Caregiving, especially for those with dementia, presents unique financial challenges. This episode explores the intersection of financial planning and wellbeing for caregivers, addressing the often-unforeseen costs associated with providing care. We discuss proactive financial measures to take before caregiving becomes necessary, including legal considerations and long-term care planning. The conversation also delves into strategies for caregivers already facing financial strain. We cover practical tips for budgeting, accessing available resources, and navigating the complexities of financial assistance programs. Join us for a crucial discussion on protecting both your loved one's future and your own financial wellbeing while caregiving.

Our Guest: Danielle Muira

 I am the owner of Spark Financials. I grew up as an only-child in a middle-class family. My parents strived for financial stability, working hard and long hours. After our daughter was born, I had a strike of urgency to plan for my family’s future. After reviewing my parent's retirement documents, I found that their retirement funds had almost no growth during one of the best decades in the stock market.

I started to read finance books, took seven CFP® educational courses, and passed two of the most difficult tests in the financial industry. Now, I have become one of the most prominent financial advisors in the industry. 

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Related Episodes:

Money & Financial Warnings Signs for Elderly

What Every Trustee & Beneficiary Needs to Know

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I've been focusing a lot on taking care of my brain health, & I've found this supplement called RELEVATE to be incredibly helpful. It provides me with 17 nutrients that support brain function & help keep me sharp. Since you're someone I care about, I wanted to share this discovery with you. You can order it with my code: FM15 & get 15% OFF your order.

With Relevate nutritional supplement, you get science-backed nutrition to help protect your brain power today and for years to come. You deserve a brain span that lasts as long as your lifespan.

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Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) affects an estimated 50,000 to 60,000 people in the United States, robbing individuals of their personality, language, and ultimately, their memories. This devastating disease presents unique challenges, often impacting behavior and emotions long before memory loss becomes apparent. In this episode, we explore the complexities of love and loss through the lens of FTD.

Katie, shares her love and loss story as a caregiver for her mother, who battled FTD. Katie, now a filmmaker, has captured her mom's journey in a poignant film that delves into the love and loss woven through the different stages of life, from middle age to the twilight years.

With raw honesty, Katie confronts the messy and complicated emotions that accompany the long road of grief and caregiving. Join us as we discuss the unique challenges of FTD, the power of storytelling, and the enduring bonds of love that persist even in the face of devastating loss.

Learn More About Katie & Wake Up Maggie Here

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Related Episodes:

Dance and Memories: Dementia Engagement

Music in Dementia Care Stress Relief to Moments of Joy

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Feeling overwhelmed? HelpTexts can be your pocket therapist.

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Sign up for a year of support and get:

HelpTexts makes getting help easy and convenient.

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Relevate from NeuroReserve

I've been focusing a lot on taking care of my brain health, & I've found this supplement called RELEVATE to be incredibly helpful. It provides me with 17 nutrients that support brain function & help keep me sharp. Since you're someone I care about, I wanted to share this discovery with you. You can order it with my code: FM15 & get 15% OFF your order.

With Relevate nutritional supplement, you get science-backed nutrition to help protect your brain power today and for years to come. You deserve a brain span that lasts as long as your lifespan.

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If you've enjoyed this episode, please share this podcast with other caregivers! You'll find us on social media at the following links.

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Engaging individuals with dementia in meaningful, nostalgic activities is crucial for their well-being. Stimulation helps maintain cognitive function, reduces agitation, and fosters a sense of purpose and accomplishment. However, finding activities that are both enjoyable and manageable for those with dementia can be challenging.

One effective approach is to tap into the power of music and memories. Think about those classic songs from their youth – the ones they know by heart and still sing along to. Nostalgic music can evoke powerful emotional responses, stimulate memories, and even encourage social interaction. Imagine pairing those familiar tunes with simple, engaging activities that spark their interest and provide a sense of accomplishment.

This episode explores a unique approach to dementia care that combines the joy of music with the gentle challenge of puzzles, offering a valuable tool for caregivers and loved ones.

