The Caregiver's Journey

Sue Ryan and Nancy Treaster

The Caregiver’s Journey podcast is an innovative and refreshing way to learn how to tackle day-to-day Alzheimer's and dementia family caregiving challenges with strength, patience, and peace of mind. Using practical tips and candid conversations, Sue Ryan and Nancy Treaster help you navigate caregiving’s ups and downs, so you move from feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, and sometimes frightened - to confident, balanced, and supported.

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Episodes

Search and Rescue: Three Essential Tips / Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias
6d ago
Search and Rescue: Three Essential Tips / Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias
The moment you realize your loved one with dementia is missing, every second feels critical. While the natural instinct is to immediately begin searching, having a clear action plan can make the difference in finding them quickly and safely. Through insights from John Clark, a specialized dementia search and rescue expert in Georgia, we've compiled three essential tips for these frightening situations. Additional Resources Mentioned Georgia Emergency Search and Rescue John Clark USA 404-309-7386 carmen@georgiaemergencysearchandrescue.org Professionally Trained in Urban Searches Alzheimers, Dementia, Children, Evidence Recovery, Major Disaster Search, NASAR, Disaster Assistance Rate, Subscribe and Share Your Tips on Social Media! Please click here to review, follow or subscribe to our podcast.   If you don’t see your preferred platform click on Podchaser and click at the bottom “Write my review” You can log in with Twitter, Facebook or GoogleOn the right you’ll see a box with “Follow”, “Rate and Review” and “Share”  Connect with us and share your tips: Website: https://www.thecaregiversjourney.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaregiversjourney/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCaregiversJourneys/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suearmstrongryan/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancytreaster/Email: sue@thecaregiversjourney.com, nancy@thecaregiversjourney.com Takeaways Tip 1: Make the Right First Move Key points: Call emergency services immediately, before starting your own searchDon't wait to make the call while searching on your ownAsk if there are dementia-specialized search teams in your areaRemember that it's okay to search after making the call Tip 2: Provide Critical Information to Searchers Key preparation points: Keep current photos readily available: Essential information to share: Recent conversations and topics they've discussedTheir maiden name or previous namesNicknames family members useCommon walking routes or regular destinationsNearby water sources (pools, ponds, lakes)Places from their past they might seek outTheir current stage in their dementia journeyRecent behaviors or patternsCurrent medications Tip 3: Know What to Expect After They're Found Standard procedures: Medical evaluation is typicalTransportation to hospital via ambulance or police carAssessment for any injuries or exposure For More Read Full Blog here Building Better Local Resources Not every community has specialized dementia search and rescue teams, but there are ways to improve local capabilities: Steps to take: Contact your local Alzheimer's Association chapterAsk about existing specialized search resourcesInquire about training opportunities for local emergency servicesAdvocate for specialized training in your communityNetwork with other caregivers to share experiences and resources Note: If you're in Georgia, specialized dementia search and rescue services are available. Contact your local emergency services or Alzheimer's Association chapter for more information.
Preparing for Holidays: Five Essential Tips / Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias
Oct 29 2024
Preparing for Holidays: Five Essential Tips / Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias
The secret to successful holiday celebrations with our dementia care receivers isn't perfect decorations or parties—it's having a peaceful retreat space ready for them when needed. As caregivers navigating the holiday season with loved ones who have Alzheimer's and other types of dementia, we've learned that intentional planning makes all the difference. The holiday season brings additional activities, decorations, and visitors that can disrupt the routines so vital to our care receivers' well-being. Success requires careful observation, thoughtful preparation, and gradual adaptation of celebrations. Through our experiences, what we've learned from support groups, and from others on their journeys, we've developed five essential tips to help create positive holiday experiences while maintaining the calm and familiar environment your care receiver needs. Rate, Subscribe and Share Your Tips on Social Media! Please click here to review, follow or subscribe to our podcast.   If you don’t see your preferred platform click on Podchaser and click at the bottom “Write my review” You can log in with Twitter, Facebook or GoogleOn the right you’ll see a box with “Follow”, “Rate and Review” and “Share”  Connect with us and share your tips: Website: https://www.thecaregiversjourney.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaregiversjourney/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCaregiversJourneys/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suearmstrongryan/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancytreaster/Email: sue@thecaregiversjourney.com, nancy@thecaregiversjourney.com Takeaways Tip 1: Preserve Daily Routines The holidays and routines might share the same number of letters, but that's where their similarities end. While the season pulls us toward special events and gathering, we must remember that routines are the cornerstone of stability for our care receivers. These familiar patterns aren't just habits—they're vital anchors that help our loved ones navigate their days with confidence and security. Tip 2: Be Prepared With a Calm Retreat Space In the midst of holiday celebrations, having a sanctuary becomes essential. Think of this space as your loved one's personal haven—a place where the overwhelming stimuli of holiday gatherings can't reach. Just as we all need a quiet moment sometimes, our care receivers often require a calm, familiar space where they can retreat and regroup when festivities become too much. Tip 3: Set Expectations With Visitors While Also Acknowledging Their Feelings The holiday season often brings an increase in visitors, each carrying their own expectations and memories of past celebrations. While these visits can be precious opportunities for connection, they require careful management to ensure everyone's comfort—especially our care receivers. Understanding and communicating about the current reality of your loved one's condition helps create more meaningful interactions and minimize uncomfortable situations. Tip 4: Teach Visitors How To Visit Creating successful visits is about helping others understand how to connect with your care receiver in their current reality. As their ability to process information changes, the ways others can best interact with them evolves too.  Tip 5: Introduce Changes Gradually The magic of holiday decorations and traditions can quickly become overwhelming for someone with dementia. What once brought joy might now cause confusion or distress. This doesn't mean we must abandon all holiday cheer—rather, we need to be thoughtful about how we introduce these changes to our environment. Think of it as slowly turning up the dimmer switch rather than flipping on bright lights all at once.
