Hope Floats: Navigating Caregiving in Dementia

Rachel Coady + Shoshawna Rainwater
  • 5.0 (14)
  • HEALTH & FITNESS

A podcast for people who are navigating the challenges of caring for a person with Dementia.  A place where your well-being matters, where community and support can be found, and where hope on this journey exists.  We are in this together.

  1. 12/02/2025

    Adjusting to New Caregiver Experiences

    This episode of Hope Floats delves into the behaviors exhibited by individuals with dementia in advanced and memory care settings. We discuss building new relationships with caregiving staff, managing care expectations, and learning about typical behaviors that come with joining a new environment- particularly focusing on dementia patients’ tendency to explore others' personal spaces and the implications this has for families. It highlights the importance of understanding these behaviors as a natural part of dementia rather than as malicious actions. It also covers steps you can take to care for yourself as a family member and caregiver during this transition. Takeaways Moving to a higher care level involves changes for everyone.Families should be prepared for unexpected actions.Communication with staff can clarify these behaviors.Understanding these behaviors can help families cope better.Families may be surprised by their loved ones' behaviors.Memory care facilities often have shared spaces.Dementia can lead to confusion about ownership of items.Empathy is crucial in dealing with dementia-related behaviors.In this transition, family members who were the primary caregiver can also reclaim some of their time and social support, since the loved one now has other care.Text us and please share your thoughts on Hope Floats episodes and topics that would be helpful to you! Support the show Thank you for listening! If you are enjoying Hope Floats, please consider making a donation on Venmo to support this work and the creation of future episodes. Any amount helps! Please be sure to review and share the Hope Floats podcast with any listeners who might be interested. To see more tools, resources, and learn more about the hosts you can visit www.HopeFloatspodcast.com

    38 min

  2. 11/03/2025

    Caring For a Parent With Dementia

    In this episode of Hope Floats, Shoshawna Rainwater and Rachel Coady discuss the unique challenges faced by adult children caring for parents with dementia. They explore the emotional landscape of caregiving, the impact on family dynamics, and the importance of self-care. The conversation also highlights coping strategies for managing caregiving from a distance and finding hope and connection in the journey. Takeaways: Being an adult child caregiver involves a role reversal with parents.The emotional journey includes feelings of denial, grief, and anger.Family dynamics can change significantly when caring for a parent with dementia.Education about dementia can help caregivers prepare for the journey ahead.Caring from a distance presents unique challenges and requires proactive planning.Self-care is essential for caregivers to maintain their well-being.Finding community support can alleviate feelings of isolation.Establishing clear communication with siblings is crucial for effective caregiving.Accepting that the relationship with a parent will change is important.Moments of joy and connection can still be found in the caregiving experience. Text us and please share your thoughts on Hope Floats episodes and topics that would be helpful to you! Support the show Thank you for listening! If you are enjoying Hope Floats, please consider making a donation on Venmo to support this work and the creation of future episodes. Any amount helps! Please be sure to review and share the Hope Floats podcast with any listeners who might be interested. To see more tools, resources, and learn more about the hosts you can visit www.HopeFloatspodcast.com

    53 min

  3. 09/30/2025

    Support for the Spousal Caregiving Journey

    In this episode, Shoshawna Rainwater and Rachel Coady discuss the unique challenges faced by spousal caregivers of individuals with dementia. They explore the emotional, psychological, and physical impacts of caregiving, the changes in intimacy and connection, and the feelings of isolation and stigma that caregivers often experience. The conversation emphasizes the importance of building a support network, understanding the legal and financial aspects of caregiving, and fostering empathy among friends and family.  Takeaways Spousal caregiving is distinct from other caregiving roles.Emotional impacts can affect physical well-being.Long-term relationships complicate the caregiving experience.Intimacy changes can disrupt marital connections.Caregivers often experience feelings of isolation and loneliness.Social stigma can increase feelings of embarrassment for caregivers.Physical health impacts are significant for caregivers.Legal and financial planning is essential for caregivers.Building a support network is crucial for caregiver well-being.Empathy and understanding from friends and family are vital. Text us and please share your thoughts on Hope Floats episodes and topics that would be helpful to you! Support the show Thank you for listening! If you are enjoying Hope Floats, please consider making a donation on Venmo to support this work and the creation of future episodes. Any amount helps! Please be sure to review and share the Hope Floats podcast with any listeners who might be interested. To see more tools, resources, and learn more about the hosts you can visit www.HopeFloatspodcast.com

