Welcome to a powerful episode of the AlzAuthors Podcast featuring acclaimed author Marita Golden and her novel, The Wide Circumference of Love, as part of the Aging & Amazing Book Club series. This engaging discussion dives into the storytelling craft, the nuances of family caregiving, and the realities of Alzheimer’s and dementia, especially in African American communities.

An award-winning author of 22 books, Marita Golden shares her journey as a writer, from being a story-loving child in Washington, D.C., to producing literary works that explore social issues and healing. She shares how she came to write a story centered on a caregiver after immersing herself in caregiving spaces, meticulous research, and witnessing a friend’s torturous battle caring for her husband.

Ms. Golden shares insights into the connection between writing and healing, and how journaling and other forms of writing can be vital mental health tools that promote resilience.

She also speaks to the higher rates of Alzheimer’s and other dementias in the African American community, citing the lack of representation in clinical trials as one contributing factor, and speaks to why awareness and advocacy are more important now than ever.

For readers and writers, Ms. Golden shares insight into the craft of writing, her writing routine, and her creative evolution.

Key Takeaways:

• Storytelling unites families and communities, easing the isolation of caregiving and dementia.
• Fictional works like The Wide Circumference of Love, along with memoirs and how-to guides, are crucial for raising awareness of Alzheimer’s and dementia.
• Journaling and creative writing document the caregiving journey and provide healing and hope for both writers and readers.
• The urgent need for advocacy and equity in dementia care for marginalized communities.

About Marita Golden:

Marita Golden is President Emeritus and co-founder of the Hurston/Wright Foundation. She is also an educator and author of fiction and nonfiction exploring Black life, identity, and resilience. Her recent memoir, How to Become a Black Writer, is available now. Find out more about Marita Golden on her website.

Read Marita’s AlzAuthors Blog

Follow Marita Golden:

Facebook

Instagram

LinkedIn

Buy Marita’s books:

• The Wide Circumference of Love
• Us Against Alzheimer’s Anthology

About the Podcast

AlzAuthors is the global community of authors writing about Alzheimer’s and dementia from personal experience to light the way for others. Our podcast introduces you to our authors who share their stories and insights to provide knowledge, comfort, and support. Please subscribe so you don’t miss a word. If our authors’ stories move you, please leave a review. And don’t forget to share our podcast with family and friends on their own dementia journeys.

We are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization totally reliant on donations to do what we do. Your generosity will help cover our many operating costs, which include website hosting and maintenance fees, service charges to keep things running smoothly, and marketing expenses to promote our authors, expand our content, improve our reach, and more. Our ongoing work supports our mission to lift the silence and stigma of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. To sustain our efforts please donate here.

Ideas and opinions expressed in this podcast belong to the speakers and not AlzAuthors. Always consult your healthcare provider and legal and financial consultants for advice on any of the topics covered here.

Thanks for listening.

We are a Whole Care Network Featured Podcast

Proud to be on The Health Podcast Network

Find us on The World Podcast Network and babyboomer.org

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In this episode we're sharing the highlights from our recent interview with Carol Steinberg, whose children’s book, Come Grandpa Meow, Let’s Fly, adds a much-needed resource for families navigating the challenges of Alzheimer’s and dementia.

A Personal Story Sparked by Loss

Carol’s journey began more than 25 years ago, during her own father’s struggle with Alzheimer’s. She originally wrote the book as part of her grieving process, but it wasn’t until she’d spent years working at both local and national Alzheimer’s organizations that the story truly found its shape. The finished book beautifully balances respect, understanding, and connection for readers young and old.

Empowering Children & Families

One thing that sets Carol’s children’s book apart is its focus on empathy, understanding, and practical intergenerational activities that help children stay connected with loved ones living with dementia. As Carol says, “We need to bust the stigmas. We need the world to know that people with dementia are still people. They're still your loved ones. They may act differently—and I hope I show that in the book.”

For Adults, Too

Although written for children (ages 5 to 9, but suitable for older readers too!), this book is just as impactful for adults. As Vicki Tapia, AlzAuthors acquisitions editor, noted, the story “helps explain and cope with the changes that are happening [to a loved one].” Plus, the activities at the end offer concrete, research-backed ways that families can nurture connection.