Eating and Drinking: Seven Essential Tips / Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias
Oct 22 2024
Eating and Drinking: Seven Essential Tips / Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias
As caregivers for our loved ones with Alzheimer's and other types of dementia, we've learned eating and drinking become significant challenges. Through our experiences, and what we've learned from support groups and others on their journeys, we've developed seven important tips to help you and your care receiver navigate dining. Rate, Subscribe and Share Your Tips on Social Media! Please click here to review, follow or subscribe to our podcast.   If you don’t see your preferred platform click on Podchaser and click at the bottom “Write my review” You can log in with Twitter, Facebook or GoogleOn the right you’ll see a box with “Follow”, “Rate and Review” and “Share”  Connect with us and share your tips: Website: https://www.thecaregiversjourney.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaregiversjourney/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCaregiversJourneys/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suearmstrongryan/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancytreaster/Email: sue@thecaregiversjourney.com, nancy@thecaregiversjourney.com Additional Resources Mentioned Episode 13 - Incontinence Overnight here  These resources contain affiliate links so we may receive a small commission for purchases made at no additional cost to you. Bibs here Spork here Lowbowls hereGrippy placemats here Other great caregiver dining aid products here Takeaways Tip 1: Observe Their Natural Eating Habits Observe and record how they naturally eat and drink (e.g., time of day, order, how they cut their food, which hand they use for each utensil).Continuously observe, adjust, and share with others who are helping your care receiver with their eating and drinking.  Tip 2: Utilize Pre-made Meals and Visual Cues Leave pre-made meals in easily accessible places (e.g., eye-level in the refrigerator).Use visual cues like notes on the refrigerator or preset table settings with a note where the plate will go that tells your care receiver where the meal is.Check to make sure they have actually eaten their food and finished what they had to drink so you know if they’re able to understand what to do. Tip 3: Pre-cut Food, Adjust Portions, Observe How They’re Able to Eat and Drink Pre-cut food into manageable pieces.Consider converting sandwiches and other foods into finger foods.Be aware of changes in hand stability, grip strength, vision, and coordination.Some people with dementia diagnoses lose regulation with their appetite. It’s important for us to observe how they’re eating and the portions they’re eating to make sure they’re getting the proper amount of food. Introduce non-breakable drinkware, consider tops or adult sippy cups.  Tip 4: Prepare for Messier Eating Consider using regular bibs or large disposable bibs Place a towel on the chair to catch spills.Keep a basket of cleaning supplies (e.g. paper towels, hand wipes, table wipes) handy for quick clean-ups. Tip 5: Simplify Eating Utensils and Tableware Low bowls with a slight rim make it easier to push food onto utensilsSporks combine the functions of spoons and forks, so one utensil can be used.Grippy placemats keep plates from sliding. Tip 6: Monitor and Adjust Nutrition Watch for unexplained weight loss or gain.Consult with doctors if you notice sudden changes.If you move your care receiver to a memory care community, develop nutrition plans and weight monitoring processes and stay actively engaged with them.  Tip 7: Gradually Take Over Feeding and Hydration Position yourself closer to them at mealtimes to make assistance easier.What begins as prompting them to eat or drink and gradually increases to handing them their utensils and/or putting food on their utensils, showing them their drinking glass becomes modifying their drinking glass to make it easier for them to use, to eventually fully feeding them and controlling their beverages. Read More in This Blog here See full show notes here
Shave, Brush Teeth, Trim Nails and Hair: Four Essential Tips / Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias
Oct 15 2024
Shave, Brush Teeth, Trim Nails and Hair: Four Essential Tips / Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias
As caregivers for our loved ones with Alzheimer's and other types of dementia, we've learned that shaving, trimming nails, brushing teeth and trimming hair - what we’re calling personal care - can become challenging. These challenges often arise around the same time as bathing and dressing difficulties. How we provide support for our loved one will vary based on whether they stay at home during their journey or move into a care community. Not surprisingly, personal care is an area where many tips can be provided!  Through our experiences, what we've learned from support groups, and others on their journeys, we've developed four initial areas of tips to help you and your care receiver with their personal care. Rate, Subscribe and Share Your Tips on Social Media! Please click here to review, follow or subscribe to our podcast.   If you don’t see your preferred platform click on Podchaser and click at the bottom “Write my review” You can log in with Twitter, Facebook or GoogleOn the right you’ll see a box with “Follow”, “Rate and Review” and “Share”  Connect with us and share your tips: Website: https://www.thecaregiversjourney.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaregiversjourney/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCaregiversJourneys/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suearmstrongryan/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancytreaster/Email: sue@thecaregiversjourney.com, nancy@thecaregiversjourney.com Additional Resources Mentioned These resources contain affiliate links so we may receive a small commission for purchases made at no additional cost to you. Electric razorFor men hereFor women hereOral swabs hereSuper soft toothbrush hereFresh Breath mouthwash hereElectric hair trimmers here Full Show Notes https://thecaregiversjourney.com/personal-care-four-essential-tips-alzheimers-and-other-dementias/ Takeaways Understanding Personal Care Challenges in Dementia Care Tip 1: Mastering the Art of Shaving Transition to an electric razor as early as possible.  Begin your support by prompting and supervising, gradually inserting yourself into the process.Try shaving when your care receiver is calm, possibly after meals or during naps.Aim to shave men's facial hair at least every other day to prevent discomfort from longer hair. For women, transition to electric razors for safety. Women also tend to become comfortable with letting their body hair grow.As early in their diagnosis as possible, get a thorough dental examination. If there is any dental work that's important to be completed, do it while they still understand and can participate.Consider transitioning to a dentist specializing in disabilities.If possible increase dental visits to every three months.Start by reminding your care receiver and supervising their tooth brushing.Gradually take over the process - for example, begin by handing them their toothbrush, transition to handing them their toothbrush with toothpaste on it, then transition to beginning to brush their teeth.Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and less toothpaste to prevent swallowing.Consider using disposable oral swabs with mouthwash for additional cleaning. Tip 4: Hair Care and Trimming Take photos of the hair style your loved one has.If they color their hair, talk about keeping it colored or letting it become their natural color.There are hair stylists who will come to your home instead of you having to go into a salon. Consider transitioning to easier-to-manage hairstyles.Learn basic haircutting techniques or ask their stylist to teach you.For women, longer hair in a soft bun might be easier than short styles.Personal care trimmers are very helpful for both men and women for eyebrows, hair in the ears and nose. Read More in This Blog here