    51 min

  4. 07/15/2025

    All Food Is Medicine with Registered Dietitian Meredith Kleinhenz

    Summary: "We need more vitamin joy." In this episode of Hope Floats, registered dietitian Meredith Kleinhenz discusses the nutritional needs of individuals with dementia, emphasizing the importance of understanding changes in eating habits and preferences as the disease progresses. She advocates for a flexible approach to food, encouraging caregivers to prioritize enjoyment and comfort over strict dietary rules. The conversation covers practical strategies for managing weight loss, the significance of familiar foods, and the role of caregivers in supporting nutritional intake. Meredith also addresses end-of-life nutrition considerations and the complexities surrounding feeding tubes, ultimately highlighting the importance of 'vitamin joy' in enhancing quality of life for those with dementia. Takeaways Meredith Kleinhenz is a registered dietitian specializing in gerontological nutrition, to learn more about her work visit www.savvydietitian.com or email her at savvydietitian@outlook.comWeight loss in dementia can lead to decreased function and higher fall risk.Food should be enjoyable and familiar for individuals with dementia.Caregivers should focus on the quality of life rather than strict dietary rules.Vitamin joy is essential for enhancing the experience of eating.Recognizing signs of malnutrition early can help prevent further complications.Social eating environments can improve nutritional intake for elders.Fluid intake is crucial, but can be challenging for older adults.End-of-life care should focus on comfort rather than forcing food and liquids.Oral nutrition supplements can be a useful tool but should be chosen based on individual preferences.Text us and please share your thoughts on Hope Floats episodes and topics that would be helpful to you! Support the show Thank you for listening! If you are enjoying Hope Floats, please consider making a donation on Venmo to support this work and the creation of future episodes. Any amount helps! Please be sure to review and share the Hope Floats podcast with any listeners who might be interested. To see more tools, resources, and learn more about the hosts you can visit www.HopeFloatspodcast.com

    42 min

  5. 06/26/2025

    Reimagining Caregiving

    In this episode, Rachel Coady and Shoshawna Rainwater explore the emotional, financial, and social burdens in the current dementia caregivers role and emphasize the need for a “make-over” that could bring better awareness, support and acknowledgement culturally for caregivers. The conversation highlights innovative ideas for community engagement, workplace support, and the importance of recognizing caregiving as a shared responsibility. They also touch on the lack of positive media representation of caregiving experiences, the hope for a care-first culture and the need for better cultural narratives surrounding these experiences. They discuss the economic implications of caregiving, and the importance of community support through initiatives like memory cafes. The conversation emphasizes the need for a cultural shift in how we view caregiving, advocating for greater acknowledgment and support for family caregivers. Takeaways There are nearly 12 million unpaid caregivers in the U.S.Caregiving is often hard, lonely, and expensive. Many caregivers feel undervalued and misunderstood.83% of caregiving is done by family members and friends.Crisis caregiving is more supported and recognized culturally and systemically than creeping caregiving.Cultural shifts are needed to support caregivers better.Celebrating caregivers' journeys can provide much-needed support. Innovative ideas like caregiver showers can help normalize caregiving.Public education campaigns could foster empathy towards aging and caregiving.Normalizing discussions about caregiving can reduce feelings of isolation.Economic implications of caregiving are significant and often overlooked.Memory cafes provide essential community support for caregivers and those with cognitive changes.The Five A's framework offers practical ways to support family caregivers.Community engagement is crucial for improving the caregiving experience.Advocacy for caregivers could motivate systemic changes in support.Text us and please share your thoughts on Hope Floats episodes and topics that would be helpful to you! Support the show Thank you for listening! If you are enjoying Hope Floats, please consider making a donation on Venmo to support this work and the creation of future episodes. Any amount helps! Please be sure to review and share the Hope Floats podcast with any listeners who might be interested. To see more tools, resources, and learn more about the hosts you can visit www.HopeFloatspodcast.com

    40 min

  6. 06/10/2025

    Navigating Moving in Dementia pt 2.

    In this episode of Hope Floats, hosts Shoshawna Rainwater and Rachel Coady discuss the complexities of moving a loved one with dementia into a care facility. They explore the emotional and logistical challenges caregivers face, including financial considerations, legal decision-making, and the importance of mindset on move day. The conversation emphasizes the need for careful planning, consultation with professionals, and the emotional support required for both caregivers and those living with dementia.They emphasize the importance of clear communication, emotional reassurance, and the use of comfort stories to ease the transition. The discussion also covers the timing and delivery of difficult news, strategies for a smooth move day, and the critical need for self-care for caregivers after such a significant event. Takeaways: Key things to do before the move- consult with professionals, consider finances now and moving forward, make sure your paperwork is as complete as possible. Consult with a financial advisor and elder law attorney.Most care is funded through private pay or out of pocket.Long-term care insurance can be complex and difficult to access.Legal decision-making for moving a person with dementia can be complicated.Initial visits to care facilities should be done without the person with dementia.Caregivers often feel dread and guilt about moving their loved ones.It's normal for individuals with dementia to experience confusion after a move.Caregivers should prepare for emotional reactions from their loved ones.Keep communication about the move simple and confident. Practice clear communication to ease understanding and involve trusted individuals in delivering difficult news.Emotional reassurance is key in difficult conversations.Use comfort stories to facilitate transitions.Timing and delivery of news matter greatly.Smooth transitions require planning and support and creating a familiar environment in the new setting helps.Post-move care is essential for both the patient and caregiver.Text us and please share your thoughts on Hope Floats episodes and topics that would be helpful to you! Support the show Thank you for listening! If you are enjoying Hope Floats, please consider making a donation on Venmo to support this work and the creation of future episodes. Any amount helps! Please be sure to review and share the Hope Floats podcast with any listeners who might be interested. To see more tools, resources, and learn more about the hosts you can visit www.HopeFloatspodcast.com

    52 min

  7. 05/13/2025

    Navigating Moving in Dementia- Part 1.

