Dementia Spotlight is a weekly podcast hosted by Bobbi and Mike Carducci that focuses on caregivers and those who will become caregivers. The hosts and their guests will provide tips, truths, and straight talk about Alzheimer's and the many other forms of dementia. Guests will be on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month and tips, truths, and straight talk will be on the opposite Wednesdays. Join us as we bring to light, the realities of dementia care.
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Episode 79: Guest Mr. Mike Parish - Awareness of issues critical to LGBTQ+ people living with, or supporting people with a dementia diagnosis.
45:59
In today's episode, we are joined by Mr. Mike Parish to discuss the anxieties and disadvantages that LGBTQ+ people experience in health care and social care. Mr. Parish is the founding director of England's LGBTQ+ dementia advisory group community interest company, which provides a hub of support, research, networking and promotion of knowledge and…
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Episode 78: Tips, Truths & Straight Talk 45: "Has it been proven that anesthesia progresses Alzheimer’s and the other forms of dementia?"
4:59
While there has been no specific studies and/or declaration that anesthesia progresses dementia, Bobbi and Mike speak from their personal experience with Mike's dad after having surgery to put in a pacemaker after having a heart attack. Carducci Caregiving Consulting and Dementia Spotlight Podcast are proud to be an affiliate of Joe & Bella Adaptiv…
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In today's episode, we are joined by Dr. Barry J. Jacobs, Psy.D., a clinical psychologist and family therapist. Dr. Jacobs is one of the country’s leading thinkers, writers and educators about family caregiving. We cover a myriad of topics: Difficulties of professional caregivers as family caregivers Male family caregivers vs. female family caregiv…
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Episode 76: Tips, Truths & Straight Talk 44: "My dad is starting to not recognize us. How do I navigate this stage?"
5:37
A caregiver is experiencing the most difficult of situations - that of a loved one not recognizing you. This is the most heartbreaking stage of caring for a loved one. Listen as Bobbi and Mike offer some suggestions on how to navigate this issue. Carducci Caregiving Consulting and Dementia Spotlight Podcast are proud to be an affiliate of Joe & Bel…
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Episode 75: Guest Carrie Aalberts, aka "The Dementia Darling" - Let go of expectations to enjoy the moments and bringing joy and positivity into the lives using happy lists.
39:26
Our tagline, “tips, truths, and straight talk” is our absolute dedication to helping caregivers all around the world. Not only do we provide tips to our listeners, but we also seek out tips and resources and pass the wealth of knowledge and resources along. This is not a competition between us and resources, it is a partnership. In today's episode,…
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Episode 74: Tips, Truths & Straight Talk 43: "How do I organize a private funeral? There are people who may try to attend that LO and myself don’t want there."
6:03
A caregiver asks two very sensitive and complex questions: "How do I organize a private funeral? There are people who may try to attend that LO and myself don’t want there. Also, how do you avoid having an after function?" Listen as Bobbi and Mike offer some suggestions on how to navigate these issues. Carducci Caregiving Consulting and Dementia Sp…
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Episode 73: Tips, Truths & Straight Talk 42: "The time has come to look for Memory care home for Mom. What should I look for and what questions should I ask before making a decision?"
9:29
Great Question. Looking for a memory care facility is very overwhelming. Listen as Bobbi and Mike offer a number of suggestions that you can ask when visiting a memory care facility. Use these suggestions as a baseline - there are many more that can be asked. It is virtually impossible to have an all-inclusive list of questions as each dementia pat…
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Episode 72: Guest Dennis Ranck - Co-founder of ViewClix, which is an easy-to-use experience for seniors to stay connected with family members.
30:18
In the past, we've talked about how caregiving is not location based and that you can be the advocate for your loved one even though you don't live close by. In today's episode, we are joined by Mr. Dennis Ranck, co-founder of ViewClix, which is an easy-to-use video calling system that helps families easily stay in touch with their loved one. Click…
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There are so many people out there that have this feeling. To have somebody turn around and say, "you don't hate him; you hate the disease," because in that moment, you absolutely hate that person. This is a red flag, and it needs to be taken seriously and addressed. Listen as Bobbi and Mike offer some suggestions as to where you might get some ass…
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Today, we talk about one of the "boogeymen" that we often hear about when dealing with the elderly and dementia. That boogeyman is Adult Protective Services. In today's episode, we are joined by Ms. Ariann Lalla-Mohammed from the Loudoun County (Virginia) Adult Protective Service (APS). Most people believe that when somebody from APS comes and knoc…
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Episode 69: Tips, Truths & Straight Talk 40: Do other people have trouble with mirrors? I had to cover ours as my husband thinks other people are in the house when he sees reflections.
