Parent Caregiver | dementia caregiver, parent with dementia, dementia support
Do you have a parent with dementia that you care for? Are you struggling to balance retirement dreams with daily realities of your caregiving role? Is your health suffering because you ALWAYS put yourself last? Do you feel defeated and want to find peace in your life? I GET YOU! In my early 50’s, my husband and I became empty nesters looking forward to a season of life where we could hike, watch sunsets, camp, and reignite our relationship. 6 months later, I became a part-time caregiver to my mother who has FTD (frontotemporal dementia) while still teaching high-school full time. I started to lose my dreams and my identity as my exhaustion rose and my energy disappeared. But I am a driven person with faith and vision who refuses to let this season of life get the best of me! I have learned more about dementia to help me cope and understand what is happening with my mother. I have developed mindset practices so that I can remain excited about my own dreams without feeling guilty and selfish. I have created systems that help me continue to move the needle on my personal goals, even when I am pulled in 100 different directions and have very broken segments of time. And I want to share my successes, and my failures, with you! So, find a quiet corner, take a few deep calming breaths, and join me as I share how I have created life balance and maintained peace in the midst of a very unexpected season of life as the daughter of a parent with dementia.
Episodes

9 hours ago
9 hours ago
If you have ever felt guilt or resentment from your caregiver role, this episode is for you. This path is not easy, and you deserve to be seen, heard, and supported in it.
Head to your favorite podcast app to listen — and come join us in the Caregivers of Parents with Dementia Facebook group. We’re building a space where you don’t have to do this alone.
If the podcast is helpful for you, please leave me a written review where ever you are listening. 5 star reviews help my podcast reach more listeners!
Keep the faith,
Mel____________________
Time is such a valuable commodity and in limited supply as a caregiver. Currently, I'm really taking control of my time in both my work and home life by working with a coach that is helping me to create systems for my life and business and regain control of my time! Check it out at the link below. https://melcogar--chelsijo.thrivecart.com/stssystemizetoscale/ Also, if you are interested in starting your own podcast as an outlet and way to help others, please check out the link below to find out how I learned to start my own podcast.
https://melcogar--stefaniegass.thrivecart.com/podcastprouniversity/

5 days ago
5 days ago
Reduce caregiver stress by being prepared for unplanned visits to the doctor or hospital. Have all the necessary information with you when needed and feel more confident as a dementia caregiver.
Head to your favorite podcast app to listen — and come join us in the Caregivers of Parents with Dementia Facebook group. We’re building a space where you don’t have to do this alone.
If the podcast is helpful for you, please leave me a written review where ever you are listening. 5 star reviews help my podcast reach more listeners!
Keep the faith,
Mel____________________
Time is such a valuable commodity and in limited supply as a caregiver. Currently, I'm really taking control of my time in both my work and home life by working with a coach that is helping me to create systems for my life and business and regain control of my time! Check it out at the link below. https://melcogar--chelsijo.thrivecart.com/stssystemizetoscale/ Also, if you are interested in starting your own podcast as an outlet and way to help others, please check out the link below to find out how I learned to start my own podcast.
https://melcogar--stefaniegass.thrivecart.com/podcastprouniversity/

Tuesday Jul 01, 2025
Tuesday Jul 01, 2025
Holidays can be stressful, overwhelming, and unpredictable - especially when you're caring for a parent with dementia. In this special Fourth of July episode of Parent Caregiver, I share how to balance your holiday traditions with compassion and creativity. Whether it's finding peace in simpler celebrations or managing family expectations, this episode is filled with practical tips and heartfelt encouragement to help you protect your loved one's dignity - and your own inner-peace.
Head to your favorite podcast app to listen — and come join us in the Caregivers of Parents with Dementia Facebook group. We’re building a space where you don’t have to do this alone.
If the podcast is helpful for you, please leave me a written review where ever you are listening. 5 star reviews help my podcast reach more listeners!
Keep the faith,
Mel____________________
Time is such a valuable commodity and in limited supply as a caregiver. Currently, I'm really taking control of my time in both my work and home life by working with a coach that is helping me to create systems for my life and business and regain control of my time! Check it out at the link below. https://melcogar--chelsijo.thrivecart.com/stssystemizetoscale/ Also, if you are interested in starting your own podcast as an outlet and way to help others, please check out the link below to find out how I learned to start my own podcast.
https://melcogar--stefaniegass.thrivecart.com/podcastprouniversity/

