Dementia Careblazers

40 Episodes
Subscribe

By: Dr. Natali Edmonds

We prepare dementia caregivers for success. Say goodbye to the overwhelm & struggle and learn the real tips, strategies, and solutions that help make dementia caregiving easier. With board certified geropsychologist, Dr. Natali Edmonds Sign up for a free training on How To Care For A Loved One With Dementia- Without the Overwhelm, Dread, and Confusion

What Caregivers Feel Guilty About (But Shouldn’t)
#147
Today at 11:00 AM

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 f...


What Dementia Caregivers Wish They Knew Sooner
#145
09/11/2025


Harvard Says THIS Kitchen Staple May Cut Dementia Risk by 28%
#144
09/04/2025

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 aboutĀ  Easy, delicious ways to use this kitchen staple every dayĀ 

If you’ve been looking for simple steps t...


5 Strange Dementia Symptoms (And How to Handle Them)
#143
08/28/2025

Careblazer, have you ever looked into your loved one’s eyes and heard something like, ā€œYou’re not my wifeā€ or ā€œSomeone’s stealing from meā€? 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.Ā 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...


What I Wish I Knew About the Stages of Dementia
#142
08/21/2025

If you’ve ever asked yourself, ā€œWhat stage of dementia is my loved one in?ā€ 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.Ā 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...


Why Getting a Dementia Diagnosis Is So Hard (And How to Make It Easier)
#141
08/14/2025

Think getting a dementia diagnosis is just one doctor’s visit and a memory test? I wish it were that simple.

Ā In this video, I’m sharing what most caregivers don’t hear upfront: the real process behind diagnosing dementia.

Ā From missed early signs and misdiagnoses to multi-hour testing and delayed results—this is what I wish more people knew sooner.

šŸ’Œ Get free weekly tools and tips in my newsletter, The Dementia Dose: šŸ‘‰ https://careblazers.com/dementiadose

If you’re confused or overwhelmed by the diagnosis journey, this video will give you the clarity yo...


This One Brain System Is Secretly Making Caregiving Harder
#139
08/07/2025

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 t...


13 Griefs Dementia Caregivers Carry… In Silence
#140
07/31/2025

You can love the person you’re caring for—and still feel grief, resentment, and exhaustion. That doesn’t make you a bad caregiver. It makes you human.

Ā In this video, I’m sharing 13 griefs dementia caregivers carry in silence...the hidden emotional weight most people never talk about.

From the slow loss of your loved one to the sacrifice of your own dreams, these are the unspoken realities behind dementia care.

šŸ‘‰ If any of these hit home, leave a comment below. Your story can help another caregiver feel less alone. šŸŽ„ Subscribe for more support, m...


The Surprising Way She Got Her Mom With Dementia to Take Her Medication (That Actually Works!)
#138
07/24/2025

Is your loved one with dementia refusing to take their medication? Or worse—pretending to take it, only to spit it out later when no one's looking? 😣 You're not alone. In today’s video, I’m sharing a surprisingly simple strategy that actually worked for one Careblazer inside our Care Collective..and it might just work for you too.

If you'd like to see this episode on video, you can hop on over to my YouTube channelĀ here.

Get Weekly Dementia Tips in Your Inbox! Sign up for our FREE Dementia Dose newsletter atĀ https://careblazers...


The #1 Mistake Dementia Caregivers Don’t Even Know They’re Making
#137
07/17/2025

Most dementia caregivers are making this one mistake—and don’t even realize it. It leads to more resistance, more frustration, and more burnout.

In this video, I’ll show you what it is, why it’s so common, and what to do instead.

šŸ’” One mindset shift can change how your loved one responds—starting today.

šŸ’¬ Which part of this video hit home for you? Drop a comment to share your insight and connect with other Careblazers.Ā 

If you'd like to see this episode on video, you can hop on over to my YouTube cha...


3 Ways to Solve A Challenging Dementia Behavior
#135
07/10/2025

Struggling with challenging dementia behaviors — and nothing you’ve tried is working?

In this episode, I’ll show you 3 proven ways to respond that can make a real difference, even in the most frustrating situations.

These simple but powerful shifts have helped thousands of Careblazers feel more confident and less overwhelmed.Ā 

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 atĀ https://careblazers.com/dementiadose

It’s o...


