Bre'anna is a Certified Dementia Practitioner, the founder of Bambu Care LLC, the host of the What the Dementia podcast, and the author of "With Intent: A Practical Guide to Navigating Behaviors Along the Dementia Care Journey" and "Grow With Gratitude: 100-Day Gratitude and Self-Care Journal".
She has been in the field of dementia care for over 5 years now as of 2022. Her background is in occupational Therapy, specifically in the home setting: home, independent living, assisted living, and memory care. Along her journey, she realized just how big the gaps were in dementia care and just how much our system was failing caregivers. Not just the family caregiver who received no real information, guidance, or Education after their partner’s diagnosis, but also the professional caregiver who received very little training (if any) and was often completely at a loss for what to do — which ultimately impacted both the caregiver and the person living with dementia. Consequently, she decided to take a direct step into the dementia care realm so that she could help more people in a more meaningful and impactful way.
Recent Content
In this housekeeping episode for What the Dementia, we update you on everything happening in the world of Bambu to help support dementia care partners on their care journey. Is there anything that mee…
In this housekeeping…
In this housekeeping episode for What the Dementia, we update you on everything happening in the world of Bambu to help support dementia care partners on their care journey. Is there anything that meets your needs?This episode will cover: — Holiday deadline for Bambu Dozens (large 12-piece puzzle collection). — Upcoming webinar on Navigating Hallucinations and Delusions in Dementia. — The 2024 Holiday Gift Guide. — Special Black Friday deals on Bambu Care products, including lifetime Treehouse access. — Bambu Care’s hiatus starting December 7th.MENTIONED IN EPISODE: Bambu Do…
In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss Capgras Syndrome, a rare but challenging delusion in which people with dementia believe that familiar people have been replaced by imposters…
In this original Wha…
In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss Capgras Syndrome, a rare but challenging delusion in which people with dementia believe that familiar people have been replaced by imposters.This episode will cover: — An overview of Capgras Syndrome in dementia — Possible reasons why Capgras Syndrome occurs in dementia — Differences between Capgras Syndrome and time-shifting — Tips for responding to accusations of being an "imposter" — When to seek additional support or medical guidanceMENTIONED IN EPISODE: Creepy Critique: Relic — Dementia in Horror Films | Ep…
In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss prosopagnosia, also known as "face blindness," and how it affects some people with dementia.This episode will cover: — What prosopagnos…
In this original Wha…
In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss prosopagnosia, also known as "face blindness," and how it affects some people with dementia.This episode will cover: — What prosopagnosia is. — How prosopagnosia affects people with dementia. — Six key signs that may indicate prosopagnosia. — Tips for caregivers.MENTIONED IN EPISODE: Treehouse | https://letsbambu.com/treehouse Giveaway | https://letsbambu.link/giveawayCONNECT, GET RESOURCES, LEARN MORE, + SIMPLIFY YOUR CARE JOURNEY: LinkTree | https:…
In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss the use of antipsychotic medications for people with Lewy body dementia.This episode will cover: — Risks associated with antipsychotics…
In this original Wha…
In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss the use of antipsychotic medications for people with Lewy body dementia.This episode will cover: — Risks associated with antipsychotics for Lewy body dementia. — Differences between typical and atypical antipsychotics. — FDA warnings on antipsychotic use in dementia care. — Alternative approaches before considering medication. — Key antipsychotics to avoid and those used with caution.REFERENCES: https://www.lbda.org/treatment-of-behavioral-symptoms-when-to-consider-antipsychotic-medications-in-lbd/ https://pmc.n…
In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss Parkinson's Disease Dementia, a form of Lewy Body Dementia.This episode will cover: — The distinction between Parkinson’s Disease Deme…
In this original Wha…
In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss Parkinson's Disease Dementia, a form of Lewy Body Dementia.This episode will cover: — The distinction between Parkinson’s Disease Dementia and dementia with Lewy bodies — Key symptoms affecting movement, cognition, and memory — Behavioral and Sleep-related changes in Parkinson’s Disease Dementia — Important medication considerations and potential side effectsREFERENCES: https://www.alz.org/media/Documents/alzheimers-dementia-parkinsons-disease-dementia-ts.pdf https://memory.ucsf.edu/sites/memory.ucsf.edu/files/wysiwyg…
