The Caregiver's Journey

When someone gets a diagnosis of dementia, there are two people who need to be cared for: the person living with dementia and you, the primary caregiver.” Nancy Treaster Are you inserting yourself more and more into the activities of daily living for your loved one who is living with dementia? Are you struggling to find the knowledge and resources you need to manage? Have you worked through the first 10 steps of the Navigating Dementia Caregiving Roadmap? We are Sue Ryan and Nancy Treaster. As caregivers for our loved ones with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia, we know how quickly the daily demands grow once you reach the middle of the caregiving journey. This post covers steps 11 through 14 of our 20-step Navigating Dementia Caregiving Roadmap, all of which fall in the stage we call the messy middle. Connect with us and share your tips: Website: https://thecaregiversjourney.org/Donate: https://give.cornerstone.cc/thecaregiversjourneyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaregiversjourney/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecaregiversjourneys/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suearmstrongryan/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancytreaster/Email: [email protected], [email protected] Full Show Notes https://thecaregiversjourney.org/73-the-messy-middle-steps-11-14-navigating-dementia-caregiving-roadmap-v4-alzheimers-and-other-dementias/ Additional Resources Mentioned Support the nonprofit The Caregiver's Journey: https://give.cornerstone.cc/thecaregiversjourneyThe Caregiver’s Journey Navigating Dementia Caregiving Roadmap: https://roadmap.thecaregiversjourney.org/ Available as an interactive page on our website that walks you through the three stages of your dementia family caregiver journey. Includes the option to download the guide for free. Takeaways Step 11: Focus on safety. Step 12: Continue to prioritize your self-care. Step 13: Educate yourself on the activities of daily living. Step 14: Create a care plan. At a minimum, a family emergency plan. Read More in This Blog https://thecaregiversjourney.org/73-the-messy-middle-steps-11-14-of-the-navigating-dementia-caregiving-roadmap-alzheimers-and-other-dementias/

Did your loved one recently receive a diagnosis of dementia? Have you already worked through the first six steps of the Navigating Dementia Caregiving Roadmap? If so, you’ve built a solid foundation, and it’s time to keep going. We are Sue Ryan and Nancy Treaster. As caregivers for our loved ones with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia, we created the Navigating Dementia Caregiving Roadmap to guide you through your caregiving journey. The roadmap has 20 steps, organized into three stages: in the beginning, the messy middle, and later on. (For more on all three stages, see Podcast and Blog 66.) You can find the full, interactive roadmap, along with a free downloadable digital guide, at thecaregiversjourney.org — just click the Caregiving Roadmap icon on the homepage. The roadmap also includes a self-assessment tool: five questions that will help you identify which stage of caregiving you’re in. Wherever you land, we recommend going back to look at the steps before that stage, so you don’t miss anything important. In this episode, we’re covering steps seven through ten — still part of the “in the beginning” stage. If you haven’t worked through steps one through six yet, start there first (see Blog 68), since a lot of that early work is done side by side with your loved one. Connect with us and share your tips: Website: https://thecaregiversjourney.org/Donate: https://give.cornerstone.cc/thecaregiversjourneyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaregiversjourney/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecaregiversjourneys/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suearmstrongryan/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancytreaster/Email: [email protected], [email protected] Full Show Notes https://thecaregiversjourney.org/71-navigating-dementia-caregiving-roadmap-v4-steps-7-10-alzheimers-and-other-dementias/ Additional Resources Mentioned Support the nonprofit The Caregiver's Journey: https://give.cornerstone.cc/thecaregiversjourneyThe Caregiver’s Journey Navigating Dementia Caregiving Roadmap: https://roadmap.thecaregiversjourney.org/ Available as an interactive page on our website that walks you through the three stages of your dementia family caregiver journey. Includes the option to download the guide for free. Takeaways In this episode we covered steps 7-10 of the 20 step roadmap. The last of the steps in the In The Beginning stage. Step 7: Continue your education Step 8: Start planning for the next stage of careStep 9: Investigate your local government community supportStep 10: Evaluate driving risks Read More in This Blog https://thecaregiversjourney.org/71-navigating-dementia-caregiving-roadmap-v4-steps-7-10-alzheimers-and-other-dementias-2/