Recommended by the Experts

Don’t just take our word for it—Come Grandpa Meow, Let’s Fly comes with glowing endorsements from field leaders like Teepa Snow, Dr. Daniel Potts, and people living with dementia, who praise its realism, sensitivity, and stigma-busting power.

Whether you’re a caregiver, educator, parent, or grandparent, Carol’s book is a gentle guide to fostering compassion, understanding, and lasting memories—no matter where you or your loved one are on the dementia journey.

After the Podcast

Purchase “Come Grandpa Meow, Let's Fly"

Read Carol's AlzAuthors blog post

Learn about the Moderators

Marianne Sciucco

Christy Byrne Yates

About the Podcast

AlzAuthors is the global community of authors writing about Alzheimer’s and dementia from personal experience to light the way for others.

Our podcast introduces you to our authors who share their stories and insights to provide knowledge, comfort, and support. Please subscribe so you don’t miss a word. If our authors’ stories move you, please leave a review. And don’t forget to share our podcast with family and friends on their own dementia journeys.

We are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization totally reliant on donations to do what we do. Your generosity will help cover our many operating costs, which include website hosting and maintenance fees, service charges to keep things running smoothly, and marketing expenses to promote our authors, expand our content, improve our reach, and more. Our ongoing work supports our mission to lift the silence and stigma of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. To sustain our efforts please donate here.

Ideas and opinions expressed in this podcast belong to the speakers and not AlzAuthors. Always consult your healthcare provider and legal and financial consultants for advice on any of the topics covered here.

Thanks for listening.

We are a Whole Care Network Featured Podcast

Proud to be on The Health Podcast Network

Find us on The World Podcast Network and babyboomer.org

Want to be on the podcast? Here’s what you need to know

We’ve got merch! Shop our Store

Do you want to gain a deeper understanding of the impact of dementia on marriages? If you’re seeking practical guidance and emotional resilience in this area, discover solutions to help you navigate this challenging journey in this replay of an enlightening Books & Chit Chat discussion with Debra Tann, Ed.D.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Understand the ins and outs of dementia care to enhance your caregiving skills and provide better support.
• Gain insight into navigating the journey of dementia diagnosis to feel more empowered and informed.
• Explore the impact of dementia on marriages to build resilience and find ways to strengthen relationships.
• Implement effective care strategies for frontotemporal dementia, enhancing the quality of life for your loved one.
• Learn how to address racial disparities in dementia care to create a more inclusive and equitable support system.

Our special guest is Debra Tann, Ed.D, the CEO of Reminiscent, who brings a vibrant blend of experience to the field of dementia education. Her journey into this space began with a career in education and a keen eye for behavioral changes in her husband, ultimately leading to a diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia (FTD). As a certified dementia educator and author of “The Race of Dementia,” Debra’s expertise offers caregivers practical guidance and emotional resilience, drawing from her own lived experiences. Her compassionate approach and dedication to enhancing caregiving skills make her a valuable resource for those navigating the complexities of dementia care.

Books & Chit Chat is a partnership with Aging and Amazing to bring authors and readers together to share stories and discuss the multiple facets of dementia care.

After the Podcast

Purchase “The Race of Dementia”

Read Debra’s AlzAuthors blog post

Visit Debra’s website: Debra On Dementia

Learn more about the Moderators

Marianne Sciucco

Christy Byrne Yates

Learn more about Aging & Amazing

Sign up for the book club

About the Podcast

AlzAuthors is the global community of authors writing about Alzheimer’s and dementia from personal experience to light the way for others.

Our podcast introduces you to our authors who share their stories and insights to provide knowledge, comfort, and support. Please subscribe so you don’t miss a word. If our authors’ stories move you, please leave a review. And don’t forget to share our podcast with family and friends on their own dementia journeys.

We are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization totally reliant on donations to do what we do. Your generosity will help cover our many operating costs, which include website hosting and maintenance fees, service charges to keep things running smoothly, and marketing expenses to promote our authors, expand our content, improve our reach, and more. Our ongoing work supports our mission to lift the silence and stigma of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. To sustain our efforts please donate here.

Ideas and opinions expressed in this podcast belong to the speakers and not AlzAuthors. Always consult your healthcare provider and legal and financial consultants for advice on any of the topics covered here.

Thanks for listening.

