The Disappearing Mind Podcast

17/05/2024

In this week's episode, Host Dawn Platt shares her experiences as a national dementia coach and trainer. She discusses coping with ambiguous loss and the challenges of the 'long goodbye.' Dawn also explores the shifts in family dynamics when taking on the role of a caregiver, offering practical advice on fostering family harmony. Tune in for more insightful reflections on resilience, compassion, and empathy in dementia care.

Click the link below to listen to this episode and subscribe to the podcast to never miss an update!

https://podcast.seniorlivingnearme.com/blog/supporting-families-through-dementia-dawns-journey

12/05/2024

Happy Mother's Day to all the incredible moms who've lovingly cared for us throughout our lives. Now, as we navigate the challenges of dementia with our loved ones, let's honor their unwavering devotion with the same love and dedication they showed us. From the Disappearing Mind Podcast family to yours, may this day be filled with gratitude and cherished memories.

10/05/2024

Join Host Dawn Platt in this week's new episode as she guides you through the journey of caring for a loved one with dementia at home, from the beginning stages of receiving a diagnosis to establishing vital in-home support. Dawn explores recognizing the right time for bringing care into the home, managing caregiver wellbeing and burnout, accessing support networks, and practical steps for evaluating the home environment. Tune in for essential insights and guidance on this meaningful caregiving journey.

Click the link below to listen to this episode and subscribe to the podcast to never miss an update!

https://podcast.seniorlivingnearme.com/blog/bringing-care-home-navigating-dementia-diagnosis-to-in-home-support

06/05/2024

In case you missed it, check out our latest episode where host Dawn Platt compassionately delves into the questions submitted by family members and caregivers navigating life alongside loved ones with dementia. Dawn provides thoughtful insights and practical advice based on these questions, offering valuable support to listeners facing similar challenges. If you're left with lingering questions, we invite you to visit the link in our bio to submit your questions for Dawn to address in future episodes. Tune in for guidance, understanding, and solidarity in navigating the complexities of dementia caregiving.

Click the link below to listen to this episode and subscribe to the podcast to never miss an update!
https://podcast.seniorlivingnearme.com/blog/real-life-qa-dawn-answers-questions-from-families-and-caregivers

26/04/2024

Join Host Dawn Platt in this enlightening 16-minute quick-cast episode as she discusses effective communication with those facing dementia. Discover the benefits of compassionate communication, the importance of attitude, and the power of nonverbal cues. Gain insights into navigating the different stages of dementia while learning practical strategies for fostering meaningful connections. Tune in for essential tips on enhancing communication with loved ones on this challenging journey.

Click the link in our bio to listen to this episode and subscribe to the podcast to never miss an update!

19/04/2024

Join Host Dawn Platt in this week's enlightening episode as she engages in a touching dialogue with Nurse and Memory Care Director Brenda Johnson. Discover the remarkable impact of music on Brenda's nonverbal grandmother, whose silence was broken by the familiar tunes of her past, offering glimpses of connection amidst dementia's fog. Additionally, they shed light on the higher prevalence of dementia among African Americans, underlining the need for greater awareness and support. Finally, they offer practical advice on self-care for caregivers, providing valuable insights for those navigating the complexities of caring for loved ones with dementia.

Click the link below to listen to this episode and subscribe to the podcast to never miss an update!
https://podcast.seniorlivingnearme.com/blog/harmonies-of-healing-musics-role-in-dementia-support?utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8fNUkhBHs5E9V7qBNpJ3BOEzwvcwyU_QoYuEfvFyKAzfzD-Gt64Ymj298cmlJ0cQOOwnoM_audZUZXfOOBreAdVpiUvw&_hsmi=2&utm_content=2&utm_source=hs_email

12/04/2024

In this week's new episode, Host Dawn Platt engages in a heartfelt conversation with her colleague and friend EJ about navigating the complexities of ambiguous loss, drawing from personal experiences with EJ's mother-in-law. Ambiguous loss is one's profound sense of loss and sadness not from the actual death of their loved one, but from the loss or change of the person they knew as a result of dementia or other personality change. They explore the challenges caregivers encounter as well as coping mechanisms for adapting to evolving relationships with loved ones affected by dementia. Delving into the impact of ambiguous loss, they shed light on its potential to alter family dynamics, trigger intricate grief responses, and hinder closure or resolution in conflicts.

