Every day, we hear reports about seniors being scammed out of billions of dollars through their phones and computers. With the rapid pace of technological change, it's challenging for anyone to keep up, especially for a loved one experiencing dementia. In this episode, we discuss strategies to manage technology in a way that keeps your loved one connected while safeguarding them from potential scammers.

References:

https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2022/10/10/parent-senior-phone/

https://alzfdn.org/identity-theft-alzheimers-steps-caregivers-take-protect-loved-ones/

https://ovc.ojp.gov/program/elder-fraud-abuse/national-elder-fraud-hotline#:~:text=If%20you%20or%20someone%20you,%2C%20Spanish%2C%20and%20other%20languages.

https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/scams-and-safety/common-frauds-and-scams/elder-fraud

We are all aware of the advantages that our social connections provide. Our relationships and social engagements contribute significantly to our health and happiness. However, when a loved one is diagnosed with dementia, navigating social situations can become challenging. This creates a genuine risk of isolation and depression. In this episode, we delve into the gradual changes your loved one may undergo and discuss how to adjust expectations and activities to effectively maintain these vital social connections.

Resources:

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/symptoms-and-diagnosis/symptoms/behaviour-changes

https://www.dementiacarecentral.com/caregiverinfo/handsoncare/socialization

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/news/newsroom/news-releases/2023/01/new-studies-suggest-social-isolation-is-a-risk-factor-for-dementia-in-older-adults-point-to-ways-to-reduce-risk

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.

Aside from cancer, Alzheimer’s Disease is often regarded as one of the greatest fears for many individuals. In fact, when people begin to experience memory lapses, they often jump to the conclusion that it might be Alzheimer’s. However, the disease encompasses much more than just memory problems. In this episode, we aim to replace fear with facts and offer steps you can take now to clear up any misconceptions.

Our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559433999543

Resources:

Early Signs of Alzheimer's:

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/10_signs

Stages of Alzheimer's:

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/stages

Assessments for Alzheimer's:

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/diagnosis/medical_tests

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 holidays carry various meanings and traditions for different individuals. But, for those affected by dementia, these moments can be particularly difficult. In this episode, we explore strategies to help you prepare for and celebrate the holidays in a manner that aligns with your loved one’s comfort and promotes your peace of mind.

Our Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559433999543

Resources:

https://www.agingcare.com/articles/dementia-and-the-ten-days-of-christmas-190134.htm

https://rss.com/podcasts/a-balancing-act/1763767/.

After a dementia diagnosis, families often experience a range of complex emotions while also facing the significant challenge of adjusting to the changing needs of their loved one. In this episode we talk about the importance of learning about their dementia, managing their environment and safety, navigating legal and financial matters, prioritizing self-care and seeking support networks to cope with the emotional impact of the diagnosis and progressing symptoms.

Our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559433999543

Resources:

https://www.beechfieldhealthcare.ie/blog/post/occupational-therapist-home-assessment

https://www.nia.nih.gov/sites/default/files/2023-04/worksheet-home-safety-checklist_1.pdf

https://www.socialworktoday.com/archive/111516p14.shtml

https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/financial-legal-planning/planning-ahead-for-legal-matters

https://www.alzheimers.gov/life-with-dementia/planning-after-diagnosis#health-care-planning

https://www.aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/after-dementia-diagnosis

As you come together with family in the days ahead, it’s important to recognize that situations can become overwhelming for someone experiencing memory loss. In this episode, we discuss methods to alleviate stress for everyone involved, as well as strategies to maintain calmness and connection with your loved one.

Our Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559433999543

Resources:

https://nhdementiatraining.org/2021/12/20/tips-for-spending-holidays-with-those-with-dementia/

https://alzheimer.ca/en/help-support/i-have-friend-or-family-member-who-lives-dementia/holidays-special-occasions

Recognizing what to avoid can be an essential skill when communicating with a loved one experiencing dementia. In this episode, Kelly explores typical pitfalls and suggest alternatives to foster harmony and strengthen the bond between you and your loved one.

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

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

Please consider donating to support A BALANCING ACT!

https://buymeacoffee.com/navigatingmemoryloss

Some Great Resources:

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/blog/language-dementia-what-not-to-say

https://www.alzsd.org/dos-and-donts-of-compassionate-communication-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.

Sometimes it can be a real struggle to get a loved one with memory loss to wear their hearing aids and glasses. But there are real risks associated with not wearing them. In this episode, Kelly talks about the relationship between hearing aids, glasses and dementia, as well as ways to ease the struggle between you and your loved one to use them.

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

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

Please consider donating to support A BALANCING ACT!

https://buymeacoffee.com/navigatingmemoryloss

Resources

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559433999543

https://www.healthyhearing.com/report/53361-Hearing-and-vision-loss-dementia-cognitive-decline-studies-older-adults-sensory-impairment

https://www.dementiauk.org/information-and-support/health-advice/dementia-and-difficulty-with-sounds/

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.

As your loved one's dementia advances, they may find it increasingly difficult to keep track of appointments, events, or even the current date and time. This is when you might notice your phone ringing more and more often. In this episode, we explore the reasons behind their confusion. And we’ll share effective tools and communication strategies to help you make this challenging situation a little easier for you both.

Check us out on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559433999543

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.

Family members may frequently find themselves locking horns with a loved one affected by dementia. 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.