Dementia Decoded

Jennifer Fink
  • 4.9 (85)
  • MENTAL HEALTH
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Stop guessing and start leading. Caring for a loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s shouldn't feel like a constant state of crisis. In Dementia Decoded, host Jennifer Fink transforms her two decades of caregiving experience into a masterclass for the working family caregiver. After eight years as Fading Memories, we have evolved to provide you with more than just stories—we provide a strategy. As a caregiving strategist and advocate for AARP and the Alzheimer’s Association, Jennifer decodes the medical jargon, communication hurdles, and emotional toll of the disease to help you advocate for your loved one without losing yourself in the process. Each week, we dive into: Caregiving Strategies: Practical tools for managing daily care and long-term planning. Brain Health: Understanding the science behind the "why" of dementia. Advocacy & Support: Navigating the healthcare system and finding your village. The "Real Talk": Permission to laugh through the absurdity and heal through honest conversation. Experience matters. Strategy wins. Laughter heals. Whether you are in the first stages of a diagnosis or deep in the trenches, it’s time to turn the light on. Welcome to Dementia Decoded.

  1. 3 Simple Ways to Detox Your Mouth & Protect Your Brain

    5D AGO

    3 Simple Ways to Detox Your Mouth & Protect Your Brain

    The Gateway to the Brain: Is Your Mouth Leaking Toxins? Can failed root canals and dental toxins actually trigger Alzheimer’s? We’re discussing how your oral microbiome acts as a direct gateway to your brain health. Most of us view dental care as just "teeth and gums," but on today’s episode, we’re looking at the mouth as the direct gateway to the brain. I’m joined by Dr. Nammy Patel, a functional and holistic dentist, to discuss a pillar of brain health that most doctors never even mention: the oral-systemic connection. We dive into the shocking reality of how bacteria can sneak past your brain’s defenses and why Dr. Patel says your brain literally needs to "poop" every single night to stay healthy. In this episode, we decode: The "Brain Poop": Understanding the glymphatic system and how to clear out daily toxins.Hidden Infections: How failed root canals and crowns could be driving chronic inflammation.The Oral Microbiome: The specific bacteria found in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients.Radical Ownership: Simple, zero-cost strategies you can start tonight (like mouth taping and nasal breathing) to protect your cognitive future. Whether you are a caregiver looking for answers or someone determined to be the generation that stops dementia in its tracks, this conversation is a must-listen. Connect with Dr. Nammy Patel: [Link to Website] [Book/Resources] Resources Mentioned: ReCODE (The Bredesen Protocol)Breath by James Nestor Connect with Dementia Decoded As we officially step into our new name, I am so excited to invite you into our growing community on Substack. What I’m loving most about this space is that it’s just information and support—pure and simple. We’ve cut out all the "social media" machinations and algorithms you usually have to jump through just to find the help you need. This is about real strategies and a real community, delivered straight to your inbox. With this episode, we’ve also officially gone live with our Paid Subscription. By joining as a paid member, you aren't just supporting the mission of this show; you’re getting deeper access to the "decoded" strategies we discuss every week. Join us here! Stay connected for more strategies, personal stories, and caregiver support: Substack: The Caregiver's Guide — Subscribe for weekly insights and deeper dives into dementia care.Website: DementiaDecoded.org — Explore the Dementia Decoded Lab and podcast archives.Social Media: Follow the journey on Instagram and Facebook.

