Helping Families Build Lasting Relationships While Navigating Dementia

In this insightful episode, we join Lizette Cloete, a seasoned occupational therapist, as she sheds light on the concept of retrogenesis in dementia. This approach provides a deeper understanding of dementia's progression, mirroring a reverse developmental pathway.

Lizette's rich experience and knowledge offer a unique perspective on how caregivers can adapt their approach as dementia evolves.

0:01:54 Arthur's Memory Cafe - Connecting People with Dementia Worldwide

0:05:13 Becoming a family caregiver after mom's stroke

0:08:08 Difficulty navigating the healthcare system as a caregiver

0:13:30 Medication barriers and extra work for caregivers

0:19:14 Thrown into overwhelming caregiver role, reflecting on identity

0:24:11 The difficult decisions and trade-offs of caregiving

0:27:33 Desire to Create Accessible and Reliable Information for Caregivers

0:32:08 Different Websites for Dementia Caregiving

0:43:04 Developing a Strategy for Seamless Transition in Caregiving

0:53:57 The Challenge of Finding Time for Dementia Care Resources

0:55:38 Introducing the Podcast: Dementia Caregiving for Families

See Also on Alzheimer's Speaks Blog:

Blog:

https://alzheimersspeaks.wordpress.com/2023/12/04/helping-families-build-lasting-relationships-throughout-the-dementia-journey/

 Apple Podcast:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/helping-families-build-lasting-relationships-throughout/id986940432?i=1000637506632 

Spotify Podcast:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/4CggERSyOCsalEgfLNZ6FO 

Podlink:

https://pod.link/986940432     

The Emotional Landscape of Dementia Care

Caregiving for dementia is not just a physical task but an emotional journey. We discuss the emotional toll on caregivers, addressing common feelings of depression and anxiety.

Lizette shares her personal experiences, emphasizing the need for caregivers to recognize and address their emotional health.

Strategic Communication in Dementia Care

Effective communication with dementia patients requires understanding and patience. Lizette introduces the PEACE framework, a strategic tool that enhances communication by considering the individual's perspective. This approach fosters a deeper connection between caregivers and their loved ones, making interactions more meaningful.

Confronting Stigma and Building Support Networks

One of the podcast's key focuses is the societal stigma around dementia and how it affects caregiving.

Lizette encourages building a strong support network, acknowledging the 'marathon' nature of dementia caregiving. She stresses the importance of early and consistent support, avoiding crisis-driven decisions.

The Critical Role of Self-Care for Caregivers

Self-care is a central theme, with Lizette advocating for caregivers to prioritize their well-being. She highlights the importance of acknowledging the caregiver role and creating a nurturing environment for themselves and their loved ones.

Joining Forces for a Supportive Community

Listeners are invited to visit DementiaCaregivingMadeEasy.com/start, where a program awaits to assist family caregivers.

This comprehensive resource includes a supportive community, education, coaching, and practical tools, all designed to help caregivers navigate their journey with knowledge and empathy.

Empowering Caregivers for a Fulfilling Journey

Lizette's passion for supporting dementia caregivers shines throughout the episode. She invites listeners to schedule a call for personalized guidance and join the group coaching program at www.DementiaCareGivingMadeEasy.com/start.

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Are you helping a parent with dementia?

The First Thing You Need To Know Is... You Are Not Alone!

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Disclaimer: These blogs, videos and any work done by Lizette Cloete OT, as a Member of Think Different Dementia, LLC, is given only as educational content and consulting work. This does not create an Occupational Therapist-Patient Relationship. The educational content and consulting work performed should not be considered medical treatment as an Occupational Therapist. The consulting work does not take the place of medical work normally performed by a licensed Occupational Therapist. Please consult a licensed Occupational Therapist for medical advice.

“Think Different” Dementia’s owner, Lizette Cloete, OTR/L graduated as an Occupational Therapist from the University of Pretoria in South Africa in 1992. She and her husband emigrated to the USA in 1993, and currently reside in South Carolina. They have 2 daughters and one son-in-love, 4 cats, one dog and 16 chickens.

Lizette has almost 30 years of experience as an Occupational Therapist in a variety of settings, the latest being in the home health environment. Among her many accomplishments, she served on the South Carolina Occupational Therapy Association’s Board of Directors from 2008-2014. She enjoys teaching on the topic of dementia, most recently presenting at a national conference on the topic “Dementia Made Simple”