5 Surprising Reasons Your Loved One With Dementia Resists Help
#136
07/10/2025

Do you ever feel like no matter what you try, your loved one with dementia still refuses your help, gets upset, or acts in ways that make no sense?

You're not alone — and you're probably not doing anything wrong. In this video, I share 5 often-overlooked reasons behind challenging dementia behaviors — including the #1 mistake most caregivers make without realizing it.

Once you understand what’s really going on, you can stop taking things so personally and start using strategies that actually work.Ā 

If you'd like to see this episode on video, you can hop on over...


Most Dementia Caregivers Are Doing THIS Wrong (Without Realizing It)
#134
07/04/2025

Most dementia caregivers are making at least one of these 5 mistakes—and they don’t even know it. If caregiving feels overwhelming, frustrating, or like nothing you’re trying is working, this episode is for you.

In this episode, I’ll walk you through the most common mistakes caregivers make that actually make things harder for themselves and their loved one with dementia. You’ll learn how to shift your mindset, reduce stress, and start getting better results with less emotional burnout.

If you’ve ever said ā€œI’ve tried everything and nothing works,ā€ this might be the break...


The #1 MISTAKE Caregivers Make With Dementia Behaviors
#133
06/19/2025

Careblazer, are you stuck dealing with the same dementia behavior over and over again—no matter how many times you explain, beg, or plead?

In this episode, I’ll show you the #1 mistake most caregivers make when trying to handle dementia-related behaviors like refusing to shower, resisting help, or getting angry out of nowhere. And more importantly—I’ll show you what to do instead. This one shift could change everything about how you respond to your loved one’s behaviors. It’s simple, but powerful. And once you start using it, you’ll feel less frustrated and more confi...


42% of Americans Will Get Dementia?! (New Study is TERRIFYING)
#132
06/12/2025

A brand-new study just dropped in Nature Medicine… and the numbers are worse than we thought. In this episode, I’m breaking down the latest dementia statistics that every caregiver, family member, and adult over 55 needs to know. This is more than just data—it’s a wake-up call.

We’re talking risk factors, who’s most vulnerable, and why dementia care is on the verge of a national crisis. But don’t worry—there’s hope too. I’ll also share where to turn next and how we can take action now.

Click the link below to read t...


Shocking Link Between Your Mouth & Dementia (New Study!)
#131
06/05/2025

What if your mouth could predict dementia? A new study has uncovered a shocking connection between oral health and Alzheimer’s disease — and most people have no idea. The bacteria in your mouth might be doing more than affecting your teeth... it could be impacting your brain.

In this episode, I’m breaking down the latest research and revealing:

The surprising oral health factor that increases dementia risk How some foods actually protect your brainĀ  What brushing and flossing may be doing beyond your smile

If you're caring for someone with dementia — or want to reduce yo...


Could This Vitamin SLOW Alzheimer’s? (New Research is SHOCKING!)
#130
05/29/2025

Could this vitamin really slow down Alzheimer’s? The latest research might change everything. In this video, I’m sharing the surprising study results, how this vitamin works in the brain, and why some neurologists are already taking it themselves.

Most people have never heard of this — but if you’re caring for someone with dementia or worried about memory decline, you’ll want to see this.

Link to study: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7880246/

If you'd like to see this episode on video, you can hop on over to my YouTube...


14 Ways to Cut Your Dementia Risk in Half (Backed by Science)
#129
05/22/2025

Careblazer, did you know you could lower your dementia risk by nearly 50% just by changing some everyday habits? In this video, I’m walking you through 14 research-backed lifestyle changes you can start making today—based on the 2024 Lancet Commission Report. These are modifiable risk factors, which means they’re things you actually have control over.

As a board-certified geropsychologist, I see so many people feel helpless when it comes to brain health. But this video is here to show you that you have more power than you think. From hearing loss and blood pressure to social isolation and ai...


Why Dementia Patients HATE Bathing (11 Shocking Reasons!)
#128
05/15/2025

Why do so many people with dementia refuse to bathe? 🚿 Today, I’m breaking down 10 shocking reasons you’ve probably never heard—and what to do about it.

One simple change could make a huge difference. (Plus, I’m sharing a bonus reason at the end!)

If you'd like to see this episode on video, you can hop on over to my YouTube channelĀ 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 careg...


