What happens when your caregiving journey is complicated by family betrayal, mental illness, and profound loss? Meet Sheri Smith, a resilient entrepreneur whose life took unexpected turns when faced with both her mother's dementia and her husband's bipolar disorder simultaneously.

Sheri's new memoir "Mama Drama: A Journey with Bipolar and Dementia, Finding Light Through Loss and Grief" chronicles her extraordinary path from running a successful catering business and owning an oceanfront castle in Hawaii to navigating the heartbreaking terrain of cognitive decline (her mother) and mental health challenges (her spouse). Her story reveals the devastating reality many caregivers face when family dynamics turn toxic—in Sheri's case, a cousin who prevented her from seeing her mother during her final days.

The conversation delves into painful parallels between caring for someone with dementia and someone with untreated bipolar disorder. As Sherry candidly shares, "I made every mistake in the book because I simply didn't know better." This raw honesty about her attempts to "fix" situations beyond her control resonates deeply with anyone who has blamed themselves for not handling caregiving perfectly.

Despite these enormous challenges, Sheri transformed her pain into purpose through writing. Her journey from confusion and self-blame to understanding and advocacy offers a roadmap for others navigating similar terrain. By sharing both mistakes and triumphs, she creates space for caregivers to forgive themselves and find strength even when outcomes aren't what they hoped for.

Have you experienced family conflicts while caring for a loved one with dementia? Share your story and connect with our supportive community dedicated to finding light even in the darkest caregiving moments.

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What happens when a former federal judge faces an Alzheimer's diagnosis? For Stephanie Duncan-Peters and her husband Richard James, it becomes an opportunity to showcase remarkable resilience, joy, and a refreshing perspective on living with cognitive change.

In Episode 105, Don and I have a deeply moving and uplifting conversation with Stephanie, whose impressive career spans nearly 20 years as a District of Columbia Superior Court judge appointed by President George H.W. Bush.

Far from letting her diagnosis define her, Stephanie has recently published a children's book, "The Blue-Footed Booby Blues," about a dancing bird who loves to travel—mirroring her own passions.

The couple shares how they met through dance lessons 12 years ago and continue to dance together today, demonstrating how activities that build "cognitive reserve" can remain accessible and joyful despite Alzheimer's. Their calm, matter-of-fact approach to the diagnosis stems partly from Stephanie's previous experience supporting a Harvard Law professor friend through his Alzheimer's journey.

We explore fascinating concepts like cognitive reserve—how certain skills and passions often persist longer in people with dementia—and the way Alzheimer's can paradoxically create what host I call "the ultimate state of Zen," fostering heightened presence and appreciation for the now.

Richard offers valuable insights from the care partner perspective, discussing how unexpected connections in his community led to crucial support resources. Their story beautifully illustrates how love, resilience, and maintaining meaningful activities create a fulfilling life even when facing significant health challenges.

Whether you're navigating dementia in your own family or simply seeking inspiration on facing life's unexpected turns with grace, this conversation will leave you with renewed hope and practical wisdom for the journey ahead. Listen now and discover how, as the podcast name suggests, Love truly Conquers Alz. :)

Much Love,

Susie

Connect with Stephanie and Richard through Kayla Mancuso - kayla@ballastbooks.com

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In this episode of Love Conquers Alz, Don and I sit down with Kristina Hayes, the inspiring founder of Waltz Through Life. Kristina shares her journey of using dance, movement, and creativity to support individuals and families navigating the challenges of aging, dementia, and caregiving. Through her unique approach, she brings joy, connection, and healing to those who need it most. We explore the power of music, movement, and mindfulness in transforming the caregiving experience.

I know how powerful dance has been in my life. It truly is my form of meditation. The healing power of music and movement for people with Alzheimer's radiates through this heartwarming conversation. For 15 years, Kristina has witnessed firsthand how dance transforms seniors in memory care, creating magical connections when words fail.

"Dancing to music is a shortcut to a person's heart and miracle medicine for Alzheimer's," Kristina explains, describing how residents who appear disengaged suddenly come alive when music plays. Her journey from ballroom dance instructor to therapeutic dance facilitator happened almost by accident, but has evolved into deeply meaningful work that challenges conventional approaches to dementia care.

The conversation weaves through fascinating science about why music reaches people with cognitive decline—it lights up more regions of the brain than any other sensory input and remains accessible even in advanced stages of memory loss. Suzy shares poignant stories about singing with her mother, who responded to music when other forms of communication had slipped away.

Beyond the therapeutic benefits, this episode explores larger questions about how society views aging and elder care. The hosts advocate for a movement that values and integrates older adults rather than marginalizing them. "We're all headed to the same place if we're lucky enough to live a long life," Kristina observes, making a powerful case for reconsidering how we approach our later years.

This isn't just a conversation about dementia care—it's about reconnecting with what makes us human at every stage of life. Whether you're a caregiver seeking new approaches or simply someone interested in the healing power of movement, this episode will inspire you to turn up the music, move your body, and connect with others across all boundaries of age and ability.

