In this heartfelt episode of Dementia Discussions, I’m joined by the incredible Kitty Norton, a former assistant editor turned caregiver, blogger, and filmmaker. Kitty shares her inspiring journey from her mother’s dementia diagnosis to becoming her primary caregiver, a role that profoundly changed her life. We explore her transition into advocacy through her candid blog, Stumped Town Dementia, and her documentary film Wine, Women, and Dementia, which is now airing on PBS.Kitty brings her sig...

In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Sherri, a devoted caregiver whose husband Ray has been diagnosed with Lewy body dementia. Sherri shares her journey, from noticing the first subtle changes in Ray's behavior to the emotional and practical challenges they face today.We delve into how Ray's fearless personality and active lifestyle shifted dramatically as the disease progressed, and how Sherri has had to adapt to these changes. This episode is a touching reminder of the resil...

In this heartfelt episode of Dementia Discussions, I'm joined by Robin Degtjarewsky, a listener who reached out to share her inspiring story about caring for her mother, who lives with dementia. Robin opens up about her journey from dealing with her mother's hoarding issues to managing her care from a distance and navigating the challenges that come with dementia. Robin shares the unexpected silver linings that have brought her closer to her mom and offers valuable tips for other caregivers f...

In this episode, I sat down with Melanie, a member of my dementia with Lewy body support group at the UCLA Mary S. Easton Center. Melanie bravely shares her journey as the sole caregiver for her husband, Monty, who's facing a multitude of health challenges, including multiple system atrophy (MSA), diabetes, and dementia.Through our candid conversation, Melanie opens up about the daily struggles and joys of caring for her beloved husband while striving to maintain her own identity. Her story i...

In today's episode, we go on a personal journey of caregiving with my guest, Kim, a long-time listener of our podcast and a daughter navigating the complex world of dementia care for her mother. Kim's story is not just moving—it's filled with insights that only a dedicated caregiver can offer. Whether you're a caregiver yourself or just someone interested in understanding the reality of living with dementia, this episode promises to enrich your perspective. Episode Highlights:[00:25] - K...

In today's episode, I have the pleasure of welcoming Skylar, a young caregiver who has been navigating the complex world of dementia care for her mother. Two years ago, Skylar stepped into the role of primary caregiver, a journey filled with both adversity and profound personal growth. Join us as we explore Skylar's experiences, from managing daily care challenges to making tough decisions about assisted living. This conversation promises insights not only into the practical aspects of caregi...

Dr. Sherry Yafai joins me to discuss cannabis as a treatment for many symptoms that arise with dementia. As an emergency room physician turned cannabis clinician, Dr. Yafai shares her expertise on using cannabis for issues like anxiety, sleep disturbances, and pain. We discuss appropriate dosing, cannabis formulations, and most importantly - seeing a specialist versus experimenting on your own. Dr. Yafai stumbled into the world of medical cannabis while working in the ER, with patients...

In this episode, I speak with Dr. Gabrielle "Dr. Gabby" Mahler, a mobile dentist who makes house calls to patients, the majority of whom have varying stages of dementia. Dr. Gabby explains how she can perform cleanings, fillings, crowns, extractions, and denture fittings in clients' homes and residential facilities. She also shares creative strategies for providing oral hygiene care to those who refuse it or cannot do it themselves.   About my Guest: Dr. Gabrielle “Dr. Gabby” Mahler Dr. Gaby...

Joining me in this episode is Kevin Jameson, founder and CEO of the Dementia Society of America. Kevin shares his personal journey of caring for his wife who was diagnosed with dementia, which led him to start this organization. He provides an in-depth look at the various types of dementia, the importance of early diagnosis, and lifestyle changes we can make to reduce our risk.   About My Guest, Kevin Jameson Kevin started the Dementia Society of America after his wife was diagnosed with...

In this episode, we invite back special guest, Tami Anastasia. I had the pleasure of meeting Tami at an Aging Life Care Association Conference, where Tami's expertise in dementia care stood out. Tami is not just a dementia consultant; she's also an educator and the author of "Essential Strategies for the Dementia Caregiver: Learning to Pace Yourself." Tami's primary focus is on supporting primary caregivers or care partners, those who shoulder the responsibility of caring for a loved one with...

The holidays can be an especially difficult time for dementia caregivers. In this compassionate episode, expert Tammy Anastasia shares her top strategies to reduce caregiver stress, honor feelings of grief, and create new meaningful traditions. I had the pleasure of meeting Tami at an Aging Life Care Association Conference, where Tami's expertise in dementia care stood out. Tami is not just a dementia consultant; she's also an educator and the author of "Essential Strategies for the Dementia...

In this heartfelt episode, I welcome back Jay Swerdlow, a longtime support group member. Jay shares the difficult journey of placing his wife Andy, who has Alzheimer's disease, into memory care. He discusses the challenges of caring for her at home as her disease progressed and delusions worsened. Though it broke his heart, Jay knew he had to make the difficult decision to move Andy to a care facility for both of their wellbeing. He talks about visiting her regularly, dealing with her not...

