When is independence no longer safe for someone with dementia? In this episode, Host Dawn Platt tackles the emotional dilemma of leaving loved ones unattended. Sharing her own experiences as a caregiver, Dawn reveals critical questions to assess safety, practical monitoring strategies, and a revealing "granny cam" story that changed one family's approach. Learn how to balance autonomy with protection, recognize warning signs, and make confident decisions about supervision as dementia progresses.

When freezing temperatures meet dementia's wandering risk, minutes can mean the difference between life and death. In this essential episode, dementia trainer Dawn Platt shares critical safety strategies for the cold season, revealing key warning signs, prevention tips, and life-saving resources every caregiver needs to know. Learn how to protect your loved ones during these challenging months and gain practical tools to help prevent dangerous wandering situations.

Choosing a memory care community for your loved one with dementia is one of the most challenging decisions families face. In this essential episode, dementia expert Dawn Platt and her guest Brenda share insider knowledge on how to evaluate memory care communities beyond the glossy brochures. Learn the critical factors most families don't think to ask about - from assessing cognitive fit to understanding discharge policies. With real audience questions and candid conversation, this episode provides the practical guidance you need to make this life-changing decision with confidence.

Are you struggling to balance caring for a parent with dementia while juggling your own family, career, and life? In this raw and honest episode of The Disappearing Mind, host Dawn Platt opens up about the complex emotions of being part of the "sandwich generation" - those caring for both aging parents and their own families. Drawing from her 30+ years of experience as a National Dementia Trainer and her personal journey as a caregiver, Dawn tackles the often unspoken feelings of obligation, guilt, and overwhelming expectations that come with dementia caregiving. Whether you're currently caring for a parent with dementia or anticipating this role in your future, this episode offers practical guidance on setting realistic expectations, finding support, and maintaining your own well-being while navigating this challenging journey.

In this week's new episode, host Dawn Platt draws from her extensive experience as a National Dementia Trainer and Coach to address the most frequently asked questions about dementia and Alzheimer's disease. She provides practical guidance for both newly diagnosed individuals and their families, covering crucial topics from understanding diagnosis to planning for future care needs. Whether you're a caregiver, family member, or concerned friend, this essential guide to navigating dementia's challenges will leave you better prepared and more confident in supporting those affected by this condition.

In this week's episode of "The Disappearing Mind," host Dawn Platt provides an in-depth exploration of the Global Deterioration Scale, unveiling the seven stages of dementia and Alzheimer's disease. She breaks down each cognitive decline stage, offering caregivers and families a comprehensive understanding of what to expect, how to plan care, and how to support loved ones through this challenging journey. From early signs to late-stage considerations, Dawn shares insights on medical decision-making, safety planning, and emotional preparation, empowering listeners with knowledge to navigate dementia with compassion and understanding.

In this episode, Host Dawn Platt tackles a common challenge dementia caregivers face – the sense of putting their lives on hold. Drawing from her experience caring for her mother and work as a National Dementia Trainer, Dawn explores why caregivers often feel their lives slipping away while caring for a parent with dementia. She validates feelings of isolation and sacrifice while offering guidance on maintaining identity, setting boundaries, and finding respite. Through personal stories and practical insights, Dawn shows listeners there's a way to navigate this challenging journey while still honoring their own needs.

In this supportive episode, Host Dawn Platt addresses a common yet rarely discussed aspect of dementia caregiving – feelings of anger and frustration. Drawing from her extensive experience, Dawn explores why these emotions naturally arise and offers practical strategies for managing them, from recognizing personal triggers to implementing essential self-care practices. Through empathetic insight, she helps caregivers understand they're not alone in these feelings while providing actionable steps for maintaining balanced, sustainable care.

How do you keep conversations meaningful when dementia changes communication? National Dementia Trainer and Host Dawn Platt shares practical tips for connecting with loved ones through memory triggers, shared stories, and adaptive communication techniques. From FaceTime calls to in-person visits, learn how to create joyful moments and maintain emotional bonds despite cognitive decline.

In this final episode of our holiday series, Host Dawn Platt shares essential strategies for navigating sundowning behaviors and sensory overwhelm during festive gatherings. Drawing from both professional expertise and personal experience, Dawn offers practical insights on reading behavioral triggers, creating calming environments, and timing celebrations to align with natural energy patterns. She thoughtfully addresses the complex emotions many caregivers face during the holidays, from processing grief to embracing imperfect moments. Whether you're experiencing your first holiday season on the dementia journey or adapting to new changes, this episode provides compassionate guidance for making celebrations more peaceful while honoring both past traditions and present realities.