We are a Whole Care Network Featured Podcast

Proud to be on The Health Podcast Network

Find us on The World Podcast Network and babyboomer.org

Want to be on the podcast? Here’s what you need to know

We’ve got merch! Shop our Store

David Bredbenner, author of "Going Home: A Journey with Dementia," shares his profound experience caring for his mother through her journey with dementia.

Before dementia, Betty Jane was a dynamo - a retired nurse turned successful artist who ran marathons well into her late 70s. The decline began subtly after a fall, but it was the passing of David's sister Terry that marked the stark transition into full-blown dementia 

One of David's most powerful lessons was learning to "throw logic right out the window." Traditional reasoning and reality-checking only led to frustration. Instead, he discovered the transformative power of meeting his mother where she was, using humor and creative redirection rather than confrontation.

Despite working in technology and traveling frequently, David and his sister made the conscious choice to keep their mother at home. While acknowledging it wasn't always possible for everyone, he describes it as both "pure hell" at times and "an absolute gift."

The journey taught him profound patience and the importance of focusing on emotional connection rather than factual accuracy. Even in the most challenging moments - like when his mother became combative or refused care - David found that humor and gentle persistence could break through where logic failed.

Perhaps most touching was David's reflection on love transcending understanding: "She knew she was loved...and she didn't have to know why." This simple but profound observation captures the essence of caring for someone with dementia - that connection and comfort matter more than comprehension.

In this episode, you will:

·      Discover effective strategies for caring for a parent with dementia.

·      Understand the emotional journey of being a dementia caregiver and how to navigate it.

·      Explore the impact of Alzheimer's on family dynamics and relationships.

·      Uncover the process of writing a book about personal dementia experiences.

·      Learn practical and valuable strategies for managing dementia symptoms.

After the Podcast

Read David's AlzAuthors blog post

Purchase “Going Home: A Journey with Dementia”

Learn about the World Walks Against Dementia

Learn about Norrms McNamara and Global Purple Angel

 Learn more about the Moderators

Marianne Sciucco

Christy Byrne Yates

Learn more about Aging & Amazing

Sign up for the book club 

About the Podcast

AlzAuthors is the global community of authors writing about Alzheimer’s and dementia from personal experience to light the way for others.

Our podcast introduces you to our authors who share their stories and insights to provide knowledge, comfort, and support. Please subscribe so you don’t miss a word. If our authors’ stories move you, please leave a review. And don’t forget to share our podcast with family and friends on their own dementia journeys.

We are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization totally reliant on donations to do what we do. Your generosity will help cover our many operating costs, which include website hosting and maintenance fees, service charges to keep things running smoothly, and marketing expenses to promote our authors, expand our content, improve our reach, and more. Our ongoing work supports our mission to lift the silence and stigma of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. To sustain our efforts please donate here.

Ideas and opinions expressed in this podcast belong to the speakers and not AlzAuthors. Always consult your healthcare provider and legal and financial consultants for advice on any of the topics covered here.

Thanks for listening.

We are a Whole Care Network Featured Podcast

Proud to be on The Health Podcast Network

Find us on The World Podcast Network and babyboomer.org

Want to be on the podcast? Here’s what you need to know

We’ve got merch! Shop our Store

Do you want to experience the healing power of family relationships and find hope and peace amidst the challenges of caregiving? In this episode we discuss a solution.

Our special guest is Susan Landeis, author of "In Search of Rainbows: A Daughter’s Story of Loss, Hope and Redemption." Susan is an inspiring voice in the Alzheimer's and dementia caregiving community. Her memoir delves into her journey of caring for her mother with Lewy Body Dementia, while navigating a lifelong, complex, and estranged relationship. Susan's candid storytelling and experiences offer invaluable insights into the challenges of caregiving and the transformative power of forgiveness and healing within family dynamics.

As a member of the AlzAuthors management team, Susan brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to her work, providing support and understanding to those facing similar struggles. Her personal journey and dedication to raising awareness of dementia caregiving make her a compelling and relatable guest for today's episode.

Estrangement within families can present additional challenges when taking on the role of caregiver. Navigating this complex dynamic requires open communication, patience, and a willingness to address underlying issues. Caregivers like Susan have found that caregiving can offer a pathway to reconciliation, understanding, and forgiveness, ultimately bridging the gap created by estrangement.

