Are You Caring for Someone with Dementia?

Congratulations to Linda Rode and Deanne Poulos, two Duet affiliates, receiving Banner Alzheimer’s Institute’s Shine a Light Awards for their compassion and dedication to supporting family caregivers and raising dementia awareness.

After years of caring for his wife, Peggy, with dementia, Graham Bousfield now mentors other caregivers through Duet. In this reflective piece, he shares how learning to validate another person’s reality, rather than correct it, can deepen empathy, strengthen relationships, and transform grief into wisdom.

When a loved one begins showing signs of dementia, Parkinson’s, or another neurological condition, it can feel overwhelming, especially if they resist a diagnosis or deny anything is wrong. In this heartfelt piece from Jewish News of Greater Phoenix, Bob Roth explores why denial is a natural but difficult response, and how families can respond with empathy, gentle conversation, and proactive planning. With the right support, resources, and early intervention, families can help their loved ones maintain dignity, independence, and connection through the challenges of memory and movement disorders.