Fading Memories: Alzheimer's/Dementia Caregiver Support

Jennifer Fink
Fading Memories: Alzheimer's/Dementia Caregiver Support

Dementia caregiving got you down? Feeling lost caring for a loved one with memory loss? Fading Memories is your compassionate guide, offering practical tips, expert insights, and heartwarming stories. We navigate the journey together, from understanding dementia's impact to self-care for caregivers. Join our supportive community and find strength in shared experiences. Fading Memories: More than memories, it's about living well.

  1. Dementia & Living Alone - It's Possible!

    4 DAYS AGO

    Dementia & Living Alone - It's Possible!

    It's amazing how resilient the human spirit can be. I've spoken to folks living alone with dementia who find ingenious ways to adapt. One gentleman, a former engineer, rigged up his whole house with reminders – lights that flashed when it was time to take his medication, a talking clock that announced mealtimes... it was incredible! Of course, not everyone has that knack for invention, but there are simpler things that can make a world of difference. Things like..." Safety First...making sure the home is safe. You'd be surprised how a simple rug or a poorly lit hallway can become a hazard. One woman I spoke to, bless her heart, tripped over a phone cord and ended up with a broken hip. It's heartbreaking, but preventable!" Memory Reminders...little things to jog the memory. Like, labeling drawers with pictures of what's inside, or using a whiteboard calendar for appointments. I remember this lovely lady who used to lay out her clothes for the next day every evening, just like she did for her kids when they were small. It gave her a sense of control, you know?" Simplicity Makes it Happen...sticking to a routine. It's comforting, like a familiar path in the woods. This one fellow, a retired teacher, swore by his morning walk. Rain or shine, he'd be out there, getting his exercise and saying hello to his neighbors. It kept him connected to the world.” Our Guest: Michael Splaine is owner and principal in Splaine Consulting, a small advocacy and government affairs consulting firm based in Washington DC. Immediately prior to starting this company, Mike was Director of State Government Affairs in the Public Policy Division of the US Alzheimer’s Association with whom he enjoyed a 23-year career, during which time he and his business partner Kate Gordon were the architects of the state AD plan strategy that started in 2007. He is the managing partner of a related company Recruitment Partners LLC focused on improving the pace, quality and diversity of recruitment into dementia clinical trials. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Related Episodes: Can Technology & Innovation Change Aging at Home? Caring for Elderly Parents Who Live Alone ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 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.

    52 min
  2. Holiday Survival Tips for Caregivers!

    DEC 4

    Holiday Survival Tips for Caregivers!

    Holiday survival tips for caregivers!. The holidays are a time for joy, but for families caring for someone with Alzheimer's or dementia, they can be a source of stress and anxiety. Don't let the pressures of the season overwhelm you. In this episode, we offer essential tips to help you navigate the holidays with grace and resilience. Discover practical strategies for creating a calm environment, managing challenging behaviors, and involving your loved one in meaningful activities. We'll also share advice on setting realistic expectations, seeking support, and prioritizing self-care. Remember, you're not alone. By implementing these holiday survival tips and tuning into the entire episode, you can create a more peaceful and enjoyable holiday season for everyone involved. We'll cover topics like: Creating a soothing holiday atmosphere Managing challenging behaviors Involving your loved one in meaningful activities Setting realistic expectations Seeking support from family and friends Self-care tips for caregivers Related episodes: Holiday Gift Ideas for Dementia Loved Ones & Care Givers ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Sign Up for more Advice & Wisdom - email newsletter. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Please help us keep our show going by supporting our sponsors. Thank you. Stop 100% of Unwanted Calls with imp Did you know people with Alzheimer's can receive nearly 200 spam calls a week? You can put a stop to those now. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Relevate from NeuroReserve Make Your Brain Span Match Your LifeSpan 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 our website at www.fadingmemoriespodcast.com

    25 min
  3. Brain Health While Caregiving - Strategies!

    DEC 3

    Brain Health While Caregiving - Strategies!