  2. The 5-Minute Foundation - Why Your Ankle is Secretly Killing Your Back

    APR 28

    The 5-Minute Foundation - Why Your Ankle is Secretly Killing Your Back

    If you’ve been stretching your lower back for months with zero relief, you’re likely looking at the symptom, not the source. In this episode of Dementia Decoded, I sit down with movement expert Eileen Kopp to discuss why your ankles are the literal foundation of your entire body's alignment. If the foundation is "cracked," the roof (your back, hips, and even your neck) is guaranteed to slide. [What’s Inside] We dive into the mechanics of how we age and why we often lose mobility simply because we’ve stopped moving in all three planes of motion. Eileen shares her "5-Minute Foundation" approach—a simple, daily routine to "grease the wheels" of your joints and stop the chain reaction of chronic pain. Key Highlights: The Ankle-Back Connection: Why a stiff heel bone is often the culprit behind lower back agony.The "Elbow" Mystery: The bizarre true story of how Eileen fixed a client’s chronic elbow pain by adjusting her feet.3-Plane Motion: Why standard "up and down" movement isn't enough to keep you mobile as you age.The 5-Minute Fix: How to implement a foundational movement practice that fits into even the busiest caregiver's schedule. [Timestamps] 00:00 – Intro: The "Rusty Knee" phenomenon.02:45 – Why the site of the pain is rarely the source of the problem.06:15 – The Ankle-Back Connection & The Foundation Metaphor.10:30 – How fixing an ankle cured chronic elbow pain.13:45 – Explaining 3-Plane Motion and why it matters for longevity.19:20 – Closing: Simple steps to start your 5-Minute Foundation today. [About Our Guest] Eileen Koppstofis is a specialist in lifelong wellbeing. She helps people navigate the "aging culprits" that steal mobility, using biomechanics to resolve pain and keep people moving confidently through all stages of life. Join the "Dementia Decoded" Inner CircleAs we officially step into our new name, I am so excited to invite you into our growing community on Substack. What I’m loving most about this space is that it’s just information and support—pure and simple. We’ve cut out all the "social media" machinations and algorithms you usually have to jump through just to find the help you need. This is about real strategies and a real community, delivered straight to your inbox. With this episode, we’ve also officially gone live with our Paid Subscription. By joining as a paid member, you aren't just supporting the mission of this show; you’re getting deeper access to the "decoded" strategies we discuss every week. Join us here! Connect with Dementia Decoded Stay connected for more strategies, personal stories, and caregiver support: Substack: The Caregiver's Guide — Subscribe for weekly insights and deeper dives into dementia care.Website: DementiaDecoded.org — Explore the Dementia Decoded Lab and podcast archives.Social Media: Follow the journey on Instagram and Facebook.

    54 min

  3. APR 21

    Why We Wait Too Long for Hospice (And What It Costs Us)

    What if the final stage of life was treated not as a medical failure, but as a profound opportunity for peace? Culturally, we often avoid discussing death until a crisis occurs, which unfortunately leaves families feeling lost and overwhelmed. Shifting our perspective toward quality of life allows us to honor a loved one’s journey with dignity. This proactive approach helps reduce fear while ensuring comfort remains the primary focus. Consequently, families can transition from managing clinical chaos to simply being present. By embracing the reality of the process, we can find beauty and grace in the final chapters. In this episode, I am joined by Vivian Cate, a hospice nurse with over a decade of clinical experience. Together, we explore how to support a dying loved one by navigating the complexities of hospice and caregiving. We discuss why bringing professional support on board early changes the entire atmosphere of the home. Furthermore, we examine practical ways to maintain emotional presence and connection during the most challenging days. Vivian shares wisdom from her book, Journey to Eternity, to help us all find a more positive reflection on the end of life. In this episode, you’ll discover: The "Hospice Advantage": Why early enrollment provides better pain management and family support. Advocating for Wishes: How to ensure advanced directives are respected by medical teams. Creative Connection: Ways to engage with loved ones through music, art, and memory-sharing. Demystifying the Process: Understanding the physical signs of "active dying" to stay grounded. Caregiver Longevity: Strategies to prevent burnout while providing intense, high-level care. Join the "Dementia Decoded" Inner Circle As we officially step into our new name, I am so excited to invite you into our growing community on Substack. What I’m loving most about this space is that it’s just information and support—pure and simple. We’ve cut out all the "social media" machinations and algorithms you usually have to jump through just to find the help you need. This is about real strategies and a real community, delivered straight to your inbox. With this episode, we’ve also officially gone live with our Paid Subscription. By joining as a paid member, you aren't just supporting the mission of this show; you’re getting deeper access to the "decoded" strategies we discuss every week. Join us here! Connect with Dementia Decoded Stay connected for more strategies, personal stories, and caregiver support: Substack: The Caregiver's Guide — Subscribe for weekly insights and deeper dives into dementia care. Website: DementiaDecoded.org — Explore the Dementia Decoded Lab and podcast archives. Social Media: Follow the journey on Instagram and Facebook.