Subscribe, share, and keep dancing—it's good for your brain, body, and soul!

Love,

Susie xo

Support the show

Be a ROAR-ior!! JOIN THE R.O.A.R. MOVEMENT for quality long term care! Visit the No Country For Old People Website for more information.

YOU CAN ALSO SUPPORT THE COMPLETION OF OUR DOCUMENTARY "NO COUNTRY FOR OLD PEOPLE" BY MAKING A TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION THROUGH THE NATIONAL CONSUMER VOICE HERE
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Imagine your loved one living with Alzheimer's in a place where they could truly feel at home, free from the fear of wandering. This episode shares heartfelt stories of personal experiences, including my own mother's joyful time in a vibrant Los Angeles loft community. Join my co-host, Don Priess and I, as we welcome esteemed guest Dr. Allen Power, a renowned geriatrician, whose compassionate approach to dementia care challenges traditional methods and focuses on creating environments that foster contentment and security for those affected by Alzheimer's.

We venture into the transformative journey of Dr. Power, who moved from general practice to become a leading advocate for non-pharmacological dementia care. Influenced by the Eden Alternative movement, he reveals his insights on the misuse of antipsychotic drugs and highlights the importance of communication and community integration. Our discussion sheds light on the experiences of families affected by medication misuse and calls for innovative care models that prioritize the well-being of individuals with dementia, emphasizing the power of love, companionship, and understanding.

Explore how rethinking dementia care can enhance quality of life, balancing safety and freedom in care environments. Together with Dr. Power, we reflect on the power of intergenerational relationships and the vital need for societal shifts towards embracing diversity and supporting aging in place. With personal anecdotes and expert insights, we challenge misconceptions about dementia, highlighting the lessons of mindfulness and the importance of integrating people with dementia into communities, ultimately advocating for a more inclusive and compassionate approach to care.

Thanks for watching, listening, and sharing!

Much Love,

Susie

Dr. Allen Power is a board-certified internist, geriatrician, Schlegel chair in aging and dementia innovation at the Schlegel U Waterloo Research Institute for aging, a sought after speaker around the world, and a trained musician and songwriter with four recordings. Peter, Paul and Mary performed his song of elder autonomy, “If You Don’t Mind”, and Walter Cronkite used his song, “I’ll Love You Forever” in a 1995 Discovery Channel profile of American families. A recent project was composing music for Anne Hills’ latest album (www.annehills.com).

Contact: DrAlPower@gmail.com

Support the show

Be a ROAR-ior!! JOIN THE R.O.A.R. MOVEMENT for quality long term care! Visit the No Country For Old People Website for more information.

YOU CAN ALSO SUPPORT THE COMPLETION OF OUR DOCUMENTARY "NO COUNTRY FOR OLD PEOPLE" BY MAKING A TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION THROUGH THE NATIONAL CONSUMER VOICE HERE
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Finding the right elder care for your loved ones shouldn't be a stressful challenge. But for most of us it is. Elder care is EXPENSIVE! Yet, families everywhere grapple with the lack of reliable information.

Imagine if booking elder care were as easy as booking a hotel. In this episode of Love Conquers Alz, we sit down with Daniel Clarke, the visionary founder of Elderado— which is not a Cadillac or a song by ELO, but rather the perfect name for a groundbreaking web platform designed to help families compare over 1,400 long-term care and retirement homes across Ontario. Daniel shares the story behind Elderado, his mission to bring transparency to the long-term care industry, and his ambitious plans to expand the platform to the United States and the world.

Don and I, along with guest Daniel, discuss the essential role of transparency and compassion in finding suitable elder care. We explore the importance of reliable resources and personal experiences when navigating these complex decisions, highlighting the positive aspects of elder care while addressing systemic issues families face.

Whether you’re searching for the right care home or advocating for change, this conversation is a must-listen!

Learn More about Elderado
Connect With Daniel Clarke

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Be a ROAR-ior!! JOIN THE R.O.A.R. MOVEMENT for quality long term care! Visit the No Country For Old People Website for more information.

YOU CAN ALSO SUPPORT THE COMPLETION OF OUR DOCUMENTARY "NO COUNTRY FOR OLD PEOPLE" BY MAKING A TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION THROUGH THE NATIONAL CONSUMER VOICE HERE
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Navigating the emotional labyrinth of Alzheimer's care can be both heartbreaking and frustrating, especially when personalized care falls by the wayside. Our journey begins with a relatable exploration of these challenges—stories of care facilities that miss the mark on truly understanding their residents, turning beloved family members into mere room numbers. We wrap this poignant narrative with a lighthearted twist, sharing personal anecdotes about how life’s quirks and ailments can be surprisingly comedic.

Enter Tim and Tannis Roberts, the innovative duo behind EchoBox Memory Vault, who are reshaping person-centric healthcare with their groundbreaking tool. Neither were tech people, worked in healthcare, or had a business background. Yet both were moved to improve our care model by providing the comfort of a loved one's voice. EchoBox preserves cherished memories and stories, enriching family bonds and supporting those dealing with dementia and palliative care. Tim and Tannis share profound insights and personal stories that illustrate how capturing memories can provide lasting emotional benefits and a sense of belonging, transforming the caregiving experience.