Jill Donohue is a devoted daughter and caregiver who has witnessed the challenges and joys of living with dementia for over 20 years. As her mother's memory faded, Nicole discovered the importance of keeping her engaged and mentally stimulated. Inspired by her mother's love for nostalgic music, Nicole created a unique book designed to bring joy and purpose to those living with dementia.

This labor of love combines short, uplifting stories with the comforting power of music from the 1940s. Within these stories, readers are gently challenged to find spelling errors and typos, providing a sense of accomplishment and cognitive engagement. Nicole believes in the power of connection and cherishing every moment of joy, and her book offers a valuable tool for caregivers and loved ones navigating the dementia journey together.

Grab the book here!

20% off with this coupon code "FADINGMEMORIES"

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A Musical, Emotional Memoir on Caregiving

The Long Goodbye – A Musical Tribute

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Going through a tough time? HelpTexts offers confidential support delivered straight to your phone via text message. Whether you're dealing with grief, caregiving stress, or just need a mental health boost, their expert-guided texts provide personalized tips and advice.

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I've been focusing a lot on taking care of my brain health, & I've found this supplement called RELEVATE to be incredibly helpful. It provides me with 17 nutrients that support brain function & help keep me sharp. Since you're someone I care about, I wanted to share this discovery with you. You can order it with my code: FM15 & get 15% OFF your order.

With Relevate nutritional supplement, you get science-backed nutrition to help protect your brain power today and for years to come. You deserve a brain span that lasts as long as your lifespan.

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If you've enjoyed this episode, please share this podcast with other caregivers! You'll find us on social media at the following links.

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Caregiving for a loved one with dementia can often feel like chaos. Days are unpredictable, emotions run high, and the demands can seem endless. This constant state of chaos not only impacts the person with dementia, but also takes a toll on the caregiver's well-being. It can lead to burnout, stress, and even health problems.

It's crucial to move away from this chaos and find moments of calm. By creating a more peaceful environment, both the caregiver and the person with dementia can experience improved quality of life. This means less stress, better communication, and more meaningful interactions.

Taking that first step can be daunting, but there's support available. Start by reaching out to your local Alzheimer's Association chapter for information, support groups, and educational resources. Consider respite care to give yourself a break. Don't hesitate to ask family and friends for help with errands or appointments. Even small steps can make a big difference in navigating the dementia journey with more peace and less chaos.

Our Guest:

Debbie Compton is a three-time caregiver for parents with different forms of Dementia. She is a Certified Caregiving Consultant and Advocate, Educator for the Alzheimer’s Assoc., speaker, and author of 10 books including her latest, The Caregiver's Advocate, which is an International Bestseller.

Find all of Debbies books here!

Want more tips on creating calm? Click Here

Debbie founded The Purple Vine, whose mission is to empower caregivers to reduce stress, block burnout, and laugh again. 

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Thrive Through Habits: Secrets to Better Brain Health and Life

Breaking the Burnout Cycle

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Feeling overwhelmed? HelpTexts can be your pocket therapist.

Going through a tough time? HelpTexts offers confidential support delivered straight to your phone via text message. Whether you're dealing with grief, caregiving stress, or just need a mental health boost, their expert-guided texts provide personalized tips and advice.

Sign up for a year of support and get:

HelpTexts makes getting help easy and convenient.

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Relevate from NeuroReserve

I've been focusing a lot on taking care of my brain health, & I've found this supplement called RELEVATE to be incredibly helpful. It provides me with 17 nutrients that support brain function & help keep me sharp. Since you're someone I care about, I wanted to share this discovery with you. You can order it with my code: FM15 & get 15% OFF your order.

With Relevate nutritional supplement, you get science-backed nutrition to help protect your brain power today and for years to come. You deserve a brain span that lasts as long as your lifespan.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

If you've enjoyed this episode, please share this podcast with other caregivers! You'll find us on social media at the following links.

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The "Sandwich Generation" faces the complex challenge of caring for both their children and aging parents. These sandwich caregivers are pulled in multiple directions, balancing the demands of work with the needs of multiple generations. Imagine juggling school events and doctor's appointments, while also navigating the financial and legal complexities of elder care.

