Lewy Body and Mindful Caregiving

Krystal Jakosky
  • 4.6 (7)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Lewy Body and Mindful Caregiving is a weekly podcast hosted by yours truly, Krystal Jakosky. I’ve always been open to discussing death and the end-of-life challenges we will all face. Yet, in November of 2023, my Mom was diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia, and suddenly everything became a LOT more real. My aim is to bring awareness and understanding of the rollercoaster specific to Lewy Body. If you are supporting someone or know of someone who is dealing with dementia in any way, I hope this podcast can be a boost and support. Simply knowing you’re not alone can be the best lifeline. You can listen to the Lewy Body and Mindful Caregiving podcast on any platform you use to listen, OR you can watch it on my Youtube channel. These videos will be a front-row, visual witness to the struggles, challenges, heartbreaks, and humor I’ll experience as I learn. You may think humor is an odd statement to add here. I assure you, it’s not. Finding and cherishing the moments that make us laugh is paramount to mental health, especially when you’re faced with a disease like Lewy Body.

  1. 02/13/2025

    Projections and Assumptions

    Just returned from a rejuvenating weekend away, and I'm here to dive deep into a topic that's been on my heart—projections and assumptions in caregiving. ✨ Join me as I unravel the emotions hidden beneath my mom's words, like her oft-repeated "you're so busy," which speaks volumes about her loneliness and desire for connection. In this episode, I'll share personal insights into understanding these cues, embracing patience, and finding ways to create meaningful moments amidst the challenge of Lewy body dementia. Take a deep breath, practice some self-care, and let's navigate this journey together.

    13 min

  2. 01/30/2025

    The Importance of Having a Medical Log

    Today, I’m diving deep into the importance of maintaining a detailed medication log for our loved ones. Having juggled numerous meds for my mom, I've learned the hard way about the significance of recording not just the 'what,' but the 'why' of every shift. This log has become my lifesaver in tracking changes and managing side effects. Plus, always make time for a little self-care! We're in this journey together.

    9 min

  3. 12/19/2024

    Navigating Holiday Traditions: Mindful Caregiving for Loved Ones with Dementia

    In this heartwarming episode, I guide you through the holiday season, offering practical tips on balancing cherished traditions with mindful caregiving for your loved ones with dementia. Join me as we explore ways to honor and celebrate together while nurturing our own well-being, ensuring a joyful and peaceful holiday season for us all. Tune in for inspiration and support on this meaningful journey.

    13 min

  4. 12/12/2024

    Caregiving Lessons We Wish We Knew

    In this heartfelt episode, I dive deep into the invaluable lessons and reflections shared by fellow caregivers on what they wish they'd known sooner. Join me as I explore the emotional nuances of caregiving, from self-care strategies to navigating the tough road of regrets and making peace with them. Let’s embrace this journey together and find joy amidst the challenges.

    20 min

  5. 11/28/2024

    Honoring Her Wishes: A Journey Through Comfort and Care in Dementia

    In this heartfelt episode of Lewy Body and Mindful Caregiving, I open up about the emotional and physical challenges of navigating my mom's declining health. From the guilt of missing a call in the night to honoring her wishes for comfort care, join me as I share the tough decisions and moments of self-care that define this caregiving journey. Your support and understanding mean the world to me as I advocate for her with love and compassion. *In this podcast, I mention My mom is in hospice care. She is not in hospice care but rather is in palliative care. Thank you for understanding. _______________________ FIRST TIME HERE? Hey, there! I’m Krystal Jakosky - a teacher, writer, and transformational life coach based in CO. I release weekly podcasts about self-care, hard truths, journaling, meditation, and radical self-ownership. All are wholeheartedly welcome here.  LET’S CONNECT! Visit my website and visit me on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube! Thank you so much for all the support throughout the years! If you love what we are doing here with the podcast, you can make a one time donation to support the Lewy Body and Mindfule Caregiving podcast.