Incontinence Overnight: Four Essential Topics / Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias
Oct 8 2024
Incontinence Overnight: Four Essential Topics / Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias
As caregivers for our loved ones with Alzheimer's and other types of dementia, we've learned overnight incontinence is one of the most challenging aspects of the journey. It's not a topic often discussed, yet it's a reality for us to face with compassion, dignity, and preparation. We are Nancy Treaster and Sue Ryan. Through our experiences, we've developed four important tips to help you navigate overnight incontinence in your caregiving journey. Takeaways Overnight incontinence can be particularly challenging because it affects the sleep of both the care receiver and the caregiver. It often requires a balance between managing a mess and getting necessary rest. This stage can be an inflection point in the caregiving journey, potentially requiring additional help or considering moving your loved one into a care community. Here are four tips to help you navigate this challenging phase:   Tip 1: Transition to Nighttime and ultimately Disposable Incontinence Underwear   It's important to ensure your care receiver has appropriate protection overnight.   Tip 2: Protect the Mattress   Accidents will happen, so it's important to protect the bed.   Tip 3: Make the Bathroom Easy to Find   Help your care receiver locate the bathroom easily if they wake up during the night. We cover this in detail in podcast episode 9 Preparing for Incontinence.   Tip 4: Keep Your Care Receiver Comfortable Overnight   As incontinence progresses, it becomes important to take additional steps to ensure comfort. Navigating overnight incontinence in Alzheimer's and dementia care is challenging in the beginning as you’re both adapting. With patience, curiosity, compassion, preparation and the right mindset, it can be manageable.   Key points:   Transition to appropriate nighttime protection.Protect the mattress and be prepared for frequent sheet changes.Make the bathroom easy to find.Keep your care receiver as comfortable as possible overnight.Consider a mid-night change if possible.Maintain hydration but manage fluid intake timing. Blog here Additional Resources Mentioned Episode 4 - Wandering hereEpisode 10 - Incontinence Begins hereChild proof door knob cover or double deadbolt locks for external doorsChild proof door knob covers hereExtra tall pet gate from (40” to 70”) - 57”  helpDisposable incontinence underwearFor women hereFor men herePadsMattress pads34”x36” here72”X36” hereDisposable incontinence pads hereBrown large pet pee pads hereMattress bag herePeelaways hereCameras or baby monitor for the bedroom and bathroomBaby monitors - some come with motion alarms hereMotion alarm hereCameras - If your care receiver is still staying home alone, consider one with an intercomRing indoor with two-way talk hereWashable incontinence underwear For womenColors hereCream hereFor men Briefs hereBoxer briefs hereDisposable incontinence underwearFor women hereFor men hereDisposable incontinence underwear guards For men hereFor women hereAdult washcloths/wipes hereDisposable incontinence pads hereRound tipped scissors here Rate, Subscribe and Share Your Tips on Social Media! Thanks for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe on your favorite podcast platform. Please click here to review, follow or subscribe to our podcast.   If you don’t see your preferred platform click on Podchaser and click at the bottom “Write my review” You can log in with Twitter, Facebook or GoogleOn the right you’ll see a box with “Follow”, “Rate and Review” and “Share”  Connect with us and share your tips: Website: https://www.thecaregiversjourney.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaregiversjourney/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCaregiversJourneys/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suearmstrongryan/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancytreaster/Email: sue@thecaregiversjourney.com, nancy@thecaregiversjourney.com
Bathing and Dressing: Four Essential Tips / Alzheimer's and Other Dementias
Oct 8 2024
Bathing and Dressing: Four Essential Tips / Alzheimer's and Other Dementias
As caregivers for our loved ones with Alzheimer's and other types of dementia, we've learned bathing and dressing can become significant challenges. These activities are often early signs of transitioning from the initial phase of the caregiving journey where we’re simply prompting and helping them, to what we call the "messy middle”, when we begin asserting more control. We are Nancy Treaster and Sue Ryan. Through our experiences, what we've learned from support groups, and others on their journeys, we've developed four important tips to help you navigate bathing and dressing for your care receiver. Takeaways Here are four tips to help you navigate this phase: Tip 1: Simplify Instructions As the journey progresses, your care receiver may begin struggling with multi-step instructions. Start giving one instruction at a time. Break down their tasks into smaller steps. Consider adaptive clothing options. Tip 2: Gradually Insert Yourself into the Process As their challenges increase, it’s time to become more involved in their bathing and dressing process. From early in their journey, if you haven’t already learned their natural bathing and dressing routines, observe and note them.  Prompt or assist them in their routine order. Set up the bathroom to make it as easy for them as possible to bathe (if you normally keep everything put away, put the items out where they can see everything they’ll need),  Put their clothing out. (Tip: When I began putting my husband’s clothing out, I began putting my clothing out as well, explaining to him I had heard this was a great tip to simplify dressing, and wanted to try it myself.) This helps maintain their dignity.  Prepare everything needed for their bathing and dressing in advance. Consider marking the preferred shower temperature on the faucet. Tip 3: Transition to Sponge Baths At some point, traditional showers or baths may become too challenging or stressful. Use non-rinse bathing wipes for body cleansing. Try non-rinse shampoo caps for hair washing. For facial cleansing, consider products like Burt's Bees Micellar Water. Maintain a regular schedule of cleaning, even if it's not a full bath every day. Tip 4: Assist with the Dressing Process As with bathing, dressing will require more assistance over time. - Transition to adaptive clothing when appropriate, especially if incontinence becomes an issue. - Ensure safety during the dressing process (e.g., have them seated when putting on socks). - Be attentive to their comfort, including temperature preferences. - Encourage participation in the process as much as possible. Read More in This Blog here Additional Resources Mentioned Episode 11 - Cleaning Your Care Receiver here These resources contain affiliate links so we may receive a small commission for purchases made at no additional cost to you. Adaptive clothingShorts snap up herePants snap up hereVery nice adaptive clothing here Disposable incontinence underwearFor women hereFor men hereAdult washcloths/wipes hereNo-rinse bathing wipes hereNo-rinse shampoo caps here Rate, Subscribe and Share Your Tips on Social Media! Please click here to review, follow or subscribe to our podcast.   