promotes the upcoming "Ask the Dementor" monthly meetup, a small group session offering support and guidance for caregivers. This is a great opportunity to connect with others and get personalized advice.

Join here:
https://dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/ask

Watch the Documentary

"Wine, Women, and Dementia" will be available for online viewing to support the Alzheimer's Association fundraiser. This is an excellent opportunity to see the film and contribute to a good cause.

Go here to watch it:
https://www.winewomenanddementia.com/

Friday Jun 07, 2024

128. How To Stage Dementia To Immediately Understand Challenging Behaviors

Friday Jun 07, 2024

Have you ever wondered why each person with dementia seems so different, or why doctors often dismiss your concerns as just part of the disease? In this episode, we uncover the mystery behind dementia behaviors by exploring the concept of staging dementia.

Understanding these stages can help caregivers anticipate changes and respond more effectively, easing the caregiving journey. From maintaining independence in the early stages to providing full-time care in the later stages, we discuss practical strategies for each phase, ensuring your loved one receives the best possible care.

We also delve into the vital role of faith in caregiving. Embracing a Christian perspective provides strength and comfort, reminding us that a loving God is present in this challenging journey.

The episode highlights the importance of preparing for future stages and offers insights into creating a supportive community. Join us as we share science-backed solutions, biblical principles, and personal experiences to help you navigate the complexities of dementia care with confidence and compassion.

Don’t miss out on this valuable discussion that promises to make your caregiving experience more manageable and rewarding.

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 Ask the de-MENTOR" Monthly Fellowship Meeting!
https://dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/ask

Wednesday Jun 05, 2024

127. Why It Is Important to Tell People Someone Has Dementia

Wednesday Jun 05, 2024

In the latest episode of "Dementia Caregiving for Families," the importance of sharing a loved one's dementia diagnosis is discussed. Keeping the diagnosis a secret can lead to isolation and increased stress for caregivers.

It's crucial to start informing others early and often, beginning with close family members and then extending to church leadership, employers, colleagues, neighbors, and authorities.

This proactive approach helps build a support network and ensures safety. Recognizing conditions like anosognosia, where the person with dementia cannot see their impairment, is also essential.

Private conversations without the person present might be necessary to share important information without causing distress.

Effective communication with healthcare providers is another key aspect.

Many doctors might dismiss symptoms as normal aging, but true memory loss isn't part of normal aging.

Caregivers should prepare a concise list of observations to share with the healthcare team and consider finding a more responsive doctor if needed. Open discussions about dementia help reduce its stigma, fostering understanding and compassion.

By sharing experiences and educating others, caregivers can ease their burden and provide better care for their loved ones.

2:26 Importance of Communication in Caregiving

7:08 Early and Frequent Communication Strategy

10:34 Looping in Closest Family and Church Leadership

13:22 Involving Employer, Colleagues, and Neighbors

16:28 Dealing with Lack of Awareness in the Person

19:12 Communicating with Healthcare Providers

23:18 Easing Dementia Care Challenges

27:30 Destigmatizing Dementia Discussion

31:23 Recap: Start Early and Speak Often

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 Ask the de-MENTOR" Monthly Fellowship Meeting!
https://dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/ask

Monday Jun 03, 2024

126. How To Find Your Community In Dementia Caregiving: Live Monthly Meet Up

Monday Jun 03, 2024

Have you wondered how to handle a loved one with dementia who constantly forgets?

Dementia care can be a challenging journey, especially for caregivers who want to provide the best support possible. In this episode, Lizette shares valuable insights into making this journey easier and more meaningful. The focus is on understanding dementia better and finding compassionate ways to handle common issues.

24:30 Addressing Concerns About Respite Care
29:02 Understanding Dementia Severity
31:28 Family Dynamics and Caregiving Roles
33:14 Decision Making and Legal Battles
34:21 Balancing Respite Care for Clarity
36:21 Resource Accessibility for Dementia Care
38:14 Seeking Support and Respite Solutions
38:52 Transitioning to Caregiving Responsibilities
41:19 Financial and Caregiving Challenges
42:36 Coping with Repetitive Questions
46:48 Seeking Assistance Beyond Respite Programs
49:51 Understanding Anosognosia in Dementia
53:29 Embracing Changes in Caregiving Approach
56:28 Managing Repetitive Questions Cheerfully
1:01:47 Patience and Cheer in Caregiving Journeys

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 Ask the de-MENTOR" Monthly Fellowship Meeting!
https://dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/ask

Friday May 31, 2024

125. How To Keep Your Brain Healthy As A Dementia Caregiver in 4 Basic Steps

Friday May 31, 2024

Have you ever wondered if dementia is preventable?

In today's myth-busting episode, we explore how caregivers can keep their brains healthy. As a dementia caregiver, your well-being is crucial. Let's discover some lesser-known tips and strategies to stay sharp and positive.

2:02 Unpacking Dementia Care from a Christian Perspective

4:04 Debunking the Two Schools of Thought on Dementia Prevention

7:32 The Magic of Movement for Brain Health

14:56 Overlooking Easy Nutritional Tweaks for Brain Health

20:45 The Impact of Sleep and Stress on Brain Health

Join our next free workshop on June 8th at 10 AM Eastern time. It's interactive and provides practical tips for managing challenging behaviors.

