Let's Talk Dementia artwork

Let's Talk Dementia

174 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 4 years ago - ★★★★★ - 27 ratings

This podcast is designed to give you quick and entertaining information regarding caring for someone with dementia. “Carosene – The Gigolo Song (cdk Remix)” by Analog By Nature. 2015 Licensed under Creative Commons. Attribution Noncommercial (3.0).

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Episodes

$100 Million Dollars

September 14, 2019 15:07 - 9 minutes - 13.6 MB

The BOLD ACT was signed on December 31, 2018, and it provides $100 million dollars towards closing the existing infrastructure gaps in our health care system and help deliver valuable new resources for the prevention, treatment and care of Alzheimer's Disease.  (Alzheimer's Today Magazine, Winter 2019 - You might want to subscribe to this free magazine - www.alzfdn.org).  $100 million dollars!!!  Let's change the face of Alzheimer's!  I conclude with a cute story about Democrats and Christian...

Two Year Old Boy With Dementia

September 12, 2019 15:21 - 8 minutes - 11.5 MB

Today's episode is not a cheery as usual, but I hope the cartoon above made you giggle.  We are talking about a two year old boy diagnosed with dementia.  How terribly sad, but his mother is inspiring.  Write me with your story at [email protected]  

Tell Me More, Grandpa

September 12, 2019 12:23 - 10 minutes - 14 MB

Hey, Dude - Ever thought of renting a truck?   It's a great day to sit down and talk with your LO (loved one) about their past.  What was their first paying job?  Did they like their boss?  Where did they go to high school?  Did they ever get in trouble while at school?  There are so many questions you can ask.  If you are asking your mother these questions, then I recommend the book Reflections from a Mother's Heart, and you can order it at https://amzn.to/2knXHeg. --- Send in a voice m...

Life Is Always Changing

September 06, 2019 22:16 - 11 minutes - 15.3 MB

Life is always changing, and that is true no matter what life situation we might be experiencing.  Dementia makes it more difficult!  In today's episode we talk about that.  Write me with your thoughts - [email protected] . --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/lets-talk-dementia/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lets-talk-dementia/support

Let’s Have FUN!

September 05, 2019 21:28 - 9 minutes - 13.3 MB

Having fun is such a healing part of our life.  If we laugh and relax, our body respond in a positive way.  This is true for your LO with dementia.  Don't forget to share fun "outside experiences" with them.  Today's episode relives my mother's trip to a park in the mountains, her trip down a big slide, and swinging to Mars.  She had a fantastic time!   It makes me happy to recall it.  Write me with your thoughts at [email protected].  Happy to hear from you. --- Send in a voice...

Starting a Dementia Care Support Group

September 01, 2019 22:06 - 10 minutes - 14.4 MB

Have you been considering starting a dementia care support group?  That's a great idea.  Go for it!   I have a few ideas that might help.  Write me at [email protected] .     --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/lets-talk-dementia/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lets-talk-dementia/support

Grace Upon Grace – Even With Dementia

August 30, 2019 15:23 - 9 minutes - 12.6 MB

Are you purchasing Hershey's syrup so you can use the bottle as a water bottle?  It is a funny idea!  Today's podcast is about the over-flowing abundant grace of God - even in the face of dementia.  Life can be difficult for the individual with dementia AND the caregiver.  Realizing God's grace is sufficient no matter the situation is a calming and relaxing thought.  Write me with your thoughts - [email protected] .

Dementia and Dignity

August 27, 2019 15:43 - 9 minutes - 12.7 MB

Our loved ones deserve dignity as they travel this difficult journey of dementia.  Much of that dignity becomes the responsibility of the caregiver.  Write me with your thoughts at [email protected].

Medication Changes Without Notification

August 22, 2019 15:00 - 10 minutes - 14.3 MB

A listener wrote in with a question from Charlotte, North Carolina.  She was concerned about changes being made to her Dad's medications while living in memory care.  The community did NOT communicate with her these changes in dosage or the addition of more medications.  Her question was, "Should I have been notified"?  Oh YES!!  Listen in for my thoughts on the subject.  Write me at [email protected] .

You Gotta Poop

August 20, 2019 15:30 - 9 minutes - 13.5 MB

Why does constipation make dementia worse?  That is a great question, and I tackle the answer on today's episode.  Write me with your questions - [email protected]  

Caring For An Ungrateful Person

August 15, 2019 20:04 - 10 minutes - 14.3 MB

Did today's picture make you giggle?  I really like it!  Our episode today features a question from a listener in Tennessee.  She is caring for her mother-in-law who has been estranged from the family for over 15 years.  It is a very uncomfortable situation, and now they have sundowning to deal with.  I have a few tips to make sundowning easier.  