If you don’t see your preferred platform click on Podchaser and click at the bottom “Write my review” You can log in with Twitter, Facebook or GoogleOn the right you’ll see a box with “Follow”, “Rate and Review” and “Share”  Connect with us and share your tips: Website: https://www.thecaregiversjourney.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaregiversjourney/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCaregiversJourneys/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suearmstrongryan/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancytreaster/Email: sue@thecaregiversjourney.com, nancy@thecaregiversjourney.com
Bowel and Bedbound Incontinence: Two Essential Topics /  Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias
Oct 1 2024
Bowel and Bedbound Incontinence: Two Essential Topics / Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias
As caregivers for our loved ones with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia, we’ve learned that full incontinence is an inevitable part of our journey. It’s a topic not often discussed, yet it’s a reality for us to navigate with compassion, dignity, and preparation — for both us and our care receiver. We are Nancy Treaster and Sue Ryan. Through our experiences, we’ve developed 2 valuable tips to help you navigate bowel and bedbound incontinence in your caregiving journey. Watch Bowel and Bedbound Incontinence: Two Essential Topics / Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias https://youtu.be/PD4zOctyfPw Takeaways Read More in This Blog here Additional Resources Mentioned Episode 10 - Incontinence Begins hereEpisode 11 - Cleaning Your Care Receiver hereChanging a bedbound care receiver YouTube video here Changing a Depend with a bowel movement hereDisposable incontinence underwearFor women hereFor men hereWheels for bedBed with railsWedge pillowAdaptive clothingShorts snap up herePants snap up hereVery nice adaptive clothing here Non-rinse bathing wipes hereAdult washcloths/wipes hereDisposable incontinence pads hereRound tipped scissors hereScented small trash can liner hereAdult incontinence can here Rate, Subscribe and Share Your Tips on Social Media! Thanks for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe on your favorite podcast platform. Please click here to review, follow or subscribe to our podcast.   If you don’t see your preferred platform click on Podchaser and click at the bottom “Write my review” You can log in with Twitter, Facebook or GoogleOn the right you’ll see a box with “Follow”, “Rate and Review” and “Share”  Connect with us and share your tips: Website: https://www.thecaregiversjourney.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaregiversjourney/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCaregiversJourneys/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suearmstrongryan/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancytreaster/Email: sue@thecaregiversjourney.com, nancy@thecaregiversjourney.com
Cleaning Your Care Receiver: Three Essential Tips / Alzheimer's and
Sep 24 2024
Cleaning Your Care Receiver: Three Essential Tips / Alzheimer's and
As caregivers for our loved ones with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia, we’ve learned managing incontinence is one of the most challenging aspects of our journey. It’s a topic where having detailed information is vital to our adjusting to this part of our journey mentally, physically, and emotionally. We are Nancy Treaster and Sue Ryan. Through our experiences, and insights we’ve learned from others in support groups, we’ve developed three indispensable tips to help you navigate the important component of incontinence care with your care receiver — cleaning them Takeaways here Additional Resources Mentioned Episode 10 - Incontinence Begins hereEpisode 12 - Bedbound and Bowel Incontinence hereEpisode 13 - Incontinence Overnight hereAdaptive clothingShorts snap up herePants snap up hereVery nice adaptive clothing here Disposable incontinence underwearFor women hereFor men hereAdult washcloths/wipes hereNon-rinse bathing wipes hereDisposable incontinence pads hereRound tipped scissors here Rate, Subscribe and Share Your Tips on Social Media! Thanks for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe on your favorite podcast platform. Please click here to review, follow or subscribe to our podcast.   If you don’t see your preferred platform click on Podchaser and click at the bottom “Write my review” You can log in with Twitter, Facebook or GoogleOn the right you’ll see a box with “Follow”, “Rate and Review” and “Share”  Connect with us and share your tips: Website: https://www.thecaregiversjourney.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaregiversjourney/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCaregiversJourneys/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suearmstrongryan/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancytreaster/Email: sue@thecaregiversjourney.com, nancy@thecaregiversjourney.com
Incontinence Begins: Four Essential Tips / Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias
Sep 17 2024
Incontinence Begins: Four Essential Tips / Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias
Who knew that understanding the stages of incontinence could make such a difference in our caregiving journey? As caregivers for our loved ones with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia, we’ve learned incontinence is an inevitable - and can be - a challenging part of our journey. It’s a reality and a topic that’s not often discussed. It’s helpful for us to be prepared to navigate incontinence with compassion, dignity, and grace for our care receivers and for us. We are Nancy Treaster and Sue Ryan. Through our experiences, we’ve developed four tips to help you navigate the pre-incontinence and early incontinence phases on your caregiving journey. Takeaways Before we introduce your tips, it’s helpful to understand what we mean by ‘pre-incontinence’ and ‘early incontinence’. Pre-Incontinence This is the phase before actual incontinence begins, when our care receiver is showing signs incontinence may be on the horizon.  