Join here:
https://www.dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/wsl

May the Lord bless you and keep you.

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 Ask the de-MENTOR" Monthly Fellowship Meeting!
https://dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/ask

Wednesday May 29, 2024

124. Easily Help Your Parent With Dementia To Downsize and Move

Wednesday May 29, 2024

Have you recently faced the challenge of moving a loved one with dementia?

Caring for someone with dementia is a journey filled with many challenges. One significant task that caregivers often face is helping their loved ones downsize and move. This process can be emotionally and physically taxing, but with the right approach, it can become manageable.

Downsizing and moving a loved one with dementia is not just about physical relocation. It’s about managing emotions, making thoughtful decisions, and utilizing available resources effectively.

By planning ahead, involving family and friends, and setting realistic expectations, this challenging task can become much more manageable.

Remember, it’s okay to seek help and take breaks when needed. You’re not alone in this journey. Join support groups and workshops to learn more strategies and share your experiences with others facing similar challenges. Together, we can navigate this path with compassion and patience.

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 Ask the de-MENTOR" Monthly Fellowship Meeting!
https://dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/ask

Monday May 27, 2024

123. Why It Is Important to Be Grateful During Dementia Care: Memorial Day Episode

Monday May 27, 2024

Have you ever thought of dementia as a gift?

It might sound surprising, but seeing dementia as a gift can change your caregiving journey. In this episode, Lizette shares insights on finding gratitude while caring for a loved one with dementia.

**Looking for ways to engage your loved one with dementia in meaningful activities? Check out our special Memorial Day mini-course, designed to provide practical, easy-to-apply ideas for creating lasting memories, all for less than the cost of a family lunch at Chick-fil-A.
Get it here: https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/activity/

Faith plays a vital role in making dementia care easier. Understanding that a loving God has a plan for this difficult journey can bring peace. The podcast emphasizes how faith can provide clarity and certainty. It’s about trusting that God’s providence is at work, even in challenging times.

Finding gratitude in dementia caregiving is not about ignoring the difficulties but about recognizing the hidden blessings. Faith, meaningful activities, and a supportive community can make a significant difference. Embrace this journey with an open heart, and you might find unexpected gifts along the way.

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 Ask the de-MENTOR" Monthly Fellowship Meeting!
https://dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/ask

Friday May 24, 2024

122. How To Change The Outcome Of Challenging Dementia Behaviors

Friday May 24, 2024

Have you ever wondered why certain behaviors in dementia care are called "challenging"?

In this episode, we explore how to manage these behaviors using a simple and effective framework. This method can bring peace and clarity to your caregiving journey.

Understanding Behaviors

Dementia often magnifies normal human behaviors. What may seem challenging is usually an attempt by your loved one to communicate. Recognizing this can change your approach and improve outcomes.

Introducing the PEACE Framework

To address these behaviors, a repeatable framework called PEACE can be invaluable. Here’s how it works:

P: Person with Dementia - Focus on their immediate needs and feelings.
E: Environment - Consider the setting and its impact.
A: Activity - Look at the activities they are engaged in.
C: Caregiver’s Response - Reflect on your reactions and responses.
E: Evaluate and Educate - Assess the situation and learn from it.
Real-Life Example

Remember, challenging behaviors in dementia are a form of communication. By using the PEACE framework, you can better understand and respond to your loved one’s needs. This approach not only makes caregiving easier but also strengthens your bond with your loved one.

Get in Touch

If you have specific questions or need personalized advice, visit thinkdifferentdementia.com. You can leave a voicemail with your question, and it might be featured in a future episode.

May you find peace and strength in your caregiving journey. Join us next time for more insights and support.

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 Ask the de-MENTOR" Monthly Fellowship Meeting!
https://dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/ask

Wednesday May 22, 2024

121. Memorial Day: 50 Easy Activities For Loved Ones With Alzheimer’s Or Dementia (Part 3)

Wednesday May 22, 2024

Do you have a loved one with severe dementia?

Navigating life with a loved one who has severe dementia can be challenging. However, finding ways to engage them in meaningful activities is possible. This episode offers unique insights and practical tips for caregivers to help create special moments.

Understanding Severe Dementia

Severe dementia brings visible physical changes and requires significant assistance for daily tasks. It’s important to recognize that your loved one still retains certain abilities. Instead of focusing on what they can no longer do, let’s explore what they can still enjoy.

As caregivers, you are heroes. Your strength and love are invaluable. Remember to lean on your faith for perseverance and support. Take comfort in knowing that you are not alone on this journey.

Join Our Community

If you need more support, consider joining our monthly meetup or our Facebook group. It’s a space to connect, share experiences, and find practical tools for dementia caregiving.

In conclusion, creating meaningful activities for loved ones with severe dementia is about finding simple, engaging, and enjoyable tasks. These activities help maintain their connection to the world and create beautiful memories for you both.

We invite you to register for our Activity Engagement in Dementia Mini-Course!

This informative course will provide you with the knowledge and skills to effectively engage individuals living with dementia in meaningful activities.

Don't miss out! This course expires on May 28, 2024.

Register here: https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/activity

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 Ask the de-MENTOR" Monthly Fellowship Meeting!
https://dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/ask

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.