5:03
Mirrors can be very disconcerting to individuals with dementia. Today, Bobbi and Mike talk about issues that may arise with mirrors and discuss a couple of helpful hints to deal with them. Carducci Caregiving Consulting and Dementia Spotlight Podcast are proud to be an affiliate of Joe & Bella Adaptive Clothing. Click here for our affiliate link fo…
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In today's episode, we talk with guest Ms. Sue Feldmeth who a registered nurse with 30 years of nursing experience. She is also an educator and consultant providing medical cannabis seminars and specialized guidance for those seeking to use cannabis and CBD to treat dementia related issues. Click here for Sue's Website If you appreciate the informa…
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Episode 67: Tips, Truths & Straight Talk 39: "What do other people do when you are out and your LO has to go to the bathroom and no family bathroom is available?
4:35
Throughout this process of caring for somebody with a dementia, we learn to be as flexible and creative as possible. Today, Bobbi and Mike discuss a couple of helpful hints to deal with public bathrooms. Carducci Caregiving Consulting and Dementia Spotlight Podcast are proud to be an affiliate of Joe & Bella Adaptive Clothing. Click here for our af…
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Episode 66: Guest Mary Underwood - The one person you want to hear from that you're doing a great job is the person who can't tell you you're doing a great job."
35:12
In today's episode, we talk with guest Ms. Mary Underwood. Recently, Mary made the decision to form her own consulting company, Empowermentia, Empowerment plus Dementia. She strongly believes and advocates for quality care, informed decisions, and specialized training. For her work, she has received numerous awards from organizations that focus on …
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Episode 64: Tips, Truths & Straight Talk 37 - "I was warned not to have my husband get an official diagnosis – he has mild cognitive impairment- because he might later be denied medical services as he ...
6:04
Today, Bobbi and Mike discuss one of the many myths about dementia and dementia care. Carducci Caregiving Consulting and Dementia Spotlight Podcast are proud to be an affiliate of Joe & Bella Adaptive Clothing. Click here for our affiliate link for your Joe and Balla purchases. To follow us on "X" (Twitter) - @bobbicarducci2 -and- @michaelcarducc4 …
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Episode 65: Tips, Truths & Straight Talk 37 - "My loved one was on the commode in her room, and she fell over and poop went everywhere. I can’t do poop. How do I get that terrible odor out of her room ...
6:29
One of the most common reasons for someone to put a loved one in a care home is they can't deal with poop. We can absolutely guarantee you, if you're dealing with somebody with a dementia, poop-will-happen. Today, Bobbi and Mike discuss a couple of helpful hints to deal with poop. Carducci Caregiving Consulting and Dementia Spotlight Podcast are pr…
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They may not say it out loud, but they are communicating their need by their absence from all the activities they used to be involved with, or by the phone calls, text messages, or tweets that no longer arrive in your inbox. Bobbi has written a paper on how a caregiver near you needs help. What we're going to do today is let Bobbi fly solo and let …
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Episode 62: Tips, Truths & Straight Talk 36 - "Can someone explain why my LO will only wear the same shirt and jeans. I bought two of each and always have a set ready to go."
7:59
Can two people read the same question and get a different meaning? Find out on today's episode of Tips, Truths, and Straight talk. Carducci Caregiving Consulting and Dementia Spotlight Podcast are proud to be an affiliate of Joe & Bella Adaptive Clothing. Click here for our affiliate link for your Joe and Balla purchases. To follow us on "X" (Twitt…
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In today's episode, we talk with guest Ms. Carrie Leljedal, a Family Caregiver Turned Advocate who describes herself as "one mad mom". She is a Program Manager for The Live Oak Project. She is a Board Member for NYC Gray Panthers Organization and Co-Chairs their Transformation Tuesday series. She is also the states Spokesperson for Illinois Caregiv…
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Episode 60: Tips, Truths & Straight Talk 35 - "What can I feed my LO? She is getting extremely picky. She does not eat egg, beans, bread, tortillas, oatmeal, potatoes to name a few."