Signs include: Using the trash can instead of the toilet for toilet paperNot flushing the toiletResisting drinking to avoid bathroom tripsLooking around anxiously (potentially for a bathroom) Early Incontinence When actual incontinence begins, it usually starts with urinary incontinence. Your loved one may still be trying to find the bathroom but often doesn’t make it in time. Signs include: Not getting to the bathroom fast enoughHolding their stomach, bottom, or between their legs Tip 1. Make it Easy to Find the Bathroom Yes, to us this sounds simple. To our loved one, they are disconnecting with the signs their bodies are telling them they need to go, and the steps to use the bathroom. One of the most effective ways to support your loved one during pre-incontinence and early incontinence is by making the bathroom as accessible and easy to find as possible. Tip 2. Schedule Bathroom Breaks Establishing a consistent bathroom routine can significantly reduce accidents and make the transition into full incontinence more manageable. Tip 3. Simplify Cleanup As incontinence progresses, accidents will happen. Being prepared can make cleanup easier and less stressful for both you and your loved one. Tip 4. Think Positively and Have Lots of Grace Perhaps the most important tip of all is to maintain a positive attitude and extend grace to both you and your loved one. Read More in This Blog here Additional Resources Mentioned Episode 11 - Cleaning Your Care Receiver here These resources contain affiliate links so we may receive a small commission for purchases made at no additional cost to you. Child proof door knob cover or double deadbolt locks for external doorsChild proof door knob covers hereExtra tall pet gate from (40” to 70”) - 57” hereDisposable incontinence underwearFor women hereFor men herePadsMattress pads34”x36” here72”X36” hereDisposable incontinence pads hereBrown large pet pee pads hereEasy mopsSwiffer mop hereBona hereHard surface cleanersPine Sol herePooph hereOdoban hereFabuloso hereCarpet cleaningResolve Urine Destroyer hereResolve Ultra Pet hereBissell Pet Carpet Cleaner hereResolve Urine Destroyer Carpet Cleaning Machine Formula here Rate, Subscribe and Share Your Tips on Social Media! Thanks for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe on your favorite podcast platform. Please click here to review, follow or subscribe to our podcast.   If you don’t see your preferred platform click on Podchaser and click at the bottom “Write my review” You can log in with Twitter, Facebook or GoogleOn the right you’ll see a box with “Follow”, “Rate and Review” and “Share”  Connect with us and share your tips: Website: https://www.thecaregiversjourney.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaregiversjourney/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCaregiversJourneys/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suearmstrongryan/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancytreaster/Email: sue@thecaregiversjourney.com, nancy@thecaregiversjourney.com
Preparing for Incontinence: Four Essential Tips / Alzheimer's and Other Dementias
Sep 10 2024
Preparing for Incontinence: Four Essential Tips / Alzheimer's and Other Dementias
Description Who knew being prepared could make such a difference in managing incontinence? Incontinence can be one of the most difficult areas of our caregiving journeys. It’s personal. It’s awkward. It’s rarely something discussed — by anyone — making it potentially uncomfortable to talk about. It’s also one of the most important areas to navigate with compassion and dignity — for us and for our care receiver. Early preparation is essential. This is your moment of truth as a caregiver. Ask yourself: Can I handle this physically? Mentally? Emotionally? And if so, how? The good news is, you’ve got time to think it through, talk with others, and make smart decisions. Use this runway wisely — your future self will thank you. We are Nancy Treaster and Sue Ryan — we’ve faced incontinence care head-on. Trust us, it’s better to think about this now or you’ll wish you had. There’s a lot going on with incontinence! In this episode, we’re sharing four game-changing tips to help you be prepared. Takeaways For takeaways click here  Additional Resources Mentioned Episode 11 - Cleaning Your Care Receiver here These resources contain affiliate links so we may receive a small commission for purchases made at no additional cost to you. Washable incontinence underwear For womenColors hereCream hereFor men Briefs hereBoxer briefs hereDisposable incontinence underwearFor women hereFor men here Rate, subscribe and share your tips on social media! Please click here to review, follow or subscribe to our podcast.   If you don’t see your preferred platform, click on Podchaser and click at the bottom “Write my review” Connect with us and share your tips: Website: https://www.thecaregiversjourney.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaregiversjourney/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCaregiversJourneys/Email: sue@thecaregiversjourney.com, nancy@thecaregiversjourney.com Keywords Preparing for incontinence, Boundaries, Alzheimer's, dementia, caregiver, caregiving, dementia care, memory care, dementia caregiver blog, Alzheimer's blog, caregiver blog, senior caregiver blog, dementia caregiver tips, how to care for someone with dementia living alone, information on dementia for caregivers, how to be a caregiver for someone with dementia, family caregiver, frontotemporal dementia, dementia caregiver tips, family caregiver, Sue Ryan, Nancy Treaster, Susan J Ryan
Preparing Young Adults for a Family Member's Dementia: Four Essential Tips / Alzheimer's and Other Dementias
Sep 3 2024
Preparing Young Adults for a Family Member's Dementia: Four Essential Tips / Alzheimer's and Other Dementias
Description When a close family member is diagnosed with dementia, it can be uniquely challenging for young adults to navigate this new reality. We are Nancy and Merritt Treaster. When Merritt was in his early twenties, his dad, who was 60 at the time, was diagnosed with Frontotemporal dementia. A few short years later, his grandfather, at the age of 85, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Merritt’s experiences led us to create this episode to help other young adults. He has distilled his thoughts on how to be better prepared into four essential tips for young adults facing a family member’s dementia diagnosis. Takeaways For takeaways click here Rate, subscribe and share your tips on social media! Please click here to review, follow or subscribe to our podcast.   If you don’t see your preferred platform, click on Podchaser and click at the bottom “Write my review” Connect with us and share your tips: Website: https://www.thecaregiversjourney.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaregiversjourney/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCaregiversJourneys/Email: sue@thecaregiversjourney.com, nancy@thecaregiversjourney.com Keywords Young adult, teenager, boundaries, incontinence, Alzheimer's, dementia, caregiver, caregiving, dementia care, memory care, dementia caregiver blog, Alzheimer's blog, caregiver blog, senior caregiver blog, dementia caregiver tips, how to care for someone with dementia living alone, information on dementia for caregivers, how to be a caregiver for someone with dementia, family caregiver, frontotemporal dementia, dementia caregiver tips, family caregiver, Sue Ryan, Nancy Treaster, Susan J Ryan, Merritt Treaster
Home Safety: Three Essential Tips / Alzheimer's and Other Dementias
Aug 27 2024
Home Safety: Three Essential Tips / Alzheimer's and Other Dementias