“The Diamond” – A Story by Bruce Williams

August 14, 2019 18:43 - 9 minutes - 13.2 MB

Mrs. Ann Williams I had the distinct pleasure of reading a Facebook post by Bruce Williams regarding his beautiful wife, Ann.  She has Early Onset Alzheimer's.  It is a moving story.  I hope you enjoy it.  "Like" Bruce on Facebook - Bruce N Ann Williams.  Write me with your stories or questions - [email protected] .

Young Caregivers Are Amazing People

August 08, 2019 18:42 - 9 minutes - 13.6 MB

An email from Julianne brought great encouragement that grandchildren are actively involved in the lives of their grandparents with dementia.  I am so EXCITED!  Write me with your story - [email protected]  

And On The 7th Day….REST

July 30, 2019 13:43 - 8 minutes - 11.5 MB

I hope today's cartoon made you giggle.  Have you taken time for yourself?  Are you well rested?  Maybe you need a nap!  My need for naps has increased as I have been grieving the loss of my Momma on May 31st.  Grieving is part of your caregiving world.  We grieve what we have lost and what we know we will be loosing.  Taking time to allow your body to process that grief and to rest is ESSENTIAL!  

Helping Grandma Take A Nap

July 29, 2019 17:35 - 12 minutes - 17.3 MB

Today's Cartoon - Hope called with questions about her caregiving journey.  She really wanted Grandma to take an afternoon nap, but Grandma had other ideas.  We discussed that on our episode today.  Write me with your ideas for good activities - [email protected]

Ground Flax Seed and Why You Need It

July 18, 2019 17:33 - 10 minutes - 14 MB

Fat -- NO!  Flax Seed -- YES!  Flax seed is so good for your body.  This episode will help explain why.  

Are You Taking Care Of You?

July 16, 2019 16:12 - 7 minutes - 10.2 MB

Ahhh--- Sibling rivalary is REAL!  Today we are talking about taking care of YOU?  Do you remember that person in the mirror?  The one that is overworked?  Let's talk some time today to care for YOU!

Activities – What To Expect In Group Living

July 11, 2019 14:58 - 10 minutes - 14 MB

Choosing an assisted living or group home can be challenging.  One thing to check out are the activities offered at that community.  Are they activities that match with the level of abilities and interests of your loved one?  Write me at [email protected]  

Something Just Doesn’t Seem Right

July 09, 2019 15:40 - 8 minutes - 12.1 MB

I hope you enjoy our cartoons, and I hope they make you smile.  Today we are discussing noticing the changes in our loved ones on a day-to-day basis.  The little changes can be signs of big problems, if left untended.

Yes, Little Johnny Should Visit Grandma!

July 03, 2019 15:53 - 7 minutes - 10.3 MB

Should we take our children to visit their grandparents who have dementia?  YES!  But there are a few things to think about BEFORE you visit.  That's what we are talking about on today's episode of "Let's Talk Dementia".

Just S..L..O..W Down A Moment!

July 02, 2019 15:26 - 7 minutes - 10.4 MB

Most all of us have a tendency to talk much too quickly.  Slowing that conversation speed down a notch or two will help our loved ones with dementia better understand what we are saying.  It's an easy fix!

Covering For Their Inabilities

June 14, 2019 13:00 - 7 minutes - 10.7 MB

In this journey of dementia, we often find ourselves "covering" for the mistakes of our loved ones.  These mistakes might be things they do incorrectly, or they could be things they say incorrectly.  Sometimes it is good to step in and help, but sometimes it is best to allow the situation to play out.  I also share with you an easy lunch idea.  YUM!  YUM!!  Write me with your easy lunch suggestion - [email protected]

The Eulogy

June 09, 2019 19:34 - 14 minutes - 19.3 MB

In today's episode, I am sharing with you the eulogy I gave at Momma's Celebration of Life Service.  I hope you enjoy it!  

In Memory Of

June 05, 2019 16:41 - 16 minutes - 22 MB

Today's episode is in memory of my Momma, Vera Jean Holder.  The following is her obituary. Rock Hill – Mrs. Vera Jean Carpenter Holder, 80, passed away Friday, May 31, 2019 surrounded by her family. A Celebration of Life Service for Mrs. Holder will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, June 8, 2019 at Greene Funeral Home Northwest Chapel, 2133 Ebenezer Road, Rock Hill, SC, with Reverend Vernon Thornhill officiating.  The family will receive friends at 10:00 AM, prior to the service.  A private bu...

