“Have you ever worried that your loved one is picking up on your emotions, your stress, your lack of sleep—and it makes things worse?” That’s where Helen was before a full day of caring for her sister with dementia. We walked through a calm, honest plan that preserves dignity and steadies the caregiver’s heart.

As I always do, I began with the exact focusing prompt: “If after this weekend, things went well, what would make it easier for you so that we can prepare you for this weekend?” Helen said: “to be able to communicate… affirm what she’s saying… keep her peace so she doesn’t pace.”

1) FAST stroke signs—don’t wait till morning. With recent TIAs, we reviewed FAST: Face droop, Arms drift, Speech/Swallow changes, Time = brain. If you see it, go—don’t “wait and see.” There are two things I never mess with: the brain and the heart.

2) Communicate differently (Therapeutic Truth-Telling™). Keep words gentle and simple; mirror emotion; validate first. Use short cues and “circle back” if she says no—agree when you can, then try again a few minutes later. Measure a good day by presence and peace, not perfect sentences.

3) Plan the day without exhausting yourself. You’re not on duty Thursday night—rest so you can serve Friday. Create low-energy connection: a 15-minute drive, a quick park/ice cream stop, a soft-spoken library visit, short Scripture reading or hymn singing. Use process-of-elimination for needs, and give space when needed.

4) Safety for a flight risk. Talk with the primary caregiver about interior locks or strategies so doors aren’t easily opened; you cannot be on duty 24/7. Identify a backup person you can call if fatigue hits.

Long-term help matters. The caregivers who benefit most join early—steady prayer, coaching, and a place to ask real questions. You don’t have to walk this alone.

Don’t walk alone. The Christian DigniCare Society (lifetime, under $100) gives you community, coaching, prayer, and practical tools. https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/cds

💬 What Do I Say When Dementia Makes Words Hard? Get “What Do I Say? How to Connect with Your Loved One with Dementia” — a free guide for Christian caregivers navigating confusion, repetition, and emotional moments. 📥 Download the guide now: https://www.dementiacaregivingmadeeasy.com/script

🤝 You Don’t Have to Do This Alone Join other Christian caregivers who are walking this road too — and learning how to care with compassion, clarity, and faith. 👥 Join the free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/dementiacaregiversupportforchristians

🗣️ Ask Your Question Live — and Be Heard Bring your real-life caregiving questions to Ask the Dementia Coach — our free monthly Q&A session. You’ll get support, clarity, and maybe even be featured on the podcast. 🎤 Register here: https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/ask

🎓 Want to Reduce Overwhelm Right Now? Join our free workshop: How to Immediately Reduce Dementia Caregiver Overwhelm and Stress — in 3 Simple Steps 🎟️ Reserve your seat: https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/wsl

🧭 Still Feeling Stuck? If you’re wondering what’s underneath your stress, the Caregiver Stress Assessment can help clarify what’s really weighing you down — so you can take your next step with peace. 📊 Take the free assessment: https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/dca

❤️ Enjoy This Podcast? Leave a quick review on Apple or Spotify — it helps other Christian caregivers find encouragement and real help. 🎧 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts