How to Reduce Caregiver Stress Using the DAWN Method
Lighting the Path
In this episode, we welcome Jill Couch, a DAWN Dementia Care Specialist, Trainer, and Occupational Therapist, who brings years of expertise helping families and professionals navigate the challenges of dementia care. Jill explains how the DAWN Method offers a strength-based, person-centered approach that transforms the caregiving experience for both families and professionals. The DAWN Method helps caregivers reduce their stress and find deeper meaning in their roles by focusing on the skills retained by people living with dementia, rather than what has been lost. Jill highlights how...
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Better Dementia Care: Insights and Advice From Expert Jill Couch
Lighting the Path
In this heartfelt and insightful episode, we sit down with Jill Couch, a dementia care specialist, DAWN Method trainer, and founder of Better People Care. Jill shares her personal journey into dementia care, sparked by her experiences as a caregiver for her father, who recently passed away after living with dementia for several years. Jill opens up about the challenges and rewards of caring for a loved one with dementia, offering invaluable wisdom drawn from both her professional expertise and personal experience. She also addresses a critical issue many families face: what to do when a...
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How to Navigate Caregiving with Dementia Darling Carrie Aalberts
Lighting the Path
In this episode, we welcome Carrie Aalberts, also known as The Dementia Darling, to discuss her work in gerontology and dementia care. Carrie, the founder of Dementia Darling, provides valuable resources, speaking engagements, and consulting services for both private and professional caregivers. Episode Highlights: Carrie shares her journey into gerontology and what inspired her to create Dementia Darling A personal story that illustrates the rewarding aspects of caregiving for individuals with dementia Candid discussion about the challenges and difficulties faced by dementia caregivers ...
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Dementia Darling Reveals the Practical Realities of Caregiving
Lighting the Path
In this episode, we welcome Carrie Aalberts, widely known as The Dementia Darling, to share her inspiring journey in the field of dementia care and support. Carrie shares her expertise, personal experiences, and the mission behind Dementia Darling, offering valuable insights for anyone touched by dementia care. Carrie recounts her pre-teen experience of watching her grandmother battle dementia while being cared for by Carrie's father. This pivotal experience shaped her future, leading her to pursue both undergraduate and master's degrees in gerontology. Carrie holds a Master of Science...
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Learn About the Beautiful Work of the Hospice Volunteer
Lighting the Path
In this episode, we explore the world of hospice volunteering with Deanna Sonnier, the volunteer coordinator for Harbor Hospice of Beaumont. With 14 years of experience, Deanna shares valuable insights into the roles of hospice volunteers and the process of becoming one. Key Points Volunteer Roles: Hospice volunteers can contribute in various ways, including: Providing companionship to patients Offering caregiver relief Assisting with practical services and errands Supporting patients spiritually Helping with administrative tasks Becoming a Volunteer: The process typically...
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From Struggle to Support: One Caregiver's Mission to Empower Others
Lighting the Path
In this powerful episode, we welcome Sheralin Samuels, a dedicated caregiver who shares her personal journey of caring for her mother with early-onset Alzheimer's. Sheralin opens up about the challenges of balancing her caregiving responsibilities with raising two young children, maintaining her marriage, and working full-time. She offers valuable insights into the unique difficulties of caring for someone with early-onset Alzheimer's and provides practical advice for other caregivers facing similar situations. Sheralin discusses how she found support and resources through the support groups,...
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Alzheimer's Care From the Heart: A Caregiver's Candid Perspective
Lighting the Path
In this episode, we welcome Sheralin Samuels, a dedicated caregiver and medical professional, who shares her personal journey of caring for her mother diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's disease. Sheralin's story highlights the challenges of recognizing the disease at a young age and the profound impact it has on families. She reflects on how she and even some physicians were initially in denial about the possibility of Alzheimer's at such a young age—her mother was just 48 when symptoms began. Sheralin shares the difficulties in getting a diagnosis, as many healthcare professionals were...
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Our Exceptional Hospice Professionals Share Their Insights and Perspectives
Lighting the Path
In this episode, we speak with two exceptional Harbor Hospice and Beacon Hospice professionals who have been recognized for excellence in their field: Hope Nelson, office coordinator in Oakdale, Louisiana Genevieve Himes, volunteer coordinator in Victoria, Texas Our guests share their personal journeys into hospice care and offer valuable insights for those considering a career in this meaningful field. Topics discussed include: What drew them to work in hospice Memorable experiences that have shaped their work Challenges and rewards of the job Advice for those interested in pursuing...
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How to Navigate Feelings of Guilt and Regret in Grief
Lighting the Path
In this episode, grief specialist Gary Roe discusses how survivors can manage feelings of guilt after the death of a loved one. Roe explores the difference between guilt and regret and offers methods for finding forgiveness and reducing emotional baggage. Guilt vs. Regret Roe explains that while often used interchangeably, guilt and regret are distinct emotions: - Guilt is the feeling we experience when we knowingly do something wrong, usually related to ethical, moral, or legal reasons. - Regret is the emotion we feel when looking back on past actions, realizing we could have handled...
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The Enormous Effect of Grief on Personal Relationships
Lighting the Path
In this episode, we welcome grief specialist Gary Roe, author of several books on grief, to discuss how loss impacts relationships. Gary shares insights from his extensive experience and personal journey with grief. This episode offers valuable insights for those navigating grief and its effects on past, present, and future relationships. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the grieving process and learn strategies for maintaining and rebuilding connections during difficult times. The Impact of Grief on Relationships --Grief profoundly affects relationships in various ways: - Changes...
info_outlineIn this podcast episode featuring grief specialist Gary Roe, the discussion centers on managing grief during the holidays, a time often marked by intensified emotions for those experiencing loss. Here are the key points covered in the episode:
Why Grief Intensifies During the Holidays
- Emotional Triggers: The holidays can amplify feelings of grief due to memories associated with loved ones who have passed. Traditions that once brought joy may now serve as painful reminders of absence.
- Isolation: Many people feel alone in their grief during this time, leading to feelings of sadness and disconnection from others who may not understand their experience.
Challenges of Grieving During the Holidays
- Expectations vs. Reality: Society often promotes a cheerful holiday spirit, which can clash with an individual's personal experience of grief, creating additional pressure.
- Coping Mechanisms: Some individuals may resort to unhealthy coping strategies, such as overeating or withdrawing from social interactions, as they navigate their pain.
Strategies for Managing Grief
- Acknowledge and Process: Gary emphasizes the importance of acknowledging one’s feelings rather than suppressing them. He introduces the acronym A.I.R.:
- Acknowledge what you are feeling.
- Identify how those feelings affect you.
- Release those feelings through expression—be it talking, writing, or creating art.
- Seek Support: Engaging with loved ones who can listen and provide comfort is crucial. Sharing experiences can help alleviate feelings of isolation.
- Personalize Your Grief Journey: Recognize that everyone grieves differently. It’s essential to find what works best for you, whether that’s honoring memories in a new way or creating new traditions.
Conclusion
Gary Roe's insights remind listeners that grief is a personal journey without a set timeline. He encourages individuals to embrace their feelings and seek support as they navigate through the complexities of loss, especially during emotionally charged times like the holidays. For more resources and support from Gary Roe, visit his website at GaryRoe.com.
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