Dementia Discussions podcast

#Barbara Hament #Science #Society #Conversations #Podcasting Education #About Alzheimers

26:18

How do you know when it’s time to make your next big career move? With International Women’s Day around the corner, we are excited to feature Avni Patel Thompson, Founder and CEO of Milo. Avni is building technology that directly supports the often overlooked emotional and logistical labor that falls on parents—especially women. Milo is an AI assistant designed to help families manage that invisible load more efficiently. In this episode, Avni shares her journey from studying chemistry to holding leadership roles at global brands like Adidas and Starbucks, to launching her own ventures. She discusses how she approaches career transitions, the importance of unpleasant experiences, and why she’s focused on making everyday life easier for parents. [01:26] Avni's University Days and Early Career [04:36] Non-Linear Career Paths [05:16] Pursuing Steep Learning Curves [11:51] Entrepreneurship and Safety Nets [15:22] Lived Experiences and Milo [19:55] Avni’s In Her Ellement Moment [20:03] Reflections Links: Avni Patel Thompson on LinkedIn Suchi Srinivasan on LinkedIn Kamila Rakhimova on LinkedIn Ipsos report on the future of parenting About In Her Ellement: In Her Ellement highlights the women and allies leading the charge in digital, business, and technology innovation. Through engaging conversations, the podcast explores their journeys—celebrating successes and acknowledging the balance between work and family. Most importantly, it asks: when was the moment you realized you hadn’t just arrived—you were truly in your element? About The Hosts: Suchi Srinivasan is an expert in AI and digital transformation. Originally from India, her career includes roles at trailblazing organizations like Bell Labs and Microsoft. In 2011, she co-founded the Cleanweb Hackathon, a global initiative driving IT-powered climate solutions with over 10,000 members across 25+ countries. She also advises Women in Cloud, aiming to create $1B in economic opportunities for women entrepreneurs by 2030. Kamila Rakhimova is a fintech leader whose journey took her from Tajikistan to the U.S., where she built a career on her own terms. Leveraging her English proficiency and international relations expertise, she discovered the power of microfinance and moved to the U.S., eventually leading Amazon's Alexa Fund to support underrepresented founders. Subscribe to In Her Ellement on your podcast app of choice to hear meaningful conversations with women in digital, business, and technology.…

Dementia Discussions

Distribuie

Pagina seriei•Feed

A monthly podcast about dementia. Join your host, Barbara Hament every 2nd Tuesday of the month, as she interviews medical professionals, caregivers, and various experts on how to better understand and cope with this challenging and complex disease.

89 episoade

Dementia Discussions

updated acum un an

Distribuie

Pagina seriei•Feed

89 episoade

#Barbara Hament #Science #Society #Conversations #Podcasting Education #About Alzheimers

Toate episoadele

Dementia Discussions

1
Alzheimer’s Caregiving: A Journey of Love, Patience, and Resilience 51:22

acum 11 weeks51:22

51:22

Welcome to the first episode of season three of Dementia Discussions ! In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with Charlene, a dedicated caregiver navigating the emotional and practical challenges of supporting her sister-in-law with Alzheimer’s. Charlene brings a unique perspective as a sister-in-law and sibling, sharing deeply personal stories about her family's journey through this devastating disease. We explore the complexities of caregiving, from handling denial and family dynamics to managing difficult conversations and making tough decisions. Charlene’s resilience, compassion, and humor shine through as she offers practical tips, emotional insights, and a dose of inspiration for anyone on a caregiving journey. This conversation is a powerful reminder that even in the hardest moments, there is love, laughter, and hope. Episode Highlights: [0:00] - Charlene shares her caregiving mantra: D.A.R.E. (Don’t Argue, Reason, or Explain). [0:41] - Barbara welcomes Charlene and introduces her caregiving journey. [5:59] - The early signs of Alzheimer’s: identifying memory issues and the challenge of family denial. [10:46] - The driving dilemma: taking away keys and navigating emotional fallout. [15:09] - Strengthening family bonds and maintaining a united front in caregiving. [19:50] - Addressing the role of denial in Alzheimer’s diagnoses and caregiving. [27:05] - Stories of wandering: handling safety concerns and learning to adapt. [34:42] - The need for outside help: hiring caregivers and planning for future care. [35:39] - Charlene’s self-care strategy: the power of a “three-hour vacation.” [39:26] - Building a support network and the importance of acceptance in caregiving. [45:24] - Creative caregiving solutions: using scrapbook projects and games to connect. [48:24] - Patience and compassion: navigating daily challenges with grace. Do you have a caregiving story to share? Barbara would love to hear from you! Please leave her a message at 310-362-8232 or send her an email through DementiaDiscussions.net. If you found value in today's episode, please don't forget to rate, follow, share, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue producing this content.…

