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 r…

It's amazing how res…

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. …

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 pres…

Holiday survival tip…

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,…

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 c…

Brain Health While C…

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. Exercis…

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…

Poetry and spoken wo…

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 accepta…

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 …

It's easy to overloo…

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 netwo…

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…

Tech With Heart - Vo…

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 of…

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 memo…

In this episode, we …

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. Disc…

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 sh…

Ever wondered how yo…

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 de…

Are you concerned about the emotional well-being of your loved ones? Join us as we discuss how Happy Talks can provide a lifeline for senior isolation. In this episode, we explore the detrimental ef…

Are you concerned ab…

Are you concerned about the emotional well-being of your loved ones? Join us as we discuss how Happy Talks can provide a lifeline for senior isolation. In this episode, we explore the detrimental effects of isolation on cognitive health and the importance of social interaction for older adults. Discover how Happy Talks can help:Reduce Senior Isolation: Connect your loved ones with friendly volunteers who offer regular companionship and conversation. Enhance Social Engagement: Provide opportunities for meaningful interactions, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose. Improve Communic…

Living with FTD is a journey filled with unexpected twists and turns. Janice Swink bravely shares her experiences,shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of living with this complex condition. …

Living with FTD is a…

Living with FTD is a journey filled with unexpected twists and turns. Janice Swink bravely shares her experiences,shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of living with this complex condition. From hallucinations to fluctuating abilities, Janice's story is a powerful reminder that FTD affects everyone differently. Her openness about her struggles is breaking down barriers and fostering understanding. By sharing her journey, Janice is challenging misconceptions and inspiring hope. Join us as we delve deeper into the world of FTD and discover the strength and resilience of the human sp…

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the demands of caregiving? Teetering on the edge of caregiver Burnout? Join us as we explore strategies to overcome caregiver burnout and find joy in the face of advers…

Are you feeling over…

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the demands of caregiving? Teetering on the edge of caregiver burnout? Join us as we explore strategies to overcome caregiver burnout and find joy in the face of adversity. Our guest, Nina Sossamon-Pogue, is a renowned speaker, best-selling author,and Emmy award-winning journalist who shares her personal journey of resilience and strength. From her days as a USA Gymnastics team member to her successful career in media, Nina has faced numerous challenges. In this episode, she offers practical advice and inspiring stories to help you navigate your own careg…

Caring for someone with dementia can be overwhelming. But imagine a world where stress melts away, and moments of tranquility are within reach. Discover relaxation techniques tailored for caregivers, …

Caring for someone w…

Caring for someone with dementia can be overwhelming. But imagine a world where stress melts away, and moments of tranquility are within reach. Discover relaxation techniques tailored for caregivers, including deep breathing, mindfulness, and guided imagery. Learn how these practices can nurture your mind and body, and help you find peace even in the most challenging times. Join us as we explore the science behind relaxation and discover how to incorporate these techniques into your daily routine, even when time is precious. Our Guest: Mary CrescenzoAs public speaker and arts consultant for …

Discover the power of fun and engaging activities for individuals living with dementia. Learn how these activities can improve mood, stimulate cognitive function, and foster meaningful connections. Ex…

Discover the power o…

Discover the power of fun and engaging activities for individuals living with dementia. Learn how these activities can improve mood, stimulate cognitive function, and foster meaningful connections. Explore a variety of ideas, from simple crafts to outdoor adventures, and find the perfect activities to match your loved one's interests. Learn tips for making these experiences fun and enjoyable for both you and your loved one. Fun and engaging activities are an essential tool for caregivers. Our loved ones need the stimulation. Fun, suitable, engaging activities will provide them with enjoyment, …

Offering something everyone on the Alzheimer's path needs, knowledge, is one of the benefits of adding an Alzheimer's cruise to your vacation list.  This one-of-a-kind cruise is a unique experience f…

Offering something e…

Offering something everyone on the Alzheimer's path needs, knowledge, is one of the benefits of adding an Alzheimer's cruise to your vacation list.  This one-of-a-kind cruise is a unique experience for people in the early stages of Alzheimer's and their care partners. Cruising together you'll gain valuable knowledge, important friendships, and happy memories. In this podcast episode, I talk to Lisa Marie Chirco, the woman behind this cruise. With an extensive background in event planning as well as a history of caregiving.  Lisa put together a must take a cruise. For example, people newly di…

Caring for a loved one with cognitive impairment is demanding and can take a toll on your own Mental Health. It's essential to prioritize your well-being. Creyos is a new tool designed to help protect…

Caring for a loved o…

Caring for a loved one with cognitive impairment is demanding and can take a toll on your own mental health. It's essential to prioritize your well-being. Creyos is a new tool designed to help protect your mental health by providing a clear picture of your stress levels and coping mechanisms. By understanding your own needs, you can better support both yourself and your loved one. Early identification of caregiver stress allows for timely intervention and support, ensuring you're equipped to handle the challenges ahead. Creyos was officially founded in 2015 when world-renowned neuroscientist, …

Dementia and parents' health necessitate essential conversations. Discussing their care preferences, financial management,and desired living arrangements is crucial. Addressing potential cognitive …

Dementia and parents…

Dementia and parents' health necessitate essential conversations. Discussing their care preferences, financial management,and desired living arrangements is crucial. Addressing potential cognitive impairment, healthcare needs, and financial decisions empowers both you and your parents. Openly exploring options like assisted living or in-home care ensures preparedness and peace of mind. These conversations, while challenging, foster a deeper understanding and strengthen your bond. Our Guest: Ashwini BapatDr. Ashwini C. Bapat is a palliative care physician at Massachusetts General H…

The transformative power of creativity can be a balm for both individuals living with cognitive impairment and their caregivers. For caregivers, engaging in artistic endeavors provides a much-needed…

The transformative p…

The transformative power of creativity can be a balm for both individuals living with cognitive impairment and their caregivers. For caregivers, engaging in artistic endeavors provides a much-needed respite from the demands of caregiving, offering a chance to relax, recharge, and reconnect with their own creative spirit. This self-care is essential to prevent burnout and maintain overall well-being. For the person with cognitive impairment, creative expression offers a unique avenue for communication, stimulation, and joy. Activities such as painting, music, or dance can help to re…

When a family gets a diagnosis of a dementia causing disease, it's normal to want to shield kids and even teens from the news. However, with the right support, they can be an invaluable supportive car…

When a family gets a…

When a family gets a diagnosis of a dementia causing disease, it's normal to want to shield kids and even teens from the news. However, with the right support, they can be an invaluable supportive caregiver to their loved one. Here are some tips on how to help them navigate that role. Open Communication:Talk Honestly: Explain dementia in an age-appropriate way. Address their fears and frustrations openly. Listen Actively: Validate their feelings. Let them know it's okay to feel sad, angry, or confused.Supportive Caregiving:Find Age-Appropriate Tasks: Let them help with simple task…