Sandwich caregivers often find themselves coordinating transportation, managing medications, and addressing the emotional needs of both their children and parents. It's a constant balancing act, with sandwich caregivers feeling the pressure from both sides. Family dynamics can further complicate the situation, as siblings may have differing opinions on caregiving responsibilities. This sandwich generation role can be incredibly demanding, leaving caregivers feeling overwhelmed and emotionally drained.

However, there are strategies to help manage these challenges. Seeking support from other family members, friends, or support groups can provide much-needed relief. Exploring community resources like respite care or adult day care can offer temporary breaks for sandwich caregivers. Prioritizing self-care and setting realistic expectations are also crucial for navigating this demanding phase of life.

Our Guest:

Nicole Smith is sandwiched between caring for three aging parents and five children. She became immersed in the dementia dynamic when her mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2021. Nicole is the author of Diagnosis Dementia: Your Guide for Eldercare Planning and Crisis Management. You can learn more about her journey and how to navigate yours on her website.

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Strength As A Sandwich Generation Caregiver

Breaking the Burnout Cycle

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Feeling overwhelmed? HelpTexts can be your pocket therapist.

Going through a tough time? HelpTexts offers confidential support delivered straight to your phone via text message. Whether you're dealing with grief, caregiving stress, or just need a mental health boost, their expert-guided texts provide personalized tips and advice.

Sign up for a year of support and get:

HelpTexts makes getting help easy and convenient.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Relevate from NeuroReserve

I've been focusing a lot on taking care of my brain health, & I've found this supplement called RELEVATE to be incredibly helpful. It provides me with 17 nutrients that support brain function & help keep me sharp. Since you're someone I care about, I wanted to share this discovery with you. You can order it with my code: FM15 & get 15% OFF your order.

With Relevate nutritional supplement, you get science-backed nutrition to help protect your brain power today and for years to come. You deserve a brain span that lasts as long as your lifespan.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

If you've enjoyed this episode, please share this podcast with other caregivers! You'll find us on social media at the following links.

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Or learn more at Our Website

Have you ever wondered what it's truly like to live with dementia? Either as the person diagnosed or as a loved one? Dementia Literature offer a unique window into these experiences, fostering empathy and providing invaluable insights. From poignant memoirs to practical self-help guides and imaginative fiction, exploring diverse genres about dementia can illuminate the challenges, emotions, and even unexpected joys encountered along the way. Join us as we discuss power of dementia literature and discover how these stories can empower individuals, families, and communities.

Marianne Sciucco co-founded AlzAuthors.com. It is a global community of authors writing about Alzheimer’s. They share their experiences to help others. Marianne serves on the board and management team. She produces and hosts their podcast, Untangling Alzheimer’s and Dementia. She also wrote the Alzheimer’s love story, Blue Hydrangeas.

Find all of Marianne's books here!

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Caregiver Founders: Building Resources for Support

An Alzheimer’s Love Story (Blue Hydrangeas)

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Feeling overwhelmed? HelpTexts can be your pocket therapist.

Going through a tough time? HelpTexts offers confidential support delivered straight to your phone via text message. Whether you're dealing with grief, caregiving stress, or just need a mental health boost, their expert-guided texts provide personalized tips and advice.

Sign up for a year of support and get:

HelpTexts makes getting help easy and convenient.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Relevate from NeuroReserve

I've been focusing a lot on taking care of my brain health, & I've found this supplement called RELEVATE to be incredibly helpful. It provides me with 17 nutrients that support brain function & help keep me sharp. Since you're someone I care about, I wanted to share this discovery with you. You can order it with my code: FM15 & get 15% OFF your order.

With Relevate nutritional supplement, you get science-backed nutrition to help protect your brain power today and for years to come. You deserve a brain span that lasts as long as your lifespan.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

If you've enjoyed this episode, please share this podcast with other caregivers! You'll find us on social media at the following links.

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Imagine navigating the complex burden of dementia, but it's not just one person you're caring for – it's multiple family members. Each with their own unique needs, challenges, and stages of this relentless disease. It's a situation that can feel overwhelming, isolating, and emotionally draining. But you're not alone. In this episode, we'll equip you with essential strategies to not just survive, but to thrive while caring for multiple loved ones with dementia.