Friday Jun 27, 2025
Friday Jun 27, 2025
Are you tired of bad days? Today, I'm sharing 4 tips on how to start your day that can really change the course of your day. And you can do these 4 things in 20 minutes or less. Take charge of your days by starting them off right!
Head to your favorite podcast app to listen — and come join us in the Caregivers of Parents with Dementia Facebook group. We’re building a space where you don’t have to do this alone.
If the podcast is helpful for you, please leave me a written review where ever you are listening. 5 star reviews help my podcast reach more listeners!
Keep the faith,
Mel____________________
Time is such a valuable commodity and in limited supply as a caregiver. Currently, I'm really taking control of my time in both my work and home life by working with a coach that is helping me to create systems for my life and business and regain control of my time! Check it out at the link below. https://melcogar--chelsijo.thrivecart.com/stssystemizetoscale/ Also, if you are interested in starting your own podcast as an outlet and way to help others, please check out the link below to find out how I learned to start my own podcast.
https://melcogar--stefaniegass.thrivecart.com/podcastprouniversity/

Tuesday Jun 24, 2025
Tuesday Jun 24, 2025
Have you been putting your needs last? Feeling guilty for wanting a break?
In the latest episode of Parent Caregiver, we’re talking about how to set healthy boundaries — not to push people away, but to protect you.
Because your identity matters too.
Head to your favorite podcast app to listen — and come join us in the Caregivers of Parents with Dementia Facebook group. We’re building a space where you don’t have to do this alone.
If the podcast is helpful for you, please leave me a written review where ever you are listening. 5 star reviews help my podcast reach more listeners!
Keep the faith,
Mel____________________
Time is such a valuable commodity and in limited supply as a caregiver. Currently, I'm really taking control of my time in both my work and home life by working with a coach that is helping me to create systems for my life and business and regain control of my time! Check it out at the link below. https://melcogar--chelsijo.thrivecart.com/stssystemizetoscale/ Also, if you are interested in starting your own podcast as an outlet and way to help others, please check out the link below to find out how I learned to start my own podcast.
https://melcogar--stefaniegass.thrivecart.com/podcastprouniversity/

Friday Jun 20, 2025
Friday Jun 20, 2025
I know what it feels like to be in the middle of a life you didn’t quite plan. Maybe you thought this would be your season of freedom, or finally chasing your dreams — but instead, you’re helping your parent through the hardest chapter of their life.
You love them. You want to show up for them. But… you’re tired. You feel alone. And sometimes, it feels like your life is on pause.Today, I want to talk about something that can make all the difference — finding a supportive community. One that truly sees you. Not just the caregiver in you — but the you who still has dreams, goals, and a heart full of life.
So if you’re feeling isolated, burned out, or like no one else gets it — come join us in my free community. You don’t have to figure this out alone.If the podcast is helpful for you, please leave me a written review where ever you are listening. 5 star reviews help my podcast reach more listeners!
Keep the faith,
Mel____________________
Time is such a valuable commodity and in limited supply as a caregiver. Currently, I'm really taking control of my time in both my work and home life by working with a coach that is helping me to create systems for my life and business and regain control of my time! Check it out at the link below. https://melcogar--chelsijo.thrivecart.com/stssystemizetoscale/ Also, if you are interested in starting your own podcast as an outlet and way to help others, please check out the link below to find out how I learned to start my own podcast.
https://melcogar--stefaniegass.thrivecart.com/podcastprouniversity/