    1h 6m

  4. APR 14

    Stop, Don't Sign! Negotiating Care Before Move-In Day

    "I didn't even know these contracts were negotiable." When Jen moved her Mom into memory care, she did what most of us do: she treated the stack of paperwork like a standard formality. In the middle of a family crisis, we often sign on the dotted line just to get our loved ones settled, not realizing the massive implications for their rights, their safety, and our own financial health. To help us move from "just signing" to actually advocating, Jen is joined by Uri Nve, an expert in elder justice. Following up on his critical episode regarding elder abuse, Uri returns to pull back the curtain on the "standard" care home contract. In this episode, we decode: The "Arbitration Trap": Why facilities want you to waive your right to a jury trial and why you should almost always say no. Red Flag Clauses: How to identify—and strike—waivers of liability that attempt to protect the facility at the expense of your loved one. The "Responsible Party" Myth: Critical advice on how to sign paperwork so you don't inadvertently become a personal financial guarantor for the bill. The Power of Planning: Why the best time to negotiate is long before the "move-in day" crisis hits. Home Care vs. Residential Care: Understanding the different levels of regulation and what you can (and should) demand from agencies. We often make these choices during the hardest days of our lives. This conversation is designed to give you the tools to protect your family before the first box is even unpacked. Our Guest: Uri Niv Uri H. Niv is a trial attorney specializing in elder abuse cases, advocating for victims and their families. His extensive legal background includes working at a large law firm, as well as serving as a prosecutor for violent felony cases. This diverse experience allows him to fiercely champion the rights of those affected by elder abuse. Uri is deeply committed to community service, actively working to combat homelessness in Los Angeles. He is dedicated to helping vulnerable individuals and families, ensuring they receive the justice and support they deserve. Contact Uri Here GET THE CHECKLIST: Don't go into the meeting empty-handed. We’ve turned the insights from this episode into a Contract Negotiation Checklist available now on our Substack. ???? [Link to Substack Custom Page] RESOURCES MENTIONED: Home Care Services Consumer Protection Act (California) The Nursing Home Reform Act (1987) Join the "Dementia Decoded" Inner Circle As we officially step into our new name, I am so excited to invite you into our growing community on Substack. What I’m loving most about this space is that it’s just information and support—pure and simple. We’ve cut out all the "social media" machinations and algorithms you usually have to jump through just to find the help you need. This is about real strategies and a real community, delivered straight to your inbox. With this episode, we’ve also officially gone live with our Paid Subscription. By joining as a paid member, you aren't just supporting the mission of this show; you’re getting deeper access to the "decoded" strategies we discuss every week. Join us here! Connect with Dementia Decoded Stay connected for more strategies, personal stories, and caregiver support: Substack: The Caregiver's Guide — Subscribe for weekly insights and deeper dives into dementia care. Website: DementiaDecoded.org — Explore the Dementia Decoded Lab and podcast archives. Social Media: Follow the journey on Instagram and Facebook.

