Dominick Domasky is just a guy trying to find success. That’s what it says on his website Motivation Champs. Despite being successful in publishing books, giving speeches, and working with non-profit organizations to share their message, Dominick struggled to talk about Alzheimer’s. Writing allowed Dom to pour out his emotions and tell the story of his Mom. My Name is Sharon is her story not just the telling of her disease.

This is not the first episode devoted to the topic of sharing our stories. My Name is Sharon – A Love Story, is exactly that. A love story dedicated to sharing the wonderful life Sharon had as a Mom. It’s also a story about Dominicks’ life with his Mom. This is a heartwarming conversation that shows us just how important it is to share the lives of our loved ones, not just the difficult part.

For caregivers who struggle with their past relationship with who they are caring for, maybe this conversation will give you a bit of inspiration to look for the good times in the past. At the very least, it truly is a love story we all can enjoy.

TRANSCRIPT

Helene Bergers Episode – Choosing Joy

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The long goodbye, it’s something that all of us have dealt with. Some of you are probably still working your way through this goodbye. Today’s guest is Bret Sweet. He’s a musician turned caregiver who used writing music to help him through his grieving process even as his father was still alive.

Bret decided to use a hip-hop album to help caregivers draw energy from and gain a sense of connection with other caregivers. His Dad was all about breaking down doors, standing up to bullies, and Bret’s album helps continue that story. Bret also wanted to add a little hope for those of us listening.

Enjoy this video from Fog On The Bridge (yes, that’s the Golden Gate Bridge, from my area of the world).

TRANSCRIPT

Related Episodes:

A Musical, Emotional Memoir on Caregiving (Caregiver Carols)

Stress & Anxiety Relief through Music Therapy

 

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Participating in art can provide older adults with multiple benefits and enhanced cognitive function. One of the challenges caregivers face is handling frustration when confusion is common. When our loved ones lose control because their memory is failing, they frequently lash out. 

• Art for older adults can help relieve this fear and anger by; 
• helping individuals relax;
• providing a sense of control;
• reducing depression and anxiety;
• assisting in socialization;
• encouraging playfulness and a sense of humor;
• improving cognition;
• offering sensory stimulation;

Plus, it can be a lot of fun. It’s worth a try. My Mom was a very creative person, but she feared “getting it wrong” whenever I attempted to do an art project with her. I’ve seen some other methods that I would have liked to have tried with her, but since I can’t, I’m sharing this passionate young woman’s story with you.

Marie-Louise is my guest today, and how she became passionate about using art to connect with older adults will delight you and maybe, give you the confidence to give art therapy a try with your loved one. The passion and insight that Marie-Louise shares will make you feel great. She has tons of advice, ideas and heart-warming stories!

TRANSCRIPT

Related Episodes:

Art Therapy for Older Adults

Connecting through Art

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We’re talking today about how to be your own best caregiver. Living with chronic illnesses, dealing with a lifetime of accumulations, worrying about money; it seems we prepare for everything in life except how to handle the challenges of its later years.

About 22% of older adults in the United States can be considered elder orphans or solo agers.  More are at risk of becoming one. The first group—elder orphans—are older people who don’t have a spouse or children they can depend upon. while solo agers are older adults who are living alone and don’t have children. In either case, this is a population of older people who don’t have a safety net if they need support, whether that’s physical, emotional, or practical.

In my conversation with author Joy Loverde, we discuss how we can plan for our older age with confidence. Her book, Who Will Care For Me When I’m Old is also a workbook to help us navigate this planning.

Learn more about Joy

TRANSCRIPT

 

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Make Your Brain Span Match Your Lifespan with Relevaate

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Do dementia interpreters exist? I could have used some interpretation when Mom was alive. Mom spoke in actual English words and complete sentences, but there was no context to help me understand what she was trying to tell me. It took me too long to realize that my attempts to “decipher” her conversations made her angry. Eventually, I understood it was better for both of us if I went along as if I understood.

I talk to Malora Jackson of Secondwind Dreams about their Dementia Interpreters program in this episode. A Dementia Interpreter helps translate our loved ones’ actions, noises, behaviors, and body language into an understandable and recognized language. Certainly, this is an excellent skill for all of us to learn.

Another helpful tool that Malora informed me about is the Dementia Dictionary. https://www.dementiadictionary.com You will learn a lot about communicating with someone living with dementia when you tune in to this episode.

Secondwind Dreams website

Dementia Dictionary

TRANSCRIPT

Be sure to check out our website for more resources, partners, recipes, and more.  www.fadingmemoriespodcast.com

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If you’ve enjoyed this episode, please share this podcast with other caregivers!  Choose your favorite platform and follow us for more advice, motivation, recipes, and cute dog photos.

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There you can see me in “action” and watch the bonus videos I share.

Want to learn from Jennifer in person (or virtually)? Wherever you’d like a training session, Jen is available. Contact her at fadingmemoriespodcast@gmail.com

Podcast: Play in new window | Download