<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" version="2.0"><channel><title><![CDATA[COMPASS Dementia Care]]></title><description><![CDATA[Supportive care services for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias and their family caregivers.]]></description><link>https://www.compassdementiacare.org/blog</link><generator>RSS for Node</generator><lastBuildDate>Fri, 25 Sep 2026 02:53:50 GMT</lastBuildDate><atom:link href="https://www.compassdementiacare.org/blog-feed.xml" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml"/><item><title><![CDATA[Why Respite Care is Essential for Dementia Caregivers]]></title><description><![CDATA[Taking a break isn't selfish—it's essential. This week, COMPASS intern Mary O'Toole breaks down the benefits of respite care, how to overcome caregiver guilt, and 7 relaxing ways to spend your well-deserved time off.]]></description><link>https://www.compassdementiacare.org/post/why-respite-care-is-essential-for-dementia-caregivers</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a6b77202aa0dd3fa15ef021</guid><pubDate>Tue, 28 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/nsplsh_d0a0e7a5c41f4cac89941e634c763329~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Paige Wagner</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[The Healing Power of Gratitude: Small Acts of Kindness for Your Own Wellbeing]]></title><description><![CDATA[Caregiving is deeply meaningful, but it can leave little time to show yourself kindness. This week, COMPASS intern Mary O'Toole shares the brain science of gratitude—plus 5 quick, practical ways to reduce stress and boost your mood through daily appreciation.]]></description><link>https://www.compassdementiacare.org/post/the-healing-power-of-gratitude-small-acts-of-kindness-for-your-own-wellbeing</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a6b74cccedecef173abc00a</guid><pubDate>Mon, 20 Jul 2026 16:05:56 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/d37f5908c13c4f04b9b976f448f87248.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Paige Wagner</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[      COMPASS Summer Gathering ]]></title><description><![CDATA[We had an incredible time connecting with our COMPASS clients, families, and friends at our Summer Community Gathering on Saturday, June 13th at Aldersgate United Methodist Church. From sharing delicious snacks and coffee to working together on our intergenerational craft project for Meals on Wheels, the warmth and friendship of this community truly shined.]]></description><link>https://www.compassdementiacare.org/post/compass-summer-gathering</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a57a3329c687b0d7a3abaee</guid><pubDate>Wed, 15 Jul 2026 15:14:57 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/dff42f_9ee2bc5f2fb44e098e0d803c18ca6cfe~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Paige Wagner</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Finding Purpose in Simple Activities &#38; Community Events]]></title><description><![CDATA[How do you adapt activities as dementia progresses? In this week's Caregiver Tip, learn 10 simple rules for choosing, guiding, and adjusting daily tasks to focus on your loved one's enjoyment over achievement.]]></description><link>https://www.compassdementiacare.org/post/finding-purpose-in-simple-activities-community-events</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a6b71c62aa0dd3fa15ee238</guid><pubDate>Mon, 13 Jul 2026 15:57:15 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/nsplsh_7756aba4ae5541ad8aea2091aca51e08~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Paige Wagner</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[How Simple Color Contrast Supports Dementia Independence]]></title><description><![CDATA[Did you know dementia changes how the brain processes vision? This week, COMPASS Intern Paige Wagner shares how simple, high-contrast changes—like using blue plates for white foods and solid tablecloths—can dramatically reduce frustration and help your loved one stay independent.]]></description><link>https://www.compassdementiacare.org/post/how-simple-color-contrast-supports-dementia-independence</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a5910c10ff39938e1cc64a3</guid><pubDate>Mon, 06 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_0b3886c44e6644e5900d86019424ff6b~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Paige Wagner</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[The Power of a Melody: Using Music to Reduce Agitation and Connect with Your Loved One]]></title><description><![CDATA[Why does music reach us when words fail? This week, COMPASS Summer Intern Mary O’Toole shares her personal story and research from Northwestern Medicine on 'music intervention.' Discover how playing familiar tunes can ease anxiety, reduce agitation, and build a calm environment for both you and your loved one.]]></description><link>https://www.compassdementiacare.org/post/the-power-of-a-melody-using-music-to-reduce-agitation-and-connect-with-your-loved-one</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a590aebd03244312ce4a60a</guid><pubDate>Mon, 29 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/956d5e904314491bac69440368549025.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Paige Wagner</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Get Involved: Spread Kindness with the Do-Good-A-Thon]]></title><description><![CDATA[Good news is in the air! Delaware's 6th annual Do-Good-A-Thon is here, and our Memory Café has registered a team: 'The Do-Goodie Two Shoes'! Discover how you can join us in spreading simple acts of kindness, sharing your stories, and celebrating at the grand finale party on July 25th.]]