EP 17 Advocating for a Loved One in Healthcare Systems | Dementia Care with Laura Smothers-Chu

In this episode of Wait, Am I Saving the World?, Carrie sits down with Laura Smothers-Chu, founder of Joy in Dementia, to talk about what it really looks like to advocate for a loved one navigating dementia, especially when you’re supporting them from a distance.After her father’s diagnosis while she was working in healthcare, Laura quickly discovered how overwhelming and fragmented dementia resources can be, particularly for long-distance caregivers who want to help but don’t live nearby.Today, Laura mentors caregivers through the realities of dementia care, helping them understand available resources, advocate effectively within healthcare systems, and create meaningful moments with their loved ones along the way.This conversation explores the system gaps caregivers face, the importance of community resources, and how to navigate complex healthcare systems with confidence.While this episode focuses on dementia care, the lessons apply broadly to advocating for yourself or a loved one within healthcare systems, something that affects families at every stage of life, whether supporting aging parents, caring for children with medical needs, or navigating care for anyone we love.Almost everyone has been touched by dementia in some way, making this conversation relevant not only for caregivers but for anyone interested in compassion, advocacy, and supporting families through difficult seasons.A personal note: Editing this episode was especially emotional for me, as it was recorded prior to my own mother's passing on 12/23/2025. Conversations like this remind us just how important support, advocacy, and community are when navigating health challenges in our families.Guest InformationLaura Smothers-Chu Founder, Joy in DementiaLaura supports long-distance caregivers navigating the emotional and logistical realities of dementia care. Drawing from her personal experience supporting her father and her background in healthcare, she mentors caregivers in understanding resources, planning ahead, and advocating for their loved ones within complex healthcare systems.🌐 Website https://joyindementia.comIG: https://www.instagram.com/joy.in.dementia/ Free consultation for caregivers available on her website.⏱️ Chapters00:00 Introduction to Joy in Dementia 01:51 Laura's Personal Journey with Dementia 05:12 The Role of Long-Distance Caregivers 10:15 Identifying Gaps in Dementia Resources 13:00 The Importance of Tailored Support 18:08 Practical Steps for Long-Distance Caregivers 24:38 Recognizing Behavioral Changes in Loved Ones 25:52 First Steps After a Dementia Diagnosis 29:28 The Importance of Community Resources 30:29 Valuing Caregivers in Society 33:05 Wishing for a Cure: The Stigma of Dementia 34:55 Navigating the Healthcare System 39:39 Empowering Caregivers Through Support 44:01 Closing Thoughts & Resources💛 Have thoughts, stories, or questions? I love hearing from listeners. Send a note anytime and it might even make it into a future episode.FB & IG: playmotionkidsWebsite: www.playmotionkids.com Want to bring movement, music, and mindfulness to parents and children in your community? Learn more at www.playmotionkids.com/businessownersIG: better.childhood.project