    Summary In this episode of Hope Floats, hosts Shoshawna Rainwater and Rachel Coady discuss the complexities of moving a loved one with dementia. They explore the emotional significance of home, the challenges of aging in place, and the signs that indicate it may be time to consider a move. They discuss understanding the unique needs of dementia patients and the impact of caregiving on family members, the reasons families consider moving their loved ones, the financial implications of different care settings, and the importance of choosing the right environment for successful adaptation. The conversation emphasizes the emotional challenges caregivers face and the need for a supportive mindset during the transition process. Takeaways Moving for a person with dementia is uniquely challenging.Home represents safety and familiarity, which is crucial for dementia patients.The emotional attachment to home can complicate the moving process.Dementia can rob individuals of autonomy and agency.Recognizing when a move is necessary requires careful consideration of symptoms.Safety concerns often prompt families to consider relocation.The experience of moving is a sensory one, impacting comfort and familiarity.Each stage of dementia presents unique challenges for living arrangements.Support systems can help prolong the time a person can stay at home.Planning a move involves weighing the benefits of staying versus relocating. Caregiver health can impact the decision to move a loved one.Relocation is often prompted by the inability to meet care needs.The cost of care can escalate quickly, making relocation necessary.Families may feel pressure from others to make a move.Understanding the unique needs of the person with dementia is crucial.Different care settings offer varying levels of support for dementia patients.Independent living may not provide enough support for those with cognitive decline.Memory care units are designed to accommodate the needs of dementia patients.Financial planning is essential when considering care options.Caregivers should focus on the potential for improved quality of life. Text us and please share your thoughts on Hope Floats episodes and topics that would be helpful to you! Support the show Thank you for listening! If you are enjoying Hope Floats, please consider making a donation on Venmo to support this work and the creation of future episodes. Any amount helps! Please be sure to review and share the Hope Floats podcast with any listeners who might be interested. To see more tools, resources, and learn more about the hosts you can visit www.HopeFloatspodcast.com

    40 min

  8. 04/30/2025

    The Power of Music in Caregiving with Lisa Peterson

    In this episode of Hope Floats, hosts Rachel Coady and Shoshawna Rainwater welcome licensed music therapist Lisa Peterson, founder of  Come on, Let's Sing   comeonletssing.com , who shares her journey and insights on music's profound impact in dementia caregiving. Lisa discusses how music can foster connection, reduce anxiety, and empower caregivers, emphasizing that every human is innately musical. The conversation explores practical applications of music therapy, including the benefits of humming and creating playlists that resonate with loved ones' memories. Through personal stories and professional experiences, the episode highlights the transformative power of music in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with dementia and their caregivers. In this conversation, Lisa shares insights on the importance of self-care for caregivers, practical tools for stress relief, and the role of fun in caregiving. She introduces the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) tapping as a quick self-soothing method.The discussion highlights how caregivers can embrace their musical nature to foster connection and joy, even in challenging situations. Takeaways: Everyone is inherently musical, which can be a powerful tool for connection.Music enhances cognitive function and emotional connection in dementia care.Music therapy can create meaningful connections for those with dementia, and  lower anxiety and improve emotional well-being.Learn more about Lisa's work at comeonletssing.com Caregivers can use music and their musicality to connect with and enhance their caregiving experience.Humming is a natural self-soothing behavior that calms the nervous system.Every human has an innate musicality that can be tapped into.Creating playlists of familiar songs can evoke positive memories.Music serves as a powerful communication tool when words fail.Empowering caregivers with music resources can enhance their confidence.Music can help create a sense of safety and predictability for individuals with dementia. Acknowledging both stress and self-compassion is crucial for caregivers and practical tools like EFT tapping can provide quick stress relief for caregivers.Incorporating fun into caregiving can improve both caregiver and patient well-being.Sound and vibration play a significant role in emotional and physical well-being. Text us and please share your thoughts on Hope Floats episodes and topics that would be helpful to you! Support the show Thank you for listening! If you are enjoying Hope Floats, please consider making a donation on Venmo to support this work and the creation of future episodes. Any amount helps! Please be sure to review and share the Hope Floats podcast with any listeners who might be interested. To see more tools, resources, and learn more about the hosts you can visit www.HopeFloatspodcast.com

    45 min
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A podcast for people who are navigating the challenges of caring for a person with Dementia.  A place where your well-being matters, where community and support can be found, and where hope on this journey exists.  We are in this together.

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