Dementia Careblazers

If you're a dementia caregiver who barely recognizes yourself anymore, I want you to hear this before anything else: you are not broken, and you have not become a different person. Years of pouring everything into someone else can quietly erase the parts of you that existed before caregiving ever started. This isn't a personality change. It's what sustained, nonstop caregiving does to a nervous system. There is an actual name for what's happening to you, and once you understand it, it becomes something you can work with instead of something to fear.  In this episode I explain what's really going on in your brain after years of dementia caregiving, and I share four specific ways to start feeling like yourself again. If you'd like to see this episode on video, you can hop on over to my YouTube channel here. → Join the Care Collective: https://tinyurl.com/podcast-cc  → Get free weekly tools and tips in my newsletter, The Dementia Dose: https://tinyurl.com/dementiadose-podcast  ⏱ CHAPTERS 0:00 - Why dementia caregivers stop feeling like themselves 1:44 - The psychological term for losing your sense of self 2:47 - How suppressing your emotions changes your brain 4:40 - Four ways to start feeling like yourself again #dementia #dementiacaregiver #dementiacaregiving #caregiverburnout #selfcare   --- Hi, I'm Dr. Natali Edmonds, a board-certified geropsychologist specializing in dementia care. Whether your loved one has Alzheimer's, frontotemporal, Lewy body, vascular, or mixed dementia, we believe that to create a dementia-friendly world, we must first create a caregiver-friendly world. This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for medical guidance.

Dementia caregiving asks you to carry things nobody prepares you for, and some of the hardest parts are never said out loud. This video isn't based on research. It's based on what I've learned from working with thousands of caregivers over the past 17 years as a geropsychologist. If caregiving still hurts even though you're doing everything right, if people question your decisions, if you can't stop replaying every hard moment in your head, I want you to hear this first: none of that means you're failing. In this episode I walk you through five truths about dementia caregiving I wish every caregiver knew, the ones that can make this whole journey feel a little more possible to live.  If you'd like to see this episode on video, you can hop on over to my YouTube channel here. → Join the Care Collective: https://tinyurl.com/podcast-cc  → Get free weekly tools and tips in my newsletter, The Dementia Dose: https://tinyurl.com/dementiadose-podcast  ⏱ CHAPTERS 0:00 - Why this caregiving journey always involves pain 2:40 - Why you can't control how others feel about your caregiving decisions 5:00 - Why you can't take away your loved one's emotional pain 6:50 - Catching the harsh things you say to yourself 7:49 - Why no caregiver has all the answers, and why that's okay #dementia #dementiacaregiver #dementiacaregiving #caregiversupport #alzheimers   --- Hi, I'm Dr. Natali Edmonds, a board-certified geropsychologist specializing in dementia care. Whether your loved one has Alzheimer's, frontotemporal, Lewy body, vascular, or mixed dementia, we believe that to create a dementia-friendly world, we must first create a caregiver-friendly world. This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for medical guidance.

If your loved one with dementia has asked you the same question five, ten, or forty times in the last hour, you know the kind of patience it takes to keep answering. And you probably know the guilt that follows when you finally run out of it. What most caregivers don't realize is that something very specific is happening inside the brain to drive this. Understanding it changes both how you respond and how hard you are on yourself afterward. In this episode I walk you through why someone with dementia repeats the same questions and stories, what's actually going on neurologically, and five strategies that can help, including one proactive approach that rarely gets talked about. ⏱ CHAPTERS 0:00 - When the same question comes up again and again 1:40 - Why the brain stops storing your answers 3:00 - Why feelings outlast the facts 4:50 - When repetition is really anxiety 9:12 - Five strategies that actually help #dementia #dementiacaregiver #dementiacare #alzheimerscaregiving Get free weekly tools and tips in my newsletter, The Dementia Dose: https://tinyurl.com/dementiadose-podcast  Join the Care Collective: https://tinyurl.com/podcast-cc  #dementia #dementiacaregiver #shadowing #alzheimers #caregiversupport --- Hi, I'm Dr. Natali Edmonds, a board-certified geropsychologist specializing in dementia care. Whether your loved one has Alzheimer's, frontotemporal, Lewy body, vascular, or mixed dementia, we believe that to create a dementia-friendly world, we must first create a caregiver-friendly world. This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for medical guidance.

Shadowing in dementia is one of the most exhausting behaviors caregivers face, and almost no one warns you about it. You can't walk to the bathroom alone anymore. The moment you stand up, they stand up. You step into the kitchen for five minutes and there they are in the doorway, watching you. The private phone calls are gone, the personal space is gone, and then comes the guilt for even wanting a moment to yourself. In this episode I explain what is actually happening in the brain that drives shadowing, why your presence has become the only thing that makes them feel safe, and four things that genuinely help. Get free weekly tools and tips in my newsletter, The Dementia Dose: https://tinyurl.com/dementiadose-podcast  Join the Care Collective: https://tinyurl.com/podcast-cc  ⏱ CHAPTERS 0:00 - What shadowing looks like 1:54 - The many forms shadowing can take 2:55 - Reason one: the brain can't self-regulate fear 5:01 - Reason two: losing object permanence 5:51 - Reason three: the gap between now and later 7:08 - Four things that actually help 9:16 - The guilt of wanting space, and what it really means   #dementia #dementiacaregiver #shadowing #alzheimers #caregiversupport --- Hi, I'm Dr. Natali Edmonds, a board-certified geropsychologist specializing in dementia care. Whether your loved one has Alzheimer's, frontotemporal, Lewy body, vascular, or mixed dementia, we believe that to create a dementia-friendly world, we must first create a caregiver-friendly world. This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for medical guidance.

