28. When Words Fade: Loving Herb Through Alzheimer's and Lewy Body Dementia

Send us Fan MailEpisode Description:We talk with Linda Wiebe about loving and caring for her husband Herb through Alzheimer's disease and Lewy Body Dementia, and how digital storytelling helps others see the person behind the diagnosis. We also name the hidden load caregivers carry — from isolation and stigma to the practical decisions that protect a family before crisis hits.the digital story When Words Fade, and why it helped others understandHerb's zest for life and the early changes that signalled something was wrong delays in diagnosis and how uncertainty compounds caregiver stress deciding what to share publicly while protecting dignity and privacy why speaking up can bring relief to those who already notice changes caregiver advocacy through COVID and the realities of 24-7 care financial and legal basics — power of attorney, health care directives, and account safeguards emergency planning and the complexity of family-managed care at home the difficult first year after moving into long-term care helping staff know the person through photos, routines, humour, and respectful communication connecting without words using eye contact, touch, tone, and presencehow friends can help by showing up with simple gestures and timeGuest Bio:Linda Wiebe is a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and lifelong servant-leader whose life has been shaped by a deep commitment to people and community. She has worked and served in several countries, primarily in administrative roles, supporting organizations and ministries.  Alongside her husband, Herb, Linda shared a life rooted in ministry, mentoring, and hospitality. Together, they trained and invested in young people and leaders, creating welcoming spaces where others felt seen, valued, and encouraged.When Herb was diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia and Early-Onset Alzheimer’s, the couple made the courageous decision to continue living outwardly, sharing their journey with honesty and compassion. Through storytelling, including the digital story When Words Fade, Linda now supports and encourages others walking similar paths. Her voice carries empathy, wisdom, and hope, reminding others that love, connection, and dignity endure—even when words fade. Thank you for listening!Do you have a question or a topic related to "capturing essence for care" that you would like discussed on the podcast?  Email:  [email protected] use the "Send us Fan Mail" link at the top of the Episode Description to text the show!Interested in learning more?  Check out my Etsy ShopVisit my YouTube channel or websiteIntro and outro music with thanks:  Upbeat and Sweet No Strings by Musictown Lisa brings over 25 years of experience working in healthcare settings with older adults. The perspectives shared on this podcast are her own and do not represent the views of any past or current employer. Patient/resident stories are shared only with explicit permission or as anonymized composites for educational purposes.