    59 min

  5. APR 7

    Is Love Enough? Why Most Dementia Survival Strategies Fail

    Do you ever feel lost in the thick, gray fog of dementia caregiving? Navigating this journey requires unique survival strategies to find hope. First, we explore the reality of the A-Zone and how it impacts your daily life. Because the exhaustion is real, you need practical survival strategies to protect your own mental health. We discuss how to identify pink cloud moments of joy amidst the heartbreak. Although the path is difficult, humor can be a powerful tool for resilience. Furthermore, we dive into managing complex family dynamics during a long-term illness. Consequently, you will learn how to shift your mindset when love feels like it is not enough. In addition, we highlight how to lean into the present moment rather than fighting the past. Since every day brings new challenges, these survival strategies offer a lifeline for the weary heart. Finally, we provide actionable advice to help you move from mere existence to meaningful connection. Listen now to discover how to thrive while caring for your loved one with dementia. Peggy Sweeney-McDonald Peggy Sweeney-McDonald is a Southern storyteller, author, actress, and podcast host whose work blends heart, humor, and hope. A native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Peggy spent 36 years building a career in Los Angeles as an actress and event producer before a family crisis called her home. In 2016, Peggy and her husband left California to return to Louisiana to walk beside her mother through a journey with Alzheimer's disease. This deeply personal experience became the inspiration for her popular podcast, Life in the A-Zone, which reached listeners in over 30 countries. Expanding on the stories shared in her podcast, Peggy authored the memoir Life in the A-Zone: How I Embraced the Journey with My Mother's Alzheimer's One Pink Cloud Moment at a Time. She is also the creator of the Pink Cloud Moments™ brand, which includes specialized journals designed to help caregivers find light, grace, and gratitude in life's most challenging seasons. In addition to her advocacy work, Peggy is a seasoned stage performer and the author of the coffee-table book Meanwhile, Back at Café Du Monde… Life Stories About Food. She continues to live in Baton Rouge, where she remains a passionate champion for the power of storytelling to heal and connect. Connect with Peggy: Website: PeggySweeneyMcDonald.com Podcast: Life in the A-Zone Instagram: @LifeInTheAZonePodcast

    49 min

  6. MAR 31

    How to Survive the Sandwich Generation - Balancing Kids, Aging Parents, and Career

    Many individuals find themselves caught in the Sandwich Generation, balancing the demands of raising children while caring for aging parents. This unique position creates significant emotional and physical strain. Consequently, learning to navigate these dual responsibilities is essential for maintaining your well-being. This episode explores the complex realities of being part of the Sandwich Generation and offers practical strategies for survival. During the conversation, we delve into the importance of open communication with employers. Since many caregivers fear professional repercussions, transparency can actually lead to much-needed flexibility. Additionally, we discuss how to safely integrate different generations to foster meaningful family connections. However, prioritizing self-care remains the most critical factor for long-term success. Whether through outdoor activities or creative outlets, finding personal time is vital. Furthermore, we highlight the value of employee resource groups and community support. Because you are not alone, seeking these connections can provide immense relief. If you are currently in the Sandwich Generation, this episode provides the encouragement and tools you need to thrive. Listen now to discover how to balance your family’s needs without losing yourself in the process. Our Guest: Paul Wynn - The Caregiver’s Advocate Paul Wynn is a co-author of The Caregiver's Advocate, Vol. 2, and an award-winning journalist who has spent years championing the voices of patients and families. Having navigated his own intense caregiving journey, Paul now partners with global healthcare organizations to turn empathy into action. From managing FDA-level regulatory strategies to writing for AARP and U.S. News & World Report, Paul bridges the gap between complex medical milestones and the human heart. He is on a mission to ensure no caregiver has to walk the path alone. Paul Wynn’s "Quick Take" Facts The Sandwich Balance: At his peak, Paul was caring for a newborn, a mom with Alzheimer's 2 hours south, and an uncle 2 hours east. The Secret Weapon: Friday morning hikes with a view of the Hudson River to reset the brain. Top Advice: Don't silo the generations. Bring the kids and the grandparents together—they both live "in the moment." Key Philosophy: Treat dementia care as a bridge of dignity, not a loss of respect. ⏳ Episode Timestamps 00:00 – The Chaos of the Middle: Opening hook and the reality of the Sandwich Generation. 02:15 – Meet Paul Wynn: A caregiver’s story of juggling a newborn and two aging relatives. 05:40 – The Distance Factor: Managing care when your loved ones are miles apart. 09:15 – Identifying as a Caregiver: Why we often refuse the label and why that hurts us. 13:20 – The Moving Day Story: A snapshot of life on the brink—from U-Hauls to the delivery room. 18:45 – Workplace Survival: How to talk to your boss and why you should actually use your vacation time. 22:15 – Generational Connection: Why kids and seniors with dementia are actually the perfect pairing. 27:50 – Finding the "Funny": Using humor and storytelling to stay connected with friends. 32:10 – The Self-Care Fix: Moving beyond "playing with the kids" to find true personal peace. 36:40 – Team Wynn: Strengthening your marriage while under the strain of caregiving. 40:15 – Employee Resource Groups: Finding your "unicorn" support system in the corporate world. 42:00 – Final Wisdom: Paul’s top takeaway for anyone feeling squeezed right now. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Sign Up for more Advice & Wisdom - email newsletter. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Please help us keep our show going by supporting our sponsors. Thank you. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Feeling overwhelmed? HelpTexts can be your pocket therapist. Going through a tough time? HelpTexts offers confidential support delivered straight to your phone via text message. Whether you're dealing with grief, caregiving stress, or just need a mental health boost, their expert-guided texts provide personalized tips and advice. Sign up for a year of support and get: Daily or twice-weekly texts tailored to your situation Actionable strategies to cope and move forward Support for those who care about you (optional) HelpTexts makes getting help easy and convenient. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Make Your Brain Span Match Your LifeSpan Relevate from NeuroReserve I've been focusing a lot on taking care of my brain health, & I've found this supplement called RELEVATE to be incredibly helpful. It provides me with 17 nutrients that support brain function & help keep me sharp. Since you're someone I care about, I wanted to share this discovery with you. You can order it with my code: FM15 & get 15% OFF your order. With Relevate nutritional supplement, you get science-backed nutrition to help protect your brain power today and for years to come. You deserve a brain span that lasts as long as your lifespan. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Join Fading Memories On Social Media! If you've enjoyed this episode, please share this podcast with other caregivers! You'll find us on social media at the following links. Instagram Twitter LinkedIn  Facebook Contact Jen at hello@fadingmemoriespodcast.com or Visit us at www.FadingMemoriesPodcast.com