Before the memory problems, confusion, and obvious dementia symptoms, many families notice something else first: money problems. Missed bill payments, unusual purchases, giving money away, falling for scams, or struggling to manage finances can sometimes be among the earliest signs of dementia. Research now shows these financial changes may appear years before a dementia diagnosis is ever made. In this episode, I explain why money management is often one of the first cognitive skills affected by dementia, what the research says about financial warning signs appearing up to six years before diagnosis, and what caregivers can do to help protect a loved one's financial security. Whether you're concerned about early signs of dementia, supporting someone with Alzheimer's disease, or already navigating the challenges of caregiving, this episode will help you understand what may be happening and what steps to take next. ⏱ CHAPTERS 0:00 - Did the money warning come before the memory problems? 2:10 - What financial warning signs actually look like 4:00 - Why managing money is the brain's first stress test 8:01 - Why these signs are so easy to miss 10:43 - Practical steps to take now #dementia #dementiacaregiver #dementiasigns #alzheimers #caregiving Get free weekly tools and tips in my newsletter, The Dementia Dose: https://tinyurl.com/dementiadose-podcast  Join the Care Collective: https://tinyurl.com/podcast-cc  --- Hi, I'm Dr. Natali Edmonds, a board-certified geropsychologist specializing in dementia care. Whether your loved one has Alzheimer's, frontotemporal, Lewy body, vascular, or mixed dementia, we believe that to create a dementia-friendly world, we must first create a caregiver-friendly world. This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for medical guidance.

If your loved one with Alzheimer's disease is on one of the new treatment drugs, or you have been weighing whether to try them, the headlines from this spring may have stopped you cold. A major review from one of the most respected research organizations in the world concluded these drugs show no meaningful benefit. Researchers immediately fired back. And you are in the middle of all of it, as a caregiver trying to make real decisions for a real person. Your confusion is completely warranted. This is not a simple story. One headline says breakthrough. The next says it does nothing. But the full picture is more complicated than either side is telling you. In this episode I walk you through what the Cochrane review actually found, why experts are so divided on it, and the three questions you can bring to your loved one's neurologist to make a more informed decision for your specific family. Cochrane Collaboration Review (Full Study): https://www.cochrane.org/about-us/news/anti-amyloid-alzheimers-drugs-show-no-clinically-meaningful-effect  Get free weekly tools and tips in my newsletter, The Dementia Dose: https://tinyurl.com/dementiadose-podcast  Join the Care Collective: https://tinyurl.com/podcast-cc  ⏱ CHAPTERS  0:00 - The headlines that stopped caregivers  1:46 - Who these drugs are actually designed for  2:56 - What the Cochrane review found  5:26 - Why researchers are pushing back  7:50 - 3 questions to ask your loved one's doctor #dementia #dementiacaregiver #alzheimers #caregiving #alzheimersresearch --- Hi, I'm Dr. Natali Edmonds, a board-certified geropsychologist specializing in dementia care. Whether your loved one has Alzheimer's, frontotemporal, Lewy body, vascular, or mixed dementia, we believe that to create a dementia-friendly world, we must first create a caregiver-friendly world. This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for medical guidance.

Have you noticed your loved one with dementia seems like a completely different person every evening? The confusion, the agitation, the restlessness — and then the nights when they're up convinced it's morning — it's exhausting in a way that's hard to put into words. It is not something you caused or something you missed. New research published in December 2025 finally gives us a neurological explanation for why dementia gets worse in the evening, and it has nothing to do with what you are doing. In this episode I walk you through what the science reveals, what actually helps, and what tends to make it harder. Get free weekly tools and tips in my newsletter, The Dementia Dose: https://tinyurl.com/dementiadose-podcast  ⏱ CHAPTERS  0:00 - What evenings look like for many dementia caregivers 1:45 - What sundowning actually is 3:18 - New brain research: what's happening inside the brain 5:22 - 5 things that can help 8:11 - What tends to make it harder #dementia #dementiacare #alzheimers #dementiacaregiver --- Hi, I'm Dr. Natali Edmonds, a board-certified geropsychologist specializing in dementia care. Whether your loved one has Alzheimer's, frontotemporal, Lewy body, vascular, or mixed dementia, we believe that to create a dementia-friendly world, we must first create a caregiver-friendly world. This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for medical guidance.

