Caregiver Relief Podcast

As an RN, I’ve watched too many of doctors prescribe antidepressant medications every time a patient starts to cry. We have become a culture that finds this practice as acceptable. I don’t mean to diminish the pain and symptoms of depression someone might experience. In fact, I suffer from symptoms of depression.

It's important to say, tears are healthy. Sadness doesn’t always need treatment. It's critical to understand that pleasure and pain come from the same source. So if you keep yourself closed off one, you won’t feel the other.

Hey, depressive symptoms can affect your family life and contribute to physical illnesses. If you’re someone who suffers depressive disorders, my heart goes out to you. I understand your struggles. I suffer from treatment resistant depression.

That means I have tired lots of prescribed medications and over time, they stopped working for me. That meant either an increase in dosage of the antidepressant medicines or an addition of another medication to enhance the antidepressant medicines i was taking.

Natural treatments for depression are important to a healthy lifestyle. I have suffered from depression since I was a young woman. My mother died when I was 18. After her death, grief, sadness and depression became an ongoing struggle. I also suffer from seasonal affective disorder. When the days become shorter and sun light is less, my depression like symptoms return.

My depression does not prevent me from functioning in the real world. Trust me, I have my really down days. Days I want to stay in bed and hide under the covers. My mother died between Thanksgiving and New Years. She has been gone 50 years now. Yet, every single year, when the holidays approach, the signs of depression reemerge. Recently, the diagnostic and statistical manual also called the DSM- 5 has included grief as a depressive disorder if symptoms go beyond two weeks. Let me explain the DSM 5.

Bathing can be a challenging and potentially hazardous task for seniors and the elderly, but American Standard's Walk-In Tubs offer a thoughtful and practical solution to this everyday concern. In this review, we'll explore the key features and benefits of American Standard Walk-In Tubs, which have become a popular choice among seniors and their caregivers looking for a safe and comfortable bathing experience.Hydrotherapy and RelaxationAmerican Standard Walk-In Tubs offer more than just safety; they also provide a luxurious and therapeutic bathing experience. Many models come equipped with hydrotherapy jets that can soothe sore muscles and alleviate joint pain. The warm, circulating water can promote relaxation and improve circulation, making it an ideal choice for seniors dealing with arthritis, muscle stiffness, or other age-related ailments.

Easy Access ControlsThe user-friendly controls of American Standard Walk-In Tubs are designed with seniors in mind. Large, easy-to-read buttons and a handheld shower wand make adjusting the water temperature and flow a breeze. Seniors can enjoy a personalized and comfortable bathing experience without the hassle of complicated controls.

American Standard Walk-In Tubs are a valuable addition to the lives of seniors and the elderly, offering safety, relaxation, and independence in the bathroom. These thoughtfully designed tubs make bathing a more enjoyable experience, while also reducing the risk of accidents. If you or a loved one is looking for a bathing solution that prioritizes safety and comfort, American Standard Walk-In Tubs are definitely worth considering. Invest in the well-being and peace of mind of your senior loved ones today.

Discover the Key to Pelvic and Abdominal Health

Are you experiencing pelvic pain, sexual dysfunction or urinary or fecal incontinence? You're not alone. Countless Americans of all ages are dealing with these issues.

Luckily, there's a solution: pelvic and abdominal physical therapy. This specialized type of therapy targets a wide range of conditions, from urinary incontinence to fecal incontinence and post prostate surgery recovery.

By targeting restrictions, improving strength, and providing education on body mechanics, our treatments can help you regain control over your pelvic floor and surrounding structures.

Curious about what Pelvic health Physical Therapists do?

Well, they specialize in addressing a wide range of pelvic and abdominal health conditions. From chronic pelvic pain to bladder and bowel problems, sexual dysfunction, and postpartum recovery, these therapists have got you covered. They can help with interstitial cystitis, levator ani syndrome, pregnancy and childbirth, and even chronic disorders. Some common symptoms they treat include urinary leakage, bowel issues, pelvic pain, pelvic organ prolapse, and sexual dysfunction.

