Ep.114 Building Resilience and Community in Dementia Caregiving with Diane Chew

Some of us have already been thrust into the role of caregiver. For many, this has meant the loving call to duty as our parents have aged or have had failing health. No one prepares you for the emotional and physical toll of, not only caring for the loved one, but also the added stress of the daily responsibilities we already had on our plates. But what if the person in our care is our spouse or partner? We may not have the luxury of a team of siblings to act as backup. There's much to learn regarding resources, support, and self-love. Join me as I sit down with Diane Chew, a remarkable home-based dementia caregiver and life coach, who has devoted her life to caring for her husband, Ben. Diagnosed with Lewy body dementia, Ben's journey has been marked by unique challenges. Diane's candid reflections on their early years together, her transition from a scientist to a life coach, and her invaluable lessons offer a wealth of wisdom and support for anyone navigating the complexities of caregiving.Discover the practical strategies Diane has developed to manage Ben's condition, from finding suitable outside resources to the crucial importance of nighttime care for her own well-being. We explore the benefits of using cannabis to manage Ben's symptoms and the stringent safety measures Diane has put in place at home. A recent incident where Ben wandered off underscores the unpredictability of dementia and highlights the emotional highs and lows caregivers face. Diane's story is a testament to the resilience and unwavering love required in the role of caregiver.As "Dementia Coach Diane," social media has become a lifeline for Diane. She proves that it is never too late to develop technology skills, and she shares the growth of her online community, which now serves as a supportive network for caregivers worldwide. Diane's message is clear: caregiving is a choice, and building a support network is essential. Tune in for an episode filled with heartfelt advice, practical tips, and relatable stories.You can find Diane Chew at:www.dementiacoachdiane.comInstagram @dementiacoachdianehttps://www.tiktok.com/@dementiacoachdianeDementia Society of America https://www.dementiasociety.org _________________________________________If you’re doing “all the right things” and still feel stuck, adding a layer of support may be an option. I’ve partnered with a trusted telehealth platform offering modern solutions for women in midlife—including micro-dosed GLP-1 and other peptide therapies.https://elliemd.com/michelefolan - Create a free account to view all products.Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/askingforafriend_pod/✨ Sign up for my weekly newsletter: https://michelefolanfasterway.myflodesk.com/i6i44jw4fqLike to connect? Email me at [email protected] Transcripts are created with AI and may not be perfectly accurate.Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.