Description

Episode 5: The Cruelty of Dementia: It's Not Personal

Why does your mom with dementia save her worst behavior for you—the daughter who sacrifices everything—while being pleasant to everyone else?

In this episode, Shannon Calles tackles one of the most painful, isolating realities of dementia caregiving: being the target of your parent's cruelty when you're the one doing all the work.

You'll learn:

• Why dementia patients are cruelest to their primary caregivers (the science behind being the "safe person")
• How your mom's broken brain confuses you with everything she's lost
• Why she can "hold it together" for strangers but falls apart with you
• The difference between "Mom" and "Dementia"—and why that distinction will save you
• Practical strategies to protect your heart without abandoning your parent
• How to stop defending yourself and start setting boundaries

If you've ever been accused of stealing, heard "I hate you," or wondered why the home health aide gets gratitude while you get rage—this episode will help you understand it's not about you; it's the disease.

This episode is for you if:

• Your parent with dementia treats you worse than anyone else
• You're exhausted from trying to prove your love
• Your siblings don't see the abuse because she's sweet during their visits
• You're questioning whether you're doing something wrong
• You need permission to grieve the mother you've already lost

Remember: You are not the villain in her story. You are the hero in yours.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Free consultation: clarkcountyseniorresources.com
• Text Shannon directly: 564-227-8847

Connect with Shannon:

• Want to hop on a call to discuss your situation and what your options are?

  In a call together, I will help you understand where things are at with your parent, what options you have available to you now and in the future, resources available, and how I can help you.

  Resources & Links

  📧 Book an Urgent Consultation:
  If you're in crisis—hospital discharge, decline, dementia, confusion—Shannon can help.

  • Email: shannon@clarkcountysr.com
  • Text: 564-227-8847
  • Website: ClarkCountySeniorResources.com

  📱 Connect with Shannon:

  • Instagram: @clark_county_senior_resources
  • Email: shannon@clarkcountysr.com
  • Website: ClarkCountySeniorResources.com

  📖 Read the Full Show Notes Here: 

   

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  DISCLAIMER

  This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical, legal, or financial advice. Always consult with qualified professionals when making decisions about senior care, medical treatment, or legal matters.

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  Next Episode Preview: We're tackling another tough caregiving reality that no one talks about enough. Subscribe now so you don't miss it.

  Until then—be gentle with yourself. 💙

Chapters

00:00 Understanding the Pain of Caregiving
06:45 The Cruelty of Dementia: It's Not Personal
12:13 Grieving the Mother You've Lost

#DementiaCaregiving #AlzheimersCare #CaregiverSupport #AdultDaughters #SeniorCare #DementiaAwareness #CaregiverBurnout #ElderCare #FamilyCaregiving #ClarkCountySeniorResources