During your session, your physical therapist will assess your trunk and pelvis, including the pelvic floor muscles. Then, together, you'll set goals and develop a customized treatment plan. This may include making lifestyle changes, pelvic floor muscle exercises, dry needling, myofascial release, acoustic compression therapy, scar tissue remodeling, core strengthening, biofeedback, electrical stimulation, and even low-level laser therapy. Plus, you'll receive a home exercise program to continue your progress.

Today we are gonna address what are the stages of dementia, the memory, and ability to think. And do routine things declines when you have a diagnosis of dementia. It does not happen all at once. And there's a progression of dementia that can be divided into seven distinct stages.

And then we have these stages. The first three are considered the early parts of dementia. The next three stages are four, five and six are the middle stages of dementia. And then we have the final stage. Level seven. Stage seven, which is the end stage of dementia. So what, why do you need to learn about these stages?

The Importance of Identifying the Signs and Symptoms of Dementia

It's really important to identify the signs and symptoms early on so that you can assist those suffering with dementia and knowing what to, not only what to expect, but treatments that, or options that you may have opened to you. The earlier dementia is diagnosed. Sooner treatment can begin. So treatment can actually delay the progression of the disease.
Symptoms of thinking and memory problems, changes in abilities are the stages of dementia. These symptoms generally follow a pattern that present progressively symptoms over. There are times the progression of the disease is rapid and obvious. Those individuals may go from a mild short term memory loss to experiencing vivid auditory and vis visual hallucinations.
Sometimes it feels like it's happening overnight.

Diane Carbo is joined by Alicia Huard to discuss the emotional and practical challenges caregivers face when their caregiving journey ends. Alicia shares her personal story of caregiving, which began in 2007 when her mother suffered a major heart attack. Over the years, Alicia cared for her mother, mother-in-law, and father, all while raising her own children. Her caregiving experiences eventually led her to become a death doula.

Alicia details the hardships she faced, including the financial strain of unpaid caregiving, lack of healthcare benefits, and the emotional toll of caring for loved ones at the end of their lives. After her father’s Alzheimer’s worsened, Alicia made the difficult decision to place him in long-term care. This led to feelings of guilt, a common experience for many caregivers. Alicia’s role shifted from hands-on caregiving to being her father’s advocate, where she now deals with issues such as missing belongings and inadequate care at the facility.

Alicia also shared the aftermath of caregiving, including her personal struggles to re-enter the workforce. After sustaining a concussion in a car accident, she has been left unable to drive and has faced difficulties securing employment, despite positive feedback from interviews. Diane and Alicia also discussed the systemic issues faced by caregivers, such as a lack of financial support, affordable respite care, and the long-term emotional impact of caregiving.

The episode highlights the often-overlooked challenges caregivers face once their caregiving responsibilities end, such as financial instability, feelings of isolation, and the struggle to rebuild their lives.

There are physical and medical issues of providing care. There is significant emotional and psychological issues that impact the caregivers themselves.

Caregivers often experience a variety of complex emotions during their caregiving journey. The family caregiver is expected to adjust to changes that are expected of them, as they provide that care.

The most common emotion that caregivers report is guilt. Most report feelings of frustration, anxiety and constantly asking themselves, Now what do I need to do? And how can I keep doing what I am doing? The answer to these questions often elude the caregiver as they continue on their caregiving journey.

Being able to set boundaries is essential for every family caregivers mental and emotional health.

Learning how to set boundaries with a narcissist parent is even more important. And more of a challenge because, the narcissist has no regard for personal boundaries or limits.

The Merriam Webster Dictionary defines a caregiver a person who provides direct care for children, elderly people, or the chronically ill.

Caregiver is a general term. To me it means anyone that supports someone that needs some extra help. This could be a family caregiver, a home health aide, A respite caregiver, a travel companion, a companion or a sitter. You see, in todays world there are many that need help of some kind. And many that are stepping up to the plate and providing that support. And that support come in many shapes, sizes and forms.

Did you know that there are more than 65 million Americans, provide care for a chronically ill, disabled, or senior family member or friend during any given year. These caregivers spend an average of 20 hours per week providing support for their family member or family member by choice, in a variety of different ways.

Yet, so many do not identify as a caregiver. So, I want to talk about the different types of caregivers.

Welcome to our deep dive into the groundbreaking book "Dementia Prevention: Using Your Head To Save Your Brain" by Dr. Mitchell Clionsky and Dr. Emily Clionsky. This podcast explores their innovative approach to reducing the risk of dementia through practical, science-backed strategies.

Attention seniors and those who care for them! Did you know that by 2030, there will be a shortage of 1 million paid care workers in the US? Our present public health crisis already puts the burden of caring for older adults and disabled children on family members and friends. Family caregivers provide over $600 billion dollars of unpaid care. These family members are providing this care at the cost of their own mental and physical health.

Let's talk about what is happening in the Knollwood Military Retirement community.

Join the karaoke fun at the Knollwood Military Retirement Community in northwest Washington, D.C.! Retired U.S. Army Colonel Phil Soriano, 86, has hosted the singalongs since they started during a snowstorm happy hour in 2016. Stevie, a sociable robot resident at Knollwood, will co-emcee the upcoming show with Soriano. Soriano plans to sing "YMCA" while Stevie leads the dance moves, but it's not easy as Stevie doesn't have elbows. However, Soriano is more concerned with Stevie's comfort level, and the engineers are doing their best to make it a success. Don't miss the excitement and singing at Knollwood!

Stevie, a social robot, is teaming up with the Robotics and Innovation Lab at Trinity College Dublin and the non-profit retirement home Knollwood to explore the future of eldercare with artificial intelligence. Alongside a group of Trinity researchers, Stevie will spend several months at Knollwood to better understand how AI can be developed to aid both elderly individuals and their human caretakers. Their goal is to find ways to address the growing demand for care as more Americans age, and discover how robots can fill the gap in professional care.

At Knollwood, a retirement community, over 300 senior citizens ranging in age from 60 to 106 live in four different areas according to the level of care they require. Those older adults with greater physical or cognitive needs have 24-hour elder care nursing care in a hospital-style setting. Those in better health live in “Independent Living” apartments and enjoy the freedom to come and go as they please.

The Independent Living wing may remind you of a college dorm with decorated doors and bulletin boards filled with events. The residents have different levels of mobility but you might see walkers, coifs, or even décor reminiscent of the late Barbara Bush. One apartment door reads “Stevie”.

Imagine a world where caregiver robots assist human caregivers in providing personalized care for older adults, disabled individuals, and even children. The future is not far off, and it promises to revolutionize the way we approach caregiving. In today's world we are experiencing a human labor shortage. In our country, we presently have more older people than youth. The decreased birth rates and advanced technology in health care and medical science has us living longer, but not always healthier.As we face a direct care workers shortage, family members are faced with providing care to their family members. The family caregiver is providing quality and personalized caregiver in the home, spending time with their loved ones as a companion and taking care of making sure their loved one takes their medicine and helps with daily activities. They provide social interaction that is so desperately needed . So many older people suffer from loneliness. Many family caregivers do not realize that the expected caregiving journey, on average , is 6 to 8 years. Some family members are providing care for as long as 20 years.

Let's explore the rise of caregiver robots, discuss their potential benefits and challenges, and examine strategies for effective robot-assisted caregiving. Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of automated caregiving, where technology and human touch work together to create better care for all. Will the development of robots make caregiving easier or more challenging? Will researchers find robot malfunctions give human caregivers more work? Let's explore. Over the next year, I am going to introduce you to the latest and greatest technology that science has to offer and we will monitor and discuss what researchers are discovering about the development and acceptance by society of caregiver robots.

Short SummaryRobot caregiving is rapidly changing the future of providing quality care to elderly and our loved one with dementia. This technology is becoming increasingly popular due to a need for additional caregivers, as we face staff shortages of nurses and direct care workers.

• The risk and potential challenges allowing robots to to provide care to loved ones is the loss of empathy and human connection and increased feelings of social isolation To the point, we must address when introducing robot caregivers into the eldercare system, such as in nursing homes and assisted living, or even in the daily lives of older people in their homes. We want to maximize benefits & minimize risks over the use of human caregivers.
• Responsible integration requires striking a balance between technology & human touch through collaborative models while considering ethical guidelines & promoting cultural sensitivity.