In a recent episode of The Caregiver Cup Podcast, I had the incredible opportunity to sit down with Katie Prentiss—a talented actress, mother, and former caregiver to her mother, who battled frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Katie’s caregiving journey, marked by deep love, challenges, and eventually healing, left me reflecting on what so many of us as caregivers go through: the struggles, the sacrifices, and the moments of clarity that bring us to new beginnings.

If you're navigating caregiving—especially in the midst of raising children or managing a career—you’ll find Katie’s story relatable, inspiring, and full of practical advice. Today, I want to share the highlights of her journey, along with some key takeaways that could help you in your caregiving life.

The Sandwich Caregiver Experience: Juggling Kids and Aging Parents

Katie found herself in what we often call the "sandwich" caregiving role, where she was simultaneously caring for...

Caregiving is a demanding journey, filled with emotional and mental challenges that can leave you feeling overwhelmed, stuck in a routine, or mentally drained. However, developing a strong mindset can significantly impact your well-being and resilience as a caregiver. In this post, we’ll explore two powerful mindset techniques—DSD (Do Something Different) and CCC (Catch, Cancel, Correct)—and how you can use them to find more joy, balance, and strength in your caregiving life.

Why Is Building Your Mindset Muscle Important as a Caregiver?

Caregiving requires not only physical endurance but mental strength. When your mindset is healthy, you’re better equipped to handle challenges with grace, bounce back from stressful situations, and maintain your own well-being while caring for others. Developing a strong mindset isn’t about ignoring difficulties or pretending that everything is okay—it’s about learning to navigate obstacles with...