In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss the important topic of wandering in dementia care. This episode provides an insightful introduction to wandering behaviors, differentiates b…
In this original Wha…
In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss the important topic of wandering in dementia care. This episode provides an insightful introduction to wandering behaviors, differentiates between wandering, exit-seeking, and elopement, and shares essential tips for caregivers.This episode will cover: — The definition and differentiation of wandering, exit-seeking, and elopement. — The risks associated with wandering behaviors in dementia. — General tips for addressing wandering, including identifying unmet needs and environmental triggers. — The importance of creating a …
In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss the common misconception that caregivers must provide 24/7 Entertainment for their loved ones with dementia. We'll explore why constant enga…
In this original Wha…
In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss the common misconception that caregivers must provide 24/7 entertainment for their loved ones with dementia. We'll explore why constant engagement isn't necessary—and may even be harmful—and offer practical alternatives to help caregivers balance activity, rest, and personal time.This episode will cover: — Debunking the myth of 24/7 entertainment for dementia care. — Balancing activity and rest for both caregivers and those with dementia. — Understanding and leveraging the interests of the person with dementia. — Utilizi…
In this housekeeping episode for What the Dementia, we update you on everything happening in the world of Bambu to help support dementia care partners on their care journey. Is there anything that mee…
In this housekeeping…
In this housekeeping episode for What the Dementia, we update you on everything happening in the world of Bambu to help support dementia care partners on their care journey. Is there anything that meets your needs?This episode will cover: — Announcement of our new mini-course Tackling Toileting Challenges in Dementia Care — Overview of Course Content: Incontinence, Constipation, & UTIs; Creating a Supportive Environment, Supportive Techniques & Strategies Across the Stages, and Challenging Toileting Behaviors — Information on how to preview and access the mini-courseTreehou…
In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss the complex topic of being selfish as a dementia caregiver. We'll explore what it truly means to be selfish, challenge the negative connotat…
In this original Wha…
In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss the complex topic of being selfish as a dementia caregiver. We'll explore what it truly means to be selfish, challenge the negative connotations often associated with the term, and consider how "selfish" decisions can sometimes be necessary for self-preservation and well-being.This episode will cover: — The definition of selfishness and its implications in Caregiving. — Common situations where caregivers may feel guilty or selfish. — The importance of understanding your intentions behind "selfish" decisions. — How to naviga…
In this original What the Dementia episode, we explore the difficult emotions caregivers often face when they start feeling disconnected or resentful towards their loved ones with dementia.This epis…
In this original Wha…
In this original What the Dementia episode, we explore the difficult emotions caregivers often face when they start feeling disconnected or resentful towards their loved ones with dementia.This episode will cover: — Understanding the shift in feelings towards a person with dementia and how to approach it. — The importance of not dismissing all issues as just symptoms of dementia. — Self-reflection questions to help caregivers understand their feelings and relationship changes. — Common mistakes caregivers make that could strain their relationship with their partner with dementia. …
In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss the CMS Innovation Center's GUIDE Model, an 8-year voluntary program designed to improve care and support for people living with dementia an…
In this original Wha…
In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss the CMS Innovation Center's GUIDE Model, an 8-year voluntary program designed to improve care and support for people living with dementia and their caregivers.If you enroll in a GUIDE program or are a GUIDE Participant offering services, we'd love to hear your experience. Please email us at hello@letsbambu.com.This episode will cover: — An introduction to the GUIDE Model by the CMS Innovation Center. — Explanation of the two participant tracks within the GUIDE Model. — Overview of eligibility criteria for dementia patients t…
In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss the balance between engagement and a quiet life for individuals with dementia. This topic was inspired by a conversation inside of the Bambu…
In this original Wha…