7:02
On today's episode of Tips, Truths, and Straight talk, Bobbi and Mike discuss some of the possible reasons your loved one may be refusing food. Carducci Caregiving Consulting and Dementia Spotlight Podcast are proud to be an affiliate of Joe & Bella Adaptive Clothing. Click here for our affiliate link for your Joe and Balla purchases. To follow us …
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Episode 58: Tips, Truths & Straight Talk 34 - "My LO was removed from drug trial due to brain bleed. Alz doctor now wants to put him on Aricept. Has it helped your LO? What can I expect from this drug ...
6:10
On today's episode of Tips, Truths, and Straight talk, Bobbi and Mike discuss moving forward with the Alzheimer's drug Aricept, which is very expensive and whether it will help your loved one. Carducci Caregiving Consulting and Dementia Spotlight Podcast are proud to be an affiliate of Joe & Bella Adaptive Clothing. Click here for our affiliate lin…
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Episode 57: Guest Colleen Duewel - Where Do You Go To Get Help Navigating The Challenging Health Care, Legal, and Financial Systems.
40:05
In today's episode, we talk with guest Ms. Colleen Duewel, founder and President of Lionheart Eldercare & Consulting, whose mission is to foster autonomy, relieve family caregiver worries, and help older adults thrive. She has extensive experience as an Advanced Care Planner, certified geriatric care manager, nursing home ombudsman, certified demen…
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On Wednesday, April 10th, Ms. Colleen Duewell, who is a Certified Geriatric Care Management Consultant, Certified Dementia Practitioner, and Advanced Care Planner, talks to Bobbi and Mike about how a care manager can be beneficial in understanding and navigating our health, legal, and financial systems. Stop back on the 10th for Colleen's full epis…
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Episode 56: Tips, Truths & Straight Talk 33 - "Has anyone experienced their Loved One not being able to understand what is said while still being able to speak well?"
5:23
Bobbi and Mike discuss communicating with your loved one on today's episode of Tips, Truths, and Straight Talk. Today's question is: "Has anyone experienced LO not being able to understand what is said while still being able to speak well? He can communicate what he wants to say but has a hard time understanding what is said to him." Interesting an…
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Episode 55: Guest Jimmy Zollo - Adaptive clothing simplifies dressing especially for those living with physical or cognitive changes.
34:05
In today's episode, we talk with guest Jimmy Zollo co-founder and CEO of Joe & Bella, an adaptive clothing and apparel company. We discuss the difficulties associated with getting clothing on and off, and not being able to take loved ones out in public because of the lack of comfortable and stylish clothing. Joe & Bella offer a full line of adaptiv…
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Episode 54: Tips, Truths & Straight Talk 32 - Decision To Move Forward With Leqembi Infusions.
8:05
Bobbi and Mike discuss moving forward with the Alzheimer's drug Leqembi on today's episode of Tips, Truths, and Straight Talk. Interesting and informative guests will join us on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of every month. On the opposite Wednesdays, we will provide straight talk about what people need to know before and after caregiving begins, inclu…
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Episode 53: Guest Lisa Graff - Caregiving is not location based; you remain a caregiver regardless of where your loved one is located.
24:48
In today's episode, we talk with guest Lisa Graff about how difficult it was for her mother when she had to put her own mother into a nursing home when Lisa was in high school and the impact it had on her. Lisa is a retired teacher, actress, novelist, essayist and columnist. Lisa's Websites and Social Media links: Link for Lisa's Website Link for L…
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Episode 52: Tips, Truths & Straight Talk 31 - "When LO is being violent, hallucinating, etc., why do people advise checking for UTI?"
4:42
"Why do people advise checking for UTI when LO is being violent, hallucinating, etc.?" While it doesn't seem logical or intuitive, UTI's can have a very dramatic effect on the brain chemistry of the elderly and especially those with dementia. Bobbi and Mike provide some helpful insights on today's episode of Tips, Truths, and Straight Talk. Interes…
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We have mentioned many times on our podcasts how contrasting colors may help people with dementia because of their vision being affected by these devastating brain diseases. Just one such example would be having mashed potatoes on a dark colored plate so the loved one can see the food better. In today's episode, we talk with guest Sara McCunnie abo…
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On Wednesday, February 28th, Ms. Sara McCunnie, who is registered architect in both New Zealand and Australia, talks to Bobbi and Mike about some strategies where color and patterns can play a role in dementia caregiving. Stop back on the 28th for Sara's full episode. To follow us on Twitter - @bobbicarducci2 -and- @michaelcarducc4 (c) 2023-2024 Ca…
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Episode 50: Tips, Truths & Straight Talk 30 - "Having your mother turn on you is maddening and breaking my spirit. I’m so sad."
