Shows
Hope Floats: Navigating Caregiving in DementiaCaring For a Parent With DementiaIn this episode of Hope Floats, Shoshawna Rainwater and Rachel Coady discuss the unique challenges faced by adult children caring for parents with dementia. They explore the emotional landscape of caregiving, the impact on family dynamics, and the importance of self-care. The conversation also highlights coping strategies for managing caregiving from a distance and finding hope and connection in the journey.Takeaways:Being an adult child caregiver involves a role reversal with parents.The emotional journey includes feelings of denial, grief, and anger.Family dynamics can change significantly when caring for a parent with dementia.Education...
2025-11-0452 minHope Floats: Navigating Caregiving in DementiaSupport for the Spousal Caregiving JourneyIn this episode, Shoshawna Rainwater and Rachel Coady discuss the unique challenges faced by spousal caregivers of individuals with dementia. They explore the emotional, psychological, and physical impacts of caregiving, the changes in intimacy and connection, and the feelings of isolation and stigma that caregivers often experience. The conversation emphasizes the importance of building a support network, understanding the legal and financial aspects of caregiving, and fostering empathy among friends and family. TakeawaysSpousal caregiving is distinct from other caregiving roles.Emotional impacts can affect physical well-being.Long-term r...
2025-09-3051 minHope Floats: Navigating Caregiving in DementiaAll Food Is Medicine with Registered Dietitian Meredith KleinhenzSummary:"We need more vitamin joy." In this episode of Hope Floats, registered dietitian Meredith Kleinhenz discusses the nutritional needs of individuals with dementia, emphasizing the importance of understanding changes in eating habits and preferences as the disease progresses. She advocates for a flexible approach to food, encouraging caregivers to prioritize enjoyment and comfort over strict dietary rules. The conversation covers practical strategies for managing weight loss, the significance of familiar foods, and the role of caregivers in supporting nutritional intake. Meredith also addresses end-of-life nutrition considerations and the complexities surrounding feeding tubes, ultimately highlighting...
2025-07-1541 minHope Floats: Navigating Caregiving in DementiaReimagining CaregivingIn this episode, Rachel Coady and Shoshawna Rainwater explore the emotional, financial, and social burdens in the current dementia caregivers role and emphasize the need for a “make-over” that could bring better awareness, support and acknowledgement culturally for caregivers. The conversation highlights innovative ideas for community engagement, workplace support, and the importance of recognizing caregiving as a shared responsibility. They also touch on the lack of positive media representation of caregiving experiences, the hope for a care-first culture and the need for better cultural narratives surrounding these experiences. They discuss the economic implications of caregiving, and the importance of comm...
2025-06-2640 minHope Floats: Navigating Caregiving in DementiaNavigating Moving in Dementia pt 2.In this episode of Hope Floats, hosts Shoshawna Rainwater and Rachel Coady discuss the complexities of moving a loved one with dementia into a care facility. They explore the emotional and logistical challenges caregivers face, including financial considerations, legal decision-making, and the importance of mindset on move day. The conversation emphasizes the need for careful planning, consultation with professionals, and the emotional support required for both caregivers and those living with dementia.They emphasize the importance of clear communication, emotional reassurance, and the use of comfort stories to ease the transition. The discussion also covers the timing and delivery...
2025-06-1051 minHope Floats: Navigating Caregiving in DementiaNavigating Moving in Dementia- Part 1.SummaryIn this episode of Hope Floats, hosts Shoshawna Rainwater and Rachel Coady discuss the complexities of moving a loved one with dementia. They explore the emotional significance of home, the challenges of aging in place, and the signs that indicate it may be time to consider a move. They discuss understanding the unique needs of dementia patients and the impact of caregiving on family members, the reasons families consider moving their loved ones, the financial implications of different care settings, and the importance of choosing the right environment for successful adaptation. The conversation emphasizes...
2025-05-1340 minHope Floats: Navigating Caregiving in DementiaThe Power of Music in Caregiving with Lisa PetersonIn this episode of Hope Floats, hosts Rachel Coady and Shoshawna Rainwater welcome licensed music therapist Lisa Peterson, founder of Come on, Let's Sing comeonletssing.com , who shares her journey and insights on music's profound impact in dementia caregiving. Lisa discusses how music can foster connection, reduce anxiety, and empower caregivers, emphasizing that every human is innately musical. The conversation explores practical applications of music therapy, including the benefits of humming and creating playlists that resonate with loved ones' memories. Through personal stories and professional experiences, the episode highlights the transformative power of music in enhancing the quality of lif...
2025-04-3044 minHope Floats: Navigating Caregiving in DementiaSelf-Care for Caregivers with Lisa Hulick, LMTIn this episode of Hope Floats, hosts Shoshawna Rainwater and Rachel Coady engage with Lisa Hulick, a licensed massage therapist, to explore the vital role of self-care and healing for caregivers of individuals with dementia. The conversation delves into the significance of touch, the physical manifestations of stress, and the importance of vulnerability in caregiving. Lisa shares insights on how massage therapy can provide a much-needed respite for caregivers, allowing them to reconnect with their bodies and emotions. The discussion emphasizes the need for caregivers to receive care themselves and the transformative power of being witnessed in their struggles...
