When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer's or Dementia, a spouse, partner, or family member is thrust into the caregiver role. They are just expected to know what to do and how to do it. There is no conversation about it. The caregiver's journey is lonely and challenging, taking on more and more responsibility as their loved fades away.

You may feel angry, afraid, frustrated, and guilty for feeling these things all at the same time. And who is there to talk to when friends and family don't truly understand what you're going through? 

In a new episode of Absolute Trust Talk Live, guest Cheri Bailly-Jacob joins Kirsten to discuss the challenges and emotions that caregivers face, as written in her memoir, "Caregiver Confidential: Stories of Living with My Husband's Alzheimer's Disease." Whether your loved one was just diagnosed, or you've been caregiving for a while now, we hope this conversation with Cheri and her book will encourage and support you on your journey. 

Big Three from Episode #042:

1. Don't feel guilty for having negative emotions - it is normal!
2. After the diagnosis find new activities that both you and your loved one can participate in.
3. Read Cheri's book, whether you are a caregiver or not!

Time-stamped Show Notes:

1:15 - Why did you write this book?

3:26 - What did Cheri first notice that makes her think something was wrong? It's not just about losing my car keys. 

5:21 - Cheri shares how she brought up the subject checking on Bob's memory health 

7:26 - These are the steps Cheri and Bob took to gain clarity on his diagnosis

12:37 - Kirsten and Cheri discuss one of the most important reasons to read her book - being thrust into the caregiver role

13:04 - Don't feel bad about negative thoughts and feelings as a caregiver. It's normal

14:03 - When do you talk about a diagnosis with friends and family?

15:40 - These are the most important things for caregivers to take care of in the early stages

[Ad] If you find yourself lost, and don't know what to do or how to plan for a loved one who is suffering from Dementia, our team can help.  Schedule your free discovery call today, and let's talk through your situation and your concerns. Together we will put the right plan in place for you, your loved one, and your family.

Resources/Tools/Links Mentioned in This Episode:

Caregiver Confidential: Stories of Living with My Husband’s Alzheimer’s Disease