Dementia Caregiver’s Corner

Designing for Dementia: How Smart Technology and Environments Support Sensory Changes with Professor Andrea Tales, UK

Episode Summary:

In this episode, Professor Andrea Tales, joins us to explore how dementia affects more than just memory, focusing on the often-overlooked sensory and perceptual changes. We discuss how smart technology, and thoughtful environmental design can better support people living with dementia, reduce distress, and improve quality of life. Whether you're a caregiver or professional, this conversation offers practical insights and new ways to think about dementia care.

Key Topics:

Sensory and Perceptual Changes in Dementia

– Understanding how visual dysfunction and other sensory issues impact behaviour and daily life.

 

Environmental Design

– How adapting home and public spaces can improve safety, familiarity, and independence for people living with dementia.

 

SMART Technology in Dementia Care

– The role of devices like Alexa and clocks in reducing anxiety and supporting routine, communication, and calmness.

 

Shifting from Trial-and-Error to Personalised Support

– Helping caregivers make informed choices about technology and care strategies based on the individual’s needs.

 

Key Takeaways:

Dementia isn’t just about memory loss, sensory changes like vision, balance, and perception are equally important but often overlooked.

These changes can lead to distress, confusion, and safety risks if not properly addressed.

 

Simple environmental changes, like adjusting colours, lighting, or layout—can make a big difference in helping people with dementia feel safe and oriented.

 

SMART technologies can enhance care when introduced at the right time and tailored to the person’s stage and needs, but they should support, not replace, human connection.

 

Caregivers benefit most when they move away from random solutions and instead use evidence-based, personalised strategies that truly fit their loved one’s situation.

 

Resources Mentioned

-A New Approach to Dementia: Examining Sensory and Perceptual Impairment

-Wendy Mitchell`s books

 

Share this episode with a friend, colleague, or family caregiver who may benefit from learning more about sensory changes, smart technology, and environmental design in dementia care.

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Repost - Honouring Jennifer Josey (1944-2024): A Journey Through Mixed Dementia with her daughter, Shellie Josey, UK

In this heartfelt episode, we pay tribute to Jennifer Mavis Josey, affectionately known as Jen, who passed away in October 2024 from mixed dementia. Shellie Josey, Jen’s only daughter, joins us to reflect on her mum’s life, their family’s caregiving journey, and how they’ve been coping since her passing.

 

We explore Jen’s background, her role as a mother and sister, and the qualities that made her so special. Shellie shares insights into the early symptoms of dementia, the family’s initial struggles, and how they learned to navigate life with her diagnosis. She discusses the importance of family unity, the challenges of accessing social care, and the value of maintaining friendships for those living with dementia.

 

The episode also highlights the family’s commitment to honoring Jen’s wish to remain at home, the adjustments they made to accommodate her needs, and Shellie’s journey toward finding purpose after her mother’s death.

 

Shellie concludes with advice for families caring for parents with dementia, offering encouragement and wisdom to those on a similar path.

 

This episode is a celebration of Jen’s legacy and a source of inspiration and support for caregivers and families worldwide.

 

Key Takeaways from This Episode:

 

Family Unity is Vital

Caring for a loved one with dementia requires strong family collaboration and support. Shellie emphasized how working together as a family helped them navigate the emotional and practical challenges of Jen’s dementia journey.

 

Early Symptoms Often Go Unrecognized

Many families, including Jen’s, are unaware of dementia until it directly impacts them. Recognizing unusual behaviors and seeking timely medical advice is crucial for early diagnosis and better care planning.

 

The Importance of Honoring Wishes

Jen’s wish to remain at home rather than move to a care home required significant adjustments and sacrifices. Shellie’s story highlights the importance of respecting a loved one’s preferences and finding ways to fulfill them despite challenges.

 

Friendships Play a Key Role

Maintaining relationships is essential for individuals living with dementia. Shellie shared how Jen’s friends continued visiting her, providing comfort and connection. Encouraging friendships, even in advanced stages, can greatly enhance a person’s quality of life.