Making caregiving decisions is hard in a way most people around you won't understand. The stakes are real. The information is incomplete. And somewhere in the back of your mind, you're already afraid of being wrong. If you've been circling a decision for weeks — or months — and still can't seem to make a move, your brain isn't broken. There are five specific thought patterns that make caregiving decisions feel nearly impossible, and once you can name them, something shifts. In this video I walk you through all five and what to actually do about them. Ready to work through a real decision you've been dreading? Join me here: https://tinyurl.com/difficult-decisions-pod  ⏱ CHAPTERS 0:00 - The decision you've been avoiding 2:05 - Why not deciding still costs you 2:50 - The 5 thought patterns keeping you stuck 9:50 - What to do before this video ends 11:30 - The Difficult Decisions live class #dementia #dementiacare #alzheimers #dementiacaregiver --- Hi, I'm Dr. Natali Edmonds, a board-certified geropsychologist specializing in dementia care. Whether your loved one has Alzheimer's, frontotemporal, Lewy body, vascular, or mixed dementia, we believe that to create a dementia-friendly world, we must first create a caregiver-friendly world. This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for medical guidance.

Being accused of stealing by the person you are giving everything to is one of the most quietly devastating things that happens in dementia caregiving. It does not just feel unfair. It strikes at your identity, your dignity, and the relationship you had before all of this. And because it can happen over and over, with no memory that it happened before, many caregivers absorb these accusations alone, without ever really being told why it happens or what they can actually do. There is a neurological reason for this. And it has nothing to do with how your loved one truly feels about you. In this episode I walk you through what is happening in the dementia brain that causes stealing accusations, why the instinct to defend yourself almost always backfires, and four specific things you can try the next time it happens. If you'd like to see this episode on video, you can hop on over to my YouTube channel here. Get free weekly tools and tips in my newsletter, The Dementia Dose: https://tinyurl.com/dementiadose-podcast  ⏱ CHAPTERS 0:00 - You are not alone: naming the experience 1:40 - The many ways stealing accusations show up 2:45 - Three things happening in the dementia brain 6:30 - Responses that unintentionally make things worse 9:00 - Four strategies that actually help   #dementia #dementiacare #alzheimers #dementiacaregiver --- Hi, I'm Dr. Natali Edmonds, a board-certified geropsychologist specializing in dementia care. Whether your loved one has Alzheimer's, frontotemporal, Lewy body, vascular, or mixed dementia, we believe that to create a dementia-friendly world, we must first create a caregiver-friendly world. This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for medical guidance.

When your family doesn't believe the dementia diagnosis, it can feel like you are grieving two losses at once. Family denial is one of the most painful and isolating experiences a dementia caregiver can go through. In this episode, I'm going to explain why it happens and what you can actually do about it. If you'd like to see this episode on video, you can hop on over to my YouTube channel here. Get free weekly tools and tips in my newsletter, The Dementia Dose: https://tinyurl.com/dementiadose-podcast  Chapters: 0:00 When family doesn't believe the diagnosis 2:13 Why this feels so isolating 4:04 Reason 1: Denial is protective 5:00 Reason 2: Visiting isn't caregiving 6:27 Reason 3: Anosognosia 7:30 You didn't cause this 8:00 Why convincing them backfires 10:00 What actually helps 12:26 What you're allowed to feel   #dementia #dementiacare #alzheimers #dementiacaregiver --- Hi, I'm Dr. Natali Edmonds, a board-certified geropsychologist specializing in dementia care. Whether your loved one has Alzheimer's, frontotemporal, Lewy body, vascular, or mixed dementia, we believe that to create a dementia-friendly world, we must first create a caregiver-friendly world. This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for medical guidance.

A new Alzheimer's blood test was just approved by the FDA and it changes everything about how families get answers. For years, confirming Alzheimer's disease meant expensive brain scans or invasive procedures most people couldn't access. Now a simple blood draw can detect Alzheimer's markers in the body... up to 3 to 4 years before symptoms even begin. In this episode I break down what the Alzheimer's blood test actually measures, how accurate it is, and what you can ask your doctor right now. If you'd like to see this episode on video, you can hop on over to my YouTube channel here. Get free weekly tools and tips in my newsletter, The Dementia Dose: https://tinyurl.com/dementiadose-podcast  CHAPTERS 00:00 You are not imagining this 01:18 Why an Alzheimer's diagnosis has always been so hard to get 03:30 What doctors were working with before 05:00 The new blood test: what it measures and how it works 07:15 How accurate is it? 08:30 What this means for you right now 11:00 What can still make this harder #dementia #dementiacare #alzheimers #dementiacaregiver --- Hi, I'm Dr. Natali Edmonds, a board-certified geropsychologist specializing in dementia care. Whether your loved one has Alzheimer's, frontotemporal, Lewy body, vascular, or mixed dementia, we believe that to create a dementia-friendly world, we must first create a caregiver-friendly world. This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for medical guidance.