In this episode, you will:

·      Discover effective coping strategies for Lewy Body Dementia, bringing peace of mind to both you and your loved one.

·      Learn how caregiving can become a catalyst for healing family relationships, fostering understanding and connection.

·      Find ways to navigate the challenges of estrangement while providing loving care for your family member.

·      Explore the powerful process of writing a memoir on dementia caregiving, capturing and preserving precious memories.

·      Gain valuable insights into managing senior health and well-being, empowering you to provide the best care possible.

After the Podcast

Buy “In Search of Rainbows”

Read Susan’s AlzAuthors Post

Note: we are an Amazon Associate and may receive a small commission on book sales at no additional cost to you or the authors.

Learn more about the Moderators

Marianne Sciucco

Christy Byrne Yates

About the Podcast

AlzAuthors is the global community of authors writing about Alzheimer’s and dementia from personal experience to light the way for others.

Our podcast introduces you to our authors who share their stories and insights to provide knowledge, comfort, and support. Please subscribe so you don’t miss a word. If our authors’ stories move you, please leave a review. And don’t forget to share our podcast with family and friends on their own dementia journeys. 

We are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization totally reliant on donations to do what we do. Your generosity will help cover our many operating costs, which include website hosting and maintenance fees, service charges to keep things running smoothly, and marketing expenses to promote our authors, expand our content, improve our reach, and more. Our ongoing work supports our mission to lift the silence and stigma of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. To sustain our efforts please donate here.

Ideas and opinions expressed in this podcast belong to the speakers and not AlzAuthors. Always consult your healthcare provider and legal and financial consultants for advice on any of the topics covered here.

Thanks for listening. 

We are a Whole Care Network Featured Podcast

Proud to be on The Health Podcast Network

Find us on The World Podcast Network and babyboomer.org

Want to be on the podcast? Here’s what you need to know

We’ve got merch! Shop our Store

This episode is our contribution to Podcasthon, a global collaboration of podcasters to raise awareness of their favorite charities. Our favorite charity is us. We are a 501 (c) (3) organization. Please be generous. Donate at AlzAuthors.com.

In this deeply personal and informative episode, hosts Marianne and Christy are joined by panelists Jean Lee, Ann Campanella, Loretta Woodward Veney, and David Iverson, all caregivers for ten or more years, as they explore the five pillars of caregiving – emotional toll, physical strain, financial difficulties, social isolation, and coping strategies.

Key Themes & Takeaways:

Emotional Toll: Caregivers shared moving personal stories of grief, guilt, and anger while navigating their loved ones’ dementia journeys. There is strength in allowing yourself to grieve, as highlighted by Ann Campanella, who stated, “Grieving clears the way to bring in joy and beauty.”

Physical Strain: From exhaustion to disruption of sleep cycles, the taxing demands of caregiving impact physical health drastically. David emphasized practicing self-care through exercise and staying physically active as a necessary coping mechanism.

Financial Difficulties: A significant challenge highlighted was the cost of care, with inputs from Jean, Loretta, and Dave emphasizing the overwhelming need for better elder care policies. Loretta noted how caregivers should proactively explore local programs like Medicaid waiver lists early on for financial support.

Social Isolation: Many caregivers expressed feeling isolated, especially given the stigma surrounding dementia diagnoses. Loretta found joy in keeping her mother socially active, even organizing creative activities like Lego building to keep her mother engaged.

Strategies for Coping: Incorporating joy into daily routines was a recurring theme, especially for Loretta, who promised her mom “a little bit of joy every day.” The authors shared reminders to stay connected with loved ones and leverage support groups for affirming connections and shared experiences.

After the Podcast

Learn more about the panelists

Purchase their books

• Alzheimer’s Daughter
• Being My Mom’s Mom
• Motherhood: Lost and Found
• Winter Stars: An elderly mother, an aging son, and life's final journey 

Note: we are an Amazon Associate and may receive a small commission on book sales at no additional cost to you or the authors. 

Learn more about the Moderators

Marianne Sciucco

Christy Byrne Yates

About the Podcast

AlzAuthors is the global community of authors writing about Alzheimer’s and dementia from personal experience to light the way for others.

Our podcast introduces you to our authors who share their stories and insights to provide knowledge, comfort, and support. Please subscribe so you don’t miss a word. If our authors’ stories move you, please leave a review. And don’t forget to share our podcast with family and friends on their own dementia journeys.