 

Some resources mentioned

Alzheimers.org.uk

https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/navigating-the-journey-a-daughters-tale-of/id1710778347?i=1000650588431

 

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Is Guided Meditation an Effective Tool for Managing Dementia-Related Behaviours? with Katie Fournier, USA

In this episode of Dementia Caregivers` Corner Podcast, I’m joined by Katie Fournier, LPN, CDP from Ember Holistic Care in the USA as we continue our discussion on non-medical approaches to managing dementia-related behaviors. Building on our previous conversation with co-founder Shari Flight, we explore effective holistic strategies that prioritize compassionate care before turning to medication.

What we cover in this episode:

Effective holistic approaches for managing dementia-related behaviours.

How to personalize non-medication strategies for each individual.

Common misconceptions about holistic dementia care and how to address skepticism.

The benefits of mindfulness and meditation for individuals living with dementia and their caregivers.

 

Plus, we end with a special guided meditation designed to bring calm and connection.

 

Key Takeaways

1. Holistic Approaches Can Reduce the Need for Medication – Non-medical interventions, such as sensory stimulation, music therapy, and environmental adjustments, can effectively manage dementia-related behaviors before turning to medication.
2. Personalized Care is Essential – Dementia affects each person differently, so tailoring interventions to individual needs, preferences, and history leads to better outcomes and improved well-being.
3. Mindfulness & Meditation Benefit Both Caregivers and Individuals with Dementia – Practices like guided meditation and breathing exercises can reduce stress, enhance emotional connection, and create moments of calm for both caregivers and those they support.

Resources Mentioned

https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/alternative-approaches-to-combat-dementia-related-behaviours/id1710778347?i=1000653429777

 

#DementiaCare #CaregivingTips #MindfulCare #GuidedMeditation #DementiaAwareness #HolisticHealth #FamilyCaregiver #ElderCare #DCCP #MentalHealthForCaregivers #MentalHealth 

If you enjoyed our conversation or are passionate about dementia care, please consider leaving a review and sharing this episode with someone who might benefit from it. Your support helps us reach more people and raise awareness about dementia-related issues.

Rehabilitation in Dementia: A Forgotten Opportunity? with Carlo Romero, UK

Episode Summary: In this episode, I am joined by Carlo Romero, a medical professional from a rehabilitation facility in the UK. Together, we explore what rehabilitation means in the context of dementia—how it helps individuals maintain their independence and well-being.

 

We discuss the challenges people living with dementia and their caregivers face when accessing rehabilitation and, most importantly, how these challenges can be addressed to improve their quality of life.

 

Key topics include:
1. What sparked Carlo’s interest in dementia rehabilitation
2. The role and benefits of rehabilitation in dementia care
3. Challenges in providing rehabilitation, especially for those with severe communication difficulties
4. The importance of multidisciplinary collaboration in dementia rehabilitation
Real-world examples of successful rehabilitation strategies
5. Key improvements needed in healthcare and social care services

 

Key Takeaways:

1. Rehabilitation supports independence – Even in dementia, rehabilitation can help maintain functional abilities and improve well-being.
2. Communication challenges impact rehabilitation – People with dementia who struggle with speech often miss out on vital rehabilitation, highlighting the need for alternative approaches.
3. Multidisciplinary teamwork is crucial – Collaboration between healthcare and social care professionals can enhance rehabilitation outcomes.
4. Dementia rehabilitation needs improvement – Better training, resources, and awareness can help make rehabilitation more accessible and effective.

 

Resources Mentioned

World Health Organization 

Dementia UK

Dementia Friends

What I Wish People Knew about Dementia - Wendy Mitchell

Somebody I Used to Know - Wendy Mitchell

Tune in to gain insights into dementia rehabilitation and how we can better support individuals living with dementia.

Barriers to Dementia Care in BAME Communities: A Conversation with Dr Hannah Hussain, UK

Episode Summary:

In this thought-provoking episode of the Dementia Caregivers Corner Podcast, host Juliah is joined by Dr Hannah Hussain, a Health Economist at the Office of Health Economics in London. Dr Hussain, who holds a PhD in health economics from the University of Sheffield and is a qualified pharmacist, shares her insights into the challenges that Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities face in accessing dementia care.