    Brain Health While Caregiving - Strategies! Discover strategies that help caregivers can prioritize their mental well-being and protect their cognitive health. Learn about the surprising benefits of creativity, the science behind sugar addiction, and practical strategies to reduce your intake without feeling deprived. Explore the latest research on lifestyle choices that can prevent dementia and may even reverse its progression. Key lifestyle factors to discuss include: Diet: The Mediterranean diet, rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, has been linked to lower dementia risk. Exercise: Regular physical activity, particularly aerobic exercise, can improve blood flow to the brain and reduce inflammation. Cognitive stimulation: Engaging in mentally challenging activities like learning a new language or playing a musical instrument can help maintain cognitive function. Social engagement: Strong social connections can provide emotional support and reduce stress, both of which are crucial for brain health. Sleep: Adequate sleep is essential for memory consolidation and brain repair. Bonus Content! Get bonus content that's not included in the book - it's about light and temperature treatments for brain health - sauna, light therapy, and cold therapy/plunge, including ways to incorporate it into your day with little expense and time. The link they can use is brainhealthactionplan.com/bonus Our Guest: Dr. Teryn Clark Dr. Teryn Clarke is a board-certified neurologist focused on memory and preventative brain health. She was named “Dementia Care Professional of the Year” by the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America in 2015. Teryn has recently released her book called “Brain Health Action Plan: Simple, Science-Backed Lifestyle Changes that Optimize Cognitive Fitness and Reduce Alzheimer’s Risk.” She’s not only a doctor, but was also a caregiver to her mom who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease in her 60’s. She’s researched everything she can do to not follow the same path her mom did, and she’s on with us today to share that knowledge with you. www.brainhealthactionplan.com clarkewellnessclinic.com ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Related Episodes: The Brain's Fountain of Youth: Innovative Paths to Dementia Prevention Dementia Brain Protection: Health for Life ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 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: 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!

    55 min
  4. Grief Speaks: Healing through Poetry

    NOV 26

    Grief Speaks: Healing through Poetry

    Poetry and spoken word offer a unique and powerful outlet for processing grief, especially for dementia caregivers who often experience anticipatory grief before their loved one's passing. The act of expressing emotions through words, rhythm, and rhyme can be cathartic, providing a tangible form to intangible feelings.    Writing or speaking about the complex journey of caregiving, the gradual loss of the person they knew, and the impending final loss, can help caregivers make sense of their experience. It allows them to acknowledge and validate their emotions, fostering a sense of acceptance and healing. Furthermore, poetry and spoken word provide a safe space for caregivers to explore the difficult emotions that may be associated with anticipatory grief, such as sadness, anger, guilt, and confusion. By giving voice to these feelings, caregivers can begin to release their emotional burden and find a sense of peace. The creative process itself can also be therapeutic. Choosing words, crafting metaphors, and finding rhythm can be a meditative experience, offering a much-needed respite from the demands of caregiving. Sharing their work with others, whether in a support group or through public performance, can foster connection and understanding, reminding caregivers that they are not alone. In essence, poetry and spoken word can be a lifeline for dementia caregivers navigating the turbulent waters of anticipatory grief, offering a channel for expression, healing, and connection. Cozy Murder Mysteries! Evergreen Chase (A Shady Hollow Holiday Short Story) by Juneau Black  -Murder at the Christmas Cookie Bake-Off by Darci Hannah -Murder in the first edition by Lauren Elliott -Have yourself a beary little murder by Meg Macy -Everyone this Christmas has a secret by Benjamin Stevenson -The Mistletoe Mystery by Nita Prose -Murders and Metaphors by Amanda Flowers -A page marked for Murder by Lauren Elliott -Agatha Christie's Midwinter Murder collection These are all my cozy books I have on my plate for this December and January! Luckily, I read at a quick pace so I hopefully will read them all!  Learn more here: https://cleochilds.com ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Related Episodes: The Power of Words & Creativity: A Balm for Both Words for Forever: Love to Future Generations ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 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. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

    55 min
  5. Are You A Caregiver Without Knowing It? (Intermittent Caregiving)

    NOV 19

    Are You A Caregiver Without Knowing It? (Intermittent Caregiving)

    It's easy to overlook the ways we support others, especially when it comes to intermittent caregiving. Perhaps you help an elderly neighbor with yard work every few weeks, or regularly drive a friend to medical appointments. These acts of kindness, while seemingly small, constitute caregiving. Recognizing yourself as a caregiver, even if your contributions are sporadic, is crucial for several reasons.  Firstly, it validates the importance of the support you provide, acknowledging the positive impact you have on someone's life. Secondly, it opens doors to valuable resources and support networks designed specifically for caregivers.  These resources can offer information, guidance, and emotional support, helping you navigate the challenges and rewards of caregiving.  Finally, understanding your role as a caregiver allows you to prioritize your own well-being, ensuring you have the physical and emotional resources to continue providing care and support. Our guest: Tara Wilken - Courageously Living Tara has experienced significant periods of caregiving and loss throughout her life. Which has given her a profound understanding and empathy towards individuals facing similar situations. With 19 years of experience working in various corporate HR and HRIT roles, as both an employee and a consultant, Tara has merged her analytical expertise with her extensive knowledge of personal development and well-being to create tangible products for often intangible events. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Related Episodes: Doctor Supports Caregivers Journey Challenges Caregiver Support: Personalized Text Message Connections ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Sign Up for more Advice & Wisdom - email newsletter. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Please Support Our Sponsors So We Can Continue To Bring The Show to You For Free ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Make Your Brain Span Match Your LifeSpan Relevate from NeuroReserve 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. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Please help us keep our show going by supporting our sponsors. Thank you. Stop 100% of Unwanted Calls with imp. Did you know people with Alzheimer's can receive nearly 200 spam calls a week? You can put a stop to those now. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 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

    1h 3m
  6. Tech With Heart - Voice Memory Preservation

    NOV 12

    Tech With Heart - Voice Memory Preservation

    Tech With Heart - Voiced Memory Preservation. Imagine a world where photographs could speak. A simple scan of a cherished image could transport you back in time, your loved one's voice echoing through the years, sharing stories, laughter, and memories. This is the vision behind a groundbreaking app designed to enhance the lives of those living with dementia. By allowing users to add personal voice descriptions to their photos, the app becomes a powerful tool for reminiscence therapy. For individuals struggling with memory loss, connecting with the past can be a lifeline. This innovative app offers a unique way to bridge the gap between the present and the past, fostering meaningful interactions between caregivers and loved ones. As users explore their photo albums, each image becomes a portal to a familiar world, filled with the comforting sounds of loved voices. Our Guest: Karen Murdoch Karen is the owner of Treasured Memories and the creator of the app Voiced Memories. She's also been a caregiver to a 90+ year old friend. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Related Episodes Make Grandma Smile – Engagement & Activities Activities for Every Dementia Stage ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Sign Up for more Advice & Wisdom - email newsletter. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Please Support Our Sponsors So We Can Continue To Bring The Show to You For Free ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Make Your Brain Span Match Your LifeSpan Relevate from NeuroReserve 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. Don't Lose Your Mind: Understanding Cognitive Aging

    NOV 5

    Don't Lose Your Mind: Understanding Cognitive Aging

    In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Christopher Howard, a neuropsychologist, to explore the fascinating topic of cognitive aging. As we get older, it's natural to experience some changes in our memory and thinking skills. But how do we know if these changes are normal age-related decline or something more concerning? Dr. Howard helps us differentiate between typical memory lapses and potential signs of dementia. Key takeaways: Understand the difference between normal age-related memory changes and early signs of dementia. Learn about lifestyle factors that can impact cognitive health. Discover practical strategies to support cognitive function as we age. This informative conversation will leave you feeling empowered to take proactive steps to maintain your cognitive health as you age. Our Guest: Dr. Christopher Howard Dr. Howard is a neuropsychologist specializing in traumatic brain injuries, neurocognitive disorders, and health disparities. He conducts neuropsychological evaluations, has published research, and developed cognitive remediation programs. His areas of interest include cognitive aging, rehabilitation medicine, and the connection between health disparities and neuropsychiatric conditions. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Other Neuro Hour Episodes: African Americans & Alzheimer’s My Conversation With A Future Neuropsychologist ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Sign Up for more Advice & Wisdom - email newsletter. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 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. Oral Health, Brain Health: The Link

    OCT 29

    Oral Health, Brain Health: The Link

    Ever wondered how your oral health could be connected to your brain's well-being? In this episode, we dive deep into the surprising relationship between oral and brain health. Our expert dentist shares fascinating insights into how poor oral hygiene can contribute to a host of health issues, including cognitive decline and even serious conditions like Alzheimer's disease. Discover how simple steps like brushing and flossing regularly can significantly impact your overall health and well-being. Our Guest: Katie Lee, DDS Katie is a leader, coach, and mentor with a proven track record of developing effective and profitable teams, developing new dental graduates for success, and developing women as leaders in business and dentistry. Dr. Lee's website ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Related Episodes: Dentistry for People With Dementia The Brain's Fountain of Youth: Innovative Paths to Dementia Prevention ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Sign Up for more Advice & Wisdom - email newsletter. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Make Your Brain Span Match Your LifeSpan Relevate from NeuroReserve 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. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Please help us keep our show going by supporting our sponsors. Thank you. Stop 100% of Unwanted Calls with imp. Did you know people with Alzheimer's can receive nearly 200 spam calls a week? You can put a stop to those now. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 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

    49 min
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4.9
out of 5
78 Ratings

About

Dementia caregiving got you down? Feeling lost caring for a loved one with memory loss? Fading Memories is your compassionate guide, offering practical tips, expert insights, and heartwarming stories. We navigate the journey together, from understanding dementia's impact to self-care for caregivers. Join our supportive community and find strength in shared experiences. Fading Memories: More than memories, it's about living well.

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