They’re Seeing Things That Aren’t There?! What’s Really Going On
#127
05/08/2025

People with dementia sometimes see people and things that aren’t there… even people who’ve passed away! But what does it really mean when someone with dementia starts having visual hallucinations?

In this episode, I’m sharing the surprising truth about hallucinations — one of the most confusing and misunderstood symptoms in dementia care. Some are harmless. Others? A warning sign.Ā 

Whether your loved one has ever said ā€œThere’s someone in the roomā€¦ā€ …or you’ve heard stories that seem impossible — you’ll want to listen to this.Ā 

If you'd like to see this episode on video, y...


THIS New Discovery Will Change Alzheimer’s Diagnosis Forever!
#126
04/24/2025

🚨 A brand-new Alzheimer’s discovery is changing everything we thought we knew about diagnosis. Forget expensive brain scans or waiting for memory loss—AI can now predict Alzheimer’s YEARS before symptoms begin.

In this episode, I’ll break down how researchers are using voice scans, health data, and advanced AI to beat doctors at their own game — and what this could mean for you and your loved ones.

🧠 Could your voice reveal early warning signs of dementia?

šŸ’” Is AI the future of early Alzheimer’s detection?

šŸ‘€ And how can YOU start using AI tools rig...


This One Simple Caregiving Exercise Changed Everything
#125
04/17/2025

This one simple exercise changed everything—for me, for my audience, and it could do the same for you. In this episode, I’ll share the 3 things I’d want my caregivers to know if I ever needed care... and show you how this one shift can make dementia care so much easier and more compassionate.

šŸ‘‰ Stay ā€˜til the end to learn how to use this with your loved one who has dementia—even if they can’t communicate anymore.

If you'd like to see this episode on video, you can hop on over to my YouTube chan...


Gene Hackman Was Alone for 6 Days… Don’t Let This Happen to You
#124
04/10/2025

An Oscar-winning actor with Alzheimer’s was left alone for 6 DAYS… and no one knew. What happened to his wife—the person caring for him—could happen to any dementia caregiver.

This isn’t just a Hollywood tragedy. It’s a wake-up call. In this video, I’m sharing two life-saving lessons every caregiver needs to hear.

If you care for someone with dementia, this could be the most important 10 minutes of your week.

If you'd like to see this episode on video, you can hop on over to my YouTube channelĀ here.

If you fo...


3 Surprising Reasons Dementia Makes Them Angry
#123
04/03/2025

Why do people with dementia act out, push you away, or refuse your help? In this video, I’m revealing 3 surprising causes behind challenging dementia behaviors—and they’re probably not what you think.

These aren’t just mood swings. They’re messages. Learn what your loved one might really be trying to tell you—and how to handle it with less stress and more confidence.

If you'd like to see this episode on video, you can hop on over to my YouTube channel here.

šŸŽ Get your FREE Dementia Careblazer Survival Guide, downloaded over 100,000 ti...


1 in 10 People With Dementia Have THIS Hidden Diagnosis
#122
03/27/2025

Did you know 1 in 10 dementia patients have a hidden diagnosis doctors often overlook? It's called mixed dementia—when someone has more than one type of dementia at the same time, usually Alzheimer's combined with vascular dementia. This overlooked condition can dramatically affect how dementia progresses and how best to care for your loved one.

In this episode, I'll uncover why mixed dementia frequently goes undiagnosed, learn how to spot the subtle signs, and discover what this means for treatment, caregiving strategies, and your loved one's quality of life.

If you'd like to see this episode on...


The 5 Types of Dementia You NEED to Know!
#121
03/20/2025

🚨 The 5 Types of Dementia You NEED to Know! 🚨

Think Alzheimer’s is the only type of dementia? Think again. 🚫 There are five major types—and understanding the differences could change EVERYTHING.

šŸ’” If you’re caring for a loved one with dementia (or worried about signs), this episode is a MUST-HEAR. I break down Alzheimer’s, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, frontotemporal dementia, and mixed dementia—explaining symptoms, risk factors, and what makes each one unique. Knowing this could make all the difference in how you care for them. ā¤ļø

If you'd like to see this episode on video, you...


