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. To Screen Or Not To Screen? Your Alzheimer's Risk

    1D AGO

    To Screen Or Not To Screen? Your Alzheimer's Risk

    To Screen or Not To Screen" delves into the complex and deeply personal dilemma of early Alzheimer's disease screening. Imagine a test that could reveal your brain's future, decades before symptoms appear. Would you take it? This episode confronts the anxieties and potential benefits of such knowledge, particularly for those with a family history of dementia. Doctors Andy Lazarus and Alan Rot join host Jen Fink to dissect the realities of early screening. They discuss the limitations of current medical training on dementia, and the potential for false positives. False positives can lead to a psychological burden of a pre-symptomatic diagnosis. They challenge the notion that early detection automatically leads to effective interventio. By questioning the efficacy of current treatments and the influence of pharmaceutical companies, we might deliver better outcomes. They stress lifestyle changes. These are critical. Purpose in life is important. Open talks are needed. Discuss end-of-life care. This episode urges listeners to think. Consider early screening's true value. Prioritize holistic brain health. Take proactive approaches. Our Guests: Dr. Andy Lazris & Dr. Alan Roth Dr. Andy Lazris and Dr. Alan Roth have over 75 years of experience in medicine between them. In their new book, A RETURN TO HEALING, they draw on their expertise in primary care to unravel the complexities of the modern health care system. Through a wealth of patient stories and meticulous research, they dig into the roots of American health care challenges and seek its cure. Book Mentioned; Fiber Fueled ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Related episodes: Alzheimer's Skin Test for Early Diagnosis The Latest Alzheimer's Treatments Explained by Neurologist ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 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 LinkedIn  Facebook Contact Jen at hello@fadingmemoriespodcast.com or Visit us at www.FadingMemoriesPodcast.com

    1h 2m
  2. Alzheimer’s Care - Know Your Limits

    MAR 25

    Alzheimer’s Care - Know Your Limits

    Alzheimer's Care - know your limits. Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's, especially early-onset, presents unique challenges. This episode features Irene, who shares her personal journey of caring for her husband diagnosed at just 51. Irene discusses the initial warning signs she noticed, including social withdrawal and increased forgetfulness, and the difficulty of balancing work, family, and caregiving. She candidly describes the emotional and physical toll of caregiving, the lack of limits, and the point at which she realized she couldn't do it alone, and the difficult but loving decision to move her husband to memory care. Irene emphasizes the importance of self-care for caregivers and the need to recognize personal limits. She also highlights the relief and unexpected benefits that memory care can provide, both for the individual with Alzheimer's and their families. This episode offers valuable insights and support for anyone navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's care. It is definitely a warning on setting and understanding your limits. A Bit From Irene's Book We left the doctor's office and my head started spinning. I couldn't remember where I had parked the car. Quite miraculously, Robert managed to navigate us to the correct floor of the parking garage despite my that all hope had been sucked out of me. I had been struggling to cope since our last appointment with the family doctor, but receiving this final blow was brutal. I put my left hand on the side of the car, leaned over, and threw up. It was just bile. I had to push something out of me—denial, anger, angst—I didn’t know. Wiping my mouth, my snotty nose and my tear-stained face with jittery hands I leaned heavily against the back of the car. I took a long, shaky breath in and out in an attempt to pull myself together. So began the journey with her husband who is diagnosed with early onset Dementia at the age of 51. 'Forgiving the Man Who Forgot' carries you along one woman’s journey of love, honesty, disappointment and courage, detailing her life before, during and after her husband’s diagnosis of early onset Dementia. Reading this memoir, you feel as though the author is sitting across from you and sharing the ups and downs of her life over a glass of wine or cup of coffee. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Related Episodes: Strength As A Sandwich Generation Caregiver Breaking the Burnout Cycle ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Sign Up for more Advice & Wisdom - email newsletter. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Please Support Our Sponsors So We Can Continue To Bring The Show to You For Free - 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. ...

    59 min
  3. You Are Not Alone In Your Alzheimer’s Fight!

    MAR 18

    You Are Not Alone In Your Alzheimer’s Fight!

