64: The Validation Method for Dementia Care with Carmen Bowman
From Caregiver Chats by Home Instead, Inc.
January 15, 2026 · 34 min
About this episode
Dr. Lakelyn discusses the Validation Method for dementia care with Carmen Bowman, focusing on compassionate techniques for caregivers.
Dr. Lakelyn is joined by Carmen Bowman, consultant, educator, and founder of Edu-Catering, to discuss the Validation Method, a compassionate approach to dementia care. Caregivers often feel stuck when faced with repeated questions like “Where’s my mom?” or behaviors they don’t understand. Instead of arguing, redirecting, or dismissing, Carmen introduces simple yet powerful techniques—like rephrasing, entering into a loved one’s world, and asking “tell me more”—that reduce stress, build trust, and create space for authentic connection. Through real-life examples, Carmen shows how caregivers can shift their approach and bring more empathy and understanding into daily interactions. Episode highlights include: -What the Validation Method is and why it matters in dementia care -Why “arguing” or “redirecting” often increases stress and distrust -How to rephrase questions with empathy to build trust -The power of presence, slowing down, and stepping into a loved one’s world -Simple tools caregivers can use, like “tell me more” and emotion-matching -Why tears and grief can be healing—not something to avoid Helpful links from the episode: - Carmen’s website: edu-catering.com - Validation…
People in this episode
Host: Dr. Lakelyn
Guest: Carmen Bowman
Topics covered
- Validation Method
- Dementia Care
- Caregiver Techniques
- Empathy in Caregiving
- Building Trust
- Stress Reduction
Keywords
- Validation Method
- Dementia Care
- Caregiver Techniques
- Empathy
- Trust Building
- Stress Reduction
- Real-life Examples
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Edu-Catering, Validation Training Institute, Home Instead, Inc.
Books & works: Validation: The Feil Method
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