The Dementia Behavior That’s Driving Caregivers Crazy (And How to Fix It!)
#120
03/13/2025

If your loved one with dementia keeps asking the same question over and over, you’re not alone. This frustrating behavior is a common dementia symptom, but with the right science-backed strategies, you can reduce repetition and create more moments of connection.Ā 

In this episode, I’ll reveal:

āœ… The 3 biggest reasons why repetitive questions happen

āœ… What NOT to say (to avoid making it worse!)

āœ… Simple, proven techniques to handle this behavior with less stress

If you'd like to see this episode on video, you can hop on over to my YouTube...


5 Ways To Get Someone With Dementia To Take Medication
#119
03/06/2025

Dementia medication refusal is one of the most frustrating challenges caregivers face. If your loved one refuses to take their medication, you’re not alone! In this episode, I reveal the #1 mistake caregivers make when handling dementia medication refusal and share proven strategies to make medication time easier.

You’ll learn:

āœ… Why dementia patients refuse medication (confusion, fear, sensory issues, independence)

āœ… What NOT to do (why forcing, arguing, or sneaking meds can backfire)

āœ… How to make medication time easier (changing medication forms, routines, positive reinforcement)

If you'd like to see this e...


Smell Loss and Dementia: The Shocking Early Warning Sign You Shouldn’t Ignore!
#118
02/27/2025

Smell loss and dementia are more connected than you think! Research shows that a diminished sense of smell can be an early warning sign of cognitive decline, including Alzheimer’s disease. In this video, I’ll break down the scientific link between smell and brain health, real-life examples of how smell loss has been a first symptom of dementia, and the steps you can take if you notice this in your loved one.

If you'd like to see this episode on video, you can hop on over to my YouTube channelĀ here.

And if you need...


Why Mirrors Confuse People with Dementia (And How to Fix It!)
#117
02/20/2025

Why do mirrors confuse people with dementia? If your loved one suddenly avoids mirrors or reacts fearfully to their reflection, you’re not alone. Many dementia caregivers notice this behavior, and it’s all tied to how the brain perceives images. In this video, we break down the surprising reasons behind this phenomenon, from depth perception issues to mirror illusions. More importantly, we’ll share simple, practical strategies to make your home a dementia-friendly space—helping your loved one feel safer and less anxious.

If you'd like to see this episode on video, you can hop on over to...


Dementia's Silent Warning
#116
02/13/2025

Did you know that sudden, unexplained generosity could be a silent warning sign for early dementia? What seems like harmless kindness might actually signal cognitive changes that put your loved one—and their finances—at risk. In this video, I uncover how this subtle behavior can reveal deeper issues, and more importantly, what you can do to protect your loved ones. šŸ§ šŸ’ø

Here’s what you’ll learn:Ā 

āœ”ļø What is unexplained generosity? Understand why sudden or excessive giving might indicate changes in judgment and decision-making.

āœ”ļø The brain’s role in impulsive generosity. How dementia impacts the prefrontal co...


UTIs in Dementia: The Shocking Truth Every Caregiver Must Know!
#115
02/06/2025

1 in 3 people with dementia who visit the ER are diagnosed with a UTI. 😲 Surprised? It’s a staggering statistic—and it’s just one of the many reasons why urinary tract infections (UTIs) are such a serious issue for dementia caregivers.

In today’s episode, I’m breaking it all down:

✨ What makes people with dementia more prone to UTIs

✨ How to spot early warning signs (before things spiral out of control!)

✨ Simple but effective prevention tips to protect your loved one 

Caregiver Pro-Tip: If your loved one suddenly seems ā€œdifferent,ā€ l...


CTE and Dementia: How Repeated Head Injuries Affect Brain Health
#114
01/30/2025

Hey Careblazers! šŸ’• Did you know that repeated head injuries can lead to serious brain conditions like Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) and dementia? In this episode, we’re breaking down the connection between CTE and dementia, including how repeated head trauma impacts brain health and why early prevention is so important.

šŸ” Here’s What You’ll Learn:

• What CTE is and how it develops from repeated head injuries

• The two types of CTE: behavioral and cognitive variants

• How CTE mimics and differs from Alzheimer’s disease

• Key prevention tips for protecting brain healt...


The Surprising Way to Reduce Dementia Agitation
#113
01/23/2025

šŸ’” The Surprising Way to Reduce Dementia AgitationĀ 

If you'd like to see this episode on video, you can hop on over to my YouTube channelĀ here.