    Join us for a special PodCastThon episode dedicated to raising awareness and funds for the fight against Alzheimer's disease. This episode delves into the crucial work of the Alzheimer's Association, exploring how donations are used to support research, care, and advocacy initiatives. Discover the impact of your contributions and learn how the Association provides essential resources for individuals and families affected by this devastating disease. In this insightful conversation with two representatives from the Alzheimer's Association, we uncover the organization's multifaceted approach to tackling Alzheimer's. We discuss the latest advancements in research, the importance of early detection and diagnosis, and the comprehensive support services offered to patients and caregivers. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the Alzheimer's Association's mission and how your generosity can help accelerate progress towards a cure. 24/7 Hotline 1800-272-3900 Alzheimer’s Association Website ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 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

    57 min
  4. Find Peace & Healing After Loss

    MAR 11

    Find Peace & Healing After Loss

    Grief can leave you feeling lost and broken, wondering if you'll ever feel whole again. The journey to healing after loss can feel overwhelming, but finding peace is possible. This episode explores practical strategies and insights to help you navigate the complex emotions of grief, rediscover hope, and ultimately find peace. We discuss the importance of self-care, the power of remembrance, and how to find healthy ways to process your loss. Join us to learn how to honor your grief while finding a path forward. Key Takeaways: Finding healing after loss is a journey. Find ways to remember the good times and focus on gratitude. Don't be afraid to talk about your loss with someone you trust. Find healthy ways to process your grief - journaling, talking to a counselor, etc. Find comfort in simple things like nature, pets, or soothing sounds. Forgive yourself and others. Find the positive in your memories and experiences. Find ways to take care of yourself - physically, emotionally, and mentally. Remember that your loved one lives on in your heart and memories. Find peace in knowing you did the best you could. Resources: Finding Peace in the Midst of Grief: A free guidebook by Carrie Lewis Second Act Mastery: Carrie Lewis' website Divine Rebirth: Book featuring Carrie Lewis (coming out in March - link in show notes when available) If you found this episode helpful, please share it with others who might be struggling with grief. Related Episodes: Grief Speaks: Healing Through Poetry Smiling Through Your Tears (Anticipatory Grief) ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Sign Up for more Advice & Wisdom - email newsletter. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Please Support Our Sponsors So We Can Continue To Bring The Show to You For Free - 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 learn more at Our Website

    55 min
  5. Financial Planning + Wellness for Caregivers

    MAR 4

    Financial Planning + Wellness for Caregivers

    Caregiving, especially for those with dementia, presents unique financial challenges. This episode explores the intersection of financial planning and wellbeing for caregivers, addressing the often-unforeseen costs associated with providing care. We discuss proactive financial measures to take before caregiving becomes necessary, including legal considerations and long-term care planning. The conversation also delves into strategies for caregivers already facing financial strain. We cover practical tips for budgeting, accessing available resources, and navigating the complexities of financial assistance programs. Join us for a crucial discussion on protecting both your loved one's future and your own financial wellbeing while caregiving. Our Guest: Danielle Muira  I am the owner of Spark Financials. I grew up as an only-child in a middle-class family. My parents strived for financial stability, working hard and long hours. After our daughter was born, I had a strike of urgency to plan for my family’s future. After reviewing my parent's retirement documents, I found that their retirement funds had almost no growth during one of the best decades in the stock market. I started to read finance books, took seven CFP® educational courses, and passed two of the most difficult tests in the financial industry. Now, I have become one of the most prominent financial advisors in the industry.  ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Related Episodes: Money & Financial Warnings Signs for Elderly What Every Trustee & Beneficiary Needs to Know ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Sign Up for more Advice & Wisdom - email newsletter. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Please Support Our Sponsors So We Can Continue To Bring The Show to You For Free - 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 learn more at Our Website

    1h 5m
  6. Love, Loss & FTD: A Daughter's Journey

    FEB 25

    Love, Loss & FTD: A Daughter's Journey

    Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) affects an estimated 50,000 to 60,000 people in the United States, robbing individuals of their personality, language, and ultimately, their memories. This devastating disease presents unique challenges, often impacting behavior and emotions long before memory loss becomes apparent. In this episode, we explore the complexities of love and loss through the lens of FTD. Our Guest: Katie, shares her love and loss story as a caregiver for her mother, who battled FTD. Katie, now a filmmaker, has captured her mom's journey in a poignant film that delves into the love and loss woven through the different stages of life, from middle age to the twilight years. With raw honesty, Katie confronts the messy and complicated emotions that accompany the long road of grief and caregiving. Join us as we discuss the unique challenges of FTD, the power of storytelling, and the enduring bonds of love that persist even in the face of devastating loss. Learn More About Katie & Wake Up Maggie Here ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Related Episodes: Dance and Memories: Dementia Engagement Music in Dementia Care Stress Relief to Moments of Joy ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Sign Up for more Advice & Wisdom - email newsletter. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Please Support Our Sponsors So We Can Continue To Bring The Show to You For Free - 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 learn more at Our Website

