Caregiver Tip Of The Week

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

Why do we feel guilty asking for help? This week, MSS Intern Olivia Bocchetti explores 'internalized oppression'—how we quietly absorb societal pressures and self-doubt. Learn how to identify these hidden feelings in yourself and your loved one, and discover gentle ways to choose compassion over criticism.

Well-being is not just one thing. This week, MSS Intern Olivia Bocchetti shares the inspiring work of Dr. Jennifer Bute, a former GP living with dementia. Learn how shifting your focus from daily 'tasks' to small, meaningful moments of joy and calm can transform caregiving into a beautiful, shared journey."

As dementia progresses, automatic tasks can become confusing. This week, MSS Intern Olivia Bocchetti shares how simple visual cues—like labels, pictures, and color codes—can guide your loved one, preserve their independence, and cut down on repetitive questions to give you a well-deserved break.

Has your world felt a little smaller lately? This week, MSS Intern Olivia Bocchetti shares her personal journey with isolation and explores the science behind caregiver social networks. Learn why circles shrink, how they can grow, and how peer and formal supports can help you rebuild meaningful connection.