></description><link>https://www.compassdementiacare.org/post/get-involved-spread-kindness-with-the-do-good-a-thon</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a590cc9cb28250fe83b2c51</guid><pubDate>Mon, 29 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/dff42f_8895ad10a7b54626b050690aba474d1c~mv2.png/v1/fit/w_726,h_350,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Paige Wagner</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Communicating at the Level of Emotional Truth: How to Respond When Reality Differs]]></title><description><![CDATA[What do you do when your loved one insists on a reality that isn't true? This week, Wendell Covell, LCSW, shares a concept from the Savvy Caregiver manual: 'Emotional Truth.' Learn why arguing over facts backfires, and how leaning into the underlying feelings can transform a tense moment into a meaningful connection.]]></description><link>https://www.compassdementiacare.org/post/communicating-at-the-level-of-emotional-truth-how-to-respond-when-reality-differs</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a59085348b343e14f136d3f</guid><pubDate>Mon, 15 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/nsplsh_da1294f1c2e146c8ab6611da8115d44a~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Paige Wagner</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Connecting Through the Confusion: 10 Essential Communication Tips for Dementia Caregivers]]></title><description><![CDATA[Communication is often the biggest hurdle in dementia care. This week, we share 10 foundational communication tips from the COMPASS binder—from setting a positive mood to the art of simple 'this-or-that' questions—to help lower caregiving stress and deepen your connection.]]></description><link>https://www.compassdementiacare.org/post/connecting-through-the-confusion-10-essential-communication-tips-for-dementia-caregivers</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a59062938e05b9fea35f34a</guid><pubDate>Mon, 08 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_ae2c9f0141b34dc79d3e9be34d638409~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Paige Wagner</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[De-Escalating the Stress: 5 Essential Coping Tips from Expert Teepa Snow]]></title><description><![CDATA[When a caregiving interaction isn't going well, do you push your agenda or step back? This week, world renowned dementia expert Teepa Snow shares 5 core coping tips, from using 'reflective language' to taking a 3-breath sensory time-out to de-escalate tension and protect your peace]]></description><link>https://www.compassdementiacare.org/post/de-escalating-the-stress-5-essential-coping-tips-from-expert-teepa-snow</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a5827adf16fbd619a4bd1d1</guid><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/c0068b_1b208895b5284585be4aa3864e2fad6f~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_748,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Paige Wagner</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[The Boundaries Series (Part 4): Finding Balance with Healthy Boundaries]]></title><description><![CDATA[How do we protect our peace without shutting others out? In the finale of our boundaries series, Wendell Covell, LCSW, shares a practical 4-step guide—Define, Communicate, Stay Simple, and Set Consequences—to help caregivers build sustainable, healthy relationships.]]></description><link>https://www.compassdementiacare.org/post/the-boundaries-series-part-4-finding-balance-with-healthy-boundaries</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a58248d9c687b0d7a3bedb5</guid><pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/c0068b_1a7a52dfeeaa4a5698ee63610c646750~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Paige Wagner</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[The Boundaries Series (Part 3): Rigid Boundaries and the Walls We Build to Protect Ourselves]]></title><description><![CDATA[Do you build walls to protect yourself? In Part 3 of our boundaries series, Wendell Covell, LCSW, explores 'rigid boundaries.' Learn how keeping others at an emotional distance might feel safe, but can leave caregivers feeling isolated, strained, and carrying the entire load alone.]]></description><link>https://www.compassdementiacare.org/post/the-boundaries-series-part-3-rigid-boundaries-and-the-walls-we-build-to-protect-ourselves</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a5820fd4ee79d90036ee6bc</guid><pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/nsplsh_5565776747665a67596a30~mv2_d_3762_2508_s_4_2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Paige Wagner</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Resource Spotlight: Need a Break? Learn About the Hilarity for Charity Respite Grant]]></title><description><![CDATA[You can't pour from an empty cup. Discover the Hilarity for Charity (HFC) Respite Grant, a national program providing free, professional in-home care hours so dementia caregivers can take a much needed break. See if you qualify and apply today!]]></description><link>https://www.compassdementiacare.org/post/resource-spotlight-need-a-break-learn-about-the-hilarity-for-charity-respite-grant</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a5822d74ee79d90036eeb4e</guid><pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/nsplsh_92fcc3c8a3fe4db0bafb722dd2b775eb~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Paige Wagner</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Book Recommendation : "Chicken Soup for the Soul: Care for the Caregiver"]]></title><description><![CDATA[Recommended by one of our very own community members! Discover 'Chicken Soup for the Soul: Care for the Caregiver'—a collection of 101 short stories filled with emotional support, practical advice, and much-needed humor for anyone navigating dementia care.]]