Dementia Discussions

1
Navigating Love and Loss: A Caregiver's Tale of Resilience with Andrew Bloomenthal 45:25

acum 15 weeks45:25

45:25

In this poignant episode, I sit down with Andrew Bloomenthal, a writer and caregiver, to delve into his heartfelt story about navigating his father’s journey with Parkinson’s-related dementia. Andrew’s article in Boston Magazine struck a chord with readers, and today he joins us to share the deeply personal moments that shaped his caregiving experience. From navigating family dynamics to finding moments of levity and grace in the midst of confusion, Andrew’s story is one of resilience, vulnerability, and love. This episode is a testament to the strength of caregivers and the unbreakable bonds of family. Episode Highlights: [2:18] - Andrew introduces his father, a compassionate personal injury lawyer with a zest for life and a talent for music, photography, and exercise. [6:03] - The early signs of cognitive decline and the emotional hurdles of recognizing and addressing them. [11:54] - Andrew reflects on the difficulties of maintaining patience and how caregivers commonly experience this challenge. [16:22] - Struggles with medication compliance and how moving to an assisted living facility eased those challenges. [24:18] - The unforgettable courthouse day: a surreal, improvisational moment of caregiving that highlights the power of human connection. [35:07] - A stranger’s act of kindness in the courthouse and how it became a transformative moment for Andrew and his father. [43:39] - The importance of sharing caregiving stories and why Andrew believes his father would have been proud of how he was honored. Resources: Andrew Bloomenthal’s Boston Magazine article My Dad’s Last Day in Court https://www.bostonmagazine.com/news/2024/08/13/dementia/ Do you have a caregiving story to share? Barbara would love to hear from you! Please leave her a message at 310-362-8232 or send her an email through DementiaDiscussions.net. If you found value in today's episode, please don't forget to rate, follow, share, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue producing this content.…

Dementia Discussions

1
Until There’s a Cure, There’s Community: Wine, Women, and Dementia 52:29

acum 18 weeks52:29

52:29

In this heartfelt episode of Dementia Discussions , I’m joined by the incredible Kitty Norton, a former assistant editor turned caregiver, blogger, and filmmaker. Kitty shares her inspiring journey from her mother’s dementia diagnosis to becoming her primary caregiver, a role that profoundly changed her life. We explore her transition into advocacy through her candid blog, Stumped Town Dementia , and her documentary film Wine, Women, and Dementia , which is now airing on PBS. Kitty brings her signature humor and raw honesty as we discuss caregiving challenges, family dynamics, and how humor can be a lifeline in even the most difficult moments. From navigating the "rage stage" to finding unexpected community in caregiver forums, Kitty’s story is one of resilience, love, and laughter in the face of adversity. Episode Highlights: [0:46] - Welcoming Kitty Norton and diving into her mom’s dementia diagnosis. [3:20] - Kitty’s early realizations about her mom’s condition and navigating the diagnosis process. [8:10] - Making the courageous decision to move to Portland and care for her mom Full-time. [11:10] - Stories from the “rage stage” and how dementia changed her mom’s personality. [17:03] - The life-saving guidance of geriatric psych specialists and forums. [29:32] - How Kitty’s blog, Stumped Town Dementia , became a lifeline for caregivers worldwide. [38:40] - Creating Wine, Women, and Dementia : A journey of healing and storytelling. [49:23] - PBS distribution and Kitty’s mission to bring caregivers together through her film. Connect with Kitty Norton: Kitty Norton’s blog: Stumped Town Dementia Wine, Women, and Dementia documentary: Official Website Do you have a caregiving story to share? Barbara would love to hear from you! Please leave her a message at 310-362-8232 or send her an email through DementiaDiscussions.net. If you found value in today's episode, please don't forget to rate, follow, share, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue producing this content.…

