EP 151 :: Dementia Affects the Whole Family :: Leillana Hernandez

When you have a mom who is a great cook, you notice when she's off her game and forgetting ingredients. For Lily Hernandez's mother this was an early sign that she might not be well. And when she was diagnosed with dementia, it changed her family's life overnight. Like so many caregivers, Lily is learning as she goes, including the power of playing her mother's favorite music. She also understands the importance of keeping her composure. Her attitude of making the best of a difficult situation should be an inspiration to all caregivers facing huge challenges every day.

Leillana says, “I never expected to be a caregiver to my mother because she was my support and helped raise my 3 boys.  I never expected her to need care due to how strong and self-sufficient she was.  My husband, my sons, my younger brother, his wife, his children, a daycare center, and providers are now all her caregivers. It takes all of us to care for her the way she deserves. Our lives were turned upside down overnight.”

Don't forget to subscribe, download, and review to share your thoughts about the show!