Dementia & Families: A Balancing Act

Caregiving is rewarding, but it can also feel overwhelming—like you’re carrying the weight of a thousand little tasks. In this episode, Kelly explores the best tech tools designed to lighten the caregiver’s load. From medication reminder apps and “Find My” trackers to simple video calling platforms and automatic shut-offs for home safety, these smart solutions are changing the way families care for their loved ones. And get some more time in for themselves.

FACEBOOK PAGE: Please leave your questions for Kelly!

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

RESOURCES:

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/living-with-dementia/how-technology-can-help

https://www.aarp.org/personal-technology/dementia-caregiver-technology//

Caregiving Tech & Support Resources

Caregiving Apps & Tools

• Medisafe – Medication reminder app that syncs with caregivers.

• CareZone – Centralized place for meds, calendars, and health notes.

• Lotsa Helping Hands – Shared calendars and task management for families.

• Symple or CareClinic – Symptom tracking and health journaling apps.

“Find My” & Tracking Gadgets

• Apple AirTags – Small Bluetooth trackers for keys, wallets, or bags.

• Tile Trackers – Simple tags with phone alerts and community locating.

Entertainment & Connection

• GrandPad – Simplified tablet for video calls, email, and photos (senior-friendly).

• ViewClix Digital Frames – Upload photos remotely; loved ones see them instantly.

• Simple Streaming Remotes – Universal remotes with large buttons and pre-set channels (e.g.,

Flipper Remote).

Safety & Monitoring

• Alexa Together (Amazon) – Fall detection, daily activity check-ins, and alerts for caregivers.

• AngelSense or Medical Guardian – GPS + emergency wearables with caregiver alerts.

• Smart Plugs (Kasa, Wemo) – Automatic shut-off for coffee makers, TVs, or lamps.

• FireAvert – Stove shut-off device designed for kitchen safety.

Caregiver Support & Community

• Family Caregiver Alliance (caregiver.org) – Education, resources, and support groups.

• AARP Caregiving Resources – Guides, toolkits, and caregiver stories.

• The Caregiver Action Network (caregiveraction.org) – Peer support and resources.

• Alzheimer’s Association Support Groups – Both online and local chapter connections.

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 provides essential guidance for families visiting loved ones in memory care communities. Kelly addresses common challenges families face, such as improving the quality of visits and setting realistic expectations. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the stages of dementia and aligning visits with the routine and preferences of the loved one. Practical advice includes planning visits around constructive activities, bringing items of interest, managing sensory overload, and maintaining effective communication.

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

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

RESOURCES:

https://alzheimer.ca/en/help-support/i-have-friend-or-family-member-who-lives-dementia/making-meaningful-visits

https://training.mmlearn.org/blog/dementia-and-family-visits-tips-for-peaceful-connection

Video: The Do's and Don'ts of Visiting A Loved One In Memory Care:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P_CzKR4mCbE

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 talks about how normal it is to expect occasional forgetfulness as we age and clarifies that it's not the same as 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 the many ways 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.

FACEBOOK PAGE: Please message questions for Kelly, or to set up a chat!

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

Please consider donating to support A BALANCING ACT!

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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/

Teepa Snow:

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

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 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!

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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.

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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 early dementia 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.