Let's Talk Dementia

GLASS CLEANER AND COGNITIVE DECLINE. REALLY?

11 Sep 2020

Contributed by Lukas

The chemicals we use in our home, in our car, and on our body can and do affect us internally.  They actually can bring about negative side effec...

COFFEE - YOU ARE GOING TO LOVE THIS EPISODE!

19 Aug 2020

Contributed by Lukas

Drinking coffee can be beneficial to you.  However, it does depend upon each individual person's body.  Hope today's episode makes you happy...

What Happens To The Soul?

03 Aug 2020

Contributed by Lukas

When someone with dementia passes away, does their soul answer for their behaviors while in the throes of dementia?

This Interview Will Inspire You

28 Jul 2020

Contributed by Lukas

What a pleasure it was to interview Mr. Paul Eugene.  He is an amazing man with a ministry that inspires us to use exercise for the health and we...

Positive Thinking

16 Jul 2020

Contributed by Lukas

The power of positive thinking is an incredible tool in your caregiving toolbox.  Let's talk about that today!

Why Are You Postponing Moving Momma?

15 Jul 2020

Contributed by Lukas

Often we postpone moving our loved one to assisted living or memory care thinking it is in their best interest.  Often times they would be health...

COVID - Are You Sick Of It?

14 Jul 2020

Contributed by Lukas

COVID has impacted every person on the planet in some way.  The most commonly asked question I get is, "How do I explain to Momma that I cannot v...

Why Choose Memory Care Instead of Assisted Living?

14 Jul 2020

Contributed by Lukas

Why choose memory care instead of assisted living?  That is an excellent question, and I have a great answer.  It has a great deal to do wit...

What Are You Watching On TV?

14 Jul 2020

Contributed by Lukas

The shows you watch on television could have a negative effect on YOU.  They can certainly have a negative effect on your loved one.  The re...

Setting Him Up For Success

14 Jul 2020

Contributed by Lukas

I am honored to be working with a family who has decided to move their loved one to a memory care community.  I had a few tips on how to set this...

Psychiatric Hospitals and Why They Are Important

14 Jul 2020

Contributed by Lukas

I am working with a family whose mother had to be admitted to a psychiatric hospital.  Was it their first line of defense?  Absolutely not! ...

Momma Sings For Us

14 Jul 2020

Contributed by Lukas

I was so excited to discover a video of my Momma singing "When We All Get To Heaven."  Why is singing important?  I'll tell you why in this ...

Ernie Had A Smile On His Face!

14 Jul 2020

Contributed by Lukas

Uncle Ernie went to Heaven on July 1st.  It's been two short weeks, and life has been interesting.  I hope this story uplifts you in the pro...

Time For Relaxation

14 Jul 2020

Contributed by Lukas

I am so honored to have Sue Beres, Master Yogi, as a guest on our show today.  I hope you will take just a few short minutes to sit totally still...

It's Gonna Be A Great Day!

30 Jun 2020

Contributed by Lukas

Starting your day with "It's Gonna Be A Great Day" can change the outcome of your day.  Give it a try!

SSI - Should You Apply For This?

30 Jun 2020

Contributed by Lukas

What is SSI?  It is Supplemental Security Income.  Should you apply for it?

My Hair Is On Fire!

30 Jun 2020

Contributed by Lukas

We've all had those days where everything went crazy?  You felt like your hair was on fire!  Let's talk about that on today's episode. ...

Peeling Back The Layers

30 Jun 2020

Contributed by Lukas

When your loved one becomes agitated, you might need to dig deep to figure out what the real problem is.  You have to PEEL BACK THE LAYERS!

When Agitation Becomes Dangerous

30 Jun 2020

Contributed by Lukas

Uncle Ernie has dementia from PTSD and Agent Orange exposure in Vietnam.  He has begun hurting himself.  What will we do about that?

Sleeping With Someone Else

30 Jun 2020

Contributed by Lukas

If you find your loved one sleeping with someone other than their spouse, DON'T FREAK OUT!

Do Drugs For Dementia Really Work?

30 Jun 2020

Contributed by Lukas

Drugs are prescribed every day for Alzheimer's type dementia. Do they really work?  Check out this episode as I share information!  Write me...