Dementia Discussions

1
Navigating Changes with Lewy Body Dementia 53:42

acum 29 weeks53:42

53:42

In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Sherri, a devoted caregiver whose husband Ray has been diagnosed with Lewy body dementia. Sherri shares her journey, from noticing the first subtle changes in Ray's behavior to the emotional and practical challenges they face today. We delve into how Ray's fearless personality and active lifestyle shifted dramatically as the disease progressed, and how Sherri has had to adapt to these changes. This episode is a touching reminder of the resilience and love that caregivers embody, and it offers insights and advice that can help others facing similar struggles. Episode Highlights: [01:32] - Sherri describes her husband Ray's fearless personality before his diagnosis. [07:25] - Discussing the changes in Ray’s behavior and the initial signs of cognitive decline. [10:50] - The difficulty in getting a proper diagnosis and the eventual discovery of Lewy body dementia. [18:57] - Sherri's efforts to keep Ray active and engaged despite his resistance. [22:29] - The tough decision to stop Ray from driving and the emotional impact it had on him. [30:28] - Sherri shares the emotional and practical challenges of adjusting to Ray's cognitive changes. [43:33] - The importance of support groups and meditation in Sherri's caregiving journey. [48:51] - Sherri’s strategies for maintaining patience and emotional stability. Do you have a caregiving story to share? Barbara would love to hear from you! Please leave her a message at 310-362-8232 or send her an email through DementiaDiscussions.net. If you found value in today's episode, please don't forget to rate, follow, share, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue producing this content.…

Dementia Discussions

1
Rebuilding Relationships Through Dementia 54:15

acum 33 weeks54:15

54:15

In this heartfelt episode of Dementia Discussions, I'm joined by Robin Degtjarewsky, a listener who reached out to share her inspiring story about caring for her mother, who lives with dementia. Robin opens up about her journey from dealing with her mother's hoarding issues to managing her care from a distance and navigating the challenges that come with dementia. Robin shares the unexpected silver linings that have brought her closer to her mom and offers valuable tips for other caregivers facing similar challenges. Join us as we delve into Robin's personal experiences, the emotional rollercoaster of caregiving, and the practical steps she took to ensure her mother received the best possible care. Whether you're a caregiver yourself or want to understand the complexities of dementia, this episode offers a compassionate and insightful perspective. Episode Highlights: [1:24] - Introduction of Robin and the episode's focus on her caregiving journey [5:29] - Discussing the early signs of dementia and Robin's realization that something was wrong. [10:06] - Robin's emotional response to her mother's forgetfulness and the initial stages of her diagnosis. [16:54] - The transition from hoarding to assisted living and the emotional impact on Robin. [25:09] - Navigating the ups and downs of caregiving, including moments of gratitude and frustration. [34:52] - The importance of enjoying small moments and building a stronger relationship despite the challenges. [41:04] - Meditation and mindfulness as coping mechanisms for stress and anxiety [46:01] - The role of a supportive network, including family and friends, in managing the caregiving journey. Do you have a caregiving story to share? Barbara would love to hear from you! Please leave her a message at 310-362-8232 or send her an email through DementiaDiscussions.net. If you found value in today's episode, please don't forget to rate, follow, share, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue producing this content.…

