Ep.114 Building Resilience and Community in Dementia Caregiving with Diane Chew

Asking for a Friend - Health, Fitness & Personal Growth Tips for Women in Midlife

Some of us have already been thrust into the role of caregiver. For many, this has meant the loving call to duty as our parents have aged or have had failing health. No one prepares you for the emotional and physical toll of, not only caring for the loved one, but also the added stress of the daily responsibilities we already had on our plates. But what if the person in our care is our spouse or partner? We may not have the luxury of a team of siblings to act as backup. There's much to learn regarding resources, support, and self-love.
Join me as I sit down with Diane Chew, a remarkable home-based dementia caregiver and life coach, who has devoted her life to caring for her husband, Ben. Diagnosed with Lewy body dementia, Ben's journey has been marked by unique challenges. Diane's candid reflections on their early years together, her transition from a scientist to a life coach, and her invaluable lessons offer a wealth of wisdom and support for anyone navigating the complexities of caregiving.
Discover the practical strategies Diane has developed to manage Ben's condition, from finding suitable outside resources to the crucial importance of nighttime care for her own well-being. We explore the benefits of using cannabis to manage Ben's symptoms and the stringent safety measures Diane has put in place at home. A recent incident where Ben wandered off underscores the unpredictability of dementia and highlights the emotional highs and lows caregivers face. Diane's story is a testament to the resilience and unwavering love required in the role of caregiver.
As "Dementia Coach Diane," social media has become a lifeline for Diane. She proves that it is never too late to develop technology skills, and she shares the growth of her online community, which now serves as a supportive network for caregivers worldwide. Diane's message is clear: caregiving is a choice, and building a support network is essential. Tune in for an episode filled with heartfelt advice, practical tips, and relatable stories.
You can find Diane Chew at:
www.dementiacoachdiane.com
Instagram @dementiacoachdiane
https://www.tiktok.com/@dementiacoachdiane
Dementia Society of America https://www.dementiasociety.org

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Are you ready to reclaim your midlife body and health? I went through my own personal journey through menopause, the struggle with midsection weight gain, and feeling rundown. Faster Way, a transformative six-week group program, set me on the path to sustainable change. I'd love to work with you! Let me help you reach your health and fitness goals.
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*Transcripts are done with AI and may not be perfectly accurate.
**This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

Chapter

1. Navigating Midlife and Caregiving Challenges (00:00:00)

2. Managing Care and Dementia Challenges (00:15:26)

3. Caring for Loved Ones With Dementia (00:23:55)

4. Social Media Outreach and Self-Care (00:34:20)

5. Exploring Cannabis for Hospice and Dementia (00:41:10)