To Feed Or Not To Feed?

June 01, 2019 17:26 - 9 minutes - 14.3 MB

My husband is going to shoot me for using this picture.   I caught him at just the right time, as he was chewing, and snapped this picture.  "Sorry, sweetie.  It was just too good not to use!"  On today's episode we talk about when to feed our loved one's with dementia and when we should withhold food.  It is a tough decision.  Write me with your thoughts - [email protected]  

Be Nice To Me! I’m A Caregiver!!

June 01, 2019 17:25 - 10 minutes - 14.9 MB

Rather than telling a funny joke or story on each episode, I will be posting funny cartoons.  Hope you enjoyed this one.  Today's episode is about caregiver stress.  "WHAT?  I'M NOT STRESSED!"  Oh yes, I am, and I bet you are, also.  Tell me what is stressing you - [email protected]  

Warning Signs of Dementia

June 01, 2019 17:24 - 12 minutes - 16.5 MB

There are several behaviors that should make you stop and wonder "What is going on!"  Be aware of these behaviors, and plan a trip to the family doctor.  Let me know your thoughts - [email protected]

Put It On Your Phone

June 01, 2019 17:23 - 6 minutes - 10 MB

This cartoon is especially for my son-in-law who HATES spiders!  Today's episode gives you a few good tips on documents you need on your phone.  Having them at your fingertips is a good idea!  Got a question?  Write me at [email protected]  

Birthing Of The Soul

May 27, 2019 00:19 - 16 minutes - 22.5 MB

My sweet Momma is working her way to heaven.  She is "Birthing Her Soul".  I love that phrase.  Let's talk about the similarities between birthing of a baby and birthing of the soul.  Write me with your thoughts - [email protected]

“I Wonder, Lord”

May 24, 2019 13:37 - 9 minutes - 14.9 MB

On today's episode I shared with you my morning prayer.  I hope you will find it meaningful in your caregiving journey.  Blessings and smiles!

Momma Has Begun “Transitioning”

May 23, 2019 10:29 - 9 minutes - 14.6 MB

I just had to share this funny cartoon with you.  It made me giggle, and I really needed to giggle.  Momma has declined so greatly, and life has been sad.  All the giggles appreciated!

Visiting In Late Stage Dementia

May 08, 2019 18:18 - 9 minutes - 13.1 MB

This is my Momma, Vera Holder, with my dog, Zoe, on her lap.  Momma has late stage Alzheimer's, and the visits are DIFFERENT than what they were just a few short weeks ago.  That's what today's episode is about.  Write me with your story - [email protected]

Momma Has Declined – A LOT!

May 08, 2019 16:25 - 10 minutes - 14.3 MB

Today's episode offers an update on my sweet Momma, Vera.  Her Alzheimer's dementia has caused a huge decline for her.  It is sad to watch and experience.  I hope my story helps YOU.  Write me at [email protected]  

FORGOTTEN FLOWERS – A Novel of Redemption and Second Love

May 06, 2019 18:28 - 17 minutes - 40.7 MB

Michael Sullivan, author of FORGOTTEN FLOWERS, is our guest on this episode of Let's Talk Dementia.  His novel is a beautiful story of dementia caregiving.  You are going to LOVE IT!  Click here to purchase FORGOTTEN FLOWERS

Are You Being Grateful?

May 02, 2019 20:07 - 10 minutes - 24.7 MB

Being grateful plays a HUGE part in our physical and mental health.  Are you grateful?  Do you take joy in the small, tiny, minute parts of your life? If not, you are missing "change agents" for your life.  Hope today's episode inspires you.  Write me with what you are thankful for - [email protected]

No Conversation From Dad, Except He Say’s I’m Going To Hell!

May 02, 2019 19:48 - 10 minutes - 24.5 MB

A listener writes in with a concern about her Dad.  He will not have conversations with her, but he WILL tell her she is going to hell!  It is very distressing for her.  I addressed her concerns in this episode.  Write me at [email protected]    

Her Grandmother Said, “You Are Going To Hell”

April 29, 2019 20:26 - 10 minutes - 24.5 MB

Susan's grandmother said, "You are going to Hell!"  Distressing words to hear.  Why would she say that?  That's the topic of this episode.  Write me with your thoughts - [email protected]

Being More Grateful

April 29, 2019 18:40 - 10 minutes - 24.7 MB

Are you a grateful person?  Do you say "THANKS" to our Creator for ALL the blessings in your life?  Not just the BIG things, but the little things also.  For instance, are you thankful for fresh milk for your cereal, extra toothpaste when your tube runs out, clean clothes, and a car that cranks?  Do you recognize your blessings in the face of dementia?  That's the topic of this episode.  Write me with a few of the things you are thankful for - [email protected]

He Made The Move To Memory Care – He Was Dreading It!

