Dementia & Families: A Balancing Act

Kelly A Bertenshaw, MA CCC SLP ECDCS
  • 5.0 (15)
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  • Updated Biweekly

When a loved one is diagnosed with dementia, family members can feel completely overwhelmed. You're now trying to juggle managing your loved one's increasing need for care while also tending to your own family, career and life. It can truly feel like a balancing act. I'm Kelly Bertenshaw, a licensed Speech Language Pathologist and certified Dementia Care Specialist. I have worked with those affected by dementia and their families for more than 20 years. I started this podcast to help you, the family members, as you navigate this journey. My goal is to provide you with proven strategies, relevant information and research, as well as actionable steps you can take today . Together, we'll find the answers. Because no one should walk this journey alone. RSSVERIFY

  1. Jul 8

    "My Memory Has Changed. Now What?"

    Your memory feels different, but your cognitive tests are normal. So now what? In this episode, Kelly explores what Subjective Cognitive Decline really means, why it happens and how it's different from Mild Cognitive Impairment and Dementia. Finally, she explains why normal cognitive test results don't always end the conversation. FACEBOOK PAGE: Please leave questions for Kelly, or set up a chat! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103 Please consider donating to support A BALANCING ACT! https://buymeacoffee.com/navigatingmemoryloss Resources THE CHARACTERIZATION OF SUBJECT COGNITIVE DECLINE https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7062546/ SUBJECTIVE COGNITIVE DECLINE: A PUBLIC HEALTH ISSUE https://www.cdc.gov/healthy-aging-data/media/pdfs/subjective-cognitive-decline-508.pdf MILD COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-dementia/related_conditions/mild-cognitive-impairment?utm_source=google-grant&utm_medium=paidsearch&utm_campaign=google_grant&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=1073831728&gbraid=0AAAAAD14_Nhi5s2Nr6FfrmNmjHxNvG30P&gclid=CjwKCAjw6rfSBhAqEiwA_yocpr6yPdFAyE1Hdon6k2j9JEtzM91efnNKvu-OAQ0H64U-JD_tnBYN_BoCFFkQAvD_BwE The information shared in this podcast is for EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES only, and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Kelly A. Bertenshaw, any guests or contributors to the podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of A Balancing Act: Helping Families Navigate Memory Loss be responsible for damages arising from the use of this podcast.

    "My Memory Has Changed. Now What?"

  2. Jun 24

    Dementia and Decoding Repetitive Behaviors

    In this episode, Kelly explores why repetition develops in a brain affected by dementia, what it reveals about your loved one's inner experience, and how shifting your perspective can transform frustration into insight. Because understanding the why behind these behaviors is the first step to responding with more confidence and less stress. FACEBOOK PAGE: Please leave questions for Kelly, or set up a chat! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103 Please consider donating to support A BALANCING ACT! https://buymeacoffee.com/navigatingmemoryloss Resources Behavior Management Strategies – Understanding Dementia Behaviors: Repetitive Speech or Actions (Perseveration) https://www.caregivercalifornia.org/2023/04/21/behavior-management-strategies-understanding-dementia-behaviors-repetitive-speech-or-actions-perseveration/ Managing Repetition in Alzheimer’s Behavior: Caregiver Tips https://www.alzra.org/alzheimers-behavior-issues/repetition/ The information shared in this podcast is for EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES only, and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Kelly A. Bertenshaw, any guests or contributors to the podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of A Balancing Act: Helping Families Navigate Memory Loss be responsible for damages arising from the use of this podcast.

    Dementia and Decoding Repetitive Behaviors

  3. Jun 10

    When Dementia Care Need Change Fast

    Don't wait for a crisis. If someone you love is showing early signs of memory loss, the time to plan is now. In this episode, Kelly walks you through how to build a simple, realistic three-year care roadmap before urgency makes the decisions for you. FACEBOOK PAGE: Please leave questions for Kelly, or set up a chat! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103 Please consider donating to support A BALANCING ACT! https://buymeacoffee.com/navigatingmemoryloss Resources https://www.alzheimers.gov/life-with-dementia/planning-after-diagnosis#tips-for-planning https://www.alzheimers.gov/life-with-dementia/planning-after-diagnosis#tips-for-planning The information shared in this podcast is for EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES only, and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Kelly A. Bertenshaw, any guests or contributors to the podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of A Balancing Act: Helping Families Navigate Memory Loss be responsible for damages arising from the use of this podcast.

    When Dementia Care Need Change Fast

  4. May 27

    Dementia and Hoarding: Fear of the Void

    This episode explores dementia-related hoarding, why it happens, what it means, and how families can respond with compassion. Kelly reframes hoarding not as stubbornness or manipulation, but as the brain's way of coping with memory loss. As dementia progresses, people anchor their sense of identity, security, and memory to physical objects, making removal feel threatening and distressing. FACEBOOK PAGE: Please leave questions for Kelly, or set up a chat! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103 Please consider donating to support A BALANCING ACT! https://buymeacoffee.com/navigatingmemoryloss Resources https://www.agingcare.com/articles/how-to-handle-hoarding-behaviors-in-dementia-patients-133679.htm https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/stages-and-symptoms/dementia-symptoms/hiding-hoarding-losing https://alzfdn.org/alzheimers-today-volume-17-number-3/hoarding-and-dementia/ The information shared in this podcast is for EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES only, and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Kelly A. Bertenshaw, any guests or contributors to the podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of A Balancing Act: Helping Families Navigate Memory Loss be responsible for damages arising from the use of this podcast.

