Dealing with a loved one’s dementia, or handling other difficult transitional times in our lives requires that we give ourselves some grace -- and create a formidable community of support. We may have to handle the logistics of moving our loved ones out of their home, arranging for care, managing finances, and caregiving. This is adulting with a capital “A.” Here are some inspirational tips and resources to help you handle this heavy load. 

The most essential takeaway: feel however you feel and surround yourself with people who support all of the emotional states and stages that you will experience. Once you have settled into new routines, and hopefully made peace with this transitional time in your life, these people who make up your support system will become the little gems that you add to your gratitude list. 

Welcome to my reflections from the bright side of the beat.

Have a listen, then connect with me at lettheverseflow.com to sign up for my newsletter and receive journal prompts and resources on creativity and 

Poem: 792: the Memory Door

Music: (My thanks to all the musicians who make incredible music and have the courage to put it out into the world. All music for my podcast is sourced and licensed for use via Soundstripe.)

Songs in this episode: Endless Sleep by Lost Ghosts; Winning Streak by JeesGuy; Echoes of the Mind by Shimmer; Pyaar Kee Seemaen by Cast of Characters

LTVF Season One Music Playlist: Check out the songs that inspire me, and connect with artists from many genres who add to our collective, human soundtrack. 

Resources: 

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care: Help for Family Caregivers

Journal prompts:

1. How has a loved one’s health crisis or transition changed the way you think about your life? How has it changed how you see yourself?
2. Write about a special memory of your loved one or a memento that reminds you of them, and consider how you can preserve and carry the good feelings these thoughts bring.
3. Who do you want to surround yourself with during this time in your life, and how are you making time for them?

Related Episodes: Sitting with Shitty Feelings; The Loved Ones We Carry

Prefer to read this episode? Read the complete episode in blog format here: https://www.lettheverseflow.com

I’m wrapping up Season 3 and taking a break over the holidays, but I’ll be back on January 14th for Season 4 with a new series on some of the essential life lessons my sweet mom taught me. Until then, I’m wishing you all good things, and time and space to try new things. Maybe a new creative project, quality time with friends, or deep rest. Do what lights you up inside and fills you with a sense of purpose. You deserve those moments for yourself. See you on January 14th.