Click the link below to listen to this episode and subscribe to the podcast to never miss an update!

https://podcast.seniorlivingnearme.com/blog/ambiguous-loss-mourning-the-person-you-knew-before-dementia

05/04/2024

In this week's podcast, Host Dawn Platt discusses common issues faced by dementia patients and their families. One prevalent issue is financial strain, and Dawn emphasizes the importance of taking proactive measures to alleviate this burden. She also stresses the significance of obtaining Power of Attorney early on to ensure that important decisions can be made on behalf of the individual. Other topics include over-purchasing or overspending due to memory loss or irrational fears of scarcity, risks of consuming expired food, the importance of staying hydrated with water rather than relying on non-hydrating beverages like coffee, juice, or soda, and more.

Click the link below to listen to this episode and subscribe to the podcast to never miss an update!
https://podcast.seniorlivingnearme.com/blog/faqs-of-alz?utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_NoPO-C557DQn6DoGZ809EXb4CSCw8RapEwY_tF4T1IRW-skadGbCAuxDf2Xmck14El5GRVlc2qzlnbqKBy2y2Nh_rpg&_hsmi=2&utm_content=2&utm_source=hs_email

30/03/2024

Dive into this week’s topic of navigating family dynamics when it comes to financial planning with Matt Marcoux, Certified Financial Planner from Financial! Discover how each family's unique dynamics shape their financial planning journey and learn tips on how to best approach this delicate subject. Don't miss out on the insights of this week's episode - tune in now!

29/03/2024

In this week’s podcast, host Dawn Platt and Certified Financial Planner Matt Marcoux discuss the gentle art of helping your aging loved one manage their finances, especially when dementia is a factor. It can be a difficult topic to approach, but it’s an essential part of life for most families. Having open communication is the most important aspect when facing these issues. Taking the time to plan now by getting proper documents and designations in place, a financial inventory, and the ability to monitor your loved one’s accounts will provide everyone with peace of mind when it’s needed most.

Click the link below to listen to this episode and subscribe to the podcast to never miss an update!

https://podcast.seniorlivingnearme.com/blog/financial-strategies-with-matt-marcoux?utm_medium=email&_hsmi=2&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_PYoVvpWNG_FHCWe6VyJP12auQl8tEsxP7bzZ7bacqjZrRx2uV-_EPnlhh_zuTfl6jToMVvbh5lBMrcO-F78b4wclqWg&utm_content=2&utm_source=hs_email

28/03/2024

Facing financial planning challenges due to a loved one's dementia? Don't worry, you're not alone. Get ready for an enlightening discussion on navigating this sensitive issue with host Dawn Platt and Matt Marcoux, Certified Financial Planner from CandorPath Financial. Tune in for a sneak peek of this week's podcast episode!

22/03/2024

In this week's new episode, Host Dawn Platt discusses how important it is for a caregiver to recognize that not all dementias are the same, and neither are their symptoms or behaviors. This understanding can help reduce anxiety and stress by managing expectations and approaching each situation with a tailored mindset. Dawn shares helpful strategies, such as practicing responses to frequently asked or repeated questions, setting expectations with friends and family, and other ways to reduce anxiety as a caregiver, even sharing her own stories about her mother and her dementia.
Click the link below to listen to this episode and subscribe to the podcast to never miss an update!
https://podcast.seniorlivingnearme.com/blog/coping-with-anxiety-and-fostering-self-compassion-as-a-caregiver

15/03/2024

In this week's episode, Host Dawn Platt engages in a candid conversation with her colleague, Brenda, regarding the challenges she faces in caring for her mother who has vascular dementia compounded by diabetes. Brenda reveals the distressing reality of her mother's condition, including delusions and violent outbursts, often directed towards Brenda’s father (her husband) and Brenda herself. Despite her mother's unwillingness to accept help or her diagnosis, Brenda remains steadfast in her efforts to provide support and care. This discussion sheds light on the complex and demanding nature of caregiving for individuals with dementia and underscores the need for increased awareness and support for families facing similar circumstances.

Click the link below to listen to this episode and subscribe to the podcast to never miss an update!

https://podcast.seniorlivingnearme.com/blog/when-your-loved-one-refuses-a-diagnosis-one-womans-story

08/03/2024

In this week's episode, host Dawn Platt shares a prevalent topic from her recent virtual support group discussion: redirection. Dementia patients may get "stuck" on an idea or concept that may not be logical or actionable but using redirection techniques can help. Given the challenge of logical reasoning with dementia, how can you alter or divert your loved one's attention to prevent frustration or agitation? Dawn provides valuable insights into understanding how individuals with dementia perceive different types of responses, advice on how to redirect and the reasoning behind the effectiveness of redirection.


