Today’s episode explores one of the most tender, and often misunderstood, parts of dementia care: denial. Kelly will talk about why denial shows up, why it isn’t always stubbornness, and how fear, identity, and self-protection play a role. She'll also offer ways to start compassionate conversations, how to respond when others don’t see the problem, and what to do when denial becomes unsafe — without damaging trust or dignity. If you’ve ever heard the words, “I’m fine, nothing is wrong,” and felt stuck between worry and love… this episode is for you.

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https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103

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RESOURCES:

https://www.everydayhealth.com/alzheimers-disease/how-talk-loved-about-signs-alzheimers-disease/

https://www.askelbi.com/post/when-your-parent-is-in-denial-about-dementia-how-to-navigate-this-difficult-conversation-with-compassion

The information shared in this podcast is for EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES only, and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Kelly A. Bertenshaw, any guests or contributors to the podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of A Balancing Act: Helping Families Navigate Memory Loss be responsible for damages arising from the use of this podcast.

As this year comes to a close, I just want to take a moment to thank you for being here. Whether you’re listening while driving, folding laundry, sitting quietly after a long day, or taking a much-needed pause—you matter, and I’m really glad you found your way to this space.

The holidays can bring warmth and connection, but they can also bring grief, stress, complicated family dynamics, and reminders of how much has changed when memory loss is part of your life. If this season feels heavy for you, please know—you’re not doing it wrong. You’re responding to something hard with love, and that takes courage.

My hope is that, wherever you are right now, you can offer yourself a little grace. Connection doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. Presence doesn’t have to look the way it used to. And love doesn’t disappear just because things are different.

Thank you for trusting me with your time, your stories, and your hearts this year. It’s truly a privilege to walk alongside you in this journey.

From my heart to yours, I’m wishing you moments of peace, comfort, and gentle connection this holiday season. And always—remember, no one should walk this journey alone.

-Kelly

The holidays bring joy, memories, and for long-distance caregivers, a mix of love and guilt. In this episode of A Balancing Act, Kelly offers loving, practical ways to stay connected with your loved one living with dementia, even from miles away. Learn how to make every call and visit more meaningful, how to support the caregiver at home, and how to find help for yourself when it’s time to hang up the phone, or travel back to your home. Because caregiving doesn’t stop when there is distance between you-it just changes shape.

FACEBOOK PAGE: Please leave questions for Kelly, or set-up a chat!

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573800764103

Please consider donating to support A BALANCING ACT!

https://buymeacoffee.com/navigatingmemoryloss

RESOURCES:

https://magazine.medlineplus.gov/article/helping-from-miles-away-strategies-for-long-distance-caregiving

https://www.caregiveraction.org/i-dont-live-my-family-im-caregiver/#:~:text=Several%20tools%20and%20resources%20can%20aid%20in,advice%20from%20other%20caregivers%20facing%20similar%20challenges.

https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/care-options/long-distance-caregiving

The information shared in this podcast is for EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES only, and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Kelly A. Bertenshaw, any guests or contributors to the podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of A Balancing Act: Helping Families Navigate Memory Loss be responsible for damages arising from the use of this podcast.