2025-04-1030 minHope Floats: Navigating Caregiving in DementiaNearing the End: Late-Stage DementiaOn this episode of Hope Floats, Shoshawna and Rachel welcome their first guest- Dr. Linda DeSitter. Dr. DeSitter is a double-board certified hospice and palliative care physician practicing in Portland, Oregon. Today, they discuss end-stage dementia and the unique features that accompany it. They also talk about support for caregivers in some of the complex decisions that come with end-of-life care. They also discuss hospice and how that program can support families and people nearing the end of their dementia journey.Text us and please share your thoughts on Hope Floats episodes...
2025-03-1741 minHope Floats: Navigating Caregiving in DementiaIn the eye of the storm- Understanding Mid-Moderate Stage DementiaIn this episode of Hope Floats, Rachel Coady and Shoshawna Rainwater explore the complexities of moderate-stage dementia, discussing the emotional and practical challenges faced by caregivers. They emphasize the importance of understanding the changes that occur during this stage, including neuropsychiatric symptoms and the need for increased support. The conversation also highlights coping strategies and practical recommendations for caregivers to enhance safety and well-being for both themselves and the individuals they care for. They explore the importance of leveraging technology, understanding mid-stage management strategies, and the necessity of caregiver support and self-care. The conversation emphasizes the need for caregivers...
2025-03-0437 minHope Floats: Navigating Caregiving in DementiaA Closer Look at MCI and Early-Stage DementiaIn this episode of Hope Floats, licensed clinical social worker Shoshawna Rainwater and professional certified coach Rachel Coady discuss the early stages of Alzheimer's and dementia, focusing on symptoms, caregiver preparation, and the importance of legal and financial planning. They discuss mild cognitive impairment (MCI), its symptoms, and how it can progress to dementia. They emphasize the need for a thorough medical workup and the significance of staying present and mindful throughout the caregiving journey. The conversation highlights the emotional changes that may occur and offers practical advice for caregivers to navigate this challenging experience.Takeaways:
2025-02-1831 minHope Floats: Navigating Caregiving in DementiaAnosognosia- Why can't they see what we see?In this episode of Hope Floats, licensed clinical social worker Shoshawna Rainwater and professional certified coach Rachel Coady delve into the complex topic of anosognosia, a condition where individuals with dementia lack insight into their own cognitive decline. They discuss the prevalence of anosognosia among dementia patients, its impact on caregivers, and the challenges it presents in communication and care. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding this condition to improve the caregiving experience and offers practical strategies for managing relationships with loved ones affected by dementia. The episode concludes with a call for community support and resources for...
2025-02-0432 minHope Floats: Navigating Caregiving in DementiaSelf-Compassion and Gratitude for CaregiversIn this episode of Hope Floats, hosts Shoshawna Rainwater Rainwater and Rachel Coady discuss the challenges faced by caregivers caring for individuals with dementia. They emphasize the importance of acknowledging the hard work caregivers do, the need for self-compassion, and the significance of reflecting on the past year while setting intentions for the new year. The conversation also includes practical tips for supporting caregivers and highlights the value of simply listening to their experiences. The episode concludes with a look ahead to future topics and episodes.TakeawaysAcknowledging the hard work...
2024-12-3130 minHope Floats: Navigating Caregiving in Dementia“Now what?-” Things to Prioritize After Getting the DiagnosisSummaryIn this episode of Hope Floats, hosts Rachel Coady and Shoshawna Rainwater discuss the critical steps to take after receiving a dementia diagnosis. They emphasize the importance of understanding the type and stage of dementia, planning for future decision-making, and the significance of advanced directives. The conversation also covers how to communicate the diagnosis to the care team and the necessity of establishing a support system for caregivers. The hosts aim to provide listeners with actionable insights to navigate the complexities of dementia care effectively.Takeaways...
2024-12-1833 minHope Floats: Navigating Caregiving in DementiaWhy Do I Miss Them When They're Right Here?In this episode of Hope Floats, Rachel Coady and Shoshawna Rainwater explore the concept of ambiguous loss in the context of dementia. They discuss the unique challenges caregivers face, including the emotional rollercoaster of grief when caring for someone who is still alive yet psychologically absent. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community support, understanding grief, and finding creative outlets to process emotions. Listeners are encouraged to embrace “both and” thinking, recognize their feelings, and seek connection with others who understand their journey.TakeawaysGrief in dementia often begins before physical death occurs.Ambiguous loss...
2024-12-0334 minHope Floats: Navigating Caregiving in DementiaA Holiday Survival Guide for Dementia CaregiversIn this episode of Hope Floats, hosts Shoshawna Rainwater and Rachel Coady discuss the complexities of navigating the holiday season while caring for a loved one with dementia. They explore the emotional challenges caregivers face, the importance of simplicity, routine, and flexibility, and provide practical tips and hacks to make the holidays more manageable. The conversation emphasizes the need for caregivers to communicate their needs and adapt holiday traditions to create a supportive environment for both themselves and their loved ones.TakeawaysThe holidays can be overwhelming for caregivers and those with dementia.Simplicity...
