On this very private episode of Aging Forward, Kathy Anderson shares her expertise caring for her mom, Ronnie, who lives with dementia. From the primary indicators of her mom’s decline to the methods the 2 take advantage of every day, Kathy presents insights and hope for anybody on the same path.
0:00 Caring for Loved Ones with Dementia
0:48 Meet Kathy Anderson, Background and Family
1:40 Ronnie’s Vibrant, Artistic Life Remembered from Childhood
3:22 Relationship Over Time; Impact of Loss
5:02 First Subtle Signs: Everyday Tasks Slip
7:04 Early Changes: Anxiety, Paranoia, Hoarding Behaviors
8:43 Dementia Accelerates After Her Father’s Passing
10:01 Balancing Work with Growing Care Needs
11:04 “Stolen Car” Panic, Downtown Safety Wake-Up
14:33 Care Strategies: Redirecting, Music, Humor Help
19:41 Accepting Help: Companions and Care Services
23:24 Hardest Moments: Isolation and Goodbyes After Visits
25:23 Reset Expectations; Comforting Daily Routines Bring Stability
33:02 Coping with Decline and Finding Joy
40:04 Aging Forward: Joy, Community, Purpose Guide
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