As a family caregiver, you spend so much time worrying about your loved one's brain health. But what about your own? The good news is that there are real, evidence-backed steps you can take to improve your brain health and reduce your risk of cognitive decline — even in the midst of a demanding caregiving journey. We are Sue Ryan and Nancy Treaster. As caregivers for our loved ones with Alzheimer's and other types of dementia, we know how easy it is to put yourself last. That's why we're sharing insights from Shelby Roberts, Senior Director of Public Health for the Alzheimer's Association, about protecting your brain health and reducing your risk of cognitive decline and dementia. We're sharing three tips. Connect with us and share your tips: Website: https://thecaregiversjourney.org/Donate: https://give.cornerstone.cc/thecaregiversjourneyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaregiversjourney/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecaregiversjourneys/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suearmstrongryan/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancytreaster/Email: [email protected], [email protected] Full Show Notes https://thecaregiversjourney.org/59-protect-your-brain-health-three-essential-tips-alzheimers-and-other-dementias/ Additional Resources Mentioned Support the nonprofit The Caregiver's Journey: https://give.cornerstone.cc/thecaregiversjourneyAlzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline: 800–272–3900. Masters-level counselors can help with crisis intervention, finding resources including support groups, and they offer interpretation in over 200 languages.Alzheimer’s Association Brian Health Habit Builder: https://www.alz.org/help-support/brain_health/brain-health-habit-builderAlzheimer's Association Brain Health Resources: https://www.alz.org/help-support/brain_healthThe Caregiver’s Journey Navigating Dementia Caregiving Roadmap: https://roadmap.thecaregiversjourney.org/ Available as an interactive page on our website that walks you through the three stages of your dementia family caregiver journey. Includes the option to download the guide for free. Takeaways We shared 3 tips: Tip 1: Learn about the 10 health habits for your brain Tip 2: Know yourself Tip 3: Pick a place to start Read More in This Blog https://thecaregiversjourney.org/59-protecting-your-brain-health-three-essential-tips-for-dementia-caregivers/

“Support groups are like lifelines — we’re around other people who are going through the same thing we are, and we know we’re not alone.” Kim Franklin Do you wonder if support groups are right for you? Do you know how to find one that fits your needs? Are you feeling overwhelmed and isolated in your caregiving role? We are Sue Ryan and Nancy Treaster. As caregivers for our loved ones with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia, we’ve learned that support groups can be transformative resources on this journey. In this post, we’re sharing insights from Kim Franklin, Senior Program Manager with the Alzheimer’s Association, about how to find the right support group for you. Support groups offer more than just information — they provide therapeutic spaces where caregivers can come together, share their frustrations, breathe, and hear from others in similar situations. Yet many caregivers resist joining groups, thinking they don’t have time, don’t need help, or feel caregiving is a private family matter that should be handled alone. If you’re following along with the Navigating Dementia Caregiving Roadmap, this post supports Step Four, Find a support group. Let’s explore four essential tips for finding the right support group for your caregiving journey. Connect with us and share your tips: Website: https://thecaregiversjourney.org/Donate: https://give.cornerstone.cc/thecaregiversjourneyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaregiversjourney/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecaregiversjourneys/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suearmstrongryan/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancytreaster/Email: [email protected], [email protected] Full Show Notes https://thecaregiversjourney.org/57-find-the-right-support-group-four-essential-tips-alzheimers-and-other-dementias/ Additional Resources Mentioned Support the nonprofit The Caregiver's Journey: https://give.cornerstone.cc/thecaregiversjourneyAlzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline: 800–272–3900. Masters-level counselors can help with crisis intervention, finding resources including support groups, and they offer interpretation in over 200 languages.Community Resource Finder: https://www.communityresourcefinder.org/ Visit the Alzheimer’s Association website and enter your zip code to find support groups and other services in your community.The Caregiver’s Journey Navigating Dementia Caregiving Roadmap: https://roadmap.thecaregiversjourney.org/ Available as an interactive page on our website that walks you through the three stages of your dementia family caregiver journey. Includes the option to download the guide for free. Takeaways We shared 4 tips: Start with what you need right nowChoose the best format for youExplore groups that match your situationDon't settle, but don’t give up either Take Action: Support Groups as Self-Care If you haven’t yet tried a support group, consider committing this month to looking for one. Keep in mind that attending a support group isn’t just about learning how to care for your loved one — it’s also a form of self-care. You’re taking care of yourself while learning valuable information and building connections with others who understand. Resources to Get Started: Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline: 800–272–3900. Masters-level counselors can help with crisis intervention, finding resources including support groups, and they offer interpretation in over 200 languages.Community Resource Finder: Visit the Alzheimer’s Association website and enter your zip code to find support groups and other services in your community.The Caregiver’s Journey Navigating Dementia Caregiving Roadmap: Available as an interactive page on our website that walks you through the three stages of your dementia family caregiver journey. Includes the option to download the guide for free.