Dementia Discussions

1
Love and Resilience while Caregiving for Multiple System Atrophy and Dementia 46:43

acum 38 weeks46:43

46:43

In this episode, I sat down with Melanie, a member of my dementia with Lewy body support group at the UCLA Mary S. Easton Center. Melanie bravely shares her journey as the sole caregiver for her husband, Monty, who's facing a multitude of health challenges, including multiple system atrophy (MSA), diabetes, and dementia. Through our candid conversation, Melanie opens up about the daily struggles and joys of caring for her beloved husband while striving to maintain her own identity. Her story is one of resilience, love, and finding gratitude in the face of adversity. Monty is a former composer, musician, and rabbi who was diagnosed with MSA in 2019. In addition to MSA, Monty also has type 1 diabetes, mild to moderate dementia, and is currently undergoing dialysis for stage five kidney failure. Episode Highlights: [1:14] - Melanie introduces her husband, Monty, and his background as a composer, musician, and rabbi. [3:14] - Monty's diagnosis of multiple system atrophy (MSA) and its two subtypes, MSA-C and MSA-P. [6:36] - Monty's age and retirement shortly after his diagnosis. [8:22] - The progression of Monty's dementia and its impact on his work and daily life. [11:30] - Challenges with eating and Melanie's strategies to help Monty maintain his dignity. [16:49] - The impact of Monty's retirement on his mental health. [23:17] - Melanie's exhaustion and the importance of support groups in her life as a caregiver. [26:56] - Melanie's strategies for self-care, including naps, living in the moment, and finding humor. [32:28] - The lack of support from family members and the strain it puts on Melanie as the sole caregiver. [38:45] - Melanie's fear of losing her own identity and holding on to personal interests. [44:03] - Melanie's plans to start her own MSA support group for caregivers in the Pacific Time Zone. [45:16] - The importance of being of service to others and finding gratitude in the face of adversity. Do you have a caregiving story to share? Barbara would love to hear from you! Please leave her a message at 310-362-8232 or send her an email through DementiaDiscussions.net. If you found value in today's episode, please don't forget to rate, follow, share, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue producing this content.…

Dementia Discussions

1
A Daughter's Journey Through Dementia Caregiving 1:00:17

acum 42 weeks1:00:17

1:00:17

In today's episode, we go on a personal journey of caregiving with my guest, Kim, a long-time listener of our podcast and a daughter navigating the complex world of dementia care for her mother. Kim's story is not just moving—it's filled with insights that only a dedicated caregiver can offer. Whether you're a caregiver yourself or just someone interested in understanding the reality of living with dementia, this episode promises to enrich your perspective. Episode Highlights: [00:25] - Kim shares how the podcast has been a lifeline in dealing with her mother's dementia. [02:11] - Kim talks about her mother's initial symptoms and the onset of her dementia journey. [05:27] - Discussion on managing dual caregiving roles as Kim's mother's condition progresses alongside her boyfriend's Parkinson's diagnosis. [08:38] - Exploring the effects of sensory loss on dementia symptoms. [14:59] - Kim recounts the emotional decision to move her mother into assisted living. [19:11] - Adjustments and challenges with her mother's care in the assisted living facility. [25:21] - Evaluating the necessity and timing of transitioning to memory care. [30:35] - Managing complex family dynamics and the impact of caregiving on personal lives. [39:56] - The personal toll of caregiving and maintaining a balance in personal life. Do you have a caregiving story to share? Barbara would love to hear from you! Please leave her a message at 310-362-8232 or send her an email through DementiaDiscussions.net. If you found value in today's episode, please don't forget to rate, follow, share, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue producing this content.…

