In Gutpunched: Alzheimer's and Caregivers, host Jeff Edwards dives deep into the world of caregiving, offering practical advice, emotional support, and a candid look at the challenges faced by those caring for loved ones with Alzheimer's. In this episode, Jeff revisits crucial caregiving principles and shares insights that can make a difference in navigating the tough journey of dementia care.

He starts by revisiting some of the fundamental rules caregivers need to follow:

1. Prioritize your own well-being — if you don't take care of yourself, who will take care of your loved one?

2. Recognize that you can't do it alone; support is essential. Connect with caregiving groups or your network of friends and family.

3. Create a practical list of people who’ve offered help and list tasks you can’t manage yourself due to the overwhelming nature of caregiving. Then, use that list to get things done efficiently, tackling the top priorities first.

4. A special tip: Create a "Help Signal" to ease your loved one’s anxiety when outside help comes in. It could be a specific phrase or cue that your loved one can recognize, helping them feel more comfortable even if the helper is unfamiliar.

The episode also touches on three key topics:

• How increasing daytime sleepiness may be an early sign of dementia.

• A new blood test that can diagnose and track Alzheimer’s disease.

• Four valuable suggestions for caregivers at any stage of the journey.

With humor, heart, and a dose of reality, Jeff Edwards offers caregivers practical tools and emotional validation while helping them maintain their own mental and physical health. Whether you're in the early stages of caregiving or in the thick of it, this episode is full of helpful tips and reassuring advice for anyone supporting a loved one through Alzheimer’s.