April 16, 2019 17:50 - 12 minutes - 28.8 MB

Today we are joined by Bill Williams who tells us the story of the day his Dad made the move from assisted living to memory care.  Bill was dreading it in a big way, but God had a plan.  You are going to love this story.  Write me with your story - [email protected].

The Day In September That Changed Him Forever

April 16, 2019 17:06 - 12 minutes - 29.1 MB

September of 2018 was the hardest month in recent memory for Bill Williams.  He wished the days away several times.  Then one particular day changed him forever.  This story is sweet and beautiful.  Hope you enjoy listening.  Write me with your stories - [email protected]

Who Is Vera Jean Schrindberger?

April 06, 2019 19:50 - 7 minutes - 16.8 MB

I had a great time recording my Momma telling me her name is Vera Jean Schrindberger.  In this episode I have added the audio so you can hear her story.  It cracked me up, but sharing it with you made me cry.  Share your stories with me at [email protected].

Dementia Friendly Cruises – HOW FUN!

April 05, 2019 18:34 - 16 minutes - 38.6 MB

It was a great deal of fun to meet Kathy Shoaf and learn about her dementia friendly cruises! These cruises are designed for the caregiver AND the person they love.  Maybe it is time to sign up for YOUR cruise. You can contact her at [email protected]. Her is website www.elitecruisesandvacationstravel.com or by phone at 888-826-6836 TELL HER CAROL SENT YOU!

BaBa Might Be Manipulating Her

March 31, 2019 20:25 - 9 minutes - 20.6 MB

A listener wrote in about her BaBa (Grandmother) who calls and makes large demands upon her granddaughter.  Is it possible BaBa is manipulating her??

Abandoned Because of Dementia

March 31, 2019 20:02 - 8 minutes - 18.8 MB

We might abandon an old shack.  We might abandon a run down car.  We should never abandon a person with dementia.  This episode is about a man who was abandon because of his dementia.  HOLY COW!  How does this happen?  Write me at [email protected]  

Too Many Cooks In The Kitchen

March 23, 2019 15:39 - 9 minutes - 22.8 MB

If you've ever hosted a large family meal, you know what it feels like when there are "too many cooks in the kitchen".  Easy tasks become difficult, and chaos might insue.  Having more than one person contacting the physician regarding your loved one can be much like that kitchen scene.  That's the topic of today's episode.  Let me know what you think - [email protected]    

Romance and Dementia

March 23, 2019 15:22 - 8 minutes - 18.5 MB

Our loved ones with dementia often find it comforting to have a close friend.  Sometimes that friend becomes a girlfriend or a boyfriend.  Is this a good thing?  Should we STOP that relationship since they still have a spouse who visits regularly?  That's the topic of today's episode.  Let me know your thoughts - [email protected]      

Just Don’t Tell Everything You Know!

March 15, 2019 18:10 - 8 minutes - 19 MB

Today's episode tells of a recent phone conversation with a listener.  She was trying to make plans for her mother without upsetting Mom in the process.  That is ALWAYS a good plan, but her approach needed tweeking.  If you have an situation you could use help with, write me at [email protected].  I'm happy to help.

Did The Apostle Paul Say The “S” Word?

March 15, 2019 17:36 - 8 minutes - 20.3 MB

My Momma is living with late stage Alzheimer's, and she loves to say three words.  Those three words are NOT "I Love You".  Today's episode will make you giggle!

Do You Remember? Uh – Nope!

March 09, 2019 17:41 - 10 minutes - 22.9 MB

I know I should not say it, but the phrase "Momma, do you remember" comes out of my mouth before I can stop it!  That is the topic of today's episode.   Write me with your thoughts - [email protected]. Check out our YouTube Channel, also called "Let's Talk Dementia".

Cheese Crackers Instead Of Drugs?

March 09, 2019 16:45 - 10 minutes - 24.6 MB

Many times individuals with dementia have behaviors that are disturbing.  Should we medicate to change those behaviors?  What if we offered a distraction?  Food is an excellent distraction for most everyone we know (including ME!).  That's the topic of today's episode.  Write me with your thoughts - [email protected]  

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The Female Brain
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