In episode 10, Joelle talked with Victoria Bruce about the challenges of caregiving. Now, it’s time to talk tools with Debbie Compton, bestselling author of The Caregiver’s Advocate, a how-to guide for adults tasked with caregiving their elderly parents.

In this episode, Joelle and Debbie Compton discuss:

• Surrounding yourself with a community
• Understanding the stages of dementia
• Advocating for a loved one’s needs and rights
• What caregivers need

Key Takeaways:

• Building a support network, accepting help, and prioritizing self-care are crucial for caregivers to avoid burnout. Seeking support from family members, neighbors, church communities, and others can alleviate the burden of caregiving.
• Understanding the stages of dementia and managing the associated challenges can be facilitated by seeking information, support, and consultations from professionals and organizations dedicated to caregiving.
• Caregivers must be prepared for the profound spiritual and emotional toll, isolation, and the need to start fresh daily. Advocating for a loved one's needs and rights is crucial, as dementia can cause patients to exhibit behaviors and use language that is not reflective of their true character.
• Caregivers need to be vigilant about financial and internet fraud, promote exercise to reduce dementia risk, and maintain a sense of humor when dealing with generational aging issues.

“Things that happen to us can either be taken as a stumbling block or a stepping stone, and I choose not to be a victim.” - Debbie Compton

The Caregiver's Advocate, A Complete Guide to Support & Resources available on Amazon or my website. https://thepurplevine.thrivecart.com/the-caregivers-advocate/

Connect with Debbie Compton:

Website: https://www.ThePurpleVine.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/debbiedcompton

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Caregiving.Book

Instagram: www.instagram.com/Debbie_Compton1

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/compton1788

Connect with Joelle Casteix:

Website: https://www.casteix.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joellecasteix

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jcasteix/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joellecasteix/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@joellecasteix3262

Stay tuned for more information about Joelle's upcoming book This Ain't Your Mama's Midlife