If your loved one used to fix things, run the household, stay busy and now they just sit there, you're probably wondering what happened. Are they depressed? Have they given up? Do they even care anymore? They do. And what's happening is not what it looks like. In this episode, I'm breaking down why someone with dementia withdraws from daily life, why their brain learns to stop trying, and why nothing you say seems to change it.  If you'd like to see this episode on video, you can hop on over to my YouTube channel here. → Join the Care Collective: https://tinyurl.com/re-sales-podcast  Get free weekly tools and tips in my newsletter, The Dementia Dose: https://tinyurl.com/dementiadose-podcast    Chapters: 00:00 Intro 01:30 Why ability declines faster than awareness 03:30 How the brain learns to avoid what feels bad 04:35 Three neurological shifts behind the withdrawal 07:00 Why reassurance stops working  08:15 When to talk to their doctor   #dementia #dementiacare #alzheimers #dementiacaregiver --- Hi, I'm Dr. Natali Edmonds, a board-certified geropsychologist specializing in dementia care. Whether your loved one has Alzheimer's, frontotemporal, Lewy body, vascular, or mixed dementia, we believe that to create a dementia-friendly world, we must first create a caregiver-friendly world. This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for medical guidance.

Bathroom challenges are one of the most common, and least talked about, parts of dementia caregiving. You've tried asking. You've tried reminding. You've tried everything. And it still isn't working. This isn't defiance. It isn't stubbornness. What's happening in the brain is making the bathroom one of the hardest spaces for someone with dementia to navigate. The bathroom requires more brain systems working together than almost any other room in the home.  In this episode I walk through the most common reasons people with dementia struggle with the bathroom — and what you can do about it. If you'd like to see this episode on video, you can hop on over to my YouTube channel here. → Join the Care Collective: https://tinyurl.com/re-sales-podcast  Get free weekly tools and tips in my newsletter, The Dementia Dose: https://tinyurl.com/dementiadose-podcast  ⏱️ CHAPTERS 0:00 - Introduction 0:24 - Common bathroom behaviors caregivers are dealing with 1:00 - Why the bathroom is cognitively demanding 2:00 - Interoception: why they don't know they have to go 3:15 - Apraxia and difficulty sequencing bathroom steps 4:15 - Aphasia and not understanding instructions 4:45 - Why the bathroom environment increases confusion 8:00 - Practical strategies to try   #dementia #dementiacare #alzheimers #dementiacaregiver --- Hi, I'm Dr. Natali Edmonds, a board-certified geropsychologist specializing in dementia care. Whether your loved one has Alzheimer's, frontotemporal, Lewy body, vascular, or mixed dementia, we believe that to create a dementia-friendly world, we must first create a caregiver-friendly world. This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for medical guidance.

The number one mistake dementia caregivers make is waiting.  Waiting until things get harder. Waiting for the right moment. Waiting until they feel like they really need support. And it makes complete sense why. When difficulty builds slowly, your brain adapts. What felt overwhelming six months ago becomes your new normal. And before long, you stop being able to accurately measure just how much your life has changed.  But here is what I want you to hear. The moment things feel manageable is not the least important time to get support. It is one of the most important.  In this episode I explain exactly why our brains convince us to wait, why getting support early makes such a meaningful difference, and what you can do right now even if things feel okay. You don't have to be drowning to deserve support.  → Join the Care Collective: https://tinyurl.com/re-sales-podcast  If you'd like to see this episode on video, you can hop on over to my YouTube channel here. Get free weekly tools and tips in my newsletter, The Dementia Dose: https://tinyurl.com/dementiadose-podcast    ⏱ CHAPTERS  0:00 - The number one mistake dementia caregivers make  1:29 - You are already in it even if it doesn't feel that way  2:43 - Why your brain convinces you to wait (the science behind it)  5:45 - Why waiting until crisis makes everything harder  7:00 - What to do right now even if things feel manageable --- Hi, I'm Dr. Natali Edmonds, a board-certified geropsychologist specializing in dementia care. Whether your loved one has Alzheimer's, frontotemporal, Lewy body, vascular, or mixed dementia, we believe that to create a dementia-friendly world, we must first create a caregiver-friendly world. This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for medical guidance.

Sudden decline in dementia is one of the scariest things a caregiver can witness. One day they were walking. One day they were talking. And then almost overnight, they weren't. Most caregivers in this moment think they missed something. Or that this is just the next stage. But sudden dramatic changes are not typically how dementia progresses. And knowing the difference between expected progression and a medical red flag could change everything for your loved one right now. Gradual change fits dementia. Sudden change requires investigation. In this episode I walk you through the most common medical causes of sudden decline in dementia, how to tell the difference, and exactly what to say when a doctor tells you it's just the dementia. If you'd like to see this episode on video, you can hop on over to my YouTube channel here. Get free weekly tools and tips in my newsletter, The Dementia Dose: https://tinyurl.com/dementiadose-podcast  Learn more about the Care Collective: https://careblazers.com/for-families   --- Hi, I'm Dr. Natali Edmonds, a board-certified geropsychologist specializing in dementia care. Whether your loved one has Alzheimer's, frontotemporal, Lewy body, vascular, or mixed dementia, we believe that to create a dementia-friendly world, we must first create a caregiver-friendly world. This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for medical guidance.