Dementia Discussions

1
Supporting a Parent with Dementia in Your Twenties 51:39

acum 46 weeks51:39

51:39

In today's episode, I have the pleasure of welcoming Skylar, a young caregiver who has been navigating the complex world of dementia care for her mother. Two years ago, Skylar stepped into the role of primary caregiver, a journey filled with both adversity and profound personal growth. Join us as we explore Skylar's experiences, from managing daily care challenges to making tough decisions about assisted living. This conversation promises insights not only into the practical aspects of caregiving but also into the emotional resilience required in such a role. Episode Timeline: [00:32] - Introduction to the show and welcoming Skylar [02:07] - Skylar's initial challenges with her mother’s dementia during the pandemic [07:19] - The realization and acceptance of her mother’s condition and the informal diagnosis [14:32] - Skylar's journey in securing legal documents and planning for long-term care [19:59] - The decision to move her mother to an assisted living facility and the emotional toll it took [24:02] - Adjustments and life in the assisted living facility, including the recent move to memory care [31:19] - The daily realities and evolving needs of living with dementia [40:06] - Skylar reflects on personal growth and the support systems that have helped her navigate her role as a caregiver Do you have a caregiving story to share? Barbara would love to hear from you! Please leave her a message at 310-362-8232 or send her an email through DementiaDiscussions.net. If you found value in today's episode, please don't forget to rate, follow, share, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue producing this content.…

Dementia Discussions

1
Cannabis for Dementia: An Introduction with Dr. Sherry Yafai 45:17

acum 51 weeks45:17

45:17

Dr. Sherry Yafai joins me to discuss cannabis as a treatment for many symptoms that arise with dementia. As an emergency room physician turned cannabis clinician, Dr. Yafai shares her expertise on using cannabis for issues like anxiety, sleep disturbances, and pain. We discuss appropriate dosing, cannabis formulations, and most importantly - seeing a specialist versus experimenting on your own. Dr. Yafai stumbled into the world of medical cannabis while working in the ER, with patients mentioning using cannabis for issues like arthritis pain and chemotherapy side effects. She was skeptical at first but dove into the research to learn more. Now she consults with patients to create personalized cannabis treatment plans to replace or enhance traditional pharmaceutical options. Episode Highlights: [09:42] - Coming "out of the closet" to colleagues about being a cannabis doctor. [15:39] - Why doctor recommendation makes cannabis legitimate medicine vs. recreational. [22:22] - Using THC for improved sleep-in dementia patients. [28:55] - Risk of addiction/dependence with medical cannabis. [32:26] - Various formulations like chocolate, honey, tea. [35:47] - Start low, go slow philosophy with dosing. [43:31] - Reach out for professional guidance from a cannabis clinician. Connect with Dr. Sherry Yafai: · Website: https://sherryyafaimd.com/ · The Releaf Institute: https://thereleafinstitute.com/ · Cannabis Clinicians: https://www.cannabisclinicians.org/ Do you have a caregiving story to share? Barbara would love to hear from you! Please leave her a message at 310-362-8232 or send her an email through DementiaDiscussions.net. If you found value in today's episode, please don't forget to rate, follow, share, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue producing this content.…

Dementia Discussions

1
Bringing Dental Care Home with Gabrielle Mahler, DDS 1:04:29

acum 1 year1:04:29

1:04:29

In this episode, I speak with Dr. Gabrielle "Dr. Gabby" Mahler, a mobile dentist who makes house calls to patients, the majority of whom have varying stages of dementia. Dr. Gabby explains how she can perform cleanings, fillings, crowns, extractions, and denture fittings in clients' homes and residential facilities. She also shares creative strategies for providing oral hygiene care to those who refuse it or cannot do it themselves. About my Guest: Dr. Gabrielle “Dr. Gabby” Mahler Dr. Gaby has been practicing mobile dentistry for 14 years. She started working with retirement homes early in her career which exposed her to the immense need for at-home dental care options for older adults and people with disabilities. She now owns a mobile practice serving clients throughout LA. Episode Highlights: [05:11] - Transitioning from traditional dentistry to mobile dentistry. [10:49] - The surprisingly wide range of procedures possible in the home. [16:41] - Attempting dentures on dementia patients. [23:21] - Preserving patients' joy of eating. [24:56] - How medical insurance applies to mobile dentistry. [35:01] - Educating caregivers on proper oral hygiene routines. [43:15] - Detecting dental issues in uncommunicative patients. [48:39] - How to prepare food for safe eating. [53:21] - Caring for removable dentures and partials. [1:01:02] - The differences treating dementia patients. Connect with Gabrielle Mahler, DDS: Website - https://www.inhomedentalcare.com/ Do you have a caregiving story to share? Barbara would love to hear from you! Please leave her a message at 310-362-8232 or send her an email through DementiaDiscussions.net. If you found value in today's episode, please don't forget to rate, follow, share, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue producing this content.…