You’re going to wish you’d known about padding hard corners earlier in your caregiving journey! We are Nancy Treaster and Sue Ryan. Through our experiences as caregivers for our family members and loved ones with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia, we’ve learned ensuring home safety is both vitally important and ever-changing. In this post, we’re sharing three main tips for managing safety — both inside and outside the home. These help you keep your loved one safe while giving you peace of mind. Takeaways Practical Tips Tip 1: Create a File of Life One of the most effective ways to keep your loved one safe is by creating a document called File of Life. File of Life was created to give first responders valuable medical and personal information when the people they’re helping can’t. The valuable information this File of Life document contains about your care receiver includes: Tip 2: Care Receiver proof Your Home As your loved one becomes more curious and restless, it’s time to care receiver proof your home. This process is ongoing — observe and adjust as needed. It’s most likely still hard for us to know what they can and can’t remember. We’re so used to them being able to think rationally, it can be a hard transition to using the position they can’t. For those of you who have raised children, it’s the same kind of process — they’re curious, you don’t know what they’ll explore, and they don’t yet know what is safe or dangerous. Tip 3: Minimize Fall Risks Falling is unfortunately inevitable. Here are steps you can take to minimize risks and impact. Pad corners and edges of furnitureRemove area rugs to prevent trippingCheck floors for any loose or risen cornersUse fall tracking devices (wristbands, shoe inserts, phone apps)Improve lighting to reduce shadowsMake shower entry safer (if you have a combination tub/shower — replace it with a shower only and install one without a lip on the floor they could trip on)Grip socks and non-slip shoesBe prepared for falls with tools like a floor lift chairInstall cameras so you can watch their movements For takeaways click here Additional Resources Mentioned File of Life: Create a document called File of Life.Child proof door knob cover or double deadbolt locks for external doorsChild proof door knob covers hereDouble keyed deadbolt hereWindow sash here Child proof cabinet locks hereChild proof stove knob covers hereChild proof refrigerator latch hereChild proof switch plate for garbage disposal hereExtra tall pet gate from (40” to 70”) - 57” hereChild padding foam hereCameras or baby monitor for the bedroom and bathroomBaby monitors - some come with motion alarms hereMotion alarm hereCameras - If your care receiver is still staying home alone, consider one with an intercomRing indoor with two-way talk hereGrip Socks hereFloor lift chairsIndeelift hereGeneric floor lift chair here  Rate, subscribe and share your tips on social media! Please click here to review, follow or subscribe to our podcast.   If you don’t see your preferred platform, click on Podchaser and click at the bottom “Write my review” Connect with us and share your tips: Website: https://www.thecaregiversjourney.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaregiversjourney/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCaregiversJourneys/Email: sue@thecaregiversjourney.com, nancy@thecaregiversjourney.com Keywords Home safety, child proof, dementia proof, reduce falls, Alzheimers, dementia, caregiver, caregiving, Alzheimers care, dementia care, memory care, best dementia podcast, alzheirmers podcast, caregiver podcast, dementia caregiver podcast, dementia podcast, alzheimers podcast, caregiver podcast, senior caregiver podcast, dementia caregiver tips, frontotemporal dementia, dementia caregiver tips, how to deal with dementia as a caregiver, information on dementia for caregivers, how to be a caregiver for someone with dementia, family caregiver, Sue Ryan, Nancy Treaster, Susan J Ryan
Home Alone - in the Beginning: Six Essential Tips / Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias
Aug 20 2024
Home Alone - in the Beginning: Six Essential Tips / Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias
If your loved one can’t do three of the things we discuss in this episode, they should not be home alone. As caregivers for our husbands, parents, and other loved ones with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia, we both know that one of the early goals for our loved one is to help them maintain their independence as long as it's reasonable. You’ll be balancing your concern for their safety with their independence, remembering their ability to stay home alone is temporary. We are Sue Ryan and Nancy Treaster, and through our experiences, we're sharing six key tips for supporting your loved one's ability to be home alone. Show Notes https://sueryansolutions.medium.com/leaving-your-loved-one-at-home-alone-six-essential-tips-b46fc1b6a1ef Related episodes Episode #7 Care Receiver Home Safety / Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias  https://youtu.be/dFlZXGn4r9k Additional Resources Mentioned These resources contain affiliate links so we may receive a small commission for purchases made at no additional cost to you. Audit for home listLaundry: Ability to wash, dry, and put away clothesHome cleaning: Bathroom cleanliness, safe use of cleaning productsPersonal hygiene - Bathing safety, overall cleanliness  Safety with appliances and equipment: Proper use of kitchen appliances Locking and unlocking doors: Security awarenessHome safety: Identifying and removing fall risks (rugs, furniture placement)Temperature control: Appropriate use of thermostat, pre-program and cover over it, control through app. Thermostat control Control through appI use my Nest for this as well and have it on the same app as the cameras hereAmazon product works with Ring hereThermostat cover hereElectronic medication dispensing and monitoring device for caregiver hereInside and outdoor cameras Cameras with an intercomRing indoor with two-way talk hereRing outdoor with two-way talk hereTracking devices for their personApple Airtag hereSamsung SmartTag - hereShoes AirTag hereShoes generic hereWatch here Rate, subscribe and share your tips on social media! Please click here to review, follow or subscribe to our podcast.   If you don’t see your preferred platform, click on Podchaser and click at the bottom “Write my review” Connect with us and share your tips: Website: https://www.thecaregiversjourney.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaregiversjourney/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCaregiversJourneys/Email: sue@thecaregiversjourney.com, nancy@thecaregiversjourney.com
Taking Away the Car Keys: Four Essential Tips / Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias
Jul 30 2024
Taking Away the Car Keys: Four Essential Tips / Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias
If you can successfully leverage tip one in this episode you will have an easy path to taking away the car keys. As caregivers for our husbands, parents, and other loved ones with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia, we both learned that taking away the car keys can be a sensitive and important issue to address. In the beginning stages of dementia, our primary goal is to balance safety with our care receivers' desire for independence. We are Sue Ryan and Nancy Treaster, and through our experiences, we're offering four key tips. Show Notes Takeaways We offer four tips to help you. Tip 1: Understand Legal and Insurance Considerations One of the most effective ways to approach the driving issue is to familiarize yourself with the legal and insurance implications in your area. This involves researching local laws and understanding the potential consequences of allowing someone with dementia to continue driving. Tip 2: Implement Tracking Measures For those in the early stages of dementia who are still able to drive safely, tracking can provide peace of mind for caregivers while allowing the care receiver to maintain some independence. Tip 3: Gradual Transition: Riding Along and Taking Over As dementia progresses, it's helpful to start riding along frequently and gradually take over driving responsibilities. Tip 4: Removing Driving Completely Sometimes, for safety reasons, we need to take more decisive action to prevent our loved ones from driving. Additional Resources Mentioned State laws on dementiaWe found this state by state summary online but can’t vouch for the source.  