If your loved one with dementia has become mean, sharp, cruel, or just completely different toward you, I want you to hear this first: you are not imagining it. And you are not failing. This is one of the most painful parts of dementia caregiving because it doesn't just feel hard. It feels personal. In this episode I explain exactly what is happening in the brain that causes this, why it is not their true personality coming out, and how to understand it in a way that protects both your heart and your sanity. If you'd like to see this episode on video, you can hop on over to my YouTube channel here. Learn more about the Care Collective: https://careblazers.com/for-families   Get free weekly tools and tips in my newsletter, The Dementia Dose: https://tinyurl.com/dementiadose-podcast    --- Hi, I'm Dr. Natali Edmonds, a board-certified geropsychologist specializing in dementia care. Whether your loved one has Alzheimer's, frontotemporal, Lewy body, vascular, or mixed dementia, we believe that to create a dementia-friendly world, we must first create a caregiver-friendly world. This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for medical guidance.

If your loved one with dementia believes they are living decades in the past, you are not alone. They may ask for parents who passed away long ago, think they still have a job they retired from years ago, or believe their children are still young. In this episode, I explain why this happens in dementia, why correcting someone often makes things worse, and how you can respond in a way that reduces distress instead of escalating the situation.  If you'd like to see this episode on video, you can hop on over to my YouTube channel here. Download my Free Careblazer Survival Guide (60+ pages of dementia caregiving tips) here: https://tinyurl.com/yt-survival   **This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for medical guidance.

Dementia behaviors can feel confusing, frustrating, and exhausting, especially when the more you try to explain or reason, the worse it seems to get. In this episode, I'm sharing 5 underrated ways to handle dementia behaviors that actually work in real life. These are practical, psychology-based strategies you can try the next time your loved one with dementia becomes defensive, upset, anxious, or stuck in a belief that doesn't match your reality. These strategies are simple, but they can dramatically shift how a moment unfolds. You don't have to try all five. Start with one this week and notice what changes. If you'd like to see this episode on video, you can hop on over to my YouTube channel here. Get your FREE Dementia Careblazer Survival Guide, downloaded over 100,000 times worldwide: https://go.careblazers.com/survivalguide    **This channel and any information by Dementia Careblazers is not a substitute for healthcare. This is not healthcare advice. Please talk to your healthcare providers for specific feedback on your situation.  

Why does responding to dementia behaviors still feel so hard? In this video, I explain the three reasons it feels exhausting and unpredictable even when you're doing everything "right." Sometimes what worked yesterday stops working today, not because you failed, but because the brain is changing. If you'd like more practical, real-world guidance, join my upcoming Dementia Behaviors Breakthrough Program. Sign up here: https://careblazers.com/breakthrough Get free weekly tools and tips in my newsletter, The Dementia Dose here: https://tinyurl.com/dementiadose-yt   **This channel and any information by Dementia Careblazers is not a substitute for healthcare. This is not healthcare advice. Please talk to your healthcare providers for specific feedback on your situation.

Should you let your loved one with dementia help… even when it makes everything harder? You're told to keep them engaged. Involved. Independent. Let them contribute so they can maintain their abilities and feel useful. But sometimes when you do, everything takes longer. It gets messier. You fall behind. You feel frustrated. And then the guilt sets in for even feeling that way. In this video, I talk about the real tension caregivers face when letting a loved one with dementia help with everyday tasks does not go smoothly. How do you decide when participation is truly helpful and when it's okay to step in and just get it done? If you want to go deeper into understanding dementia behaviors and how to respond in real-life situations, join me for my live Behavior Breakthroughs class. You can learn more and sign up here: https://careblazers.com/breakthrough Get free weekly tools and tips in my newsletter, The Dementia Dose here: https://tinyurl.com/dementiadose-yt   **This channel and any information by Dementia Careblazers is not a substitute for healthcare. This is not healthcare advice. Please talk to your healthcare providers for specific feedback on your situation.

Can something as simple as one egg a week really lower the risk of Alzheimer's disease? In this video, I break down two long-term U.S. research studies looking at eggs and brain health. One study from the Rush Memory and Aging Project found that older adults who ate about one egg per week had a significantly lower risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.  A second study found that higher egg intake was linked to better cognitive performance in women, with no evidence of cognitive harm in men. Eggs are not a cure for dementia. But they are a simple, accessible food that contains nutrients the brain needs.For caregivers and older adults who want to support long-term brain health, small changes can matter. If you'd like to read the full studies, both are linked below. https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/16/16/2765 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S002231662400289X?via%3Dihub Get free weekly tools and tips in my newsletter, The Dementia Dose here: https://tinyurl.com/dementiadose-yt

Urinary tract infections are one of the most common reasons people with dementia end up in the emergency room. In this video, I talk with Dr. Krieger, an emergency room physician, about why UTIs often look different in dementia and why sudden changes should not automatically be blamed on dementia progression. Dr. Krieger is also the creator of Uraguard, a product designed to help reduce bacterial exposure around the urethra for women with incontinence. We talk about where tools like this may fit into UTI prevention, along with other practical strategies caregivers can use. Learn more about Uraguard here: https://tinyurl.com/uraguard-careblazers-yt