We are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization totally reliant on donations to do what we do. Your generosity will help cover our many operating costs, which include website hosting and maintenance fees, service charges to keep things running smoothly, and marketing expenses to promote our authors, expand our content, improve our reach, and more. Our ongoing work supports our mission to lift the silence and stigma of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. To sustain our efforts please donate here.

Ideas and opinions expressed in this podcast belong to the speakers and not AlzAuthors. Always consult your healthcare provider and legal and financial consultants for advice on any of the topics covered here.

Thanks for listening.

We are a Whole Care Network Featured Podcast

Proud to be on The Health Podcast Network

Find us on The World Podcast Network and babyboomer.org

Want to be on the podcast? Here’s what you need to know

We’ve got merch! Shop our Store

Have you been told to walk away from loved ones with Alzheimer's, assuming there's nothing left to connect with? The pain of feeling disconnected and hopeless in caregiving is all too real. But what if there was a way to find joy and connection in the midst of it all? Let's uncover the power of creativity and joy in dementia care together.

In this episode, Marilyn Raichle, author of "Don't Walk Away: A Care Partner's Journey," provides valuable insights on the power of art therapy for Alzheimer's patients. Her personal experience caring for her mother showed her that her mother was still "in there," and they built the loving relationship theyb were unable to create in the past.

Quote: People living with dementia have lives to live and gifts to give.

Watch on YouTube

Key lessons

Art Reveals Hidden Abilities Discovering her mother's artistic talents showed that people with dementia still have gifts to share.

Focus on What's Present Instead of dwelling on what's lost, concentrate on discovering and appreciating what remains in the person.

Take Time to Just Be Spending quality time together, even just five minutes doing something enjoyable, can build meaningful connections.

Listen More Than Talk Ask questions and truly listen to their answers, even if repeated, as they may reveal what's important to them.

Find Joy in Small Moments Sharing laughter, songs, walks and simple pleasures can create happiness for both caregiver and care recipient.

Accept Their Reality Meet them where they are rather than trying to correct or change their perspective.

Love Can Still Grow Despite memory loss, the capacity for giving and receiving love remains intact.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Participate in the Expose Dementia Conference, The Art of the Matter, happening March 28th to 30th at the Maritime Conference Center in Linthicum, Maryland. Learn more about the intersection of art and dementia care.

Tune in to Podcasthon starting on March 15th and listen to the AlzAuthors episode featuring a discussion on the long-term impact of caregiving.

After the Podcast

Purchase Don’t Walk Away

Learn more about the Moderators

• Marianne Sciucco
• Christy Byrne Yates

Learn more about Aging & Amazing

Sign up for the book club

About the Podcast

AlzAuthors is the global community of authors writing about Alzheimer’s and dementia from personal experience to light the way for others.

Our podcast introduces you to our authors who share their stories and insights to provide knowledge, comfort, and support. Please subscribe so you don’t miss a word. If our authors’ stories move you, please leave a review. And don’t forget to share our podcast with family and friends on their own dementia journeys.

We are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization totally reliant on donations to do what we do. Your generosity will help cover our many operating costs, which include website hosting and maintenance fees, service charges to keep things running smoothly, and marketing expenses to promote our authors, expand our content, improve our reach, and more. Our ongoing work supports our mission to lift the silence and stigma of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. To sustain our efforts please donate here. 

Ideas and opinions expressed in this podcast belong to the speakers and not AlzAuthors. Always consult your healthcare provider and legal and financial consultants for advice on any of the topics covered here.

Thanks for listening.

We are a Whole Care Network Featured Podcast

Proud to be on The Health Podcast Network

Find us on The World Podcast Network and babyboomer.org

Want to be on the podcast? Here’s what you need to know

We’ve got merch! Shop our Store

Connection is key in dementia care. Discover the transformative power of arts engagement for people living with dementia in this inspiring conversation with Mary Crescenzo, author of “The Planet Alzheimer’s Guide: 8 Ways the Arts Can Transform the Life of Your Loved One and Your Own.”

In this heartfelt episode, a replay of an Aging & Amazing Books & Chit Chat discussion, Mary shares her decades of experience using various art forms to connect with and enrich the lives of people living with cognitive decline. From her early days as an art teacher to becoming a pioneering voice in arts engagement for dementia care, Mary offers practical, accessible ways to bring creativity into caregiving.