    22 min

  6. 11/21/2024

    Balancing Self-Care and Caregiving: The Lifeline of Asking for Help

    I'm taking you on a deeply personal journey. Caring for my mom since 2018 has been both a blessing and a challenge, especially as her condition has evolved. This episode digs into my struggle with caregiver burnout, those sleepless nights worrying about her safety, and the emotional toll it took on me. I open up about reaching a breaking point where I felt shattered and overwhelmed, despite my best efforts at self-care. You'll hear how I came to the realization that I couldn’t do it all on my own, and how the big step of asking my siblings for help shifted everything. I'll share the emotional rollercoaster of swallowing my pride and how my family came together to support both my mom and me. Join me as we explore the power of vulnerability, the importance of support networks, and the strength found in saying, 'I need help.' If you've ever questioned your capacity as a caregiver, this episode is for you. Together, let's find hope and solace in the humility of reaching out _______________________ FIRST TIME HERE? Hey, there! I’m Krystal Jakosky - a teacher, writer, and transformational life coach based in CO. I release weekly podcasts about self-care, hard truths, journaling, meditation, and radical self-ownership. All are wholeheartedly welcome here.  LET’S CONNECT! Visit my website and visit me on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube! Thank you so much for all the support throughout the years! If you love what we are doing here with the podcast, you can make a one time donation to support the Lewy Body and Mindfule Caregiving podcast.

    17 min

  7. 11/14/2024

    Emotional Check-In for Caregivers of Lewy Body Dementia

    Today, I delve into the nuanced differences between "how are you doing?" and "how are you feeling?" This conversation is vital for caregivers like us who often mask our true emotions. But first, let's talk self-care. With the first snow here, I cozied up with a warm blanket, a book, and tea for half a day - a much-needed pause. Throughout this episode, I share insights from a pivotal discussion with my therapist, examining how acknowledging our feelings and recognizing our caregiving efforts can coexist, leading to profound self-awareness and appreciation. Tune in for practical tips and heartfelt encouragement as we navigate the caregiving journey together. _______________________ FIRST TIME HERE? Hey, there! I’m Krystal Jakosky - a teacher, writer, and transformational life coach based in CO. I release weekly podcasts about self-care, hard truths, journaling, meditation, and radical self-ownership. All are wholeheartedly welcome here.  LET’S CONNECT! Visit my website and visit me on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube! Thank you so much for all the support throughout the years! If you love what we are doing here with the podcast, you can make a one time donation to support the Lewy Body and Mindfule Caregiving podcast.

    11 min

  8. 11/07/2024

    Coping with Hallucinations: Support for Dementia Caregivers

    In this episode of Lewy Body and Mindful Caregiving, I delve into the world of hallucinations that accompany Lewy Body Dementia. Join me as I share personal insights on understanding and navigating these experiences, while offering heartfelt strategies to maintain peace and connection with our loved ones. Let's journey through this challenging path together, finding moments of calm and compassion along the way. _______________________ FIRST TIME HERE? Hey, there! I’m Krystal Jakosky - a teacher, writer, and transformational life coach based in CO. I release weekly podcasts about self-care, hard truths, journaling, meditation, and radical self-ownership. All are wholeheartedly welcome here.  LET’S CONNECT! Visit my website and visit me on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube! Thank you so much for all the support throughout the years! If you love what we are doing here with the podcast, you can make a one time donation to support the Lewy Body and Mindfule Caregiving podcast.

    10 min
See All (64)

4.6
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Lewy Body and Mindful Caregiving is a weekly podcast hosted by yours truly, Krystal Jakosky. I’ve always been open to discussing death and the end-of-life challenges we will all face. Yet, in November of 2023, my Mom was diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia, and suddenly everything became a LOT more real. My aim is to bring awareness and understanding of the rollercoaster specific to Lewy Body. If you are supporting someone or know of someone who is dealing with dementia in any way, I hope this podcast can be a boost and support. Simply knowing you’re not alone can be the best lifeline. You can listen to the Lewy Body and Mindful Caregiving podcast on any platform you use to listen, OR you can watch it on my Youtube channel. These videos will be a front-row, visual witness to the struggles, challenges, heartbreaks, and humor I’ll experience as I learn. You may think humor is an odd statement to add here. I assure you, it’s not. Finding and cherishing the moments that make us laugh is paramount to mental health, especially when you’re faced with a disease like Lewy Body.

Information