In this episode, Kelly talks about how normal it is to expect occasional forgetfulness as we age and clarifies that it's not the same as memory loss or dementia. She explains how memory works through three stages and provides strategies and tips to boost memory. Kelly also provides practical exercises to keep our brains sharp and active as we age.

FACEBOOK PAGE: Please leave questions for Kelly, or set-up a chat!

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103

RESOURCES:

https://healthonline.washington.edu/sites/default/files/record_pdfs/Memory-Strategies.pdf

https://www.parkwoodclinic.com/post/enhancing-memory-external-and-internal-strategies

https://alzheimer.ca/sites/default/files/documents/memory-tips-and-tricks.pdf

The information shared in this podcast is for EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES only, and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Kelly A. Bertenshaw, any guests or contributors to the podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of A Balancing Act: Helping Families Navigate Memory Loss be responsible for damages arising from the use of this podcast.

In this podcast episode, Kelly discusses how dementia affects family relationships, offering practical advice for spouses, adult children, and grandchildren. She emphasizes the importance of understanding dementia, open communication, dividing caregiving tasks, and supporting each other. The key message: approach the journey with empathy, flexibility, and love, and seek help when needed.

FACEBOOK PAGE: Please leave questions for Kelly, or set-up a chat!

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103

RESOURCES:

https://www.jameslwest.org/blog/dementia-and-family-dynamics-challenges/

https://dementiahelpcenter.com/the-caregivers-bill-of-rights/

https://www.dementiauk.org/information-and-support/looking-after-yourself-as-a-carer/changing-relationships-and-roles/

https://alzheimer.ca/en/help-information/i-have-friend-or-family-member-who-lives-dementia/understanding-how-your

The information shared in this podcast is for EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES only, and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Kelly A. Bertenshaw, any guests or contributors to the podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of A Balancing Act: Helping Families Navigate Memory Loss be responsible for damages arising from the use of this podcast.

In this episode, Kelly shares personal experiences and discusses how communicative and cognitive changes due to dementia affect seniors' abilities to engage in activities they once enjoyed. Kelly emphasizes the importance of adapting social activities to match the abilities of those with dementia to keep them engaged and improve their quality of life. She offers practical advice on modifying environments, simplifying games, and using effective communication strategies to reduce frustration and promote enjoyable experiences.

FACEBOOK PAGE: Please leave questions for Kelly, or set-up a chat!

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103

RESOURCES:

https://seniorservicesofamerica.com/blog/15-meaningful-activities-for-dementia-patients/

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-caregiving/adapting-activities-people-alzheimers-disease

https://www.dementia.org.au/living-dementia/staying-connected/activities-people-dementia

The information shared in this podcast is for EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES only, and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Kelly A. Bertenshaw, any guests or contributors to the podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of A Balancing Act: Helping Families Navigate Memory Loss be responsible for damages arising from the use of this podcast.

In this episode, Kelly addresses the moral dilemma caregivers face: whether to lie or tell the truth to loved ones with dementia. Traditionally, reality orientation—telling the truth—was seen as a matter of principle. But from the 1990s, therapeutic fibbing—small, compassionate lies—gained acceptance. Kelly argues for 'leading with their reality,' adapting responses based on the stage of dementia and what comforts or calms the person. She provides practical advice, ways to respond that meet your loved where they are and how to get self-support for when these situations arise.

OUR FACEBOOK PAGE- PLEASE POST ANY QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS HERE. OR, YOU CAN REQUEST A CHAT WITH KELLY!

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103

RESOURCES:

https://www.walkinlab.com/blog/seven-stages-dementia/

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/blog/lying-to-someone-with-dementia

https://iona.org/therapeutic-fibs-ok/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3s0ktYUIn0Y

In this episode of 'A Balancing Act,' host Kelly explores strategies for managing dementia-related agitation, a common issue affecting about 90% of dementia patients. Kelly shares real-life stories from listeners, explains the different types of agitation, and offers practical advice on how family members can respond. Key topics include understanding agitation triggers, the concept of sundowning, and how to use empathy and redirection to calm loved ones. Kelly also highlights the importance of support networks and when to seek medical assistance for aggressive behaviors. Tune in to learn effective ways to provide care and maintain your own well-being.

FACEBOOK PAGE- PLEASE, POST YOUR QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS. WE'D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU!

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103

RESOURCES:

https://peacefulleadersacademy.com/blog/how-to-calm-agitated-dementia-patient/

https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/anxiety-agitation?utm_source=google-grant&utm_medium=paidsearch&utm_campaign=google_grant&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=90372426&gbraid=0AAAAAD14_NjM9SZfXuuM1bVP4TV7h0X4e&gclid=CjwKCAjw9uPCBhATEiwABHN9K8nOvCGRTUGNHilNzyF5wY8h-kMtip2pK3rz_cc4aqgq_CS2Y9SaJxoCdwgQAvD_BwE

The information shared in this podcast is for EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES only, and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Kelly A. Bertenshaw, any guests or contributors to the podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of A Balancing Act: Helping Families Navigate Memory Loss be responsible for damages arising from the use of this podcast.

