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What happens when personal hardship turns into a powerful mission to change the world of caregiving? Our guest Pam Brandon, CEO and founder of Age-U-Cate Training Institute, shares her deeply personal journey inspired by her parents' battles with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. As a result, Pam has pioneered paths for caregiver education, addressing the urgent need for community collaboration and innovative support systems. We unravel the growing public health challenge of dementia and explore how her experience has positioned her to influence the future of dementia care education, cultivating empathy and skills among both current and budding healthcare professionals.

This episode illuminates the transformative power of empathy and cultural sensitivity in caregiving. Pam discusses the groundbreaking Dementia Live program, offering caregivers a visceral understanding of cognitive decline. By stepping into the world of those with dementia, caregivers gain profound insights, reshaping their approach to providing care and their ability to communicate effectively. We also provide a wealth of resources for caregivers, encouraging you to join us on "The Journey Out" as we strive to empower individuals and families through life's transitions.

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AgeuCate:
https://ageucate.com/index.php

PC Home Health:
www.pchomehealth.org

Community of Neighbors:
www.communityofneighbors.org

The Journey Out Website:
https://thejourneyout.buzzsprout.com/

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Join us on a journey as we explore the fascinating world of Alzheimer's and dementia with Dr. Diana Kerwin, founder and president of Kerwin Medical Center. With over two decades of experience, Dr. Kerwin shares her personal story, recounting a pivotal moment during her residency that ignited her passion for tackling memory impairments. This episode sheds light on the subtle signs of memory loss, providing clear guidance on when to seek medical evaluation. Dr. Diana emphasizes the importance of persistence in receiving a proper assessment, offering invaluable insights for those concerned about their brain health.

We venture into the realm of Alzheimer's clinical trials, highlighting their vital role in advancing treatment options. Discover the significance of annual wellness visits and memory evaluations for understanding brain health, especially within the framework of Medicare. We address the misconceptions surrounding clinical trial participation, clarifying that those involved are not mere "guinea pigs" but valued contributors to future breakthroughs. Dr. Kerwin also spotlights the importance of diversity and inclusion in research, advocating for ethical practices and community engagement to make studies more accessible and inclusive.

Rounding off the discussion, we examine lifestyle factors that can bolster brain health, such as exercise and the MIND diet, underscoring the potential of these strategies to reduce health risks. Dr. Kerwin offers a hopeful glimpse into recent advancements in Alzheimer's treatment, acknowledging the progress made in slowing disease progression. As we hold out hope for future breakthroughs, listeners are encouraged to stay informed and connected through additional resources and episodes, equipping families and communities to navigate the challenges of Alzheimer's and dementia together.

Support the show

AgeuCate:
https://ageucate.com/index.php

PC Home Health:
www.pchomehealth.org

Community of Neighbors:
www.communityofneighbors.org

The Journey Out Website:
https://thejourneyout.buzzsprout.com/

Send us a text

What if the challenges of caregiving could transform you into a beacon of support and resilience? Join us as we welcome the remarkable Veronica Shanklin, founder of Dementia Care Warriors, who courageously shares her poignant journey of caring for her grandmother and mother, both touched by Alzheimer's and dementia. Veronica takes us into the heart of her experience, revealing the emotional and logistical hurdles she faced while transitioning from an independent life in Chicago to becoming a full-time family caregiver. She speaks candidly about the heavy toll of exhaustion, frustration, and isolation, as well as the financial burdens and feelings of resentment that arose from a lack of familial support.

Prepare to be inspired as Veronica unfolds the story behind Dementia Care Warriors, her nonprofit dedicated to uplifting caregivers through innovative support channels. From the lively support group happy hours to the energizing Revive Refresh caregiver conference, she highlights the importance of finding community and joy amidst the caregiving journey. Veronica underscores the necessity of accessing resources during Family Caregiving Month and invites you to explore DementiaCareWarriors.org for further guidance. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the unwavering love and dedication required in caregiving, and discover the wealth of resources available to empower those navigating similar paths.

Support the show

AgeuCate:
https://ageucate.com/index.php

PC Home Health:
www.pchomehealth.org

Community of Neighbors:
www.communityofneighbors.org

The Journey Out Website:
https://thejourneyout.buzzsprout.com/