Why does dementia look so different from one family to the next? This is a question I hear from caregivers all the time. Two people can have the same diagnosis and be the same age, yet their symptoms and caregiving challenges can look completely different. In this video, I break down what the 2025 NIH dementia progress report helps explain about why dementia does not follow one clear or predictable path. I cover what researchers are learning about dementia risk and protection, what is happening in the brain beyond memory loss, and what the science is showing about care planning and the caregiving experience. This is Part 2 of a two-part series based on the 2025 NIH dementia research update.  If you missed Part 1, you can find it here: https://youtu.be/Zzvdk5isef4 You can read the full NIH progress report here: https://www.nia.nih.gov/about/2025-nih-dementia-research-progress-report Get free weekly tools and tips in my newsletter, The Dementia Dose here: https://tinyurl.com/dementiadose-yt

Are we actually making progress in dementia research, or does it just feel like nothing has changed?  In this video, I break down what the latest dementia research really shows based on the most recent data from the National Institutes of Health. We will talk about what is changing in detection, treatment, and prevention, and what this actually means for family caregivers making decisions right now. This is Part 1 of a two part series. In Part 2, I will go deeper into why dementia happens, who is most at risk, and what research is revealing about care quality and the caregiver experience. Read the full report here: https://www.nia.nih.gov/about/2025-nih-dementia-research-progress-report

In this video, I share what dementia caregivers need most...and it's probably not what you've been told. This insight comes from the longest study ever conducted on human health and wellbeing: the Harvard Study on Adult Development, which followed people for more than 85 years. What researchers found challenges common assumptions about success, strength, and resilience. I break down what the science actually says, why this matters so much for caregivers in the middle of dementia care, and how connection and emotional safety play a powerful role in both caregiver health and dementia care outcomes.  Read about the study here: https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2017/04/over-nearly-80-years-harvard-study-has-been-showing-how-to-live-a-healthy-and-happy-life/ If you're feeling stretched thin, disconnected, or unsure how to keep going long term, this video will help you reframe what truly supports you, and your loved one, as the journey continues. Get free weekly tools and tips in my newsletter, The Dementia Dose here: https://tinyurl.com/dementiadose-yt

Many families look back and realize the early signs of dementia were there long before the diagnosis. In this video, I share real examples from caregivers who noticed subtle changes in hindsight, things that didn't seem like dementia at the time.  These early signs often go beyond memory loss and show up in daily routines, personality, decision-making, and behavior. If you're wondering whether what you're seeing in a loved one is normal aging or something more, this video will help you think differently about early warning signs and when it may be worth getting more information.  📩 Get weekly caregiver education and support in my free Dementia Dose newsletter: https://tinyurl.com/dementiadose-yt

Why can someone with dementia remember a delusion in vivid detail, yet forget what actually happened? In this video, I explain why dementia affects emotional memory differently from factual memory and why delusions can feel so real and unshakable. When you understand what's happening in the brain, it becomes easier to respond with comfort instead of argument.  If you've ever felt frustrated trying to correct or reason with a loved one who believes something that isn't true, this will help you understand why logic doesn't work and what does. Read the Studies: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11309671/  https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2012.00331/full Get free weekly tools and tips in my newsletter, The Dementia Dose here: https://tinyurl.com/dementiadose-yt Visit Our Website: https://careblazers.com https://www.instagram.com/Dementia_Careblazers https://www.facebook.com/DementiaCareblazers

In this video, I explore whether facial changes could be an early sign of dementia. Over the past few years, researchers have uncovered intriguing evidence showing that the brain impacts the face, and that subtle changes in facial expression and movement may be linked to dementia. This does not mean dementia can be diagnosed by looking at someone's face. But it does help explain why caregivers sometimes notice fewer smiles, less expression, or slower emotional reactions long before memory problems become obvious. I walk you through what the research is actually showing, what these facial changes may indicate, and just as importantly, what they do not mean. You'll also learn why a lack of visible expression doesn't mean your loved one isn't feeling, connecting, or enjoying what's happening. If you've noticed changes and wondered what they might mean, this video will help you make sense of what you're seeing.

Is this dementia… or is it just their personality? In this video, I explain why dementia can intensify longstanding personality traits, including patterns often seen in narcissistic, borderline, or histrionic personalities. You'll learn the brain science behind what's happening, why it feels so emotionally confusing, and how to respond in ways that protect both you and your loved one.

Dementia can change far more than memory — it can change how a person sees the world, even when their eye exam looks "normal." In this video, I explain the most common vision changes in dementia, including tunnel vision, depth perception problems, color and contrast loss, and visual misrecognition. I also cover less common symptoms like motion blindness and visual hallucinations. You'll learn what's part of normal aging versus what's caused by dementia, and practical ways to make your loved one's environment safer and less confusing, from lighting and contrast tips to simple home adjustments. If your loved one is bumping into objects, startled easily, or saying things "disappeared," this video will help explain why.

Many caregivers feel overwhelmed, resentful, or alone long before they ever realize that what they're experiencing is normal in dementia caregiving. In today's video, Carolyn shares her deeply honest story of caring for her mom. a relationship marked by decades of tension, and how everything changed once she learned a new way to understand dementia and respond differently. If you've ever felt exhausted, guilty, trapped, or unsure how to keep going… this conversation is for you.