You’ll learn:

• Simple ways to incorporate music, visual arts, movement, and storytelling into daily care
• How creative expression can bridge communication gaps
• The importance of intergenerational engagement through art
• Self-care strategies for caregivers through creative writing
• Ways to implement arts activities in both home and facility settings

Mary’s Key Messages for Caregivers:

• Everyone has innate creative abilities
• Art activities don’t require expensive materials or special training
• Focus on the present moment rather than past relationships
• Celebrate and display creative works
• Don’t give up if first attempts aren’t successful

Quote: “Art brings joy into the darkness of this disease.” - Mary Crescenzo

After the Podcast

Download Mary's Tip Sheet: 7 Tips for Connection and Communication through the Arts

Get the book: The Planet Alzheimer's Guide by Mary Crescenzo

Note: We are an Amazon Associate and may receive a small commission on book sales at no cost to you or the author.

Read her AlzAuthors Blog

Catch the Dementia & the Arts Podcast Episode

Follow Mary

Listen to her co-hosted show: Dementia and the Arts on Alzheimer's Speaks

Resources mentioned:

• Mary's Caregiver Tip Sheet: “8 Ways to Use Arts for Engagement”
• Learn more about Mary’s play "Planet A" and the inner world of Alzheimer’s:

Remember: You don’t need to be an artist to engage in creative activities with your loved one. As Mary says, creativity is an innate human ability that can bring connection and joy to the dementia journey.

About the Podcast

AlzAuthors is the global community of authors writing about Alzheimer’s and dementia from personal experience to light the way for others.

Our podcast introduces you to our authors who share their stories and insights to provide knowledge, comfort, and support. Please subscribe so you don’t miss a word.

If our authors’ stories move you, please leave a review.

And don’t forget to share our podcast with family and friends on their own dementia journeys.

Meet the Moderators

Marianne Sciucco

Christy Byrne Yates

Support AlzAuthors

We are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization totally reliant on donations to do what we do. Your generosity will help cover our many operating costs, which include website hosting and maintenance fees, service charges to keep things running smoothly, and marketing expenses to promote our authors, expand our content, improve our reach, and more. Our ongoing work supports our mission to lift the silence and stigma of Alzheimer’s and other dementias.To sustain our efforts please donate here

Ideas and opinions expressed in this podcast belong to the speakers and not AlzAuthors. Always consult your healthcare provider and legal and financial consultants for advice on any of the topics covered here.

Thanks for listening.

We are a Whole Care Network Featured Podcast

Proud to be on The Health Podcast Network

Find us on The World Podcast Network and babyboomer.org

Want to be on the podcast? Here’s what you need to know

We’ve got merch! Shop our Store

Have you ever considered creating a “contract” with yourself as a caregiver—one that clearly defines what you can and cannot do? Debra Hallisey, caregiver advocate and author of A Relationship Contract for Dementia Caregivers, joins us to share her insights on navigating caregiving dynamics, especially for those caring for a loved one with dementia.

In this heartfelt conversation, Debra offers practical tools and exercises to help caregivers embrace the reality of dementia while maintaining their emotional well-being. From her caregiving journey to her work supporting families, Debra provides a profoundly compassionate perspective on the challenges and rewards of creating a safe and loving environment for individuals with dementia.

Whether you’re a caregiver or supporting someone who is, this episode is a valuable resource filled with actionable strategies and powerful insights to help you navigate the complexities of dementia care. Don’t miss it!

In addition to learning more about relationship contracts, you’ll learn:

• The importance of NOT keeping dementia diagnoses secret
• Managing grief throughout the caregiving journey
• Transitioning from home care to assisted living
• Cultural perspectives on caregiving

Debra also offers the following advice for caregivers:

• Remember your person is “still in there” despite changes
• Set clear boundaries using “I” statements
• Be specific when asking others for help
• Give yourself grace throughout the journey

Quote: “Grief runs through caregiving like a river” - Debra Hallisey

After the Podcast:

Read Debra's AlzAuthors blog post

Buy the book, A Relationship Contract for Dementia Caregivers, by Debra Hallisey, Note: We are an Amazon Associate and may receive a small commission from book sales.