Dementia Discussions

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A Comprehensive Look at Dementia with Kevin Jameson, Founder of The Dementia Society of America 40:41

acum 1 year40:41

40:41

Joining me in this episode is Kevin Jameson, founder and CEO of the Dementia Society of America. Kevin shares his personal journey of caring for his wife who was diagnosed with dementia, which led him to start this organization. He provides an in-depth look at the various types of dementia, the importance of early diagnosis, and lifestyle changes we can make to reduce our risk. About My Guest, Kevin Jameson Kevin started the Dementia Society of America after his wife was diagnosed with dementia in her late 50s. He became her primary caregiver and realized there were few resources available, prompting him to start this nonprofit organization. As a leading voice in the dementia field, Kevin is dedicated to providing education, improving quality of life, and funding research. Episode Highlights: [00:55] - Introducing my guest, Kevin Jameson, Founder of the Dementia Society of America. [04:14] - Kevin shares his emotional story of his wife Ginny’s journey to a dementia diagnosis. [10:50] - After the diagnosis, Kevin and his wife started traveling the world, seizing the day. [12:24] - The emotional transition from home care to a care facility and hospice. [15:20] - The Dementia Society of America was founded in 2003. [16:28] - We discuss the myths about most dementia cases. [20:18] - Simple lifestyle changes we can make to reduce dementia risk factors. [25:04] - Minor changes in cognitive impairment are hard to spot, there is no lightning moment. [32:56] - How clinical trials have advanced. [33:48] - Overview of the Dementia Society's programs. Links & Resources: Dementia Society of America: https://www.dementiasociety.org/ Do you have a caregiving story to share? Barbara would love to hear from you! Please leave her a message at 310-362-8232 or send her an email through DementiaDiscussions.net. If you found value in today's episode, please don't forget to rate, follow, share, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue producing this content.…

Dementia Discussions

1
Believing in Yourself as a Caregiver with Tami Anastasia 50:28

acum 1 year50:28

50:28

In this episode, we invite back special guest, Tami Anastasia. I had the pleasure of meeting Tami at an Aging Life Care Association Conference, where Tami's expertise in dementia care stood out. Tami is not just a dementia consultant; she's also an educator and the author of "Essential Strategies for the Dementia Caregiver: Learning to Pace Yourself." Tami's primary focus is on supporting primary caregivers or care partners, those who shoulder the responsibility of caring for a loved one with dementia. Through her private practice, she offers a wide range of support services. This includes counseling and emotional assistance, but she doesn't stop there. Tami provides invaluable guidance on domestic care strategies tailored to the unique challenges of caring for someone living with dementia. Tami's impact extends beyond the realm of family caregiving. She conducts professional in-service trainings, equipping other healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills they need to care for individuals living with dementia effectively. Tami's commitment to the dementia caregiving community is further evidenced by her involvement in caregiver support groups throughout the Northern California Bay Area, with a primary focus on the San Jose region. She plays an active role in these groups, offering guidance and support to those facing the challenges of dementia care. Timeline Summary: [05:16] - Coping with dementia caregiver stress [10:40] - Dementia care and communication strategies [15:58] - Dementia caregiving challenges and fears [26:12] - Dementia and its impact on thinking and behavior [30:12] - Supporting caregivers of people with dementia [40:58] - Dementia care strategies and emotional support If you enjoyed hearing Tami share her insights and advice about being a dementia caregiver, be sure to follow Dementia Discussions to catch future episodes. Consider giving the show a 5-star rating and leaving a review to help more families impacted by dementia discover the podcast. Until next time! Do you have a caregiving story to share? Barbara would love to hear from you! Please leave her a message at 310-362-8232 or send her an email through DementiaDiscussions.net . If you found value in today's episode, please don't forget to rate, follow, share, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue producing this content.…