This episode celebrates the importance of personal connections and innovation in Alzheimer’s care. We discuss the powerful impact of EchoBox, a technology that helps preserve and share the stories of loved ones, offering caregivers the ability to provide individualized care.

• Conversations surrounding the emotional challenges of caregiving
• The dehumanization often faced in care facilities
• Introduction to EchoBox and its founding story
• How EchoBox captures memories and personalizes care
• Real-world examples showcasing its effectiveness
• Technical details on practically using the app
• Insights on the growing adoption of EchoBox in care facilities
• Encouragement for advocacy and connection in caregiving

Support the show

Be a ROAR-ior!! JOIN THE R.O.A.R. MOVEMENT for quality long term care! Visit the No Country For Old People Website for more information.

YOU CAN ALSO SUPPORT THE COMPLETION OF OUR DOCUMENTARY "NO COUNTRY FOR OLD PEOPLE" BY MAKING A TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION THROUGH THE NATIONAL CONSUMER VOICE HERE
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What better way to celebrate our 100th episode than with an interview that truly reflects the definition and the title of our show: Love Conquers Alz. Former Wisconsin Gov. Martin J. Schreiber is an award-winning crusader for Alzheimer's caregivers and persons with dementia and author of the best selling novel, My Two Elaines: Learning, Coping, and Surviving as an Alzheimer’s Caregiver.

Since 2016, Marty has been campaigning unlike anything he experienced while in office. Rather than seeking votes, Marty now works to recognize and support Alzheimer’s caregivers – an unpaid workforce that now exceeds 16 million people nationwide. Schreiber's goal for caregivers (whom he calls heroes) is that they learn, cope, survive and even thrive during their difficult journey. All things that Marty learned caring for his beloved wife, Elaine.

Imagine your spouse falling in love with you over and over again. Romantic, right? But what if they kept falling in love with you because every morning they woke up they’d forget who you were? The love story of Marty and his wife Elaine that began in the 1950s when they were high school freshmen began to take the cruelest of twists when Elaine, diagnosed with Alzheimer's, gradually transformed from the woman who had gracefully entertained in the Executive Residence to one who sometimes no longer recognized Marty as her husband. Yet, the two still found moments of joy which Marty lovingly talks about in his acclaimed My Two Elaines.

We share insights from "My Two Elaines," a poignant memoir that highlights the emotional journey from partner to caregiver, offering practical advice on therapeutic fibbing and redirection. The episode underscores the importance of male caregivers seeking help and stepping away from outdated stereotypes, as we discuss the necessity of systemic reform in care facilities.

Support the show

Be a ROAR-ior!! JOIN THE R.O.A.R. MOVEMENT for quality long term care! Visit the No Country For Old People Website for more information.

YOU CAN ALSO SUPPORT THE COMPLETION OF OUR DOCUMENTARY "NO COUNTRY FOR OLD PEOPLE" BY MAKING A TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION THROUGH THE NATIONAL CONSUMER VOICE HERE
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Betsy Wurzel started her career as a Talk Show Host at Passionate World Talk Radio and the name of her show was Chatting with Betsy. Betsy is also is an unwavering advocate for Alzheimer's caregivers who shares her own heartfelt experiences caring for her husband, Matt Sloan. Her stories are candid and passionate and truly exemplify the transformative power of love, humor, and community in the difficult landscape of dementia care.

Shifting gears, we confront the murky waters of hospice care—a field riddled with misconceptions and often misunderstood protocols. Misunderstandings about hospice care and the rights of patients can lead to inadequate pain management, affecting the dignity and well-being of those with dementia. Through our unvarnished discussion, we unearth Betsy's personal story of advocacy, emphasizing the critical role caregivers play in ensuring comfort and respect for their loved ones. This chapter serves as a poignant reminder that caregivers must be steadfast in their rights to demand the best care possible.

Finally, we tackle the systemic challenges plaguing senior healthcare, from understaffing and inadequate training to the pitfalls of profit-driven care models. Betsy guides us through a sobering exploration of these issues, pointing out how they result in inconsistent care for vulnerable populations, like those with Alzheimer's. With a call to action for more compassionate and consistent caregiving, she stresses the importance of prioritizing people over profits, advocating for a system that values quality care above all. Through this inspiring episode, we aim to empower caregivers to fight for the dignity and quality care their loved ones deserve.

Connect with Betsy:
Email - Sloanbetsy31@gmail.com
IG
FB
LinkedIn

Support the show

Be a ROAR-ior!! JOIN THE R.O.A.R. MOVEMENT for quality long term care! Visit the No Country For Old People Website for more information.

YOU CAN ALSO SUPPORT THE COMPLETION OF OUR DOCUMENTARY "NO COUNTRY FOR OLD PEOPLE" BY MAKING A TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION THROUGH THE NATIONAL CONSUMER VOICE HERE
Purchase GERI-GADGETS® here.
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