https://www.dementiacarecentral.com/caregiverinfo/driving-problems/#state-lawsCheck you state or country law specifically by searching like this i the US “state name law driving with dementia” These resources contain affiliate links so we may receive a small commission for purchases made at no additional cost to you. Tracker for their carApple Airtag hereSamsung SmartTag - hereTracking device for their car with speed detection etc … hereTracking device for their personApple Airtag hereSamsung SmartTag - hereShoes AirTag hereShoes generic hereWatch here Rate, subscribe and share your tips on social media! Thanks for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe on your favorite podcast platform. Please click here to review, follow or subscribe to our podcast.   If you don’t see your preferred platform click on Podchaser and click at the bottom “Write my review” You can log in with Twitter, Facebook or GoogleOn the right you’ll see a box with “Follow”, “Rate and Review” and “Share”  Connect with us and share your tips: Website: https://www.thecaregiversjourney.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaregiversjourney/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCaregiversJourneys/Email: sue@thecaregiversjourney.com, nancy@thecaregiversjourney.com Keywords Alzheimers, dementia, caregiver, caregiving, Alzheimers care, dementia care, memory care, best dementia podcast, best alzheirmers podcast, best caregiver podcast, best caregiving podcast, best caregiver podcast, dementia caregiver podcast, dementia podcast, alzheimers podcast, caregiver podcast, senior caregiver podcast, dementia caregiver tips, frontotemporal dementia, dementia caregiver tips, how to deal with dementia as a caregiver, information on dementia for caregivers, how to be a caregiver for someone with dementia, family caregiver, Sue Ryan, Nancy Treaster, Susan J Ryan Push
Wandering: Ten Essential Tips / Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias
Jul 30 2024
Wandering: Ten Essential Tips / Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias
I wish I had known about this child proofing tip before I spent so much money on locksmiths. In this episode we talk about wandering. As caregivers for our husbands, parents, and other loved ones with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia, we've learned that wandering is a complex and often frightening behavior that requires careful management. Wandering can occur both inside and outside the home, during day or night, and each scenario presents unique challenges. We are Sue Ryan and Nancy Treaster, and through our experiences, we have four tips to address wandering while maintaining our loved ones' dignity as well as ensuring their safety. Show Notes Takeaways Outside Wandering Tip 1: Use your grapevine   Tip 2: Consider wearable tracking devices Tip 3: Register them with EMT’s and police Tip 4: Consider child proof door knob covers on doors that lead to the outside Tip 5: Consider window sash locks and a pole for any sliding doors Inside Wandering Tip 1: Safety proof the areas you allow them to go during the day Tip 2: Discuss sleeping medication with their doctor Tip 3: Allow them access at night to only the bedroom and a bathroom Tip 4: Consider cameras or baby monitors to make sure you can watch them especially at night  Tip 5: Safety proof access to stairs  Additional Resources Mentioned 7. Home Safety: Three Essential Tips / Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias  https://youtu.be/dFlZXGn4r9k These resources contain affiliate links so we may receive a small commission for purchases made at no additional cost to you. Tracking devices for their personApple Airtag hereSamsung SmartTag - hereShoes AirTag hereShoes generic hereWatch hereChild proof door knob cover or double deadbolt locks for external doorsChild proof door knob covers hereDouble keyed deadbolt hereWindow sash here Extra tall pet gate from (40” to 70”) - 57” hereCameras or baby monitor for the bedroom and bathroomBaby monitors - some come with motion alarms hereMotion alarm hereCameras - If your care receiver is still staying home alone, consider one with an intercomRing indoor with two-way talk hereRing outdoor with two-way talk here Please click here to review, follow or subscribe to our podcast.   Connect with us and share your tips: Website: https://www.thecaregiversjourney.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaregiversjourney/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCaregiversJourneys/
Communication – in the Beginning: Four Essential Tips / Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias
Jul 30 2024
Communication – in the Beginning: Four Essential Tips / Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias
You are going to wish you knew about the third tip in this episode much earlier! As caregivers for our husbands, parents, and other loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia, we've learned that communication is a constantly evolving process. In the beginning (the early season of the diagnosis), our primary goal is to help our care receivers maintain as much dignity and independence as possible. We are Sue Ryan and Nancy Treaster, and through our experiences, we've developed four tips to help you communicate.  Show Notes Takeaways In this episode, we're talking about communication “in the beginning”. When we say “In the beginning” we mean when you're mostly helping your care receiver manage things (often behind the scenes), while also helping them maintain their independence.  We offer four tips to help you. Tip 1: Help Them Plan Their Day One of the most effective ways to support your loved one is by assisting them in planning their day. This involves understanding what they can realistically accomplish and creating a manageable list of tasks for them to do. The list also helps you support them, making it easier to prompt them gently throughout the day to complete these tasks. This approach helps them feel valued and accomplished at day's end. Tip 2: Simplify and Minimize As cognitive abilities decline, it's important to simplify instructions and minimize distractions. What worked one week might be too complex the next, so constant observation and adjustments are necessary.  Tip 3: Use Positive Reinforcement and Body Language Positive reinforcement can have a profound impact on your loved one's mood and cooperation. Even if it feels unnatural at first, offering praise for completing simple tasks can boost their confidence and create a more positive atmosphere. Tip 4: Share the Truth They Need to Hear While honesty is important, we've learned that it's often more beneficial to share "the truth they need to hear" rather than the whole truth. Rather than think of this as lying, think of it as providing information in a way that minimizes their – and often our - anxiety and frustration. Everything you're experiencing in terms of communication during this early season of their dementia may feel challenging and strange. You'll be constantly adapting and adjusting your approach. But, this is just a phase. You will manage through this situation, and it will get better. Related episodes 2. Memory Loss: Four Essential Tips / Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias / Practical Tips and Candid Conversations Rate, subscribe and share your tips on social media! Thanks for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe on your favorite podcast platform. Please click here to review, follow or subscribe to our podcast.   