Cats, Dogs, and Relaxation

17 Jun 2020

Contributed by Lukas

Having an animal can be a very relaxing and calming thing for us.  However, if your loved one with dementia can no longer care for that animal, i...

Angry, Happy or Generally Irked?

17 Jun 2020

Contributed by Lukas

We all have our "moments" when we may not be the most pleasant people on the planet.  That is true when dementia is part of our world.  Howe...

Hair, Nails, and Feeling GOOD!

16 Jun 2020

Contributed by Lukas

Life can be difficult for our loved ones with dementia.  One way you can bring joy to their day is with a trip to the beauty salon.  MOST fo...

Insurance and Lab Tests - EXPENSIVE!

16 Jun 2020

Contributed by Lukas

I recently had several blood tests performed, a biopsy, and I will undergo skin cancer surgery.  This is all expensive.  I do not have tradi...

Reducing Stress and Visiting Your Loved One - An Interview with Chris Schneider

15 Jun 2020

Contributed by Lukas

I am so excited to share an interview with Chris Schneider, Director of Communications for Alzheimer's Foundation of America.  They offer lots of...

LBD, Quarantine, And Thankfulness

10 Jun 2020

Contributed by Lukas

My friend Susan is a guest on today's show.  Her optimism and thankfulness are contagious!

Fixating, Uncle Ernie, and The Serenity Prayer

10 Jun 2020

Contributed by Lukas

Uncle Ernie is fixating on different things.  What is a good response to fixating behaviors?  And what does it have to do with The Serenity ...

Let's Hang On

07 Jun 2020

Contributed by Lukas

I've got another song on my mind.  Do you remember the song "Let's Hang On?"  It reminds me of caregiving (well, most things do).  In t...

Seasons Of Change

07 Jun 2020

Contributed by Lukas

Today I have spiritual things on my mind, and I hope they inspire you.  Life is ALWAYS changing.  Just when you think you have it all figure...

Videos Are A Great Memory Maker

02 Jun 2020

Contributed by Lukas

I have so many videos of my Momma.  In some she is silly or singing.  In some she is telling stories.  In some she is praying.  I ...

Too Much STUFF!

02 Jun 2020

Contributed by Lukas

Look around your house.  Do you see clutter?  What does your loved one with dementia see?  Are there things you can do to make the envi...

I HATE THIS PLACE

01 Jun 2020

Contributed by Lukas

He moved into assisted living as part of HIS decision.  He had several good days, and then it all went to.... well you can guess.  Write me ...

Memories of Momma

31 May 2020

Contributed by Lukas

She went to heaven one year ago today.  My mind is thinking of many happy memories, sad memories, funny memories, meaningful memories....Momma Me...

"The DEMENTIA Protocol" - Helping Those Folks With Dementia

27 May 2020

Contributed by Lukas

This episode is part two of our interview with world renown internist Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum.  What a wealth of information he offers in this episo...

Dr. Teitelbaum Provides More Information on PREVENTING Dementia

27 May 2020

Contributed by Lukas

What an honor and pleasure it was to interview Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum.  He is a board certified internist and nationally known expert in the fields...

Does Coconut Oil Cure Alzheimer's?

19 May 2020

Contributed by Lukas

There have been many studies conducted regarding the benefits of coconut oil.  MCT (medium chain triglycerides) come from coconut oil, and MCT is...

I Missed A Night Of Good Sleep!

19 May 2020

Contributed by Lukas

Just one night of disturbed sleep and I didn't function well the next day.  Today's episode talks about why even that one night of interrupted sl...

Dr. Teitelbaum Has Changed My World!

15 May 2020

Contributed by Lukas

When you learn something exciting, do you want to share it with everyone?  That is what happens with me.  Today I am sharing with you wonder...

No! I Will Not Press Charges!

14 May 2020

Contributed by Lukas

Today's episode comes from a listener who is experiencing a terribly difficult caregiving journey.  Her husband's behavior has been such that the...

"Massive Acceptance and Radical Presence"

14 May 2020

Contributed by Lukas

Practicing "Massive Acceptance and Radical Presence" is a life-changing experience.  