Have you ever asked your loved one with dementia a simple question… and then waited far longer than you expected for an answer? Those long pauses can feel confusing or even worrying, but they're actually telling us something important about what's happening inside the brain. In this video, I break down why people with dementia often take so long to respond, what's happening with processing speed and neural pathways, and how you can support them in a way that reduces frustration for both of you. This is one of the most common questions I hear from caregivers, and understanding this piece can make communication feel calmer, easier, and more connected. Get free weekly tools and tips in my newsletter, The Dementia Dose here: https://tinyurl.com/dementiadose-yt

When your loved one moves into memory care, it's easy to focus on the big details- paperwork, doctors, medications. But sometimes, it's the small things that make the biggest difference. In today's video, I'm sharing simple but powerful ways to make your loved one's stay in memory care more comfortable. These are practical tips that care staff say they wish more families knew, things like the best types of clothing, how to make dressing easier, and how tiny adjustments can improve comfort, safety, and dignity. Get free weekly tools and tips in my newsletter, The Dementia Dose here: https://tinyurl.com/dementiadose-yt  #Careblazers #MemoryCare #DementiaCare #dementiatips

Have you noticed your loved one with dementia leaning to one side when they sit or walk? This might look strange or even alarming, but there's often an explanation.  In today's podcast, I'm breaking down what's known as Pisa Syndrome, what it is, what causes it, and what you can do if you notice this happening in your loved one. We'll talk about how it can show up in both dementia and Parkinson's disease, how certain medications can sometimes play a role, and what steps to take with your loved one's doctor. Get free weekly tools and tips in my newsletter, The Dementia Dose, here: https://tinyurl.com/dementiadose-yt   #Careblazers #DementiaCare #PisaSyndrome #DementiaTips

Many caregivers are asking about the surprising connection between lithium and dementia after a recent Harvard study sparked headlines. In this video, I break down what researchers actually found, what it could mean for Alzheimer's disease, and what caregivers should not do without medical guidance.   You'll learn how lithium affects brain cells, why scientists are hopeful, and the important safety reminders every caregiver should know. Read the study here: https://hms.harvard.edu/news/could-lithium-explain-treat-alzheimers-disease

askchapter.org/careblazers Chapter: Chapter and its affiliates are not connected with or endorsed by any government entity or the federal Medicare program. Chapter Advisory, LLC represents Medicare Advantage HMO, PPO, and PFFS organizations and stand alone prescription drug plans that have a Medicare contract. Enrollment depends on the plan's contract renewal. While we have a database of every Medicare plan nationwide and can help you to search among all plans, we have contracts with many but not all plans. As a result, we do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 50 organizations which offer 18,160 products nationwide. We search and recommend all plans, even those we don't directly offer. You can contact a licensed Chapter agent to find out the number of products available in your specific area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-Medicare, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.

askchapter.org/careblazers Chapter: Chapter and its affiliates are not connected with or endorsed by any government entity or the federal Medicare program. Chapter Advisory, LLC represents Medicare Advantage HMO, PPO, and PFFS organizations and stand alone prescription drug plans that have a Medicare contract. Enrollment depends on the plan's contract renewal. While we have a database of every Medicare plan nationwide and can help you to search among all plans, we have contracts with many but not all plans. As a result, we do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 50 organizations which offer 18,160 products nationwide. We search and recommend all plans, even those we don't directly offer. You can contact a licensed Chapter agent to find out the number of products available in your specific area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-Medicare, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.

askchapter.org/careblazers Chapter: Chapter and its affiliates are not connected with or endorsed by any government entity or the federal Medicare program. Chapter Advisory, LLC represents Medicare Advantage HMO, PPO, and PFFS organizations and stand alone prescription drug plans that have a Medicare contract. Enrollment depends on the plan's contract renewal. While we have a database of every Medicare plan nationwide and can help you to search among all plans, we have contracts with many but not all plans. As a result, we do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 50 organizations which offer 18,160 products nationwide. We search and recommend all plans, even those we don't directly offer. You can contact a licensed Chapter agent to find out the number of products available in your specific area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-Medicare, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.

askchapter.org/careblazers Chapter: Chapter and its affiliates are not connected with or endorsed by any government entity or the federal Medicare program. Chapter Advisory, LLC represents Medicare Advantage HMO, PPO, and PFFS organizations and stand alone prescription drug plans that have a Medicare contract. Enrollment depends on the plan's contract renewal. While we have a database of every Medicare plan nationwide and can help you to search among all plans, we have contracts with many but not all plans. As a result, we do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 50 organizations which offer 18,160 products nationwide. We search and recommend all plans, even those we don't directly offer. You can contact a licensed Chapter agent to find out the number of products available in your specific area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-Medicare, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.

Could artificial intelligence actually increase dementia risk? In this video, I break down new research from MIT that shows how relying too much on AI tools like ChatGPT may reduce brain activity, weaken memory, and cut down on the very mental exercise that protects us from dementia. I'll share what this study means for caregivers, how to use AI without harming your brain health, and simple ways to keep your mind strong while caring for your loved one. Your brain health matters just as much as your loved one's. Let's talk about what's safe, what's risky, and how to stay sharp in an AI world.