In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss the balance between engagement and a quiet life for individuals with dementia. This topic was inspired by a conversation inside of the Bambu Care Champion support community!This episode will cover: — The concept of engagement vs. a quiet life. — The importance of personalized care in dementia. — The impact of apathy on individuals with dementia. — Adapting activities to meet individual needs. — Risks associated with inactivity in individuals with dementia.MENTIONED IN EPISODE: Community | https://letsbambu.com/champion…
In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss how to address frequent trips to the toilet and long sitting times for people with dementia. We offer practical strategies to manage these t…
In this original Wha…
In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss how to address frequent trips to the toilet and long sitting times for people with dementia. We offer practical strategies to manage these toileting challenges, emphasizing the importance of understanding the underlying causes and providing personalized support.Please note: Certain medications and foods may cause increased frequency of bathroom trips.This episode will cover: — Identifying new versus habitual toileting behaviors — The importance of tracking toileting patterns — Common medical causes — Behavioral reasons …
In this housekeeping episode for What the Dementia, we update you on everything happening in the world of Bambu to help support dementia care partners on their care journey. Is there anything that mee…
In this housekeeping…
In this housekeeping episode for What the Dementia, we update you on everything happening in the world of Bambu to help support dementia care partners on their care journey. Is there anything that meets your needs?This episode will cover: — Special discount on the "Hidden in Plain Sight" resource guide for dementia caregivers. — Upcoming Toileting and Hygiene Mini Course and how to access it. — Year-round availability of Bambu Dozens puzzle collection and its unique features.Resource Guide | https://letsbambu.link/guidespecial (discount code: WTD4) Treehouse | https://www…
This episode is a feature from our YouTube channel. In this episode, we will discuss whether dementia is contagious. The short answer is no, dementia is not contagious. Howe…
This episode is a fe…
This episode is a feature from our YouTube channel. In this episode, we will discuss whether dementia is contagious. The short answer is no, dementia is not contagious. However, we explore why some caregivers may have concerns about this and delve into various factors that can lead to changes in memory and behavior when caring for someone with dementia.DIRECT VIDEO LINK: https://youtu.be/9BW8ntKQ6FMThis episode will cover: — The misconception of dementia being contagious. — Stress-related symptoms and their impact on caregivers. — The chameleon effect and i…
This episode is a feature from our YouTube channel. In this episode, we will discuss the topic of verbal aggression within the context of Behavioral Variant Frontotemporal Dementia (bvF…
This episode is a fe…
This episode is a feature from our YouTube channel. In this episode, we will discuss the topic of verbal aggression within the context of Behavioral Variant Frontotemporal Dementia (bvFTD). This was a topic inspired by one of our Treehouse members. (https://letsbambu.com/treehouse)DIRECT VIDEO LINK: https://youtu.be/K4EKcu_iw4YThis episode will cover: — Insights into Behavioral Variant Frontotemporal Dementia (bvFTD) and its effects on behavior. — The challenges caregivers face while dealing with bvFTD-related behavioral changes. — Understanding the reasons behind the…
This episode is a feature from our YouTube channel. In this episode, we discuss how to talk to children about dementia, focusing on the grandparent-grandchild relationship.DIRECT VIDEO LINK: http…
This episode is a fe…
This episode is a feature from our YouTube channel. In this episode, we discuss how to talk to children about dementia, focusing on the grandparent-grandchild relationship.DIRECT VIDEO LINK: https://youtu.be/R7iMzLbYOH4In this episode we cover: — Importance of honesty and openness when discussing dementia with children — Using simple language — Initiating conversations — Normalizing emotional experiences for the child and the family — Addressing behavior changes and encouraging respect and understanding — Adapting activities for the grandparent and grandchild to do together …
In this housekeeping episode for What the Dementia, we update you on everything happening in the world of Bambu to help support dementia care partners on their care journey. Is there anything that mee…
In this housekeeping…
In this housekeeping episode for What the Dementia, we update you on everything happening in the world of Bambu to help support dementia care partners on their care journey. Is there anything that meets your needs?This episode will cover: — The next Bambu Care Champion Meet & Greet. — The relaunch of the Bambu Dozens puzzle collection with new designs and bulk purchase options. — Updates on the development of a highly requested mini-course on toileting & hygiene for dementia care. — An introduction to Maude’s Ventures, offering seed funding for innovative dementia care solu…