"Our Journey of Love" - An Interview with Sue Ryan

14 May 2020

Contributed by Lukas

What a pleasure it was to interview Internationally Best Selling Author Sue Ryan.  Her story of love and dementia will inspire you!  

Prevent Alzheimer's With Blueberries, Strawberries, Apples, Pears, and Tea!

10 May 2020

Contributed by Lukas

I recently read an article on BING.com that spoke of research in regards to preventing Alzheimer's by increasing flavonoids in our daily food plan. &n...

Writing To Say "YOU ROCK!"

06 May 2020

Contributed by Lukas

I had the pleasure of a phone conversation with a listener whose main concern was helping her step-mom know how much she is loved.  The step-mom ...

"Ghost Of You" - An Amazing Song About Dementia by Roxi Sound

06 May 2020

Contributed by Lukas

I had such a grand time interviewing the artist, Roxi Abbott (aka Roxi Sound) who has written a moving and emotional song titled, "Ghost of You". &nbs...

Introducing An In-Home Caregiver

05 May 2020

Contributed by Lukas

When the decision has been made to bring a caregiver into the home, the way you introduce that caregiver can be the difference between success and fai...

Facilitating SUCCESS - A Beautiful Thing!

04 May 2020

Contributed by Lukas

None of us wants to fail at any part of our lives.  We awake each day with the hope of being successful in our planned events, and we even want t...

Grief, Blessings, and Refreshing Springs

29 Apr 2020

Contributed by Lukas

During my morning scripture reading, I read a Psalm that spoke of walking through the "Valley of Weeping. " It went on to say that valley "will become...

Daddy ASKED To Move To Assisted Living

28 Apr 2020

Contributed by Lukas

I have clients who are sisters, and their Daddy was adamant that he would NEVER move to an assisted living, and he used every dirty word in the book w...

The Three R's Of Our New Normal

22 Apr 2020

Contributed by Lukas

I had the pleasure of speaking, virtually, to the Rock Hill Civitan Club, and I am sharing that event with you on this episode.  My message of in...

Late Stage Alzheimer's - What It Looks Like

22 Apr 2020

Contributed by Lukas

In conclusion of our three part series - The Stages of Alzheimer's Type Dementia - we will talk today about late stage Alzheimer's.  Knowing what...

Mid-Stage Alzheimer's - What You Need To Know

21 Apr 2020

Contributed by Lukas

As Alzheimer's progresses, the symptoms change.  Being prepared for those changes will help make you a better caregiver.  That's the topic o...

Early Stages of Alzheimer's - What You Need To Know

21 Apr 2020

Contributed by Lukas

Understanding what is happening in the various stages of Alzheimer's type dementia will help you be prepared for the upcoming changes in life.  T...

Desiree Has A Question Or 12 - I Bet You Do, Also!

16 Apr 2020

Contributed by Lukas

A caller had quite a few questions regarding her Momma's dementia.  I was happy to help her as she started to sort through the confusion of Alzhe...

Pulling It All Together

09 Apr 2020

Contributed by Lukas

We spend our days making sure all our "p's and q's" are lined up. We want everyone to be happy, content, safe, well fed, well cared for, and most ...

When Should We Change To Depends?

08 Apr 2020

Contributed by Lukas

A viewer wrote in to ask when and how to make the decision to move her loved on into Depends rather than traditional underwear. Let's talk about t...

The Long Spoons

06 Apr 2020

Contributed by Lukas

small and big porcelain spoons isolated on white background Eight foot long spoons. What could they possibly have to do with dementia and caregivi...

New Veterans Program For In Home Care

27 Mar 2020

Contributed by Lukas

  There is a new program through the Veterans Administration that helps families care for the veteran IN HOME. The family can be paid for ...

A Dementia Sewing Project

25 Mar 2020

Contributed by Lukas

  I loved learning to sew because my Momma was my teacher. However, dementia eventually robbed her of the ability of sewing. Our loved one...

How To Respond To Inappropriate Sexual Advances

24 Mar 2020

Contributed by Lukas

  When someone with dementia makes inappropriate sexual advances, it can be disturbing. When that "someone" is your Dad, that ...

Why Can’t Daddy Talk In Complete Sentences?

23 Mar 2020

Contributed by Lukas

      As Alzheimer's progresses, the ability to make complete sentences is often lost. A listener wrote in asking about th...

I’m Sad I Can’t Visit Because of COVID19

20 Mar 2020

Contributed by Lukas

A listener in Canada wrote regarding the sadness and guilt she is experiencing due to the inability to visit her loved one who is quarantined in a...

Are You Stressed Out?

18 Mar 2020

Contributed by Lukas

As a dementia caregiver, you are experiencing stress. That stress is increasing your cortisol level. Your cortisol level is keeping your body in a...

Coronavirus – Don’t Talk About It!

17 Mar 2020

Contributed by Lukas

Our world is full of talk about COVID-19/Coronavirus, but it should not be part of the world of your loved one with dementia. They do NOT need to ...

Why Are You Naked?

16 Mar 2020

Contributed by Lukas

If your loved one has a tendency to take all their clothes off and walk around naked, there is a reason for that. How should you respond? Let's ta...

Why Do You Have On Three Coats?

12 Mar 2020

Contributed by Lukas

When our loved ones are dressing with multiple layers, what should our response be? When they are turning the heat to 104, what should we do about...

Porter Wagoner Came For Lunch

12 Mar 2020

Contributed by Lukas

Uncle Ernie thinks Porter Wagoner came for lunch. Of course, we know this isn't true (especially since Porter died in 2007), but arguing with Erni...

When I Pass Gas, It Doesn’t Smell Bad!

10 Mar 2020

Contributed by Lukas

If you think your gas doesn't smell bad, I've got news for you. In fact, your loved ones with dementia are not smelling lots of things. Why is tha...

GIVE ME MY DAMN CAR KEYS!

09 Mar 2020

Contributed by Lukas

He sat his daughters down and demanded his car keys be returned. Words were used that broke their hearts, and feelings were hurt. The daughters we...

DNR – Yes or No?

05 Mar 2020

Contributed by Lukas

Should you have a DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) order on file for your loved one? Should you have one for yourself? Let's talk about that today on "Let...

Dad Won’t Stop Laughing

05 Mar 2020

Contributed by Lukas

Does your loved one laugh or cry at inappropriate times? Does it seem they cannot control their laughter or crying? This may be a sign of Pseudobu...

The Television Show “This Is Us” and Mild Cognitive Impairment

03 Mar 2020

Contributed by Lukas

I enjoy the television show "This Is Us," but the storyline about Rebecca having MCI left me a little puzzled. Let's learn a little about Mild Co...

Don’t Correct My Grief

02 Mar 2020

Contributed by Lukas

I recently had a person make a hurtful comment on Facebook regarding my grief. You should NEVER correct someone's grief! Let's talk about that tod...

Moving Dad – What Questions Do We Ask When Touring?

26 Feb 2020

Contributed by Lukas

When touring an assisted living or memory care community, there are things to be aware of. Today's video addresses that topic.

Hallucinations and Arguing

26 Feb 2020

Contributed by Lukas

If your loved one is hallucinating, how do you respond? Do you argue with them? The question is - Do YOU like to be argued with? The answer most o...

You Look Fat!

25 Feb 2020

Contributed by Lukas

When a person says something offensive to us, we might not respond kindly. If that someone has dementia, HOW we respond will set the tone for the...

Organize Your Junk

19 Feb 2020

Contributed by Lukas

Organization can relieve stress, decrease frustration, and even save you money. It can make your home safer and your loved one safer. All these ar...

Don’t You Remember?

17 Feb 2020

Contributed by Lukas

  Even the best caregivers on the planet will hear the words, "Don't you remember" roll from their lips. No matter how hard we try, it is ...

Is There Ever A PERFECT Time To Move?

16 Feb 2020

Contributed by Lukas

Is there ever a perfect moment to make the move to assisted living or memory care? Let's talk about that on today's episode. Thanks to Alzheim...

Fixating On Numbers

11 Feb 2020

Contributed by Lukas

Uncle Ernie has dementia from exposure to Agent Orange. His dementia is advancing rapidly, and he is fixated on numbers. He especially likes to ta...

The Full Moon Is Making Me Feel Yucky!

10 Feb 2020

Contributed by Lukas

I'm not feeling like myself these last couple days. Then I noticed there was a full moon. I began to wonder if there was a connection between my...

Kidney Disease, Dementia, and Veterans

06 Feb 2020

Contributed by Lukas

  Kidney disease is common among Vietnam veterans. Today we will talk about that and how to get benefits for your veterans. I recommend ca...

How To Handle A Problem With A Paid Caregiver

05 Feb 2020

Contributed by Lukas

No matter what community you choose for care, on the entire planet, you will eventually have a situation arise that needs the attention of staff...

A La Carte Pricing For Care or All-Inclusive

04 Feb 2020

Contributed by Lukas

  Assisted living and memory care communities price the care your loved one will need based on two general options - a la carte pricing or...

The Super Bowl and Perseverance

03 Feb 2020

Contributed by Lukas

  Perseverance is a trait all the football players in the Super Bowl have in common. You are more like those football players thank you th...

The Female Brain Is Bigger!!

03 Feb 2020

Contributed by Lukas

What does cauliflower have to do with the brain? And are female brains bigger or smaller than male brains? Good questions! Watch today's ep...

Praying The Serenity Prayer – Accepting Life

03 Feb 2020

Contributed by Lukas

Accepting life and its many facets is difficult for most folks, and it can be very difficult when caregiving. Today we will discuss The Serenity P...

Are You Checking Your BP and Blood Sugar Levels?

02 Feb 2020

Contributed by Lukas

            As a caregiver, you need to take time to care for yourself. Checking your blood pressu...

Fight or Flight/Rest and Digest – Which Will You Choose?

20 Jan 2020

Contributed by Lukas

"Fight or Flight" is a term referring to the body's response to a stressful or frightening experience. Instead of living in the "fight or flight" ...

Explaining The Stages of Alzheimer’s

20 Jan 2020

Contributed by Lukas

Early, Mid, and Late are the three stages of Alzheimer's I use to work with my clients. Which stage is your LO?

Dad Doesn’t Want To Move To Foster Care!

20 Jan 2020

Contributed by Lukas

      I had a conversation with a lady whose dad was afraid his daughters would move him to "foster care." That struck me so...

Shake Your Bootie

16 Jan 2020

Contributed by Lukas

Music is good for the brain. Dancing is good for the brain. When you combine dancing (or any movement) and music, you have a win-win situation.

Let’s Infect The World With The Contagious Benefits of GRATEFULNESS!

15 Jan 2020

Contributed by Lukas

Want to reduce anxiety and depression while increasing healthy sleep? Want to make those around you feel better while also making yourself feel be...

Don’t Treat Me Different Because I Have Dementia

14 Jan 2020

Contributed by Lukas

Our folks who are diagnosed with Alzheimer's often experience stigmas from the moment of their diagnosis. Let's look at that and see how we can ma...

Interview with Surya Kolluri

13 Jan 2020

Contributed by Lukas

Bank of America is doing some wonderful things for their employees who are caregiving. Today's episode is an interview with Surya Kolluri, Managin...

Thou Shalt Not Argue At Church

09 Jan 2020

Contributed by Lukas

I facilitate worship for folks with dementia. Some Sundays are - well - they are just INTERESTING. I hope this episode makes you giggle.

“They Are Holding Me Captive”

08 Jan 2020

Contributed by Lukas

This is a picture of a shoulder pad with the words "Please call the police" written on it. It also says, "They are holding me captive." It is a sa...

Do I Have Mild Cognitive Impairment?

07 Jan 2020

Contributed by Lukas

MCI - It used to be the initials of a telephone company. But today we are talking about Mild Cognitive Impairment. Is it the same as dementia? Let...

It’s Not Going To Be A Norman Rockwell Christmas

23 Dec 2019

Contributed by Lukas

It won't be a Norman Rockwell Christmas because they don't exist.  You didn't have one before your loved one had dementia, and you won't have one...

Helping Our Folks Dress While Respecting Their Dignity

19 Dec 2019

Contributed by Lukas

It is important for our loved ones to look their best. Helping them look good requires respecting their dignity. Today's episode will give you som...