EP 29 Lessons in Triggers and Healing

07/17/23 • 36 min

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Healing our Triggers: The Parable of the Pool
Ken Cardita shares a heartfelt story called 'The Parable of the Pool.' Ken recounts his journey of caring for his wife, Shanna, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 2017. Despite initial resistance, Ken decides to build a pool for Shanna, honoring a promise he made 30 years ago.
Throughout the episode, he illustrates how untreated triggers can cause emotional damage and emphasizes the importance of prioritizing a loved one’s desires over personal fears and logic. Ken also discusses the emotional ups and downs they faced, how the pool became a source of joy and connection, and the lessons he learned about addressing triggers and reprogramming negative emotions. He concludes by announcing upcoming training materials and coaching opportunities to help others in similar situations find peace and healing.
00:00 Introduction: Overcoming Emotional Triggers
00:36 Welcome to the Surviving Alzheimer's Podcast
02:46 Listener Comment: A Shared Journey
03:49 Background: The Parable of the Pool
09:02 The Pool Dilemma: A Source of Frustration
13:39 Decision to Build the Pool
17:51 Building the Pool: A Gift of Love
19:25 Cherished Memories and Lessons Learned
25:50 The Pool After Shanna's Move to Memory Care
28:20 Final Reflections and Moving Forward
31:12 Upcoming Resources and Closing Remarks

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Previous Episode

EP 28 The Art of One Way Conversations

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Understanding One-Way Conversations in Dementia: Communicating Beyond Words
Ken shares how he has adapted to communicating with his non-verbal wife, Shanna, who has Alzheimer's disease.
Ken discusses the different stages of Shanna's verbal decline and reveals how he has learned to read her body language and facial expressions to maintain a deep connection.
Through personal anecdotes and lessons learned over a 12-year journey, Ken aims to provide hope and practical advice for caregivers of loved ones with dementia. The episode emphasizes the importance of staying connected beyond words, using a spiritual or higher power as guidance, and not letting the disease define the relationship.
00:00 Introduction: Struggling to Communicate
00:37 Welcome to the Surviving Alzheimer's Podcast
01:13 Mastering One-Way Conversations
02:50 Listener Comment and Appreciation
03:54 Understanding Alzheimer's Impact on Communication
07:03 Shanna's Journey: A Timeline
10:45 Adapting to Non-Verbal Communication
13:07 The Sixth Sense of Communication
16:15 Reflecting on the Journey
18:57 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

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Next Episode

EP30 They Call me the Wanderer

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Managing and Preventing Wandering in Dementia Patients - Our Experiences
Ken discusses the common issue of wandering among dementia patients, sharing personal experiences and practical tips to manage and reduce the risks.
He gives insights into identifying early signs of wandering, preparing the home, utilizing tools like GPS trackers and medical alert bracelets, and relying on community support. The episode includes listener feedback and personal anecdotes, emphasizing the importance of staying calm and adapting strategies for each unique situation.
00:00 Introduction: The Fear of Wandering
00:49 Welcome to the Surviving Alzheimer's Podcast
01:30 Understanding Wandering in Dementia
02:07 Listener's Story: Finding Support
03:47 Recognizing the Signs of Wandering
05:37 Reducing the Risk of Wandering
08:14 Personal Stories: Shanna's Wandering Incidents
13:09 Preventive Measures and Safety Tips
23:53 Responding to Wandering Incidents
27:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Visit the NEW Surviving Alzheimer's Podcast Website (survalz.com)
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