In dementia caregiving, saying "yes" to keep your loved one happy can sometimes put them at risk. In this video, you'll learn why safety must come before constant smiles and how to set limits without drowning in guilt.  I'll share real examples of situations caregivers face, like driving, cooking, finances, and living alone, where "yes" can quickly turn into harm. You'll also hear a simple motto that helps caregivers feel more confident saying no: "Love says no when yes is dangerous." What about you? Have you ever had to say no to your loved one for safety reasons? Share your experience in the comments so other caregivers know they aren't alone.  Get free weekly tools and tips in my newsletter, The Dementia Dose here: https://tinyurl.com/dementiadose-yt

Many caregivers feel guilty about things they shouldn't...asking for help, taking time for themselves, even going to a doctor's appointment. In this video, I share real examples of why caregivers feel guilty, what that guilt does to your health, and how to finally let go of it. I'll show you why guilt shows up, how to recognize when your mind is being too harsh, and one simple shift that can help you release it. You deserve grace and compassion just as much as your loved one does. What's one thing you've felt guilty about as a caregiver that, looking back, you know you didn't need to?

What if a simple ingredient sitting in your kitchen could help protect your brain? A groundbreaking study from Harvard tracked over 92,000 people for nearly 30 years… and the results were eye-opening. In this episode, I'm sharing what researchers found and how it could impact your risk of dementia — including how it might help people already experiencing memory problems. You'll learn: The exact daily amount researchers studied A surprising brain benefit you probably haven't heard about  Easy, delicious ways to use this kitchen staple every day  If you've been looking for simple steps to support your brain health — or your loved one's — this is one you don't want to miss.  🧠 Full research link: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2818362 If you'd like to see this episode on video, you can hop on over to my YouTube channel here. Get Weekly Dementia Tips in Your Inbox! Sign up for our FREE Dementia Dose newsletter at https://careblazers.com/dementiadose It's our mission to make dementia caregiving easier for families caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's disease, frontotemporal dementia, lewy body dementia, vascular dementia, or any other type of dementia. We believe that in order to create a more dementia-friendly world, we must first create a caregiver-friendly world. That's why we create free educational training videos like this one so that anyone with an internet connection can get access to dementia care information. **This channel and any information by Dementia Careblazers is not a substitute for healthcare. This is not healthcare advice. Please talk to your healthcare providers for specific feedback on your situation.

Careblazer, have you ever looked into your loved one's eyes and heard something like, "You're not my wife" or "Someone's stealing from me"? It is confusing, scary, and can break your heart. In this video, I walk you through 5 of the strangest dementia symptoms that many caregivers are not expecting and explain what is really happening in the brain when they show up. I share real Careblazer stories, science-backed explanations, and practical strategies you can start using today to help you feel less overwhelmed and more prepared. These symptoms do not mean your loved one has bad intentions. They are the result of brain changes. While we cannot always make them go away, we can respond in ways that calm the moment and protect our own well-being. If you want more caregiver strategies, personal insights, and psychology-backed tips, join my free weekly newsletter, The Dementia Dose → https://tinyurl.com/dementiadose-yt

If you've ever asked yourself, "What stage of dementia is my loved one in?" you're not alone. I used to think there was a clear answer. I thought if I could just figure out the stage, I'd know what to expect and how to plan ahead. But the truth is, it's a lot more complicated than that. In this video, I'm sharing what I wish I knew sooner about the stages of dementia. I'll go over the different staging systems, like the 3-stage model, the GDS, and the FAST scale. I'll also explain why your loved one might not fit neatly into any stage and what that actually means for your caregiving. Links: Want more tips, tools, and encouragement for your caregiving journey? Sign up for my free weekly Dementia Dose newsletter here: https://tinyurl.com/dementiadose-yt

Think getting a dementia diagnosis is just one doctor's visit and a memory test? I wish it were that simple.  In this video, I'm sharing what most caregivers don't hear upfront: the real process behind diagnosing dementia.  From missed early signs and misdiagnoses to multi-hour testing and delayed results—this is what I wish more people knew sooner. 💌 Get free weekly tools and tips in my newsletter, The Dementia Dose: 👉 https://careblazers.com/dementiadose If you're confused or overwhelmed by the diagnosis journey, this video will give you the clarity you've been looking for. #DementiaDiagnosis #CaregiverSupport #DementiaTesting #Careblazers #DementiaCare

What if your brain was unintentionally making dementia caregiving even harder… without you realizing it? I'm walking you through a brain system that plays a big role in your daily stress, reactions, and what you tend to notice as a caregiver. It's called the Reticular Activating System (RAS), and it plays a huge role in what you notice, how you feel, and the results you experience in your caregiving journey. This isn't about pretending things are fine. It's about understanding how your brain works, so you can finally start using it to help you, instead of working against you. 💌 I first shared this idea in a personal email to my Dementia Dose newsletter, and thousands of caregivers replied asking for more. Want to join the newsletter? It's totally free: https://tinyurl.com/dementiadose-yt