Caring for someone with dementia can be overwhelming—especially when agitation strikes. But what if there was a simple, science-backed way to calm your loved one and reduce your stress? That’s where Zinnia TV comes in.Ā 

🌟 Zinnia TV: The ā€œNetflix for Dementia Careā€ Discover how this groundbreaking platform is changing dementia care with videos specifically designed to:

āœ… Calm agitation and ease restlessness

āœ… Reduce caregiver stre...


5 Shocking Facts About Dementia I Wish Everyone Knew
01/16/2025

🚨 5 Shocking Facts About Dementia I Wish Everyone Knew 🚨

Did you know dementia isn’t just about memory loss? Or that some common assumptions about dementia are totally wrong? 🤯 In this video, I’m sharing 5 shocking truths about dementia that will change how you think about it—and how you can support loved ones living with it. Whether you’re a caregiver, a family member, or just curious, these facts will leave you thinking differently—and inspire you to make a difference.

šŸ’„ Here’s what you’ll learn:

āœ… The surprising reality about dementia treatments (and what’s coming soon!)

...


Self-Care Hacks Every Caregiver Needs to Know
#111
01/09/2025

Hey Careblazers! šŸ’• Self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s essential for caregivers! Let’s be real—being a caregiver is demanding, and finding time for yourself can feel almost impossible. But here’s the thing: taking care of YOU is just as important as taking care of your loved one. In this video, I’m sharing practical, real-world self-care tips that don’t take a ton of time or money—because I know you’re already juggling so much.

If you'd like to see this episode on video, you can hop on over to my YouTube channelĀ here.

šŸŽ Get your...


Are You Ready to Make 2025 Your Best Caregiving Year Yet?
#110
01/02/2025

🌟 Caregivers, Are You Ready to Make 2025 Your Best Year Yet? 🌟

If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or like caregiving has put your life on hold, this video is for YOU. In this powerful session, I’m sharing 3 key strategies that have helped hundreds of caregivers transform their mindset, take back control, and create joy—no matter the challenges.

✨ Here’s what you’ll discover:

1ļøāƒ£ The mindset shift that frees you to live fully right now.

2ļøāƒ£ Why focusing on what YOU can control will change everything.

3ļøāƒ£ How to stop waiting for ā€œperfectā€ and start creati...


5 Scary but Totally Normal Caregiver Experiences
#109
12/26/2024

5 Scary but Totally Normal Caregiver Experiences

Being a caregiver is tough—and sometimes downright scary. 😰 Are you feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or even guilty about your emotions? You’re not alone. In this video, we’re breaking down 5 scary but totally normal caregiver experiences that many caregivers face but rarely talk about. From the fear of developing dementia yourself to feelings of burnout and guilt, we’re covering it all.

If you'd like to see this episode on video, you can hop on over to my YouTube channelĀ here.

šŸ“– Bonus Resource! Sign up for my free class o...


5 Dementia Friendly Holiday Tips For 2024
#108
12/19/2024

šŸŽ„ 5 Dementia Friendly Tips for a Joyful Holiday Season šŸŽ„

The holidays can be tough when you’re caring for someone with dementia, but they don’t have to be! šŸ’› In this video, I share 5 simple, practical tips to help you create meaningful moments, reduce stress, and find joy during the season. From flexible traditions to involving your loved one in the festivities, these tips will help make this holiday brighter for both of you.Ā 

šŸ‘‰ Grab my Joy During the Holidays program here: https://www.makecaregivingeasier.com/joy You’re not alone—let’s make this season special!

If you...


Are You Part of the Sandwich Caregiver Generation?
#107
12/12/2024

Struggling to juggle caring for your kids AND your aging parents? You're not alone, Careblazer! Sandwich caregivers face unique challenges like burnout, financial strain, and career struggles—but there’s hope.

In this video, I break down the top stressors and share simple, actionable tips to help you manage the chaos, protect your mental health, and plan for the future. šŸ’Ŗ

✨ Don’t miss my 3 MUST-KNOW tips from working with thousands of caregivers just like you.Ā 

šŸ’¬ Drop your caregiving tips in the comments and connect with fellow Careblazers!

If you'd like to see this episod...