Here's how to mange the burden of multiple cases of dementia:

Sandra R. Kiser is an experienced marketing professional, author and Alzheimer’s Advocate who volunteers with the North and Central Florida Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. Sandra has written two publications on Alzheimer’s that are helping to eliminate fear by educating, increasing awareness, and empowering our communities. She has written two books on Alzheimer’s Mysterious Wonderment: When Alzheimer’s Disease Becomes Your Word of the Day; and a children’s book, The Amazing Adventures of the Jolly Heart Squad which was written to educate youth about the disease.

Sandra has 15 years of volunteer experience, and 7 of those have focused on advocacy work with the Alzheimer’s Association. One of her many plans to continue advocacy work is establishing a non-profit to honor her mom and her brother’s legacy. She enjoys reading, writing, listening to music, spending time with family and friends, and watching the sunrise over the ocean.

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Dementia Patients Can Remember: Joy Ride to Past Lives

Empowering You: Changes for Better Living with Alzheimer's

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Feeling overwhelmed? HelpTexts can be your pocket therapist.

Going through a tough time? HelpTexts offers confidential support delivered straight to your phone via text message. Whether you're dealing with grief, caregiving stress, or just need a mental health boost, their expert-guided texts provide personalized tips and advice.

Sign up for a year of support and get:

HelpTexts makes getting help easy and convenient.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Relevate from NeuroReserve

I've been focusing a lot on taking care of my brain health, & I've found this supplement called RELEVATE to be incredibly helpful. It provides me with 17 nutrients that support brain function & help keep me sharp. Since you're someone I care about, I wanted to share this discovery with you. You can order it with my code: FM15 & get 15% OFF your order.

With Relevate nutritional supplement, you get science-backed nutrition to help protect your brain power today and for years to come. You deserve a brain span that lasts as long as your lifespan.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

If you've enjoyed this episode, please share this podcast with other caregivers! You'll find us on social media at the following links.

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Visit our website Fading Memories Podcast

Receiving an early-onset Alzheimer's diagnosis can be devastating, but "The Optimistics" offers a powerful message of hope. This book tells the story of Dennis, Mike, and Jim, who, despite facing this challenging disease, choose to embrace optimism and brotherhood.

They formed "The Optimistics" to inspire hope in others in the Alzheimer's community. Their story reminds us that even in the face of adversity, joy, connection, and purpose are possible. "The Optimistics" highlights the importance of community and the power of a positive outlook in navigating the challenges of early-onset Alzheimer's. By sharing their journey, they offer hope and encouragement to others facing similar diagnoses, proving that life can still be full of meaning and connection.

Grab the book here!

Our Guest:

Richie Frieman is a #1 Best Selling and Award Winning Author and Illustrator, who St. Martin's Press calls, "A modern day Renaissance man" – an apt description for one of the most diverse and unusual careers in literature, at only 44. An author of seven books in multiple genres, he became one of the youngest best selling and award winning authors in his genres, and was one of the most sought after podcasters in the world. He is a #1 best-selling and award-winning author and illustrator of eight books in multiple genres, with work being sold worldwide. His latest book is the breakthrough new memoir, "The Optimistics," which tells the true story of three best friends all diagnosed with Young Onset Dementia who are changing the face of the disease.

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Dementia & Living Alone - It's Possible!

Caring for Elderly Parents Who Live Alone

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Sign Up for more Advice & Wisdom - email newsletter.

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Feeling overwhelmed? HelpTexts can be your pocket therapist.

Going through a tough time? HelpTexts offers confidential support delivered straight to your phone via text message. Whether you're dealing with grief, caregiving stress, or just need a mental health boost, their expert-guided texts provide personalized tips and advice.

Sign up for a year of support and get:

HelpTexts makes getting help easy and convenient.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Relevate from NeuroReserve

I've been focusing a lot on taking care of my brain health, & I've found this supplement called RELEVATE to be incredibly helpful. It provides me with 17 nutrients that support brain function & help keep me sharp. Since you're someone I care about, I wanted to share this discovery with you. You can order it with my code: FM15 & get 15% OFF your order.