“What really helps is grounding yourself in three things: what change you’re noticing, how different it is from who this person has always been, and whether it’s getting worse over time.” — Dr. Anna Chodos Are you concerned that your loved one is showing early signs of dementia? Do you find yourself noticing changes but unsure whether they’re significant? You’re not alone in this uncertainty, and there are clear steps you can take to address your concerns. We are Sue Ryan and Nancy Treaster. As caregivers for our loved ones with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia, we understand how challenging it can be to recognize early signs of dementia and know what to do next. We’re sharing insights about practical guidance for managing through those early signs of dementia from Dr. Anna Chodos, professor of medicine in geriatrics at the University of California, San Francisco, and executive director of Dementia Care Aware, and Dr. Barry Jacobs, clinical psychologist, family therapist, and co-author of the AARP Caregiver Answer Book. Let’s explore three essential tips for recognizing early dementia signs — starting difficult conversations with your loved one and communicating effectively with healthcare providers. Connect with us and share your tips: Website: https://thecaregiversjourney.org/Donate: https://give.cornerstone.cc/thecaregiversjourneyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaregiversjourney/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecaregiversjourneys/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suearmstrongryan/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancytreaster/Email: [email protected], [email protected] Full Show Notes https://thecaregiversjourney.org/55-is-it-an-early-sign-of-dementia-three-essential-tips-alzheimers-and-other-dementias/ Additional Resources Mentioned Alzheimer’s Association 10 signs of dementia: https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/10_signsDementia Care Aware: https://www.dementiacareaware.org/Barry’s website www.caregiveranswerbook.comBuy the Caregiver Answer Book on Amazon https://amzn.to/4i9V9ZLSupport the nonprofit The Caregiver's Journey: https://give.cornerstone.cc/thecaregiversjourney Takeaways Tip 1: Know What Signs to Look For — They’re More Than Just Memory Tip 2: Start Early and Normalize Health Conversations Tip 3: Plan Ahead for the Doctor’s Appointment Read More in This Blog https://sueryansolutions.medium.com/55-is-it-an-early-sign-of-dementia-three-essential-tips-alzheimers-and-other-dementias-5a1278aa1c2f

"Dementia is not just a medical journey, but it's a financial and emotional one." – Devon Banning, CFP Are you avoiding the financial conversation with your loved one because it feels uncomfortable or overwhelming? Do you find yourself wondering how you'll afford care as your loved one's needs increase? Are you concerned about making the right financial decisions during this challenging time? We are Sue Ryan and Nancy Treaster. As caregivers for our loved ones with Alzheimer's and other types of dementia, we know that money is often the last conversation we want to have, but it's inevitable. We have to have it. Today, we're sharing five essential tips for navigating the financial aspects of dementia caregiving with Devon Banning, a Certified Financial Planner with Moran Wealth Management. Devon has more than 15 years of experience across a range of roles in the financial industry, and he brings invaluable depth of experience with dementia family caregiving. He's spent the majority of his career managing financial lives for individuals and families, many of whom were suddenly thrust into the caregiving role due to dementia. Here's what makes this conversation easier: it'll be much more manageable when we respect our loved ones' dignity, independence, and their wishes throughout all of our conversations. Today is about helping you learn options for taking your next step—options that are going to make you feel more confident without needing to have all the answers at one time. This episode supports step three of our Navigating Dementia Caregiving Roadmap Guide: understand the financial situation. If you've been putting this conversation off, you're definitely not alone. This is an area many caregivers hesitate to step into. It's deeply personal, and it can feel intimidating—especially if we wish we'd addressed it sooner. Connect with us and share your tips: Website: https://thecaregiversjourney.org/ Donate: https://give.cornerstone.cc/thecaregiversjourney Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaregiversjourney/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecaregiversjourneys/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suearmstrongryan/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancytreaster/ Email: [email protected], [email protected] Full Show Notes https://thecaregiversjourney.org/53-the-dementia-care-financial-conversation-five-essential-tips-alzheimers-and-other-dementias-2/ Additional Resources Mentioned Moran Wealth Management https://moranwm.com/ Disclaimer:This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute investment, legal, or tax advice. The views expressed are those of the participants as of the date recorded and may change without notice. Nothing discussed should be considered a recommendation or solicitation to buy or sell any security or to engage in any particular investment strategy. Listeners should consult their own financial, legal, or tax professionals before making any financial decisions. Moran Wealth Management is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Support the nonprofit The Caregiver's Journey: https://give.cornerstone.cc/thecaregiversjourney Takeaways Get the Financial Conversation Started Use these 8 steps to guide the conversation Understand the different stages of financial considerations Understand The Financial Position of Your Loved One Consider Leveraging a Financial Planning Expert Read More in This Blog https://medium.com/@sueryansolutions/financial-planning-for-dementia-caregiving-five-essential-tips-edf00b98be82