    48 min

  7. MAR 24

    Alzheimer’s: Are We Targeting the Wrong Thing?

    "Could your daily habits be the hidden cause of memory loss and cognitive decline?" Emerging Alzheimer's research suggests that Nitric Oxide acts as a master signaling molecule for brain health, yet common products like antiseptic mouthwash and fluoride may be inhibiting its production. In this episode, I am joined by molecular medicine expert Dr. Nathan S. Bryan to explore the vascular roots of dementia and why some researchers now refer to Alzheimer’s as "Type 3 Diabetes." We dive into the surprising link between chronic antacid use and brain health, while offering simple lifestyle changes—from nasal breathing to dietary shifts—to help you boost Nitric Oxide naturally and protect your cognitive longevity. Furthermore, we discuss how common products like antiseptic mouthwash and fluoride may actually inhibit your natural production. We also dive into the surprising link between chronic antacid use and a higher risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Fortunately, simple lifestyle changes can help restore these vital levels. For example, nasal breathing and specific dietary shifts can significantly boost your Nitric Oxide naturally. Although these ideas may challenge your current beliefs, being curious is the first step toward prevention. Join us as we investigate the root causes of chronic disease and the science of longevity. Our Guest: Dr. Nathan S. Bryan Dr. Nathan S. Bryan is an international leader in molecular medicine and the "billion-dollar scientist" behind the nitric oxide revolution. With over 25 years in the field and 100+ peer-reviewed articles, he was recruited to the University of Texas by a Nobel Laureate to decode the biochemistry of human longevity. As an entrepreneur and inventor with dozens of patents, Dr. Bryan has moved beyond the lab to build clinical-stage therapies for heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and chronic wounds. Today, he serves as the CEO of Bryan Therapeutics, where he continues to bridge the gap between complex biochemistry and life-changing consumer products. Episode Chapters & Timestamps 00:00 – The "What If" Challenge: Introduction to the Nitric Oxide revolution. 02:15 – Meet the Expert: Dr. Nathan Bryan’s journey from Texas to the Nobel connection. 05:40 – The Molecule of Life: What is Nitric Oxide and why does it matter? 09:25 – Vascular Roots: Why Alzheimer's is now being called "Type 3 Diabetes." 13:10 – The Failure of Current Drugs: Why targeting amyloid plaques hasn't worked. 17:45 – The Root Cause: How loss of blood flow leads to cognitive decline. 21:30 – Association vs. Causation: Challenging the medical industry's profit model. 26:40 – The Mouthwash Connection: How daily habits are killing your Nitric Oxide. 30:15 – Fluoride & Antacids: Hidden neurotoxins in your medicine cabinet. 34:50 – Fueling the Brain: The sugar toxin and the power of high-protein diets. 38:10 – The Fasting Miracle: Using 18-hour fasts to reset your metabolic health. 42:00 – Nasal Breathing & Sunlight: Simple, free ways to boost brain blood flow. 46:30 – Biology vs. Genetics: Why your genes are not your destiny. 48:45 – Take Action: Where to find Dr. Bryan’s research and resources. 50:30 – Final Thoughts: Jennifer's takeaway on being a "curious skeptic." Sign Up for more Advice & Wisdom - email newsletter. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Please help us keep our show going by supporting our sponsors. Thank you. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Feeling overwhelmed? HelpTexts can be your pocket therapist. Going through a tough time? HelpTexts offers confidential support delivered straight to your phone via text message. Whether you're dealing with grief, caregiving stress, or just need a mental health boost, their expert-guided texts provide personalized tips and advice. Sign up for a year of support and get: Daily or twice-weekly texts tailored to your situation Actionable strategies to cope and move forward Support for those who care about you (optional) HelpTexts makes getting help easy and convenient. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Make Your Brain Span Match Your LifeSpan Relevate from NeuroReserve I've been focusing a lot on taking care of my brain health, & I've found this supplement called RELEVATE to be incredibly helpful. It provides me with 17 nutrients that support brain function & help keep me sharp. Since you're someone I care about, I wanted to share this discovery with you. You can order it with my code: FM15 & get 15% OFF your order. With Relevate nutritional supplement, you get science-backed nutrition to help protect your brain power today and for years to come. You deserve a brain span that lasts as long as your lifespan. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Join Fading Memories On Social Media! If you've enjoyed this episode, please share this podcast with other caregivers! You'll find us on social media at the following links. Instagram Twitter LinkedIn  Facebook Contact Jen at hello@fadingmemoriespodcast.com or Visit us at www.FadingMemoriesPodcast.com