Tuesday Jun 17, 2025
Tuesday Jun 17, 2025
Don't let your role as a parent caregiver keep you from dreaming and reaching your goals. You CAN still balance your dreams and your reality, even if it's at a slower pace than you expected.Today I'm reintroducing the podcast. I hope this podcast helps you find peace and balance in your parent caregiver journey. If the podcast is helpful for you, please leave me a written review where ever you are listening. 5 star reviews help my podcast reach more listeners!
I would love for you to join my free community where you can support and be supported by other caregivers on similar journeys, ask questions, and receive more tips. You are NOT alone!
Keep the faith,
Mel____________________
Time is such a valuable commodity and in limited supply as a caregiver. Currently, I'm really taking control of my time in both my work and home life by working with a coach that is helping me to create systems for my life and business and regain control of my time! Check it out at the link below. https://melcogar--chelsijo.thrivecart.com/stssystemizetoscale/ Also, if you are interested in starting your own podcast as an outlet and way to help others, please check out the link below to find out how I learned to start my own podcast.
https://melcogar--stefaniegass.thrivecart.com/podcastprouniversity/

Saturday Jan 11, 2025
Saturday Jan 11, 2025
Don't let your role as a parent caregiver keep you from dreaming and reaching your goals. You CAN still work toward those dreams, even if it's at a slower pace than you expected.Today I'm sharing 4 simple tips to help you keep your dreams alive and help you continue to reach your goals - even when you are overwhelmed and exhausted. I hope this episode helps you find peace and balance in your journey. If this is helpful for you, please leave me a written review where ever you are listening. 5 star reviews help my podcast reach more listeners! As always, if you have questions or would like to learn more about a topic that I have discussed, please email me at mel@themelcogar.com. I would love to hear from you!
Keep the faith, and keep those dreams alive!
Mel____________________
Time is such a valuable commodity and in limited supply as a caregiver. Currently, I'm really taking control of my time in both my work and home life by working with a coach that is helping me to create systems for my life and business and regain control of my time! Check it out at the link below. https://melcogar--chelsijo.thrivecart.com/syl/Also, if you are interested in starting your own podcast as an outlet and way to help others, please check out the link below to find out how I learned to start my own podcast.
https://melcogar--stefaniegass.thrivecart.com/podcastprouniversity/

Tuesday Dec 10, 2024
Tuesday Dec 10, 2024
I'm back after a break for a few months, and this episode is talking about giving yourself grace during your caregiving journey. I didn't want to put this podcast on the back-burner, but life - right? I gave myself grace and am back! I hope this episode helps you find grace for your journey. If this is helpful for you, please leave me a written review where ever you are listening. 5 star reviews help my podcast reach more listeners! As always, if you have questions or would like to learn more about a topic that I have discussed, please email me at mel@themelcogar.com. I would love to hear from you!
Keep the faith, and keep those dreams alive!
Mel____________________
Time is such a valuable commodity and in limited supply as a caregiver. Currently, I'm really taking control of my time in both my work and home life by working with a coach that is helping me to create systems for my life and business and regain control of my time! Check it out at the link below. https://melcogar--chelsijo.thrivecart.com/syl/Also, if you are interested in starting your own podcast as an outlet and way to help others, please check out the link below to find out how I learned to start my own podcast.
https://melcogar--stefaniegass.thrivecart.com/podcastprouniversity/

Tuesday Aug 06, 2024
Tuesday Aug 06, 2024
UGH! The healthcare system is broken when it comes to the flow of information for dementia (and so many other) patients! Today I'm sharing a few tips that my sister and I have used when our mother has been in the hospital since her FTD diagnosis.There has to be a better way! I'd love to hear from you at mel@themelcogar.com if you have experiences or thoughts that could help!
And please leave me a written review on iTunes. 5 star reviews help my podcast reach more listeners. As always, if you have questions or would like to learn more about a topic that I have discussed, please email me at mel@themelcogar.com. I would love to hear from you!
Keep the faith, and keep those dreams alive!
Mel____________________
Time is such a valuable commodity and in limited supply as a caregiver. Currently, I'm really taking control of my time in both my work and home life by working with a coach that is helping me to create systems for my life and business and regain control of my time! Check it out at the link below. https://melcogar--chelsijo.thrivecart.com/syl/Also, if you are interested in starting your own podcast as an outlet and way to help others, please check out the link below to find out how I learned to start my own podcast.
https://melcogar--stefaniegass.thrivecart.com/podcastprouniversity/