A Balancing Act: Navigating A Loved One's Memory Loss

Thanksgiving is here, and while the holidays can be full of joy and tradition, they can also be challenging when someone you love is living with memory loss and dementia, In this episode, Kelly explores how to adjust expectations with compassion, how to support your loved one at their level of ability, and how to protect connection over perfection. Whether you’re hosting a big family meal or calling from a distance, these ideas can help bring more peace and less overwhelm to the day.

Our Facebook page: Message your questions!

https://www.fa...

In this episode, we talk about what happens when a loved one begins losing their sense of time — mixing up days, seasons, appointments, or believing events are happening “right now” when they aren’t. These time slips can be confusing and emotional for everyone involved. We’ll explore why the brain struggles to track time in dementia and share gentle ways to respond, reduce stress, and stay connected when time doesn’t feel steady anymore.

FACEBOOK PAGE: Please leave questions for Kelly, or set-up a chat!

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103

Please consi...

Taking away the car keys is one of the hardest moments in dementia care. It’s not just about safety. It’s about love, dignity, and protection. In this week’s episode, Kelly will guide you through the signs it’s time, how to talk about it, what to do if your loved one refuses, and how to plan for what comes next, all while helping your loved one feel supported, not punished.

FACEBOOK PAGE: Please leave questions for Kelly, or set-up a chat!

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103

Wan...

Many families delay a dementia diagnosis because they’re afraid of what it means—losing independence, disrupting family life, or facing an uncertain future. But silence only makes the journey harder. In this episode, Kelly explores where stigma comes from, why it keeps people from seeking help, and how we can begin to change the conversation. You’ll hear stories of fear, resilience, and community, and learn ways to break the silence so no one has to walk this journey alone.

FACEBOOK PAGE: Message your questions or comments. We'd love to hear how you're doing!

https...

One of the hardest challenges in caregiving is when a loved one with dementia refuses help. You see the risks — missed meals, cluttered spaces, unpaid bills — but every offer is met with “I don’t need help” or “I can do it myself.” It’s frustrating, even heartbreaking. In this episode, Kelly unpacks the reasons behind refusals — from changes in the brain to pride and fear — and explore the most common areas of conflict. Most importantly, you’ll learn practical strategies to shift your approach so that you can reduce conflict, preserve dignity, and find those small but powerful wins in your caregivin...

Caregiving is rewarding, but it can also feel overwhelming—like you’re carrying the weight of a thousand little tasks. In this episode, Kelly explores the best tech tools designed to lighten the caregiver’s load. From medication reminder apps and “Find My” trackers to simple video calling platforms and automatic shut-offs for home safety, these smart solutions are changing the way families care for their loved ones. And get some more time in for themselves.

FACEBOOK PAGE: Please leave your questions for Kelly!

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103

RESOU...

In this episode, Kelly provides essential guidance for families visiting loved ones in memory care communities. Kelly addresses common challenges families face, such as improving the quality of visits and setting realistic expectations. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the stages of dementia and aligning visits with the routine and preferences of the loved one. Practical advice includes planning visits around constructive activities, bringing items of interest, managing sensory overload, and maintaining effective communication.

FACEBOOK PAGE: Please leave questions for Kelly, or set-up a chat!

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103

In this episode, Kelly talks about how normal it is to expect occasional forgetfulness as we age and clarifies that it's not the same as memory loss or dementia. She explains how memory works through three stages and provides strategies and tips to boost memory. Kelly also provides practical exercises to keep our brains sharp and active as we age.

FACEBOOK PAGE: Please leave questions for Kelly, or set-up a chat!

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103

RESOURCES:

https://healthonline.washington.edu/sites/default/files/record...

In this podcast episode, Kelly discusses how dementia affects family relationships, offering practical advice for spouses, adult children, and grandchildren. She emphasizes the importance of understanding dementia, open communication, dividing caregiving tasks, and supporting each other. The key message: approach the journey with empathy, flexibility, and love, and seek help when needed.

FACEBOOK PAGE: Please leave questions for Kelly, or set-up a chat!

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103

RESOURCES:

https://www.jameslwest.org/blog/dementia-and-family-dynamics-challenges/

https://dementiahelpcenter.com/the-caregivers-bill-of-rights/

https://www.dementiauk.org...

In this episode, Kelly shares personal experiences and discusses how communicative and cognitive changes due to dementia affect seniors' abilities to engage in activities they once enjoyed. Kelly emphasizes the importance of adapting social activities to match the abilities of those with dementia to keep them engaged and improve their quality of life. She offers practical advice on modifying environments, simplifying games, and using effective communication strategies to reduce frustration and promote enjoyable experiences.

FACEBOOK PAGE: Please leave questions for Kelly, or set-up a chat!

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103

In this episode, Kelly addresses the moral dilemma caregivers face: whether to lie or tell the truth to loved ones with dementia. Traditionally, reality orientation—telling the truth—was seen as a matter of principle. But from the 1990s, therapeutic fibbing—small, compassionate lies—gained acceptance. Kelly argues for 'leading with their reality,' adapting responses based on the stage of dementia and what comforts or calms the person. She provides practical advice, ways to respond that meet your loved where they are and how to get self-support for when these situations arise.

