EP 130 :: How Dementia Caregiving Affects Your Marriage :: Douglass Christensen

Marriage is bliss, right? Well, whoever said that was never a co-caregiver for a family member with their partner. In this episode, Douglass Christensen talks with Bobbi & Mike about the stress a marriage can undergo while caring for a loved one with dementia, but also the ways it can bring you closer together. His role as a co-caregiver Vincent Zappacosta, author of “Dementia-Mama-Drama”, helped add a new level to their relationship, and others can learn from their experience. With patience, humor, and a team approach, they brought hope to a seemingly hopeless situation. And are better off for it.

Douglass Christensen has a background in theatre and dance. He traveled the world extensively performing and felt lucky to experience many different cultures while doing what he loved. After moving to New York he worked in publishing and eventually met Vincent. 

Fast forward and twenty five years later they are still together and still able to make each other laugh. His role as co-caregiver for Vincents’ mother added another level to their relationship and experience together. 

Their journey is brought to life in the book “Dementia-Mama-Drama” which is available on Amazon Books. Douglass and Vincent were recently guests on the Inspired Memory Care webinar in NYC, a workshop for caregivers and social workers. They have also participated in several podcasts and interviews continuing their support for caregivers and Alzheimer’s by sharing their experience. Through social media they have remained strong advocates for dementia and Alzheimer’s. 

They continue their work on “Some Of These Daze” the script based on their thirteen year roller coaster ride with Mama. She will finally be on the stage and screen where she belongs.

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