Today I welcome Debbie, a dedicated wife caring for her husband who is living with Lewy body dementia (LBD). Debbie shares the daily ups and downs of managing her husband's diagnosis, coping strategies that help her stay resilient, and advice for other caregivers walking a similar path. Debbie’s husband was diagnosed with LBD about 5 years ago but exhibited some mild symptoms 10 years prior. He was once an outgoing, successful man who is now grappling with memory loss and confusion. Debbie...

I had the pleasure of sitting down with clinical psychologist Dr. Genifer Goldsmith to discuss the immense stress and guilt that comes with being a caregiver. Our collaboration in co-facilitating a caregiver support group at UCLA for Alzheimer's Disease Research and care has been nothing short of enlightening. As someone who facilitates a caregiver support group, we see these struggles firsthand.  Dr. Goldsmith provides research-backed insights on how to cope. One key element emerges as a...

In today’s episode, I speak with another member of my support group, Beth Lanie, a devoted caregiver to her husband Howard, who has been diagnosed with dementia with Lewy bodies. Beth shares her heartfelt experience, providing insights into the challenges, triumphs, and evolving dynamics of caregiving for a loved one with a progressive neurological condition. Beth discusses Howard's background as an aerospace engineer and their 42-year marriage. She opens up about the initial signs of...

My special guest this week is Valerie Rennert, who opens up about her father's journey with dementia. She shares how their family first became aware of his condition and the ways they tried to support him. Despite the challenges, Valerie emphasizes the silver lining: her father's happiness in the present moment, free from stress.  Valerie fondly remembers her father, who was larger than life and incredibly intelligent. However, as the years went by, they began to notice changes in his memory...

Today I'm joined by Noma Kaz, a seasoned caregiving professional specializing in dementia care. Throughout our conversation, Noma shares her extensive knowledge and experience in the field, helping us explore the intricate dynamics of caregiving for dementia patients, the qualities to seek in an ideal caregiver, and the necessary steps to ensure their effective integration into your loved one's life. I'm confident that this episode will provide you with both comfort and practical advice for...

Franne Golde opens up about her journey with her husband, Paul, who was diagnosed with a disease they knew very little about. Our conversation covers the challenges of finding care for Paul, the timing and benefits of hospice care, and several tools and book recommendations for all caregivers. It's a show that addresses difficult topics, but it's also an important conversation to have. It all began with an early misdiagnosis from a doctor, who called her "a neurotic Jewish housewife."...

Finding strength in a community of other caregivers, in this powerful episode, I’ll speak to Amy Kent, a member of my support group who is caring for both of her parents with dementia. Amy shares her personal story of the day-to-day struggles of caregiving, from hiring caregivers to managing their declining health. She also talks about the emotional toll of caregiving and the financial strain it can cause. But despite the difficulties, Amy has found solace in our support group, and she's now...

It’s amazing how much music comes up in these conversations where we delve into the experiences of those caring for loved ones with dementia. In this episode, James Savage shares his personal journey caring for his wife as her ability to converse fades, he finds himself feeling increasingly isolated and alone, with music providing a vital lifeline in filling the silence. James is a songwriter and has turned his lyrics towards themes of loss and memory, reflecting on his experiences caring for...

Today Barbara is joined by her friend and colleague Bunni Dybnis. A licensed marriage and family therapist, Bunni worked as an Aging Life Care Manager for years and is now a mediator, helping families of the aging and terminally ill work through bereavement, adjustments and transitions. She tells Barbara about her journey to the field of geriatrics, sparked by a course she took through UCLA’s medical school on death and suicide. Bunni realized then how death impacts the person who dies as...

Today Barbara’s guest is Sandra Hunnicutt. Sandra shares her story of taking care of her husband, Don, a brilliant UCLA professor who was a “man on fire” until 2018, when he began to show signs of memory impairment and was diagnosed with mild-to-moderate cognitive impairment. Sandra was Don’s sole caregiver for four years, until his condition deteriorated to the point that she needed to put him in a facility. She and Barbara talk about her experience along the way; how she “slipped into...

Today Barbara is pleased to welcome David Hart, a professor and clinical psychologist who specializes in dementia and caregiving. David is a faculty member in the Department of Counseling at California State University, Fullerton, and is the director of clinical services at Always Best Care Senior Services in Torrance, CA. David shares his personal story about caring for his grandmother, who was diagnosed with dementia when he was 15. He and his mother did their best, he says, but they didn’t...

Nancy Tahara joins Barbara to talk about caring for her friend of 40 years. Now 81, he suffers from Lewy body dementia, Parkinson's disease, and REM sleep behavior disorder. He asked her to come take care of him a year-and-a-half ago, and she’s been his full-time caregiver ever since. Sadly, her friend’s condition is deteriorating quickly, both physically and cognitively. They just finished home health (physical therapy) but it didn’t help, so now they’ll start hospice. Nancy talks about how...