OUR FACEBOOK PAGE- PL...

In this episode of 'A Balancing Act,' host Kelly explores strategies for managing dementia-related agitation, a common issue affecting about 90% of dementia patients. Kelly shares real-life stories from listeners, explains the different types of agitation, and offers practical advice on how family members can respond. Key topics include understanding agitation triggers, the concept of sundowning, and how to use empathy and redirection to calm loved ones. Kelly also highlights the importance of support networks and when to seek medical assistance for aggressive behaviors. Tune in to learn effective ways to provide care and maintain your own well-being.

"Why Are They Wearing The Same Clothes?"

Dressing and bathing can be challenging for people with dementia due to cognitive, physical, and emotional factors. Dementia can impair understanding of how to perform these tasks, remember the purpose of hygiene, and sequence the steps involved. In this episode, we discuss ways you can help a person with dementia maintain their dignity and preferences while providing support for washing and dressing.

OUR FACEBOOK PAGE:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103

ASK FOR SOME CHAT TIME WITH KELLY ON FACEBOOK, or send in...

Episode 19

When a loved one experiencing memory loss requires more assistance than family or friends can offer, it may be time to explore residential (live-in) facilities, like an assisted living community. Selecting a long-term care residence is a significant decision, and it can be challenging to know how to begin.

In today’s episode, we guide you through effective strategies to get organized and develop a plan that will help alleviate stress for everyone involved.

Our Facebook Page: Post your questions and comments!!

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id...

Dishonesty in people with dementia is a frequent and often troubling behavior that poses challenges for both the individual and their family members. By recognizing the different reasons behind this behavior—such as difficulty coping with what’s happening to them, or the inability to process what is going on in and around them—you can respond with increased empathy and patience. Your loved one is not deliberately trying to mislead you; they are navigating a debilitating and progressive condition. You both will need understanding and compassion.

Our Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/pr...

Dishonesty in people with dementia is a frequent and often troubling behavior that poses challenges for both the individual and their family members. By recognizing the different reasons behind this behavior—such as difficulty coping with what’s happning to them, or the inability to process what is going on in and around them—you can respond with increased empathy and patience. Your loved one is not deliberately trying to mislead you; they are navigating a debilitating and progressive condition. You both will need understanding and compassion.

Our Facebook Page:

https://www.fa...

The decline in both physical and cognitive abilities that comes with your loved one’s dementia will significantly impact their safety, well being and quality of life. Occupational therapy, Physical therapy and Speech Language Pathologists play crucial roles in a holistic care plan for your loved one. They provide essential interventions that tackle the various challenges both your loved one and the family will face. These therapeutic methods are vital for maintaining and enhancing the physical, cognitive, and emotional health of those navigating the intricate journey of dementia.

Our Facebook Page:

ht...

Enjoy this Encore sharing of our most listened-too episode!

Family members may frequently find themselves locking horns with a loved one affected by cognitive decline. Arguments arise from even the simplest of things. Our loved one seems unable to see reason or another way of doing things. We offer listeners a way to understand what is happening, why it is happening, and how they can lower a loved one’s temperature, as well as your own.

For more about today's topic, check these out:

https://www.healthline.com/health/anosognosia

...

Hallucinations can often be terrifying, eliciting strong feelings of fear. For individuals experiencing them, these perceptions feel extremely real. Not only can hallucinations be distressing for the person affected, but they can also impact those who care for them. Understanding how to respond can help make a hallucinatory episode less overwhelming for both you and your loved one.

Our Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103

Our You Tube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/@ABalancingActNavigatingMem-d9h

Resources:

https://www...

Deciding when to transition a loved one into an assisted living facility is a deeply personal choice that demands thoughtful reflection. By identifying the signs, assembling a team of supportive professionals, and beginning your preparations now, you can make certain that your loved one receives the care and assistance they deserve.

Our Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103

Our YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/@ABalancingActNavigatingMem-d9h

Resources:

https://seniorservicesofamerica.com/blog/how-to-move-a-parent-to-assisted-living/

https...

Welcome back, listeners! Thank you for your patience while I have been away. It's good to be back at the microphone, and with a new Facebook page! And, I have an important question for you: If you could ask one question about Memory Loss or Dementia, what would it be? Let's get the conversations started!

NEW FACEBOOK PAGE:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103

Behavioral changes can complicate the caregiving process for individuals with dementia. Grasping the underlying reasons for these behaviors can assist caregivers in coping and responding in a suitable manner. It is common for those with dementia to experience shifts in personality and behavior. By understanding the triggers behind these behaviors, caregivers can work towards preventing their recurrence and enhance their own ability to respond effectively.

Our YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/@ABalancingActNavigatingMem-d9h

Resources:

Early Stage

https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/early-stage

...

