What if good dementia care was not about getting everything right, but about understanding the person in front of you?

In this episode, Andrew Karesa sits down with Dr. Natali Edmonds, board certified geropsychologist and founder of Dementia Careblazers, to explore what caregivers are rarely told about dementia care, and why striving for perfection often makes the journey harder, not better.

Natali shares her path into geropsychology, from a formative moment during her clinical training that exposed how poorly systems serve older adults, to her work inside hospital and home based care settings. She reflects on why short appointments and blanket rules fail families, and how individualized, compassionate care makes a meaningful difference.

Together, Andrew and Natali unpack the emotional weight caregivers carry, why self blame is so common, and how well intentioned strategies can sometimes increase stress for both caregivers and their loved ones. They also discuss early onset dementia, gaps in existing supports, the role of multidisciplinary care, and why listening to a person’s response matters more than following rigid guidance.

In this episode:

• Why good dementia care is not about perfection

• What caregivers often overthink, and what they miss instead

• How to evaluate advice and credentials in a crowded online space

• Why explaining “you have dementia” can backfire

• When safety strategies help, and when they hide unmet needs

• The unique challenges of early onset dementia and younger caregivers

• How self compassion changes the caregiving experience

• What caregivers are doing better than they realize

Whether you are caring for a loved one with dementia, navigating burnout and self doubt, or working professionally in aging and memory care, this conversation is a grounded reminder that doing your best does not mean doing everything right. Good dementia care is personal, human, and shaped by the person you are caring for.

Learn more at:⁠⁠⁠⁠

https://www.bluebellvillage.ca⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

https://careblazers.com

Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be used to diagnose, treat, or prevent any medical condition. Always consult your physician or another qualified healthcare provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or treatment. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Andrew Karesa, blueBell Village Ltd., or any of its employees, contractors, or team members.