6:24
"Having your mother turn on you, looking at you with an evil expression and rant at you like you’re an idiot while making no sense herself, is maddening and breaking my spirit. Saying, she can’t help it” does not make it hurt less. I’m so sad." The emotional "roller coaster" is very real and takes a severe toll on caregivers. Bobbi and Mike provide…
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On Wednesday, February 28th, Ms. Sara McCunnie, who is registered architect in both New Zealand and Australia, talks to Bobbi and Mike about some strategies where color and patterns can play a role in dementia caregiving. Stop back on the 28th for Sara's full episode. To follow us on Twitter - @bobbicarducci2 -and- @michaelcarducc4 (c) 2023-2024 Ca…
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Bobbi and Mike talk to Ms. Kay Bransford about Powers of Attorney, Money Manager vs. Financial Advisor, and taking care of the financial aspects of your loved ones. Kay took care of her parents’ finances when they were diagnosed with dementia and that experience led her to pursue a passion of helping other families prepare for the financial aspects…
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On Wednesday, February 14th, Ms. Kay Bransford talks to Bobbi and Mike about Powers of Attorney, Money Manager vs. Financial Advisor among other items dealing with the finances for your loved ones. Stop back on the 14th for Kay's full episode. To follow us on Twitter - @bobbicarducci2 -and- @michaelcarducc4 Click here to follow the Dementia Spotlig…
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Episode 48: Tips, Truths & Straight Talk 29 - "I Can’t get my LO to change. Mother had been wearing the same outfit for months. They are filthy and torn. What can I do?"
6:13
Bobbi and Mike provide some helpful insights for the following caregiver's issue on today's episode of Tips, Truths, and Straight Talk: "I Can’t get my LO to change. Mother had been wearing the same outfit for months. They are filthy and torn. We can’t find similar clothes as she bought them over 10 years ago. When we try to get her to wear somethi…
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Coming Attraction: On February 14th, Ms. Kay Bransford talks to Bobbi and Mike about Powers of Attorney, Money Manager vs. Financial Advisor among other items dealing with the finances for your loved ones. Stop back on the 14th. (c) 2023-2024 Carducci Caregiving Consultingتوسط Bobbi and Michael Carducci
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Episode 47: Tips, Truths & Straight Talk 28 - "Why is it so freaking hard after reminding 4 times to take the plastic trash bag out of the container, pull the ties shut, and put the closed bag in the brown ...
8:42
This type of frustration is very real and very common among caregivers. Bobbi and Mike provide some insights and tips to help ease the frustration for both the caregiver and the person with dementia on today's episode of Tips, Truths, and Straight Talk. Interesting and informative guests will join us on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of every month. On …
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In this episode, Bobbi and Mike talk with caregiver, author, and educator Donna Thomson about the possibility of 2024 being the year of the caregiver, caregiving as project management, caring across generations, and caregiving essentials. Donna is Director and co-designer of the Family Engagement in Research Courses and Program and facilitates the …
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Episode 45: Tips, Truths & Straight Talk 27 - "What is the difference between Power of Attorney and Guardianship?".
13:39
Great Question! Bobbi and Mike provide a very basic understanding between Power of Attorney and Guardianship on today's episode of Tips, Truths, and Straight Talk. It is in everyone's best interest to consult with an elder law attorney to get these documents in place BEFORE you need them. Interesting and informative guests will join us on the 2nd a…
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Speaking of controversial issues others tend to avoid, Bobbi and Mike discuss their feeling on these new drugs that are very dangerous, and the FDA which is "fast track" approving these drugs...and why! ***REXULTI (brexpiprazole) · Cerebrovascular Disease ·Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome ·Tardive Dyskinesia ·Hyperglycemia ·LDL and HDL Cholesterol an…
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We wish you, our listeners, a Happy, Healthy, and Prosperous New Year. Bobbi and I will be away this week so there will not be an regular episode on Wednesday, January 10. We will provide an episode on Saturday, January 13 and then resume our regular schedule of weekly podcasts on the following Wednesday (Jan 17th). Mike (c) 2023-2024 Carducci Care…
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Episode 43: Tips, Truths & Straight Talk 26 - "The hospital wants to discharge my mother. She was in ICU and intubated, and now her dementia seems worse. What is worse, the hospital is threatening to ...
