Marriage and Dementia

“Caring for a Spouse with Dementia: "When you've been married 20, 30, 40 years, that
person is an extension of you. And so, it takes a great deal of effort to
suddenly realize what part of you is the partner and what part of you now has
to begin to step out and see yourself as the caregiver."— Robin Smith Andrews

On this episode of "Life Happens with Kim Hegwood," we explore the topic of "Marriage and
Dementia" with guest speaker Robin. Kim and Robin discuss the emotional
toll that dementia can take on a spouse and how to navigate the challenges that
come with being a caregiver. They offer valuable advice on how to maintain a
balance between caregiving and maintaining the marriage. Kim and Robin also
stress the importance of seeking support from others and diversifying
experiences to maintain joy and creativity in life.

Show Timeline

[00:01:35] Spouses with dementia face
intimacy challenges.

[00:04:12] Denial and protectiveness
hinder dementia awareness.

[00:08:27] Spouses caring for dementia
patients need help.

[00:12:24] Love requires stepping back
to care for oneself.

[00:18:37] Awareness, new skills,
narrative change, experimentation.

How to Contact Robin

404-964-1570.

Website: www.youandmeaging.com 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/youandmeaging 

Bio:

Robin Andrews Smith is an Aging and Dementia Life Coach and family
caregiver advocate.  

In 2020 she co-founded You & Me Aging with a colleague, Lee Mohler.  

Their company focuses on the second half of life relationships and
specializes in helping families overcome the barriers of moving to assisted
living and supporting couples living with cognitive impairment or
dementia. 

Robin earned her master’s degree in Marriage & Family Therapy
and has worked in behavioral healthcare for 20+ years as a family advocate,
transitions counselor, and elder care development consultant.  

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Contact Kim Hegwood- Elder Law Attorney

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