"Why Are They Wearing The Same Clothes?"

Dressing and bathing can be challenging for people with dementia due to cognitive, physical, and emotional factors. Dementia can impair understanding of how to perform these tasks, remember the purpose of hygiene, and sequence the steps involved. In this episode, we discuss ways you can help a person with dementia maintain their dignity and preferences while providing support for washing and dressing.

OUR FACEBOOK PAGE:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103

ASK FOR SOME CHAT TIME WITH KELLY ON FACEBOOK, or send in those questions and comments!! We'd love to hear from you!

RESOURCES:

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/daily-living/dementia-washing-changing-refusal

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/daily-living/washing-dressing

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-caregiving/alzheimers-caregiving-bathing-dressing-and-grooming

The information shared in this podcast is for EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES only, and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Kelly A. Bertenshaw, any guests or contributors to the podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of A Balancing Act: Helping Families Navigate Memory Loss be responsible for damages arising from the use of this podcast.

Episode 19

When a loved one experiencing memory loss requires more assistance than family or friends can offer, it may be time to explore residential (live-in) facilities, like an assisted living community. Selecting a long-term care residence is a significant decision, and it can be challenging to know how to begin.

In today’s episode, we guide you through effective strategies to get organized and develop a plan that will help alleviate stress for everyone involved.

Our Facebook Page: Post your questions and comments!!

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103

Resources:

https://eldercarealliance.org/blog/moving-to-assisted-living-checklist/#:~:text=Discuss%20the%20move%20with%20your,will%20need%20after%20the%20move.

https://seniorservicesofamerica.com/blog/how-to-move-a-parent-to-assisted-living/

https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/care-options/long-term-care

The information shared in this podcast is for EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES only, and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Kelly A. Bertenshaw, any guests or contributors to the podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of A Balancing Act: Helping Families Navigate Memory Loss be responsible for damages arising from the use of this podcast.

Dishonesty in people with dementia is a frequent and often troubling behavior that poses challenges for both the individual and their family members. By recognizing the different reasons behind this behavior—such as difficulty coping with what’s happening to them, or the inability to process what is going on in and around them—you can respond with increased empathy and patience. Your loved one is not deliberately trying to mislead you; they are navigating a debilitating and progressive condition. You both will need understanding and compassion.

Our Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103

Resources:

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementitia/symptoms-and-diagnosis/delusions

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/blog/how-offer-help-someone-dementia-who-doesnt-want-it

The information shared in this podcast is for EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES only, and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Kelly A. Bertenshaw, any guests or contributors to the podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of A Balancing Act: Helping Families Navigate Memory Loss be responsible for damages arising from the use of this podcast.

The decline in both physical and cognitive abilities that comes with your loved one’s dementia will significantly impact their safety, well being and quality of life. Occupational therapy, Physical therapy and Speech Language Pathologists play crucial roles in a holistic care plan for your loved one. They provide essential interventions that tackle the various challenges both your loved one and the family will face. These therapeutic methods are vital for maintaining and enhancing the physical, cognitive, and emotional health of those navigating the intricate journey of dementia.

Our Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103

Resources:

https://foxrehab.org/physical-therapy-impact-on-dementia-article/

https://optoceutics.com/dementia-occupational-therapy-ot-interventions-goals-activities/?srsltid=AfmBOor0ZEMnT_rq1qm52f-s3nCSIsS0FuCFkGM_mSXBpudf_kvy9Pc0

https://www.neurospeechsolutions.com/client-blog/speech-therapy-and-dementia

The information shared in this podcast is for EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES only, and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Kelly A. Bertenshaw, any guests or contributors to the podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of A Balancing Act: Helping Families Navigate Memory Loss be responsible for damages arising from the use of this podcast.

Enjoy this Encore sharing of our most listened-too episode!

Family members may frequently find themselves locking horns with a loved one affected by cognitive decline. Arguments arise from even the simplest of things. Our loved one seems unable to see reason or another way of doing things. We offer listeners a way to understand what is happening, why it is happening, and how they can lower a loved one’s temperature, as well as your own.

For more about today's topic, check these out:

https://www.healthline.com/health/anosognosia

https://www.alzsd.org/anosognosia/#:~:text=When%20we%20experience%20denial%2C%20our,when%20told%20over%20and%20over.

The information shared in this podcast is for EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES only, and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Kelly A. Bertenshaw, any guests or contributors to the podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of A Balancing Act: Helping Families Navigate Memory Loss be responsible for damages arising from the use of this podcast