6:27
Bobbi and Mike provide some helpful insights for the following caregiver's issue on today's episode of Tips, Truths, and Straight Talk: "I'm in a bit of a dilemma, my mom, who has dementia, went into the hospital last week for internal bleeding. The hospital wants to discharge her, and I said no. She was in ICU, intubated and restrained and now see…
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Episode 42: Tips, Truths & Straight Talk 25 - "My mom told me that for three nights a dog has been in the tree outside her window. What can I do?"
4:15
Bobbi and Mike provide some helpful tips for the following caregiver's question on today's episode of Tips, Truths, and Straight Talk: "My mom told me that for three nights a dog has been in the tree outside her window. He’s stretched out on a branch and holds on to it with his back feet. He is brown and white and looks at her. What can I do? " It'…
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Bobbi and Mike discuss the different (5 most common) forms of dementia that fall under the dementia umbrella and provide resource information. Having some understanding of the different forms of dementia can help access the right resources that are available. The five most common forms of dementia. You can click on the links to find out more inform…
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Episode 40: Tips, Truths & Straight Talk 24 - "Oh My God is it just me? I was helping mom put her bra on and she was having trouble adjusting it. I just couldn’t bring myself to help her with her under ...
4:10
Bobbi and Mike provide some helpful tips for the following caregiver's issue on today's episode of Tips, Truths, and Straight Talk: "Oh My God is it just me? I was helping mom put her bra on and she was having trouble adjusting it. I just couldn’t bring myself to help her with her under boob. Ugh!" Check out the episode for Bobbi and Mike's helpful…
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Episode 39: Tips, Truths & Straight Talk 23 - "Since his surgery. he’s been a different person. He’s been in the hospital a month recovering, but he is paranoid thinking people are after him."
4:43
Bobbi and Mike provide some helpful tips for the following caregiver's issue on today's episode of Tips, Truths, and Straight Talk: "My dad was diagnosed last year with early onset Parkinson’s/dementia. He was fine, walking a mile a day. Then one day he had a problem and needed to have surgery. Since the surgery he’s been a different person, he’s b…
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In this episode, Bobbi and Mike talk with Darlene Fuchs who watched both of her parents struggle with dementia and shares the invaluable lessons learned along the way. She hopes her story of their memory becomes a source of inspiration for others facing similar challenges in their lives. Following her mother's (Gail) dementia diagnosis, her father …
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Episode 37: Tips, Truths & Straight Talk 22 - "What’s their freaking fascination with calling the police? I have to take his phone away as he keeps calling 911."
4:32
Bobbi and Mike answer the following caregiver's question on today's episode of Tips, Truths, and Straight Talk: "What’s their freaking fascination with calling the police? I have to take his phone away as he keeps calling 911." Frustrating indeed! Check out the episode for Bobbi and Mike's recommendations. Interesting and informative guests will jo…
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In this episode, Bobbi and Mike talk with "Sharon's Son", Dr. George Ackerman about Parkinson's Disease awareness. Dr. Ackerman, with his family created TogetherForSharon® for the purpose of keeping his mother, Sharon Riff Ackerman’s, memory alive, and to share the message of Parkinson’s Awareness and hope for finding a cure for Parkinson’s Disease…
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Episode 35: Tips, Truths & Straight Talk 21 - "Has anyone’s loved one had fake pain? My mom says she has pain for a few moments then is fine. We took her to ER and there is nothing wrong."
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Bobbi and Mike answer the following caregiver's question on today's episode of Tips, Truths, and Straight Talk: "Has anyone’s loved one had fake pain? My mom says she has pain for a few moments then is fine. It’s been going on for a few weeks. We took her to ER and there is nothing wrong." The short answer is "yes". Check out the episode for Bobbi …
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