Navigating the Complexities of Dementia Care

In this special episode of the 'Caregiver's Journey' podcast with Empathy Unbound, hosts Nancy Treaster and Sue Ryan share their personal and professional experiences with dementia care. The episode starts with a heartfelt note about the recent passing of Nancy’s husband.

Both Nancy and Sue discuss their respective journeys as caregivers—Nancy for her husband with frontotemporal dementia and Sue for her husband and father with Alzheimer's.

The conversation covers how their podcast and platform aim to provide practical advice and support for caregivers through various resources like online courses, books, and workshops. They emphasize the importance of acceptance, self-care, and building a supportive community. They also address common misconceptions about dementia, the importance of not testing loved ones' memory, and coping with the emotional complexities of caregiving. The episode is filled with valuable insights and candid discussions aimed at helping caregivers navigate their challenging roles more confidently and with greater balance.

00:00 Introduction and Tribute to Nancy's Husband

00:49 Meet the Guests: Nancy Treister and Sue Ryan

02:27 The Caregiver's Journey: Purpose and Creation

04:15 Navigating Dementia: Personal Experiences and Insights

07:12 Practical Tips for Caregivers

16:15 The Importance of Joy and Acceptance in Caregiving

26:21 Future Plans and Workshops

34:30 Choosing the Right Care for a Loved One

36:27 The Financial Reality of Caregiving

37:10 Building a Support Community

38:27 The Emotional Toll of Guilt

40:05 The Importance of Self-Care for Caregivers

41:21 Explaining Dementia to Children and Adults

47:26 Misconceptions About Dementia

53:26 Steps After a Dementia Diagnosis

55:01 The Caregiver's Journey Podcast

01:01:21 Personal Reflections on Caregiving

01:04:53 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

WEBSITE LINK: https://thecaregiversjourney.com/

The Caregiver's Journey

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCaregiversJourneys/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaregiversjourney/

Sue Ryan Solutions

Website: https://sueryan.solutions/

LinkedIn profiles:

Sue: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suearmstrongryan/

Nancy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancytreaster/