EP 2. Navigating the Challenges and Embracing Compassion

The emotional toll of caregiving cannot be underestimated. Connie Robeson candidly shares the heartbreak of watching her husband’s decline, noting that the hardest part was adjusting to the new norm.

She stresses the importance of self-compassion for caregivers, allowing oneself to grieve the changes in their loved ones while also providing the best care possible. Show Notes: Who Said I Can't Smile for Alzheimer's Caregivers?

Guest: Connie Roberson, senior living placement advisor and former caregiver for her husband, Willie Host: Ronda Wells Episode summary Ronda Wells talks with Connie Roberson about caring for her husband Willie through Alzheimer's, from his 2015 diagnosis to his passing in December 2022. Connie shares practical safety strategies, how she decided on memory care, and the moments of joy that kept her smiling.

She also talks about the stigma around memory care and nursing homes in communities of color. Key topics The diagnosis (3:39) Early signs (4:48) Plan early (7:38) Meet them in their world (8:37) A wandering fix (9:38) Caregiver role (10:23) Choosing memory care (11:28) Stigma in communities of color (12:10) Stay involved (13:49) Aggression and calling 911 (15:53) Advocate locally (17:21) Moving forward (18:47) Moments of joy (21:59) Takeaways for caregivers Start care and financial planning early.

Look for simple safety fixes for wandering. Choose the care setting that is best for both of you.

Visit unannounced and advocate for your loved one. Ask your community about special needs registries and first responder training.

Make room for moments of joy. Music: Sugar in Your Smile Music licensed through Soundstripe.

Code: LYVBD9EXXQVU5TLC, EGG9D9SZ52MCL5Z5 Like, Rate, Subscribe and Share! This podcast is dedicated to: My parents Oliver & Lara Roach, Aunts Henrietta Roach and Audrey Clowe Praise God for: My amazing Husband, Children and Grandsons Emerging Voices Team and Class Michelle Radney - #michelles_seatatthetable My incredible guests All the Alzheimer's Caregivers, Advocates and Patients that I have met on this journey Thank you to all my listeners and subscribers!