Episode 1

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Published on:

11th Jun 2024

Carer Burnout, Sundowning, and Music Therapy for Dementia - Do I Sound Like I Care?

In this episode of 'Do I Sound Like I Care?' host Louise Lynch a former Emmy award-winning TV producer turned full-time carer, speaks with musician, singer, and educator Claire Pilling about her personal experience caring for her mother during lockdown.

They delve into the transformative role music played in managing dementia, the impact of the pandemic on mental health, and the importance of respite for caregivers. Claire shares touching anecdotes about her mother’s journey, revealing the challenges and unexpected joys of unpaid family care, and highlighting the therapeutic power of companionship and pets.

The episode also addresses the importance of counselling and social services, underscoring the resilience required in caregiving.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:48 Meet Claire Pilling: Musician and Carer

01:14 Claire’s Musical Background and Family Life

03:00 Recognising the Signs of Dementia

04:15 Lockdown Challenges and Seeking Help

07:54 Balancing Work and Caregiving

11:39 Navigating Social Services and Support

14:15 Dealing with Sundowning and Wandering

15:28 Agreeing to Avoid Confrontation

15:57 Coping with Rapid Progression

18:14 The Role of Music in Dementia Care

21:12 The Importance of Respite and Counselling

21:38 The Challenges of Respite Care

23:23 Transitioning to Permanent Care

27:09 Music Therapy and Glo Sing

29:56 Final Thoughts and Reflections

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About the Podcast

Do I Sound Like I Care? with Louise Lynch
@CarerPodcast
Welcome to "Do I Sound Like I Care?" the unfiltered podcast dedicated to unpaid family carers. Join your host, Emmy Award-Winning former documentary filmmaker turned family carer, Louise Lynch, as she imperfectly navigates the tumultuous journey of caring for her mother, Teena, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2021.

In a society that often overlooks the challenges faced by unpaid family carers, Louise brings an irreverent and authentic perspective to the forefront. With her career in tatters and lacking a creative outlet, she dives headfirst into the universal struggles of unpaid family carers, exploring how they cope in a world that falls short on the necessary resources.

In each episode, Louise sits down for a candid half-hour chat with fellow unpaid family carers. Together, they share stories, swap tips, and recount the highs and lows of their caregiving experiences. The magic lies in these peer-to-peer interactions, offering listeners a genuine authenticity and the comforting realisation that they’re not alone.

Whether you’re a seasoned carer or just stepping into this demanding role, "Do I Sound Like I Care?" provides a sanctuary of shared experiences, laughter, and heartfelt discussions.

Explore Topics Such As:

Navigating the healthcare system
Balancing self-care and caregiving responsibilities
Finding humour in the midst of challenges
👂 Why Tune In?
Discover the unifying power of shared experiences, gain practical tips, and find solace in the humour that arises from life’s caregiving journey.

🌐 Connect With Us:

@CarerPodcast
www.doisoundlikeicare.com

Viewer discretion: Some of the language may cause offence unless you are a carer. Be prepared to have a laugh and a cry!

Subscribe now to "Do I Sound Like I Care?" on YouTube or your favourite podcast platform, and join Louise and her guests in embracing the messy, emotional, and sometimes absurd ride of unpaid family caregiving. Because sometimes, the best way to cope and share a laugh in the face of adversity is to ask, "Do I sound like I care?" .