Beyond Forgetfulness: How to Tell Normal Aging from Dementia Warning Signs

Is it normal forgetfulness or an Alzheimer’s warning sign? How do you talk to a defensive parent about their declining memory?

Gerontology expert Janice Goldmintz, who cared for both parents with Alzheimer’s, provides a compassionate, step-by-step guide for overwhelmed families.

In this episode, Kim and Janice discuss:

🔴 The “Fruit & Orange” Analogy: Simply understand dementia vs. Alzheimer’s
🟢 The Family Visit Checklist: Spot red flags like unopened mail and keys in the freezer
🟣 The #1 Legal Mistake: Why waiting for a diagnosis to get a Power of Attorney is dangerous
🟡 The 4 Criteria for “Home vs. Facility”: Finance, community, health, and future-proofing

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Chronic Truth Podcast
01:25 Understanding Alzheimer's and Dementia
02:26 Navigating Caregiver Challenges
05:51 Recognizing Signs of Cognitive Decline
08:37 Family Involvement in Care Decisions
10:10 Making Care Decisions for Aging Parents
12:08 Importance of Legal Preparations
14:12 Advocating for Loved Ones with Alzheimer's
15:52 Finding Support for Isolated Individuals
17:59 Resources and Support for Caregivers

Connect with Janice:

📱 @agingparentjourney on Instagram

To support the show or share your experience, visit our website at chronictruthpodcast.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

This episode is brought to you by:

The Chronic Truth Podcast, LLC

Host/Executive Producer: Kimberly Nash

Podcast Creative Director & Co-Producer: Jay Wilson, for ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast Mechanic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