Dementia Discussions

1
Creating a Meaningful Holiday Season with Tami Anastasia 41:37

acum 1 year41:37

41:37

The holidays can be an especially difficult time for dementia caregivers. In this compassionate episode, expert Tammy Anastasia shares her top strategies to reduce caregiver stress, honor feelings of grief, and create new meaningful traditions. I had the pleasure of meeting Tami at an Aging Life Care Association Conference, where Tami's expertise in dementia care stood out. Tami is not just a dementia consultant; she's also an educator and the author of "Essential Strategies for the Dementia Caregiver: Learning to Pace Yourself." Tami's primary focus is on supporting primary caregivers or care partners, those who shoulder the responsibility of caring for a loved one with dementia. Through her private practice, she offers a wide range of support services. Episode Highlights: [00:37] - The mixed feelings caregivers face during the holidays. Let go of comparing to past holidays. [02:48] - What's one tradition you could modify to make things easier? [08:26] - Don't judge your own limitations. Give yourself permission to do less and say no. [13:19] - Name tags can ease social awkwardness when your loved one can't remember people. [21:35] - A caregiver calendar of festive activities for every day of December. [23:40] - Schedule holiday activities during your loved one's best time of day. [26:28] - Reach out to caregivers so they don't feel lonely and isolated. [30:10] - Take a drive to see festive light displays. [31:58] - Allow yourself to feel sadness and loss. Find ways to comfort difficult emotions. [35:48] - Take 10 festive minutes every day just for you as a holiday gift to yourself. [38:05] - You are a gift to the person you care for. Connect with Tami Anastasia: Website: https://tamianastasia.com/ If you enjoyed hearing Tami share her insights and advice about being a dementia caregiver, be sure to follow Dementia Discussions to catch future episodes. Consider giving the show a 5-star rating and leaving a review to help more families impacted by dementia discover the podcast. Until next time! Do you have a caregiving story to share? Barbara would love to hear from you! Please leave her a message at 310-362-8232 or send her an email through DementiaDiscussions.net. If you found value in today's episode, please don't forget to rate, follow, share, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue producing this content.…

Dementia Discussions

1
Placing My Wife With Alzheimer's in Memory Care with Jay Swerdlow 33:57

acum 1 year33:57

33:57

In this heartfelt episode, I welcome back Jay Swerdlow, a longtime support group member. Jay shares the difficult journey of placing his wife Andy, who has Alzheimer's disease, into memory care. He discusses the challenges of caring for her at home as her disease progressed and delusions worsened. Though it broke his heart, Jay knew he had to make the difficult decision to move Andy to a care facility for both of their wellbeing. He talks about visiting her regularly, dealing with her not always recognizing him, and finding acceptance with where they are in this ongoing journey of a dreadful disease. Jay Swerdlow is a member of the UCLA Mary S. Easton Alzheimer's Disease Research Center support group, which Barbara co-leads. Jay has been married to his wife Andy for 58 years before she was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2019. Since 2021, Andy has been living at a memory care facility. Timeline Summary: [01:36] - Andy was a schoolteacher diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 2019. [03:47] - Andy's constant asking to go see her deceased parents was a daily struggle. [05:30] - Jay's initial mistakes responding to Andy's questions before joining a support group. [09:20] - Challenges during the difficult transition of moving Andy into memory care. [14:04] - The ongoing difficulty of bringing Andy back to the care facility after taking her on outings. [16:44] - Andy not understanding celebrating her 80th birthday. [19:12] - Jay visits Andy three times a week at her care facility. [23:02] - Andy still recognizes their sons when they visit. If you enjoyed hearing Jay share his family’s dementia journey, be sure to follow Dementia Discussions to catch future episodes. Consider giving the show a 5-star rating and leaving a review to help more families impacted by dementia discover the podcast. Until next time! Do you have a caregiving story to share? Barbara would love to hear from you! Please leave her a message at 310-362-8232 or send her an email through DementiaDiscussions.net . If you found value in today's episode, please don't forget to rate, follow, share, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue producing this content.…

Dementia Discussions

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Supporting Your Loved One Through the Journey of Lewy Body Dementia 34:54

acum 1 year34:54