From cultural stigma and late diagnoses to language barriers and the overlooked role of unpaid carers, this episode dives deep into the structural and social factors that limit access to timely and culturally sensitive dementia support. Dr Hussain also highlights the importance of inclusive research and culturally competent care homes in addressing these disparities.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Barriers to dementia diagnosis and care in BAME communities
• Economic impact of unpaid caregiving on families and the healthcare system
• The need for culturally competent dementia services and inclusive research

Key Takeaways:

1. Cultural stigma and expectations in BAME communities can discourage families from seeking formal dementia care, contributing to late diagnoses and hidden burdens.
2. Unpaid carers in BAME households save the NHS substantial costs but often lack adequate support and recognition.
3. Culturally competent care and language access are essential for improving dementia services for diverse communities.

Resources Mentioned

https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-challenges-of-dementia-care-for-ethnic-minorities-in-the-uk/

https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-coping-with-distress-the-strength-of-caregivers/

https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-the-economics-of-dementia/

 

 

 

Repost - C.O.R.E.C.A.R.E Principles in Dementia Care With Isabel Baker from Australia

Repost: This week sees the return of popular guest Isabel Baker, a retired clinical nurse consultant  and author from Australia who has more fascinating insights to share about her work, and what she learned in her time as a dementia caregiver and how she helps others learn what is truly needed by those with dementia.

The conversation begins with the fascinating insight that many dementia symptoms can be caused by other issues and moves on to a discussion of Isabel’s C.O.R.E.C.A.R.E principles of caring for those with dementia.

Each letter is an important insight on its own, but it truly all about treating each person as an individual.

So, listen in, and learn about how to take care of the individual.

Find Isabel on LinkedIn here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabel-baker-4770466b

Find more information about Isabel and her work here:

https://isabelbaker.net/

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Living with Dementia: Dallas Dixon Reveals What Real Support Looks Like, USA

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Dementia Caregivers` Corner Podcast, Juliah speaks with Mr. Dallas Dixon, who is living with dementia. Together, they explore how different stakeholders, such as policymakers, healthcare professionals, and caregivers can better support people with dementia.

Mr. Dixon shares his perspective on the misconceptions and misunderstandings surrounding dementia and discusses the aspects of identity that he believes remain untouched by the condition, which he attributes to his faith. He also talks about his journey as an author, including the inspiration behind his books, particularly The Dancing Dementia Dude, and the messages he hopes to share with the world.

Key Takeaways from This Episode

1. The importance of well-structured dementia policies that truly address the needs of those living with the condition.
2. The need for better education and awareness among healthcare professionals and caregivers to improve dementia care.
3. The power of faith, personal identity, and storytelling in reshaping the narrative around dementia.

Resources Mentioned

John: Chapter 14 verse 26

World Health Organization

Teepa Snow

https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/shes-brave-life-after-early-onset-alzheimers-claimed/id1710778347?i=1000679985387

If you found this episode helpful, please leave a review, and share with someone who might benefit from it. This helps us to reach more people and create more awareness about dementia related issues.

 

The Urgent Need for Dementia Awareness in Sub-Saharan Africa with Busani Mphathiwa, USA

Episode Summary:
In this episode of Dementia Caregivers` Corner, Juliah sits down with Rre Busani Mphathiwa, an advocate for dementia awareness and the founder of Pelonomi Foundation (Dementia Botswana). They explore the cultural, linguistic, and systemic challenges affecting dementia understanding and care in Botswana and Sub-Saharan Africa.

 

A major issue? There is no Setswana word for “dementia.” This language gap, combined with deep-rooted cultural misconceptions, fuels stigma and prevents many families from seeking help.

 

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The Language Barrier – Many African languages, including Setswana, lack a direct translation for "dementia," making awareness efforts more difficult.
• Cultural Misconceptions – Dementia symptoms are often attributed to witchcraft, curses, or divine punishment, leading to isolation and neglect.
• Recognizing Dementia Symptoms – Memory loss, confusion, and behavioral changes are early warning signs often misunderstood in African communities.
• The Power of Advocacy – How organizations like Dementia Botswana are driving change through education, policy influence, and community outreach.

 

Resources Mentioned:

• Academic Article: Beliefs and Attitudes Towards Dementia Among Community Leaders in Northern Nigeria
• Website: pelonomi.com

 

Why This Matters:

Dementia cases are rising in Sub-Saharan Africa, yet awareness and support systems remain limited. This episode sheds light on why breaking the stigma is crucial for better care and policy development.

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