I stumbled upon a game-changing podcast by Mel Robbins and felt compelled to share. The link to the podcast is in the comments below ⬇️. It's a powerful reminder that while we're busy caring for others, we mustn't forget to care for ourselves—especially our brains. As caregivers, particularly for those supporting loved ones with dementia, our lives often revolve around understanding the illness, planning for our loved one's future, and managing day-to-day care. But in this whirlwind of responsibility, we often neglect our own well-being. Dr. Wendy Suzuki, a renowned neuroscientist featured in the podcast, offers hope. Her research shows it's never too late to start caring for your brain, and the benefits are profound: The Exercise Revolution: Just 10 minutes of physical activity can boost your mood and cognitive function. Regular exercise can reduce the risk of dementia by up to 35%. Your Brain's "Bubble Bath": Every workout bathes your brain in beneficial neurochemicals, promoting new brain cell growth in the memory center. Beyond the Gym: Engage in puzzles, learn new skills, practice meditation, prioritize sleep, and maintain social connections. These activities are your brain's best friends. Remember, caring for your brain isn't selfish - it's essential. It enables you to be a better caregiver and safeguards your own future. Caregivers, let's start a conversation. How do you plan to incorporate brain care into your routine? Share your thoughts and inspire others! #CaregiverWellness #BrainHealth #SelfCare#Difficultdecisions#dementiacare https://www.melrobbins.com/podcasts/episode-218

Talking with your parents about their future care needs may feel unnecessary. You might even think, "My parents are fine." Yep, they are fine until they are not. And then what? In my years working with families, I've seen the consequences of waiting too long to have difficult conversations. Often, when families realize they need help, it's too late to plan calmly and effectively. They're left scrambling under pressure, and in many cases, the person in need may resist the very help they could benefit from. This brings me to a story about Lana and Joan, two sisters who lived together for years. When Joan was hospitalized, Lana's son reached out to me. He thought it would be good for them to learn about in-home care. When we met, Lana and Joan were kind and welcoming. But I could sense Lana was preparing to say, "Kelli, we're fine." I smiled and replied, "Of course you are, and I truly appreciate you taking the time to meet with me. It's always nice to have options in place—just in case." But what happens when someone resists help? That's precisely what happened with Lana. As Joan's health started declining, Lana insisted they could manage independently. It's a common response, but it's not the end of the conversation. Here are a few strategies to consider when a loved one refuses help: -Plant the seed. Even if they say no initially, introducing the idea early allows them time to process. This way, when the conversation comes up again, it's not entirely foreign. -Focus on independence. Frame the conversation around how help can preserve their independence longer. It's not about losing control; it's about maintaining their quality of life. -Get a professional involved. An outside perspective can make all the difference. Whether it's a doctor, care manager, or trusted advisor, hearing it from someone else can remove the emotional weight of family dynamics. Offer a trial period. -Propose temporarily bringing in help. Whether for a few hours a week or just for specific tasks, this trial can ease them into accepting support without making them feel overwhelmed.

Happy Birthday Mom! Each year, I honor my Mom by writing her a letter to celebrate her birthday. I hope this inspires you to consider ways to honor and remember those you have loved and lost. Dear Mom, Happy eighty-seventh Birthday!🎂 So much has happened this past year, and words cannot truly express how much I miss you and wish you were still here with us. OK, let's dive into the updates! Sadie turned twenty-one this year—can you even believe it? That tiny toddler you once held has grown into a beautiful young woman, thriving in school and life. I think we can safely say someone did something right along the way. 💕 I know you're up there, looking down with pride, bragging to Gram about your first grandchild. By the way, give Gram a big squeeze for me. 🤗 Miss Liz is in her second year of high school and doing great. She's got her driver's permit—yes, a bit spooky.👻 It feels like these kids grow up overnight. As for T, she has followed in Liz's footsteps, attending the same high school. According to her Dad, "She is crushing it😀." Going through that rigorous application process was no small feat, but we are proud of both of them for making it. And then there's Nat, my little fashionista💃 obsessed with all things girl, cheer, friends, and fashion. She's been keeping us on our toes. As for the three of us and our respective better halves, we're doing well. That pesky diabetic gene has made its rounds, but don't worry—we're managing fine. Nat's solution is "To eat as much sugar as possible before I get diabetes." Famous last words from our queen of sugar! 🍭. The Burnside clan is doing well and is busy as bees—no surprise there. The kids are going in a million different directions, and Miss E will be off to college next year. The weather will be beautiful on Friday, and knowing how you feel about sunshine, it will be your day all the way around. I made your famous chicken enchiladas the other day. They are still a crowd pleaser. I could hear your voice saying, "Remember, Kelli, the secret is in the green chilies." I smiled, realizing how often I pass on your wisdom. Whether it's your cooking tips, advice on dealing with tough times, or insistence on always being kind, your lessons continue to shape our family daily.

Caregivers, let's talk about those moments when we mess up. We all have them. It's not about being perfect—it's about how we handle those imperfect moments. Remember that you're not a lousy caregiver when you lose your cool or say something you regret. You're a human having a hard time. Here's something to think about: -Pause and get sturdy. Take a deep breath and ground yourself. -Acknowledge what happened without judgment. "I yelled when I was frustrated." -Take responsibility for your actions. No "buts" or excuses -Share how you'll do better next time. This shows your commitment to growth. Try this: "I've been thinking about last night. I'm sorry I yelled—that must have made you uneasy and been cconfusing for you. I am sorry I lost my temper. I know you are scared and I am too! I am worried, and I'm working on staying calm even when I'm frustrated. Next time, I'll take a deep breath before speaking." You've got this. Every mistake is an opportunity to strengthen your bond and grow together.

Caregiving is a journey of unspoken challenges and hidden emotions. You might find a caregiver sitting in silence, head in hands, elbows on knees, heart on sleeve, silently crying out for help. Many caregivers struggle to identify their needs or ask for assistance, anticipating the next challenge each day. Here are three simple yet powerful ways to support a caregiver: 1. A gentle touch on the shoulder or hand can ground them in the present moment, reminding them they're not alone. 2. Send a handwritten note of encouragement through the mail. 3. Offer a specific time and place for listening. For example, "I'll be at the café today at noon for a couple of hours if you'd like to join me for coffee and a chat." When extending help, remember that accepting support can be more complex than giving it. hashtag#Caregiving often involves a whirlwind of emotions—guilt, depression, anxiety, and sadness, to name a few. By reaching out, you can make a world of difference in a caregiver's life. Your support, no matter how small, can be the lifeline they desperately need.#caregiver#support#acceptance If you are a caregiver, do these tips resonate with you? What kind of support/help would you appreciate during this time? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.