Episode 32 - The Long Goodbye: Loving Through Alzheimer’s

What happens when the person you planned your retirement with begins to fade… years too soon?In this deeply personal episode of Retired Life, Wish You Were Here, we sit down with Tammy McCabe, a nurse anesthetist who cared for her husband—an anesthesiologist—after he was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia at just 59.Tammy shares what it’s really like to love, support, and care for a spouse through the progression of this disease—from the first signs, to the daily realities of caregiving, to the quiet moments of connection that still shine through.This conversation is for anyone facing dementia, caregiving, or the unexpected loss of the future they once planned.⸻ What We Talk AboutRecognizing early signs of dementiaHearing and processing a life-changing diagnosisThe emotional reality of caregivingStaying connected as memory fadesPractical steps families should take earlyNavigating the final stages with dignityFinding purpose and healing after loss⸻ Key TakeawayCaregiving is one of the hardest roles a person can take on—but it is also one of the deepest expressions of love.⸻ Helpful Resources for CaregiversAlzheimer’s Association    24/7 Helpline: 800-272-3900    Support groups, education, and care planning toolsFamily Caregiver Alliance    Practical guides, caregiver support, and state-by-state resourcesNational Institute on Aging    Easy-to-understand medical info on Alzheimer’s and caregivingEldercare Locator    Connects you to local caregiving services and support⸻ Simple First Steps if You’re Starting This JourneyGet power of attorney and medical directives in place earlyBuild a support team (family, friends, professionals)Don’t wait to ask for help—caregiver burnout is realFind a support group (even online can make a difference)⸻ About the ShowRetired Life, Wish You Were Here shares real stories of retirement—the joy, the challenges, and everything in between—helping you navigate this chapter with purpose and connection.⸻ Stay ConnectedFollow along, share this episode with someone who needs it, and check out our Retired Life, Wish You Were Here merchandise—because every season of life deserves to be lived fully.⸻ Hashtags#AlzheimersAwareness #CaregiverSupport #RetiredLife #WishYouWereHere #DementiaCare #CaregiverLife #LifeAfterLoss #HealthyAging #SupportCaregivers