Click the link below to listen to this episode and subscribe to the podcast to never miss an update!

https://podcast.seniorlivingnearme.com/blog/theres-no-reasoning-confusion-how-redirection-can-help?utm_medium=email&_hsmi=2&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8HwkmGhBdmSz_gwKnDFaVhxUP0_vP21mKW69cutR8cwWSWOxJ49gPePrL3KniOL5jINrUxeGXDt2LFI6cTcpSIMjlxVg&utm_content=2&utm_source=hs_email

01/03/2024

Join Host Dawn Platt on this week's episode as she sits down with Jeff, a Memory Care Director, who shares his personal journey as a son caring for parents battling Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Jeff offers insights from his professional experience and from a male caregiver's perspective, highlighting the crucial role of family in navigating the complexities of caregiving. Additionally, he provides advice on self-care for caregivers, discusses the benefits of transitioning loved ones to a senior living community, and shares valuable tips for supporting those with dementia. Tune in for Jeff's heartfelt reflections and compassionate guidance on navigating the challenges of caregiving.

Click the link below to listen to this episode and subscribe to the podcast to never miss an update!
https://podcast.seniorlivingnearme.com/blog/in-the-caregivers-shoes-a-sons-experience-with-dementia

23/02/2024

In this week's new episode, Host Dawn Platt chats with EJ, a woman whose mother-in-law has Alzheimer’s disease and lives with her family. They discuss strategies for de-escalating a loved one’s aggressive behavior as EJ seeks advice from her own experience. They also share helpful antidotes on managing common dementia and Alzheimer’s triggers and behaviors in a multi-generational household.

Click the link below to listen to this episode and subscribe to the podcast to never miss an update!
https://podcast.seniorlivingnearme.com/blog

16/02/2024

In this week’s new episode, host Dawn Platt talks about her recent visit to Tallahassee for Florida Advocacy Days with the Florida Senior Living Association, where she had the opportunity to discuss crucial impending laws and regulations around memory care with senators, legislators and representatives. Dawn is joined by Danielle, whose father has been recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, to answer her questions about these regulations and what they will mean to the future of memory care in Florida.

Click the link below to listen to this episode and subscribe to the podcast to never miss an update!
https://podcast.seniorlivingnearme.com/blog/advocating-for-seniors-host-dawn-platt-discusses-visit-to-fl-capital-for-memory-care-legislation?hs_preview=wkTbwagy-157112970119

09/02/2024

In this weeks new episode, host Dawn Platt speaks with Board Certified Neurologist and Clinical Neurophysiologist Dr. Michelle Boudreau on the importance of seeing a neurologist when there are memory issues or concerns. They also discuss the latest dementia medications as well as the challenges of increasing dementia cases.

Click the link below to listen to this episode and subscribe to the podcast to never miss an update!

https://podcast.seniorlivingnearme.com/blog/is-it-truly-dementia-the-importance-of-consulting-with-a-neurologist

02/02/2024

In this week's new podcast episode, host Dawn Platt had the opportunity to speak with Eldergrow CEO Orla Concanon. Eldergrow focuses on bringing nature indoors to senior living communities using therapeutic horticulture designed to fit spaces as small as a desk. They discuss how the program provides many benefits for those with dementia such as sensory stimulation, enhancing motor skills and promoting memory recall. Additionally, the conversation emphasizes the positive impact of Eldergrow's approach on the well-being of seniors in these communities, highlighting the broader benefits of gardening beyond its therapeutic aspects.

Click the link below to listen to this episode and subscribe to the podcast to never miss an update!

https://podcast.seniorlivingnearme.com/blog/rooted-in-care-eldergrow-helps-dementia-residents-thrive

29/01/2024

Did you watch the latest episode yet? Wills, Trust & Estate Attorney Ed Wollman joins Host Dawn Platt for an important topic in this all-new audio and video episode: The Do’s and Don’ts of Medical and Estate Planning. They discuss the advantages of guardianships and powers of attorney when navigating the complexities of dementia care, plus what other legal, financial and medical documents to have in place now. Watch today to learn more: https://podcast.seniorlivingnearme.com/blog/dos-and-donts-ed-wollman

26/01/2024

In this week's new podcast episode, host Dawn Platt speaks with Board Certified Wills, Trusts & Estates Attorney Ed Wollman, Managing Partner of Wollman, Gehrke & Associates, P.A. Ed explores the legal complexities that those with dementia and their loved ones may face. A key focus of the discussion is the importance of adequate estate planning and having medical documents in place like advance directives. He goes on to highlight how such documents not only streamline decisions, but also serve as effective tools in minimizing both financial burdens and emotional stress for caregivers in this challenging scenario.