"The difference between TV as comfort and TV as chaos isn't the screen—it's understanding how the changing brain experiences what's on it." Do you rely on television to help occupy your loved one's time? Does your care receiver seem agitated or anxious when the TV is on? Have you noticed them leaving the room when a show is playing or struggling to follow programs they once enjoyed? We are Sue Ryan and Nancy Treaster. As caregivers for our loved ones with Alzheimer's and other types of dementia, we've learned that what soothes us as caregivers can actually cause distress for people living with dementia. In this episode, we spoke with Allyson Schrier, co-founder and president of Zinnia TV and former caregiver for her husband with frontotemporal dementia, about why regular TV can be problematic and what we can do about it. Let's explore four essential tips for managing TV time effectively. Connect with us and share your tips: Website: https://thecaregiversjourney.org/Donate: https://give.cornerstone.cc/thecaregiversjourneyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaregiversjourney/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecaregiversjourneys/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suearmstrongryan/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancytreaster/Email: [email protected], [email protected] Full Show Notes Additional Resources Mentioned Zinnia TV https://www.zinniatv.comSupport the nonprofit The Caregiver's Journey: https://give.cornerstone.cc/thecaregiversjourney Takeaways Tip 1: Be Thoughtful About What’s On TV The answer isn’t to take TV away completely. We need to be thoughtful about what we put on the TV and pay close attention to how our loved ones respond. Tip 2: Target Something That Creates Curiosity Without Agitation The goal is to find programming that engages without overstimulating or causing your loved one to fall asleep (because daytime sleeping can lead to nighttime wakefulness). Tip 3: Leverage Simulated Presence Therapy The innovative approach of simulated presence therapy takes advantage of how people with dementia can experience confusion between what’s on screen and what’s actually happening — and uses it to benefit them. What is simulated presence therapy? Research has shown that when someone will only take medication or follow instructions from a specific person (like a daughter or doctor), showing them a video of that person giving the instruction can work just as effectively as having the person physically present. Tip 4: Create Engaging Alternatives On Your Own Beyond television, there are creative ways to provide visual engagement that work better with how the dementia brain processes information. Observe and Adjust Managing the television experience for someone with dementia isn’t about finding one perfect solution. What works today may not work next month as the disease progresses, and that’s reasonable. The process is about observing how your loved one responds and adjusting accordingly. The key is understanding the changing brain experiences television very differently than we do. Through being thoughtful about what’s on the screen, targeting content that engages without overwhelming, leveraging simulated presence therapy, and creating our own alternatives, we can turn TV time from a potential source of agitation into a positive opportunity for comfort and connection. Read More in This Blog here

Do you know what you need to do immediately after your loved one passes? Many caregivers don't. Are you worried about missing important tasks or feeling overwhelmed by the sheer volume of administrative, financial, and legal responsibilities? We are Sue Ryan and Nancy Treaster. As caregivers for our loved ones with Alzheimer's and other types of dementia, we've navigated the challenging process of handling death-related responsibilities firsthand. Between us, we've experienced the loss of multiple loved ones and learned valuable lessons about what needs to be done and when. Connect with us and share your tips: Website: https://thecaregiversjourney.org/ Donate: https://give.cornerstone.cc/thecaregiversjourney Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaregiversjourney/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecaregiversjourneys/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suearmstrongryan/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancytreaster/ Email: [email protected], [email protected] Full Show Notes If you are following along with our 20 step Navigating Dementia Caregiving Roadmap guide this is part of Step 20. This is the first guide listed on our guides page. There are many things that can be done ahead of time. We covered these in podcast episode 30 - End of life preplanning and blog as well as in the matching worksheet you can find on our website in the guides section called ‘End of Life Service Worksheet’. Click here to get to the Guides page, scroll down to find the sheet. Tip 1: Prioritize these things immediately after death1. Tip 2: Move to this list within the first few days and weeks Tip 3: Over the next few weeks and months - manage their estate Tip 4: Focus on the things to prioritize once the estate has been closed