If you don’t see your preferred platform, click on Podchaser and click at the bottom “Write my review” You can log in with Twitter, Facebook or GoogleOn the right you’ll see a box with “Follow”, “Rate and Review” and “Share”  Connect with us and share your tips: Website: https://www.thecaregiversjourney.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaregiversjourney/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCaregiversJourneys/Email: sue@thecaregiversjourney.com, nancy@thecaregiversjourney.com Keywords Alzheimers, dementia, caregiver, caregiving, Alzheimers care, dementia care, memory care, best dementia podcast, best alzheirmers podcast, best caregiver podcast, best caregiving podcast, best caregiver podcast, dementia caregiver podcast, dementia podcast, alzheimers podcast, caregiver podcast, senior caregiver podcast, dementia caregiver tips, frontotemporal dementia, dementia caregiver tips, how to deal with dementia as a caregiver, information on dementia for caregivers, how to be a caregiver for someone with dementia, family caregiver, Sue Ryan, Nancy Treaster, Susan J Ryan
Memory Loss: Four Essential Tips / Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias
Jul 30 2024
Memory Loss: Four Essential Tips / Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias
Does it feel like a punch in the gut every time you realize something new your loved one has forgotten? As caregivers for our husbands, parents, and other loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia, we've learned that memory loss in the early stages is a challenging journey. In the beginning (the early season of the diagnosis), our primary goal is to help our care receivers maintain as much dignity and independence as possible while providing support behind the scenes. We are Sue Ryan and Nancy Treaster, and through our experiences, we have four main tips that we'd like to share with you. Show Notes Takeaways In this episode, we're talking about memory loss “in the beginning”. When we say “In the beginning” we mean when you're mostly helping your care receiver manage things (often behind the scenes), while also helping them maintain their independence.  We offer four tips to help you. Tip 1: Figure Out What Information They're Struggling to Remember One of the most effective ways to support your loved one is by identifying what information they're having trouble remembering. This involves careful observation and adapting your approach to help them maintain their dignity and independence. Tip 2: Understand and Help with What They Can No Longer Do As the condition progresses, it’s important to adapt tasks your loved one can no longer manage independently. Tip 3: Get Other People Involved, As Appropriate Sharing the diagnosis with others can be a sensitive topic, but it's often crucial for both the caregiver and the care receiver. Tip 4: Watch Out for UTIs - They Can Muddle the Whole Situation Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) can significantly impact cognitive function and behavior in people with dementia and there can often be no symptoms except a sudden cognitive decline. At the beginning it’s hard to get your head around what is happening. You will get through this phase, and your confidence will grow as you learn to handle each new situation.  Related episodes 3. Communication - in the Beginning: Four Essential Tips / Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias / Practical Tips and Candid Conversations Rate, subscribe and share your tips on social media! Thanks for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe on your favorite podcast platform. Please click here to review, follow or subscribe to our podcast.   If you don’t see your preferred platform click on Podchaser and click at the bottom “Write my review” You can log in with Twitter, Facebook or GoogleOn the right you’ll see a box with “Follow”, “Rate and Review” and “Share”  Connect with us and share your tips: Website: https://www.thecaregiversjourney.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaregiversjourney/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCaregiversJourneys/Email: sue@thecaregiversjourney.com, nancy@thecaregiversjourney.com Keywords Alzheimers, dementia, caregiver, caregiving, Alzheimers care, dementia care, memory care, best dementia podcast, best alzheirmers podcast, best caregiver podcast, best caregiving podcast, best caregiver podcast, dementia caregiver podcast, dementia podcast, alzheimers podcast, caregiver podcast, senior caregiver podcast, dementia caregiver tips, frontotemporal dementia, dementia caregiver tips, how to deal with dementia as a caregiver, information on dementia for caregivers, how to be a caregiver for someone with dementia, Sue Ryan, Nancy Treaster, Susan J Ryan
Meet Our Podcast Team: Why a Podcast for Dementia Caregivers
Jul 30 2024
Meet Our Podcast Team: Why a Podcast for Dementia Caregivers
We are Sue Ryan, Nancy Treaster, and Merritt Treaster. In this episode we're introducing ourselves to you and sharing why we are so passionate about bringing you practical tips and candid conversations for Alzheimer’s and other dementia family caregivers.  Show Notes Takeaways Nancy and I have known each other for many years and have often discussed our caregiving journeys together. We're both passionate about helping you navigate your caregiving journeys with fewer surprises and more confidence.  Our podcast offers practical tips and we have candid conversations to help you tackle day -to -day common dementia challenges. Our purpose is to give you the knowledge and the resources you need to navigate your journey with strength, patience, and peace of mind. We're all on this journey together. Rate, subscribe and share your tips on social media! Thanks for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe on your favorite podcast platform. Please click here to review, follow or subscribe to our podcast.   If you don’t see your preferred platform click on Podchaser and click at the bottom “Write my review” You can log in with Twitter, Facebook or GoogleOn the right you’ll see a box with “Follow”, “Rate and Review” and “Share”  Connect with us and share your tips: Website: https://www.thecaregiversjourney.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaregiversjourney/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCaregiversJourneys/Email: sue@thecaregiversjourney.com, nancy@thecaregiversjourney.com Keywords Alzheimers, dementia, caregiver, caregiving, Alzheimers care, dementia care, memory care, best dementia podcast, best alzheirmers podcast, best caregiver podcast, best caregiving podcast, best caregiver podcast, dementia caregiver podcast, dementia podcast, alzheimers podcast, caregiver podcast, senior caregiver podcast, dementia caregiver tips, frontotemporal dementia, dementia caregiver tips, how to deal with dementia as a caregiver, information on dementia for caregivers, how to be a caregiver for someone with dementia, family caregiver, Sue Ryan, Nancy Treaster, Merritt Treaster, Susan J Ryan