    52 min
  7. Dementia Care: Nostalgic Activities & Joyful Memories

    FEB 18

    Dementia Care: Nostalgic Activities & Joyful Memories

    Engaging individuals with dementia in meaningful, nostalgic activities is crucial for their well-being. Stimulation helps maintain cognitive function, reduces agitation, and fosters a sense of purpose and accomplishment. However, finding activities that are both enjoyable and manageable for those with dementia can be challenging. One effective approach is to tap into the power of music and memories. Think about those classic songs from their youth – the ones they know by heart and still sing along to. Nostalgic music can evoke powerful emotional responses, stimulate memories, and even encourage social interaction. Imagine pairing those familiar tunes with simple, engaging activities that spark their interest and provide a sense of accomplishment. This episode explores a unique approach to dementia care that combines the joy of music with the gentle challenge of puzzles, offering a valuable tool for caregivers and loved ones. Our Guest: Jill Donohue is a devoted daughter and caregiver who has witnessed the challenges and joys of living with dementia for over 20 years. As her mother's memory faded, Nicole discovered the importance of keeping her engaged and mentally stimulated. Inspired by her mother's love for nostalgic music, Nicole created a unique book designed to bring joy and purpose to those living with dementia. This labor of love combines short, uplifting stories with the comforting power of music from the 1940s. Within these stories, readers are gently challenged to find spelling errors and typos, providing a sense of accomplishment and cognitive engagement. Nicole believes in the power of connection and cherishing every moment of joy, and her book offers a valuable tool for caregivers and loved ones navigating the dementia journey together. Grab the book here! 20% off with this coupon code "FADINGMEMORIES" ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Related Episodes: A Musical, Emotional Memoir on Caregiving The Long Goodbye – A Musical Tribute ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Sign Up for more Advice & Wisdom - email newsletter. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Please Support Our Sponsors So We Can Continue To Bring The Show to You For Free - 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 learn more at Our Website

    54 min
  8. From Chaos to Calm - Stress Reduction Strategies

    FEB 11

    From Chaos to Calm - Stress Reduction Strategies

    Caregiving for a loved one with dementia can often feel like chaos. Days are unpredictable, emotions run high, and the demands can seem endless. This constant state of chaos not only impacts the person with dementia, but also takes a toll on the caregiver's well-being. It can lead to burnout, stress, and even health problems. It's crucial to move away from this chaos and find moments of calm. By creating a more peaceful environment, both the caregiver and the person with dementia can experience improved quality of life. This means less stress, better communication, and more meaningful interactions. Taking that first step can be daunting, but there's support available. Start by reaching out to your local Alzheimer's Association chapter for information, support groups, and educational resources. Consider respite care to give yourself a break. Don't hesitate to ask family and friends for help with errands or appointments. Even small steps can make a big difference in navigating the dementia journey with more peace and less chaos. Our Guest: Debbie Compton is a three-time caregiver for parents with different forms of Dementia. She is a Certified Caregiving Consultant and Advocate, Educator for the Alzheimer’s Assoc., speaker, and author of 10 books including her latest, The Caregiver's Advocate, which is an International Bestseller. Find all of Debbies books here! Want more tips on creating calm? Click Here Debbie founded The Purple Vine, whose mission is to empower caregivers to reduce stress, block burnout, and laugh again.  ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Related Episodes: Thrive Through Habits: Secrets to Better Brain Health and Life Breaking the Burnout Cycle ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Sign Up for more Advice & Wisdom - email newsletter. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Please Support Our Sponsors So We Can Continue To Bring The Show to You For Free - 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 learn more at Our Website

    56 min
    4.9
    out of 5
    79 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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