With Relevate nutritional supplement, you get science-backed nutrition to help protect your brain power today and for years to come. You deserve a brain span that lasts as long as your lifespan.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

If you've enjoyed this episode, please share this podcast with other caregivers! You'll find us on social media at the following links.

Instagram

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Contact Jen at [email protected]

or Visit us at www.FadingMemoriesPodcast.com

Caregiver Conversations -Preparing for the Unknown. As we age, open communication becomes crucial for maintaining a good quality of life. End-of-life conversations, while difficult, empower us to make informed decisions about our care, ensuring our wishes are honored. Discussing care preferences, whether giving or receiving, fosters understanding and helps avoid future conflicts or misunderstandings.

These conversations allow us to:

Aging brings inevitable changes. Proactive communication ensures we navigate these changes with dignity, autonomy, and the support of those we love.

Chaplain John Wenderlein .Currently works as a Hospice Chaplain in Central Fl. Married to Melinda. I wrote two books working on my third. Remember Me (End of life stories as seen though the eyes of a Hospice Chaplain, Delayed Honor. His third book has not yet been published. It will be his experiences with Covid during the height of the pandemic.

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Related episode:

Dementia Care Conversations: Unveiling the Four Essentials

Using Mindfulness to Reduce Caregiving Frustrations & Stress

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Going through a tough time? HelpTexts offers confidential support delivered straight to your phone via text message. Whether you're dealing with grief, caregiving stress, or just need a mental health boost, their expert-guided texts provide personalized tips and advice.

Sign up for a year of support and get:

HelpTexts makes getting help easy and convenient.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Relevate from NeuroReserve

I've been focusing a lot on taking care of my brain health, & I've found this supplement called RELEVATE to be incredibly helpful. It provides me with 17 nutrients that support brain function & help keep me sharp. Since you're someone I care about, I wanted to share this discovery with you. You can order it with my code: FM15 & get 15% OFF your order.

With Relevate nutritional supplement, you get science-backed nutrition to help protect your brain power today and for years to come. You deserve a brain span that lasts as long as your lifespan.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

If you've enjoyed this episode, please share this podcast with other caregivers! You'll find us on social media at the following links.

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Contact Jen at [email protected]

or Visit us at

www.FadingMemoriesPodcast.com

www.jenfinkspeaks.com

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Many people wish to spend their final days at home surrounded by loved ones, but navigating this challenging time requires support and information. In this episode of Fading Memories, we explore "Dying at Home: A Family Guide for Caregiving," a compassionate resource offering practical guidance and emotional support for families.

Get "Dying At Home: A Family Guide for Caregiving" here!

We'll discuss insights on:

Join us as we share how to create a peaceful and supportive environment for loved ones during their final moments.

Our Guest: CM Cassidy

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What Is Death Positivity?

The Heart of Caring - Dementia & Hospice

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Sign Up for more Advice & Wisdom - email newsletter.

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Feeling overwhelmed? HelpTexts can be your pocket therapist.

Going through a tough time? HelpTexts offers confidential support delivered straight to your phone via text message. Whether you're dealing with grief, caregiving stress, or just need a mental health boost, their expert-guided texts provide personalized tips and advice.

Sign up for a year of support and get:

HelpTexts makes getting help easy and convenient.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Relevate from NeuroReserve

I've been focusing a lot on taking care of my brain health, & I've found this supplement called RELEVATE to be incredibly helpful. It provides me with 17 nutrients that support brain function & help keep me sharp. Since you're someone I care about, I wanted to share this discovery with you. You can order it with my code: FM15 & get 15% OFF your order.

With Relevate nutritional supplement, you get science-backed nutrition to help protect your brain power today and for years to come. You deserve a brain span that lasts as long as your lifespan.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

If you've enjoyed this episode, please share this podcast with other caregivers! You'll find us on social media at the following links.

Instagram

LinkedIn 

Contact Jen at [email protected]

or Visit us at www.FadingMemoriesPodcast.com