Click the link below to listen to this episode and subscribe to the podcast to never miss an update!
https://podcast.seniorlivingnearme.com/blog/dos-and-donts-ed-wollman

25/01/2024

Estate Attorney Ed Wollman from Wollman, Gehrke & Associates, P.A. discusses which documents are the most beneficial when caring for a loved one's estate and medical needs. Be sure to check back tomorrow to listen or watch the entire episode!

23/01/2024

When do we need to obtain guardianship or power of attorney of a loved one with dementia? Here's a sneak peek of this week's podcast with host Dawn Platt interviewing Estate Attorney Ed Wollman from Wollman, Gehrke & Associates, P.A.

19/01/2024

This week's new episode wraps up the story of Marjorie, a dementia resident that impacted host Dawn Platt's senior living career. Marjorie's narrative unfolds further as she goes from social butterfly to introverted and withdrawn. Dawn delves into the items used as coping mechanisms and how they helped alleviate Marjorie’s anxiety around her memory loss. She further shares the profound impact of dementia on rational thinking when those items are misplaced, often resulting in unexpected and heightened reactions from the individual.

Click the link below to listen to this episode and subscribe to the podcast to never miss an update!
https://podcast.seniorlivingnearme.com/blog/impactful-memories-marjorieanxiety

12/01/2024

This week's new episode continues the story of Marjorie, a dementia resident that impacted host Dawn Platt's senior living career. Marjorie's personality changed vastly throughout her dementia journey and her personal care needs had to change with her. Dawn also discusses examples of how dementia patients experience a wide array of misperceptions, including visual and spatial, age confusion, or short term memory-loss.

Click the link below to listen now!
https://podcast.seniorlivingnearme.com/blog/impactful-memories-marjoriememoryloss

05/01/2024

In this week's new 15-minute quick-cast, host Dawn Platt talks about her personal health care and senior living career path and the stories and people that have impacted her along the way. This special episode focuses on one of her most memorable dementia residents, Marjorie. Listen now and subscribe to never miss an update!
https://podcast.seniorlivingnearme.com/blog/impactful-memories-marjories-plan

Dawn Platt speaks on this episode about dementia residents that impacted her career and way of thinking.

22/12/2023

In this week's episode, Dr. Cynthia Green, Ph.D., clinical psychologist and author, joins host Dawn Platt in a spirited conversation about brain health and exercises to keep your mind healthy and active. Nationally renowned, Dr. Green founded the Memory Enhancement Program at The Mount Sinai Hospital in 1996, the first of its kind in the United States. Listen now and subscribe to never miss an update!

Dr. Cynthia Green discusses mental exercise and proactive brain health.

14/12/2023

In this quick-cast 12-minute episode, host Dawn Platt shares her own experience as a dementia caregiver to a loved one and the real-life conversations she’s had with other caregivers about their day-to-day ups and downs. If you’re a caregiver, this episode will help you understand that there are going to be bad days, and that’s ok. It’s all about having balance in your life. Subscribe and listen now.

Quick podcast talking about the strains of being a caregiver to someone with dementia.

08/12/2023

In this week's new episode, Dr. Sandra Peterson, an expert in geriatrics and dementia, speaks with host Dawn Platt about working with seniors in memory care communities and the increase in different types of dementia, including mixed dementia and frontal temporal dementia.

You'll learn more about how different types of dementia should be diagnosed individually as they often have distinct treatments. Subscribe and listen now.

Not all dementias are the same. Host Dawn Platt speaks with Dr. Peterson about seniors and the treatments they receive.

01/12/2023

Host Dawn Platt shares concerning signs to look out for regarding paying bills, spending behaviors, and other issues that might be due to a decline in a parent or loved one’s short-term memory. While often it is easier to identify big problems, the cumulation of small ones can often indicate forthcoming issues.

Our latest episode gives listeners common issues to look for with loved ones that might be signs of early short-term memory loss.