Follow Debra

Website

Facebook

LinkedIn

Twitter

Resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Documentary: Wine, Women and Dementia by Kitty Norton
• Goodwin Living (Virginia) - Model program for caregiver education and support

About the Podcast

AlzAuthors is the global community of authors writing about Alzheimer’s and dementia from personal experience to light the way for others.

Our podcast introduces you to our authors who share their stories and insights to provide knowledge, comfort, and support. Please subscribe so you don’t miss a word. If our authors’ stories move you, please leave a review. And don’t forget to share our podcast with family and friends on their own dementia journeys.

We are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization totally reliant on donations to do what we do. Your generosity will help cover our many operating costs, which include website hosting and maintenance fees, service charges to keep things running smoothly, and marketing expenses to promote our authors, expand our content, improve our reach, and more. Our ongoing work supports our mission to lift the silence and stigma of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. To sustain our efforts please donate here.

Ideas and opinions expressed in this podcast belong to the speakers and not AlzAuthors. Always consult your healthcare provider and legal and financial consultants for advice on any of the topics covered here.

Thanks for listening.

We are a Whole Care Network Featured Podcast

Proud to be on The Health Podcast Network

Find us on The World Podcast Network and babyboomer.org

Want to be on the podcast? Here’s what you need to know

We’ve got merch! Shop our Store

We’re excited to share a powerful new episode: "Dual Diagnosis: When Both Parents Have Dementia at the Same Time,” a replay of a live panel discussion held on November 19, 2024.

Host Marianne Sciucco guides us through a powerful conversation with guests Vicki Tapia, Frank Silverstein, and Jean Lee, along with podcast co-host Christy Byrne Yates.

Highlights:

Vicki Tapia recounts her deeply personal experience of navigating her parents' aging and dementia, which included her father’s Parkinson’s Disease and her mother’s Alzheimer’s. She delves into the challenging decisions regarding her mother’s resistance to accepting help, overseeing their care without the help of her only sibling, and her parent’s eventual move to assisted living. She’s the author of Somebody Stole My Iron: A Family Memoir of Dementia.

Filmmaker Frank Silverstein shares the profound narrative of documenting his parents' dementia journey, initially through cell phone recordings, which eventually transformed into a powerful film project, Lousy: Love in the Time of Dementia. He opens up about the emotional challenges, capturing moments of humor amidst the pain, and the ethical considerations involved in their care.

Jean Lee, author of the memoir Alzheimer’s Daughter, discusses the guilt and emotional turmoil of turning her private family journey into a published book. She shares how writing became a transformative healing process, which has also brought hope and understanding to many others facing similar challenges.

Christy Byrne Yates, author of Building a Legacy of Love: Thriving in the Sandwich Generation, provides insightful tips on managing family dynamics and maintaining communication as the primary caregiver. Drawing from her personal experience and professional knowledge, she emphasizes the importance of creating memories and the lasting impact caregiving has on younger generations.

In this episode, you will:

• Discover effective strategies for caring for parents with dementia that enhance their quality of life.
• Learn how to foster better communication and cooperation among siblings in the challenging role of caregiving for a parent with dementia.
• Explore the importance of documenting the dementia journey and learn how to create a meaningful record of your caregiving experience.

Buy the books:

Somebody Stole My Iron

Alzheimer’s Daughter

Building a Legacy of Love: Thriving in the Sandwich Generation

Note: We are an Amazon Associate and may receive a small commission from book sales.

Watch Lousy: Love in the Time of Dementia

About the Podcast

We are the global community of authors writing about Alzheimer’s and dementia from personal experience to light the way for others.

Our podcast introduces you to our authors who share their stories and insights to provide knowledge, comfort, and support. Please subscribe so you don’t miss a word. If our authors’ stories move you, please leave a review. And don’t forget to share our podcast with family and friends on their own dementia journeys.

We are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization totally reliant on donations to do what we do. Your generosity will help cover our many operating costs, which include website hosting and maintenance fees, service charges to keep things running smoothly, and marketing expenses to promote our authors, expand our content, improve our reach, and more. Our ongoing work supports our mission to lift the silence and stigma of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. To sustain our efforts please donate here.

Ideas and opinions expressed in this podcast belong to the speakers and not AlzAuthors. Always consult your healthcare provider and legal and financial consultants for advice on any of the topics covered here.

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