Every day, we hear reports about seniors being scammed out of billions of dollars through their phones and computers. With the rapid pace of technological change, it's challenging for anyone to keep up, especially for a loved one experiencing memory loss. In this episode, we discuss strategies to manage technology in a way that keeps your loved one connected while safeguarding them from potential scammers.

**** Due to family emergency, new episodes will be uploaded on a bi-weekly schedule for the foreseeable future. Thank you for your patience.

References:

https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2022/10/10...

We are all aware of the advantages that our social connections provide. Our relationships and social engagements contribute significantly to our health and happiness. However, when a loved one is diagnosed with memory loss, navigating social situations can become challenging. This creates a genuine risk of isolation and depression. In this episode, we delve into the gradual changes your loved one may undergo and discuss how to adjust expectations and activities to effectively maintain these vital social connections.

Resources:

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/symptoms-and-diagnosis/symptoms/behaviour-changes

https://www.dementiacarecentral...

Aside from cancer, Alzheimer’s Disease is often regarded as one of the greatest fears for many individuals. In fact, when people begin to experience memory lapses, they often jump to the conclusion that it might be Alzheimer’s. However, the disease encompasses much more than just memory problems. In this episode, we aim to replace fear with facts and offer steps you can take now to clear up any misconceptions.

Our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559433999543

Resources:

Early Signs of Alzheimer's:

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/10_sign...

The holidays carry various meanings and traditions for different individuals, but for those affected by dementia, these moments can be particularly difficult. In this episode, we explore strategies to help you prepare for and celebrate the holidays in a manner that aligns with your loved one’s comfort and promotes your peace of mind.

Our Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559433999543

Resources:

https://www.agingcare.com/articles/dementia-and-the-ten-days-of-christmas-190134.htm

https://rss.com/podcasts/a-balancing-act/1763767/.

After a dementia diagnosis, families often experience a range of complex emotions while also facing the significant challenge of adjusting to the changing needs of their loved one. In this episode we talk about the importance of learning about their dementia, managing their environment and safety, navigating legal and financial matters, prioritizing self-care and seeking support networks to cope with the emotional impact of the diagnosis and progressing symptoms.

Our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559433999543

Resources:

https://www.beechfieldhealthcare.ie/blog/post/occupational-therapist-home-assessment

https://www...

As you come together with family in the days ahead, it’s important to recognize that situations can become overwhelming for someone experiencing memory loss. In this episode, we discuss methods to alleviate stress for everyone involved, as well as strategies to maintain calmness and connection with your loved one.

Our Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559433999543

Resources:

https://nhdementiatraining.org/2021/12/20/tips-for-spending-holidays-with-those-with-dementia/

https://alzheimer.ca/en/help-support/i-have-friend-or-family-member-who-lives-dementia/holidays-special-occasions

Recognizing what to avoid can be an essential skill when communicating with a loved one experiencing memory loss. In this episode, we explore typical pitfalls and suggest alternatives to foster harmony and strengthen the bond between you and your loved one.

Our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559433999543

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/blog/language-dementia-what-not-to-say

https://www.alzsd.org/dos-and-donts-of-compassionate-communication-dementia/

The information shared in this podcast is for EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES only, and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. By...

Sometimes it can be a real struggle to get a loved one with memory loss to wear their hearing aids and glasses. But there are real risks associated with not wearing them. In this episode, we talk about the relationship between hearing aids, glasses and dementia, as well as ways to ease the struggle between you and your loved one.

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559433999543

https://www.healthyhearing.com/report/53361-Hearing-and-vision-loss-dementia-cognitive-decline-studies-older-adults-sensory-impairment

https://www.dementiauk.org/information-and-support/health-advice/dementia-and-difficulty-with-sounds/

The information shared in this podcast is...

As your loved one’s memory loss advances, they may find it increasingly difficult to keep track of appointments, events, or even the current date and time. This is when you might notice your phone ringing more and more often. In this episode, we explore the reasons behind their confusion. And we’ll share effective tools and communication strategies to help you make this challenging situation a little easier for you both.

Check us out on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559433999543

<...

Family members may frequently find themselves locking horns with a loved one affected by cognitive decline. Arguments arise from even the simplest of things. Our loved one seems unable to see reason or another way of doing things. We offer listeners a way to understand what is happening, why it is happening, and how they can lower a loved one’s temperature, as well as your own.

For more about today's topic, check these out:

https://www.healthline.com/health/anosognosia

https://www.alzsd.org/anosognosia/#:~:text=When%20we%20experience%20denial%2C...

As our loved ones age, we may observe perplexing behaviors. While forgetfulness is common, discovering unpaid bills, getting repeated phone calls or learning your loved one is getting lost on familiar routes can be worrisome. These signs may indicate underlying issues affecting your loved one. In this segment, we will discuss the red flags to watch for and the next steps to take for a diagnosis.

References:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mild-cognitive-impairment/symptoms-causes/syc-20354578

https://www.alz.org/media/Documents/alzheimers-dementia-mild-cognitive-impairment-ts.pdf

The information shared in this podcast...