></description><link>https://www.compassdementiacare.org/post/book-recommendation-chicken-soup-for-the-soul-care-for-the-caregiver</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a581dfc9c687b0d7a3bdd1a</guid><pubDate>Mon, 11 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/c0068b_b4848133a75641eabe57f9eee32ed668~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_822,h_462,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Paige Wagner</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[The Boundaries Series (Part 2): Understanding "Porous" Boundaries and Overly Flexible Limits]]></title><description><![CDATA[Struggling to say 'no' to others? In Part 2 of our boundaries series, Wendell Covell, LCSW, introduces 'porous boundaries.' Learn how overly flexible limits can leave caregivers feeling drained, why we take on other people's emotional stress, and how to start identifying these patterns in your own life.]]></description><link>https://www.compassdementiacare.org/post/the-boundaries-series-part-2-understanding-porous-boundaries-and-overly-flexible-limits</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a581c544ee79d90036eda4f</guid><pubDate>Mon, 11 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/nsplsh_c01b42ed283044959c2ad37d98a008c2~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Paige Wagner</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[The Boundaries Series (Part 1): Protecting Your Time and Energy as a Caregiver]]></title><description><![CDATA[Caregiving comes with a lot of overtime. This week, we are launching a brand-new, 4-part series on boundaries by Wendell Covell, LCSW. In Part 1, discover how boundaries define what is 'okay' and 'not okay' in your relationships, and learn why setting limits is the first step to protecting your energy.]]></description><link>https://www.compassdementiacare.org/post/the-boundaries-series-part-1-protecting-your-time-and-energy-as-a-caregiver</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a5819a44ee79d90036ed395</guid><pubDate>Mon, 04 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_a18ed13f850f45cda361f1b327c90855~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Paige Wagner</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Navigating Travel with a Loved One Who Has Dementia]]></title><description><![CDATA[Planning a trip soon? This week, Dr. Maria D’Souza shares an essential guide on navigating travel with a loved one who has dementia. Learn expert tips on how to manage changing environments, minimize stress on the move, and ensure a smooth, safe journey as you head out this season.]]></description><link>https://www.compassdementiacare.org/post/navigating-travel-with-a-loved-one-who-has-dementia</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a5810f58a059921e603f8a5</guid><pubDate>Tue, 28 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_82b60c28786445678c1e7bff196b1310~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Paige Wagner</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Honoring the In-Between: Navigating Transitions, Endings, and New Beginnings]]></title><description><![CDATA[In her final post, MSS Intern Olivia Bocchetti shares a heartfelt farewell and a reflection on life's transitions. Discover why acknowledging 'the in-between' is so vital, how caregivers constantly navigate the unknown, and why endings are necessary to make room for beautiful new beginnings.]]></description><link>https://www.compassdementiacare.org/post/honoring-the-in-between-navigating-transitions-endings-and-new-beginnings</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a57c5504ee79d90036e0c8e</guid><pubDate>Mon, 20 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_c7fccdd8f5114bb6a91c30122845f9cc~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Paige Wagner</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Shifting the Moment: How Music Brings Calm, Joy, and Connection to Caregiving]]></title><description><![CDATA[Need a simple way to shift the energy in your home? This week, MSS Intern Olivia Bocchetti shares how music can ease caregiver stress and soothe agitation. Plus, read about her personal playlists, tips for staying present, and a few soul-stirring song recommendations to start your week with joy!]]></description><link>https://www.compassdementiacare.org/post/shifting-the-moment-how-music-brings-calm-joy-and-connection-to-caregiving</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a57c4064ee79d90036e09c4</guid><pubDate>Mon, 13 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/2e379b78783089813a50b358a32d0b45.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Paige Wagner</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Giving Yourself Grace: How to Navigate Overwhelm One Step at a Time]]></title><description><![CDATA[Between balancing responsibilities, emotions, and expectations, carrying everything perfectly is impossible. This week, MSS Intern Olivia Bocchetti shares her personal battle with burnout and illness, offering gentle, practical tips on how to compartmentalize stress, focus on what you can control, and give yourself grace.]]></description><link>https://www.compassdementiacare.org/post/giving-yourself-grace-how-to-navigate-overwhelm-one-step-at-a-time</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a57c232f16fbd619a4ae279</guid><pubDate>Mon, 06 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/5a962e8280f040da96736216cc62c393.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Paige Wagner</dc:creator></item></channel></rss>