What The Dementia

In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss the lesser-known side of Leqembi by exploring real-world experiences shared by people living with dementia and their care partners. We’ll look at both encouraging and difficult experiences and highlight important factors families may want to weigh when deciding whether this treatment aligns with their goals and expectations. This episode...

In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss whether newer anti-amyloid drugs for Alzheimer's disease, including Leqembi and Kisunla, truly make a meaningful difference for people living with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia due to Alzheimer's disease. We break down the findings from a large independent review, explore both the potential benefits and risks of these...

In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss Auvelity, a newly approved medication for agitation associated with dementia due to Alzheimer's disease, and what caregivers should know before considering it as a treatment option. We explore how this medication works, why its approval is significant, concerns about long-term use, the importance of continuing non-drug approaches, and...

In this episode, we will discuss autonomic dysfunction in Lewy body dementia, a symptom that often surprises caregivers. We delve into how disruptions in the autonomic nervous system can affect involuntary bodily functions. ‍ This episode will cover:  — An overview of autonomic dysfunction in Lewy body dementia. — Key symptoms and their impact on daily life. — Guidance on seeking professional supp...

In this episode, we will discuss the concept of retrogenesis and its significance in dementia care. We will explain how understanding the reverse developmental process can help caregivers adapt their approach to better meet the needs of individuals with dementia. The episode delves into the parallels between Alzheimer’s disease progression and child development stages in reverse, providing insight...

In this episode, we will discuss common dementia-related behaviors and symptoms caregivers often wonder about, and how to tell when something may be part of the condition versus when it could signal another issue. We’ll go through six real caregiver questions, covering topics like incontinence, changes in mood, waking up disoriented, shifts in taste preferences, loss of appetite, and repeating the...

In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss the difficult question many dementia caregivers quietly ask themselves: “Is it horrible to say I don’t love them anymore?” This conversation encourages caregivers to reflect on what love means to them, acknowledge the complex emotions that can come with dementia caregiving, and consider what those feelings might be trying to reveal. This...

In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss why dementia caregiving is not always about making or keeping your partner with dementia happy. We explain why emotions like sadness, frustration, or crying can still occur in people living with dementia and why these moments are not necessarily something caregivers need to “fix.” This episode will cover: — Why keeping someone with dement...

In this orignal What the Dementia episode, we will discuss why personality and mood changes are common in people living with dementia and what may be causing those changes. This episode also explores why someone with dementia may seem rude, resistant, or unaware that anything is wrong, and how these reactions can affect interactions with family members and healthcare providers. This episode will c...

In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss how to navigate the frustration that can arise when family members are in denial about dementia. This conversation focuses on realistic ways to respond when others don’t see the same changes you do and how to move forward without getting stuck in constant conflict. This episode will cover: — Why family members may deny or minimize dementi...

In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss why dementia progression is not always linear and why caregivers may notice good days, bad days, or sudden changes in a partner’s abilities. Understanding these patterns can help caregivers better interpret changes and respond more effectively as needs shift over time. This episode will cover: — Why dementia progression is not always pred...

In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss practical ways caregivers can help manage food pocketing in dementia, including safety tips, environmental adjustments, and when to involve healthcare professionals for proper evaluation and support. This episode will cover: — Key safety considerations — Simple strategies to reduce pocketing — Helpful adjustments during meals — Profession...

In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss what food pocketing is, why it may happen in people living with dementia, and why it’s important for caregivers to recognize. This episode will cover: — What food pocketing is — Possible reasons it occurs — Associated health concerns — When to seek professional guidance CONNECT, GET RESOURCES, LEARN MORE, + SIMPLIFY YOUR CARE JOURNEY: Lin...

In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss 5 simple yet effective ways to make your home safer for a partner living with dementia. These strategies can help reduce risks, prevent accidents, and create an environment that feels calmer and easier to navigate. We’ll also share a bonus tip to help you avoid common safety challenges. This episode will cover: — Simple changes to improve...

In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss the use of bed rails from a fall-prevention perspective, including when they may be helpful and when they can pose serious risks. Caregivers often consider bed rails as a way to keep their partner with dementia from falling out of bed, but not all uses are safe. And since it’s Fall Prevention Month, don’t miss our recorded webinar Deck th...

In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss why caregivers sometimes lose their cool and yell at their partner living with dementia, even when they know the behaviors are dementia-related. We’ll explore why this happens, what it reveals about both the caregiver and their partner’s needs, and practical ways to reflect, respond differently, and move forward with more patience and cur...

In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss the often difficult and emotional decision of placing a partner with dementia in a care facility. We’ll explore why choosing a care facility doesn’t make you a bad person, how to recognize when it might be time, and what key questions to ask yourself to make an informed, compassionate decision. This episode will cover: — Why placing your...

In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss what every dementia caregiver should consider if they ever need to be hospitalized—whether planned or unexpected. This episode offers practical tips to ensure both you and your partner are supported during a health emergency. Planning ahead might not be easy, but it can make a big difference. CONNECT, GET RESOURCES, LEARN MORE, + SIMPLIFY...

In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss the difficult emotions caregivers may feel after a partner with dementia experiences a fall—especially guilt, shame, or the belief they’re failing. If you've ever questioned your abilities after a fall incident, this episode offers both perspective and practical guidance. This episode will cover: — Caregiver guilt after a partner’s fa...

In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss what to do when your partner with dementia forgets your birthday or anniversary. You'll learn why it happens and get simple tips to help you handle these moments with more understanding and less hurt. This episode will cover: — Why special dates may be forgotten. — How dementia affects time and memory. — Tips to prepare for and naviga...

In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss whether a future without dementia is truly possible. While some believe a cure is on the horizon, others question if dementia can ever be fully eradicated. We’ll explore emerging research on dementia prevention, the role of lifestyle and environmental factors, and the barriers that may keep dementia from disappearing entirely. This episod...

In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss an upcoming 5-week asynchronous book club hosted by Bambu Care in their free support community, Bambu Care Champions. The book club will focus on "Reversing Alzheimer's: The New Toolkit to Improve Cognition and Protect Brain Health" by Dr. Heather Sandison. This book is relevant for those wanting to prevent dementia, people...

In this original What the Dementia episode, we will discuss whether activities can help delay the progression of dementia. Plus, you will learn about our upcoming book club on Reversing Alzheimer’s by Dr. Sandison inside Bambu Care Champions, our free support community. This episode will cover: — Whether activities can delay dementia progression — The concept of "use it or lose it" and n...

In this housekeeping episode for What the Dementia, we update you on everything happening in the world of Bambu to help support dementia care partners on their care journey. Is there anything that meets your needs? This episode will cover: — Newly released drawer labels and how to access them — The Panda Pocket and its expanded availability — Recent Treehouse additions — Details on the upcoming Re...

In this original What the Dementia episode, we explore the balance between curiosity and worry in dementia care. How do you stay informed without feeling overwhelmed? How can learning about dementia help rather than hinder your well-being? We’ll discuss ways to approach dementia care with curiosity rather than fear, stay present in the moment, and prepare for the unknown without unnecessary stress...