    57 min

  8. MAR 17

    How to Explain Dementia to a Child: A Practical Activity Guide

    Bridging the Gap: Explaining Dementia to Children Navigating an Alzheimer’s diagnosis is difficult for any family. However, it is especially challenging when you need to explain these changes to a young child. This episode explores how intergenerational storytelling can help bridge the gap between grandparents with memory loss and their grandchildren. First, we discuss the importance of using age-appropriate language. Because a child often lives in the "here and now," they are uniquely equipped to connect with seniors through simple, joyful activities. Furthermore, we dive into creative ways to foster these bonds, such as gardening, music, and art. These shared experiences reduce social isolation for the senior. Meanwhile, the child learns valuable lessons in empathy and patience. Additionally, we address the common fears parents face when introducing children to the realities of cognitive decline. Consequently, we highlight practical tips for managing behavioral changes and "moments of clarity." Whether you are a long-distance relative or a primary caregiver, this conversation offers a roadmap for maintaining family connections. Tune in to discover how to turn a difficult journey into an opportunity for intergenerational growth. Our Guest: Carol Steinberg: Carol Steinberg is a semi-retired writer and editor. After a long career as a freelance journalist, which included contributing to The New York Times, she made a mid-life career change to serve at local and national nonprofit organizations focused on Alzheimer's disease and caregiving. Recently, she authored her first children's book, entitled Come Grandpa Meow, Let's Fly: A Heartfelt Children's Story About Alzheimer's Disease Plus a Guide to Intergenerational Activities. The children's book draws on Carol's family and professional experience, and pays tribute to her dad, who had Alzheimer’s, and her mom, who was his heroic care partner. The book is available on Amazon, and a portion of each sale benefits the VOA Foundation, a nonprofit led by individuals living with Alzheimer’s and sister organization to Voices of Alzheimer’s. Episode Chapters 00:00 – The Power of Intergenerational Connection 01:45 – Meet Carol Steinberg: From Journalist to Creator 03:12 – Why a Children’s Book for Alzheimer’s? 04:50 – Come Grandpa Meow, Let’s Fly: Linny’s Story 06:30 – Intergenerational Activities: Music, Art, and Gardening 08:15 – Breaking the Gender Bias in Caregiving Activities 10:40 – Defining the Role: Primary vs. Intermittent Caregiving 13:20 – Why Kids and Dementia Patients Connect in the "Now" 16:15 – Lessons in Empathy: The Benefits for Children 19:00 – Finding "Moments of Clarity" in Daily Interaction 21:45 – Learning from Mistakes: Honesty vs. "The Friend" Approach 24:30 – The Importance of Research and Reputable Resources 27:15 – Managing the "Sandwich Generation" Struggle 30:00 – Tips for Safe and Engaging Sensory Gardening 33:45 – Overstimulation: Knowing When to Scale Back 36:20 – Self-Publishing and the Future of Caregiver Stories 38:50 – Final Thoughts: It’s Always the Person First ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Sign Up for more Advice & Wisdom - email newsletter. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Please help us keep our show going by supporting our sponsors. Thank you. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Feeling overwhelmed? HelpTexts can be your pocket therapist. Going through a tough time? HelpTexts offers confidential support delivered straight to your phone via text message. Whether you're dealing with grief, caregiving stress, or just need a mental health boost, their expert-guided texts provide personalized tips and advice. Sign up for a year of support and get: Daily or twice-weekly texts tailored to your situation Actionable strategies to cope and move forward Support for those who care about you (optional) HelpTexts makes getting help easy and convenient. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Make Your Brain Span Match Your LifeSpan Relevate from NeuroReserve I've been focusing a lot on taking care of my brain health, & I've found this supplement called RELEVATE to be incredibly helpful. It provides me with 17 nutrients that support brain function & help keep me sharp. Since you're someone I care about, I wanted to share this discovery with you. You can order it with my code: FM15 & get 15% OFF your order. With Relevate nutritional supplement, you get science-backed nutrition to help protect your brain power today and for years to come. You deserve a brain span that lasts as long as your lifespan. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Join Fading Memories On Social Media! If you've enjoyed this episode, please share this podcast with other caregivers! You'll find us on social media at the following links. Instagram Twitter LinkedIn  Facebook Contact Jen at hello@fadingmemoriespodcast.com or Visit us at www.FadingMemoriesPodcast.com

    53 min
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4.9
out of 5
85 Ratings

About

Stop guessing and start leading. Caring for a loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s shouldn't feel like a constant state of crisis. In Dementia Decoded, host Jennifer Fink transforms her two decades of caregiving experience into a masterclass for the working family caregiver. After eight years as Fading Memories, we have evolved to provide you with more than just stories—we provide a strategy. As a caregiving strategist and advocate for AARP and the Alzheimer’s Association, Jennifer decodes the medical jargon, communication hurdles, and emotional toll of the disease to help you advocate for your loved one without losing yourself in the process. Each week, we dive into: Caregiving Strategies: Practical tools for managing daily care and long-term planning. Brain Health: Understanding the science behind the "why" of dementia. Advocacy & Support: Navigating the healthcare system and finding your village. The "Real Talk": Permission to laugh through the absurdity and heal through honest conversation. Experience matters. Strategy wins. Laughter heals. Whether you are in the first stages of a diagnosis or deep in the trenches, it’s time to turn the light on. Welcome to Dementia Decoded.

Information

  • Creator
    Jennifer Fink
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    421
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Dementia Decoded
  • Show Website
    Dementia Decoded

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