    Dementia and Hoarding: Fear of the Void

  5. May 13

    Weight Loss and Dementia

    This episode explores why people with dementia often experience significant weight loss and changes in eating and drinking habits. Kelly explains how aging can affect eat and drinking, as well as how dementia can disrupt hunger and thirst signals, sensory processing, and the brain's ability to complete the steps involved in eating. She includes practical strategies to simplify mealtimes, prevent dehydration, and reduce caregiver stress. FACEBOOK PAGE: Please leave questions for Kelly, or set up a chat! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103 Please consider donating to support A BALANCING ACT! https://buymeacoffee.com/navigatingmemoryloss Resources https://www.dementia.org.au/living-dementia/home-life/eating-and-dementia https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/living-with-dementia/changes-eating-habits-food-preference https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/daily-care/food-eating?utm_source=google-grant&utm_medium=paidsearch&utm_campaign=google_grant&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=90372426&gbraid=0AAAAAD14_NhWnrr-bvx0B-bwux9JRzUaF&gclid=Cj0KCQjw_IXQBhCkARIsADqELbJElVmccAgy8omnYc4mqN8eYv6EEpVG6CDSPovQC4NZPdFyNcBQEisaAsHQEALw_wcB The information shared in this podcast is for EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES only, and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Kelly A. Bertenshaw, any guests or contributors to the podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of A Balancing Act: Helping Families Navigate Memory Loss be responsible for damages arising from the use of this podcast.

    Weight Loss and Dementia

  6. Apr 29

    Dementia and Refusing Medications

    When a loved one with dementia refuses their medications, it can feel like an emergency. The risks are real, the pressure is immediate, and the instinct to push for compliance is strong. But in many cases, that resistance is not about defiance—it’s communication. In this episode, Kelly breaks down what’s really behind medication refusal in memory loss, and guides us through methods focusing on protecting both safety and dignity, offering a more effective way to navigate these moments without escalating conflict or damaging trust. FACEBOOK PAGE: Please leave questions for Kelly, or set up a chat! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103 Please consider donating to support A BALANCING ACT! https://buymeacoffee.com/navigatingmemoryloss Resources: https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/medical/parent-refusing-medication/ https://www.goodrx.com/health-topic/senior-health/elderly-parent-wont-take-medication?srsltid=AfmBOoqVi7cqZ_fmYk3NlUY5Ebcup3fZfdLOlpzP1V9NC7NT18G5-8ap The information shared in this podcast is for EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES only, and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Kelly A. Bertenshaw, any guests or contributors to the podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of A Balancing Act: Helping Families Navigate Memory Loss be responsible for damages arising from the use of this podcast.

    Dementia and Refusing Medications

  7. Apr 15

    Beyond Puzzles: Dementia and Brain Games

    In this episode, Kelly challenges the idea that cognitive activities like puzzles and card games are always beneficial for loved ones with dementia. She explains that as the disease progresses, these activities can create feelings of being tested rather than included, leading to withdrawal and disconnect. Kelly offers practical strategies for adapting activities and communication so loved ones feel valued, contributing, and connected rather than measured. FACEBOOK PAGE: Please leave questions for Kelly, or set up a chat! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103 Please consider donating to support A BALANCING ACT! https://buymeacoffee.com/navigatingmemoryloss Resources https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/basics/dementia-tasks-activities/ https://www.alz.org/help-support/resources/kids/family-activities https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/daily-care/activities?utm_source=google-grant&utm_medium=paidsearch&utm_campaign=google_grant&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=90372426&gbraid=0AAAAAD14_NgGjuKB4Dw1mGyJDvnDGMqxl&gclid=CjwKCAjw7vzOBhBxEiwAc7WNrwtO_DChShBVoX_S2UtM2o7ZVpHaXZnPK5aa2Z-AP8NB16rxpOVQNBoCZ84QAvD_BwE The information shared in this podcast is for EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES only, and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Kelly A. Bertenshaw, any guests or contributors to the podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of A Balancing Act: Helping Families Navigate Memory Loss be responsible for damages arising from the use of this podcast.

    Beyond Puzzles: Dementia and Brain Games

  8. Apr 1

    A Dementia Turning Point: Crisis and Safety

    In this episode, Kelly explores how a medical crisis, such as a fall or infection, often becomes the unexpected turning point when families first recognize the true extent of a loved one's dementia. From cognitive screening in the hospital to rehabilitation settings where the challenges become even more apparent, these moments, though emotionally overwhelming, can ultimately bring clarity and open the door to more realistic, proactive planning for the road ahead. Follow this episode with our "After the Diagnosis" episode: https://rss.com/podcasts/a-balancing-act/1796945/ FACEBOOK PAGE: Please leave questions for Kelly, or set up a chat! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103 Please consider donating to support A BALANCING ACT! https://buymeacoffee.com/navigatingmemoryloss Resources: https://hign.org/consultgeri/try-this-series/recognition-dementia-hospitalized-older-adults https://www.ourparents.com/senior-health/avoiding-signs-of-dementia https://www.tuftsmedicine.org/about-us/news/recognizing-dementia-guide-early-symptoms-signs# The information shared in this podcast is for EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES only, and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Kelly A. Bertenshaw, any guests or contributors to the podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of A Balancing Act: Helping Families Navigate Memory Loss be responsible for damages arising from the use of this podcast.

    A Dementia Turning Point: Crisis and Safety
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5
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About

When a loved one is diagnosed with dementia, family members can feel completely overwhelmed. You're now trying to juggle managing your loved one's increasing need for care while also tending to your own family, career and life. It can truly feel like a balancing act. I'm Kelly Bertenshaw, a licensed Speech Language Pathologist and certified Dementia Care Specialist. I have worked with those affected by dementia and their families for more than 20 years. I started this podcast to help you, the family members, as you navigate this journey. My goal is to provide you with proven strategies, relevant information and research, as well as actionable steps you can take today . Together, we'll find the answers. Because no one should walk this journey alone. RSSVERIFY

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