2024-11-1935 minHope Floats: Navigating Caregiving in DementiaCommunication Skills- The Most Effective Tool in Your Dementia ToolboxIn this episode of Hope Floats, professional coach Rachel Coady (PCC) and licensed clinical social worker, Shoshawna Rainwater discuss effective strategies for caring for individuals with dementia. They emphasize the importance of understanding behaviors as communication signals indicating unmet needs. The conversation introduces the P-BREATHE framework, which helps caregivers identify potential causes of distress. The hosts also highlight the necessity of unlearning certain communication habits and adopting new strategies to enhance interactions with those living with dementia. The episode concludes with practical tips for navigating misunderstandings and reducing caregiver burden. In this conversation, Rachel Coady and Shoshawna Rainwater discuss e...
2024-11-1242 minHope Floats: Navigating Caregiving in DementiaWorried and Wondering: The Value of Seeking a Diagnosis In this episode of Hope Floats, hosts Shoshawna Rainwater and Rachel Coady discuss the complexities of seeking a dementia diagnosis for loved ones. They explore what constitutes normal cognitive aging versus concerning changes, the importance of obtaining a diagnosis, and strategies for approaching the conversation with loved ones. The episode emphasizes the emotional challenges faced by caregivers and the significance of communication and support in navigating the journey of dementia care.TakeawaysSeeking a diagnosis is crucial when cognitive changes are noticed.Normal cognitive aging includes occasional forgetfulness and word-finding difficulties.A...
2024-11-0557 minHope Floats: Navigating Caregiving in DementiaThe Invisible Second Patient: the CaregiverIn this episode of Hope Floats, hosts Shoshawna Rainwater and Rachel Coady discuss the often-overlooked experiences of caregivers for individuals with dementia. They explore the emotional and physical toll of caregiving, the importance of building a support team, and practical tools for self-care. The conversation highlights the need for caregivers to recognize their own needs and seek support while navigating the complexities of dementia care.Takeaways ● There are approximately 21.6 million caregivers for dementia in the U.S.● Caregiving can last anywhere from a few years to 20 years.● The majority of caregivers ar...
2024-10-2931 minHope Floats: Navigating Caregiving in DementiaUnderstanding is the beginningSummaryIn this conversation, Rachel and Shoshawna delve into the complexities of dementia, discussing its various subtypes, including Alzheimer's, vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, and Lewy body dementia. They explore the unique characteristics and progression of each subtype, emphasizing the challenges caregivers face and the importance of understanding these differences for better management and support.TakeawaysThere are four main subtypes of dementia: Alzheimer's, vascular, frontotemporal, and Lewy body.Alzheimer's disease is characterized by a long, steady decline over time.Vascular dementia shows a stepwise progression with acute declines.Lewy body...
2024-10-1724 minHope Floats: Navigating Caregiving in DementiaWhy we're here and why Hope FloatsWelcome to Hope Floats! In this first episode, Shoshawna and Rachel introduce themselves and explain why they created the Hope Floats Podcast. As two people who have been care providers for people with dementia and who both have professional experience supporting caregivers in the dementia journey, the co-hosts share what brought them here, what the listeners can look forward to, and why they believe hope can be a part of the uncertainties of care providing in dementia. They look forward to an honest discussion about this disease, discussing choices and options, and sharing resources and tools to help navigate...
2024-10-0123 minHope Floats: Navigating Caregiving in DementiaHope Floats Podcast TrailerWe're excited to be here and wanted to share more information about who we are, why we're here, and what you can expect from this podcast. You can also learn more at www.hopefloatspodcast.comText us and please share your thoughts on Hope Floats episodes and topics that would be helpful to you!Support the showThank you for listening! If you are enjoying Hope Floats, please consider making a donation on Venmo to support this work and the creation of future episodes. Any amount helps! Please be sure to...
2024-09-3001 min
Skills BC Talks Trades & Tech!Meet Naomi Johns, Skills Canada Alumni and Red Seal BakerShoshawna Blair speaks with Naomi Johns about her experience competing in Skills, her life in the kitchens, her journey towards her Red Seal in Baking in and her current position at Snow Cap Enterprises.
2022-01-2623 min
My InnermissionParenting a Parent with Dementia with Shoshawna RainwaterWhen people in our lives experience cognitive changes and dementia, there are abundant transitions for the the loved one experiencing dementia as well as the caregiver. In this honest and real interview with Shoshawna Rainwater, with Rainwater Consulting, we talk about her experience working with families experiencing dementia, but also her personal experience caring for a loved one with dementia. We discuss: What is dementia and what are some of the stages of dementia? What are some of the guiding principles to care for someone experiencing dementia to maintain their dignity and humanity? How can care givers hono...
2021-02-1742 min