Ep 2 - From Plate to State: Mastering Diet for Mental Wellness in Caregiving

Welcome to today’s episode of Caregiver Secrets, where we share practical advice, research, emotional support, and resources for caregivers of loved-ones. Today we are continuing our new series called Fighting for Their Care: Advocating for Your Dementia Loved-One in the Hospital. This is the second installment of our series, and I believe it is more important than ever to advocate for our loved ones who are not able to adequately advocate for themselves.
Hi, my name is Reggie, and I am glad you are here today. I am a fellow caregiver. As I often say, I have been serving my mom for about 10 years after she was diagnosed with dementia. I am her sole caregiver and her only child. As usual, let me remind you that I say that to impress upon you that I personally understand the challenges of caregiving. But before we go any further, it is important to note that this is not medical, financial, or health advice. Please seek out a proper professional for any matter you are dealing with. My goal is to inform you as best I can, but you and you alone are totally responsible for doing your own research and taking the appropriate action.
Today’s episode is all about preparing for a hospital visit. As caregivers, preparation can be the difference between feeling powerless and feeling in control. It’s not about eliminating all the challenges—because let’s face it, hospital visits are inherently stressful—but about equipping yourself with the tools to navigate them with more confidence and calm.
Let me be honest with you: I’m still a work in progress when it comes to preparation. I really dislike going to the hospital. It’s draining and often chaotic, and I don’t always prepare the way I’m suggesting here. But I’ve learned that you don’t have to be perfect to make things easier on yourself and your loved one. These steps might take a little effort, but they can save you so much stress in the long run.
One of the most important things you can do is have a go-bag ready at all times. Think of it like a diaper bag for caregivers. You never know when an unexpected trip to the hospital will come up, so being prepared can make a world of difference. In your go-bag, make sure to include essentials like a list of medications, a copy of your loved one’s medical history, their identification, insurance card, and any legal documents such as a power of attorney or advanced directives. These are non-negotiables. I can’t tell you how many times having these documents ready has saved me when a nurse or doctor needed quick answers. Instead of scrambling or panicking, I could calmly pull out what they needed.
Another thing to include in the go-bag is comfort items for your loved one. A familiar blanket, a soft pillow, or even a favorite sweater can provide a sense of security in an unfamiliar environment. I also pack snacks and water—not just for my mom, but for myself too. Hospital visits can mean long waits, and hunger doesn’t help anyone’s stress levels. I’ve learned that even something as small as a bag of crackers or a piece of candy can make a huge difference in helping my mom feel more grounded when everything else feels foreign and overwhelming.
Speaking of being prepared, I want to talk about creating a medical binder for your loved one. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy—a simple three-ring binder will do. In it, you can organize sections for current medications, allergies, a history of past procedures or surgeries, and emergency contacts. I even include notes about my mom’s daily routines and typical behaviors. Hospitals are busy places with rotating staff, and care often gets handed off from one person to another. Having everything written down in one place ensures that nothing gets lost in translation. It also shows the medical staff that you’re involved and on top of things, which can make a big difference in how they approach your loved one’s care.
Now, let’s talk about preparing emotionally. Hospital visits can be taxing, not just for your loved one but for you as well. The role of caregiver doesn’t stop just because you’ve walked into the hospital. In fact, it often intensifies. You’re not only their advocate and voice but also their source of comfort and stability. Before I step into a hospital, I take a moment to center myself. I remind myself that I’m here for a reason and that I have the strength to handle whatever comes my way. I also make it a point to reach out to friends to vent or get advice. Talking to someone I trust gives me perspective and helps me release some of the tension I’m carrying. It’s been incredibly helpful for me, and I highly recommend it.
Another tip is to practice explaining your loved one’s condition in clear, simple terms. Doctors and nurses have limited time, and the more concise you can be about your loved one’s needs, the better. For example, I usually start with, “My mom has dementia, and here’s what you need to know about her.” Then I outline her baseline behavior, any current symptoms, and any changes I’ve noticed recently. This gives the medical staff a clear picture of what’s going on and helps them focus on what’s most important.
I also want to emphasize how important it is to know your rights as a caregiver. You have the right to ask questions, request second opinions, and advocate for the best possible care for your loved one. Being prepared means knowing these rights and being ready to stand firm if necessary. Don’t be afraid to speak up if something doesn’t feel right. Trust your instincts—they are often your best guide.
Finally, let’s talk about mindset. Hospital visits can feel like stepping into the unknown, and that can be intimidating. But I want you to remember this: you are your loved one’s biggest ally. You know them better than anyone else. You know their quirks, their habits, their strengths, and their weaknesses. That knowledge is your greatest asset. When you walk into a hospital with the mindset that you are part of the care team, it changes everything. You’re not just a visitor—you’re an integral part of their care. Your presence matters, and your advocacy makes a difference.
Thank you for listening to today’s episode of Caregiver Secrets. I hope you found it helpful and empowering. Please continue to support this podcast by listening, sharing it with others, and letting me know your thoughts in the comments. I truly want to hear from you. Remember, together, we can make a difference. See you next time!