Caring for Aging Parents: One Woman’s Path Through Dementia and Devotion

The Life Challenges Podcast

"He put me here to take care of them. This is what He wants me to do." These words capture the essence of Joann Gromowski's profound caregiving journey spanning nearly two decades as she cared for her father, aunt, and mother through various stages of illness and decline.
What does it truly mean to become a caregiver for aging parents? In this deeply moving conversation, Joann shares the raw realities of her experiences, from the practical challenges of managing dementia to the spiritual strength that sustained her through countless sleepless nights. Her story reveals how each caregiving situation demanded different approaches—her father with his heart condition, her aunt with multiple health issues including cancer and diabetes, and finally her mother with Alzheimer's.
The most illuminating insights come from Joann's hard-won wisdom about dementia care. Unlike children who build knowledge progressively, those with dementia lose capabilities in reverse. "You have to meet them where they're at and become part of their reality," she explains, rather than frustrating both yourself and your loved one by insisting on what used to be true. This profound shift in perspective transforms caregiving from a battle into an act of compassion.
Joann doesn't shy away from discussing the practical aspects either—the importance of having proper legal documents in place before they're needed, knowing where to find resources, and her number one regret: not asking for help sooner. For those currently navigating the caregiving journey or those who see it on their horizon, her advice serves as both comfort and practical guide.
Beyond the practical, this conversation explores how caregiving shapes us as people. Joann reflects on how God's purpose became clear through her service to family, even though she—a busy attorney with her own practice—was perhaps the least likely sibling to take on this role. The experience revealed strengths she didn't know she possessed and deepened her faith in profound ways.
What's your caregiving story? Whether you're currently supporting a loved one or preparing for that possibility, this episode offers both practical guidance and spiritual encouragement for one of life's most challenging yet meaningful journeys.

SHOW NOTES:

CLR’s website has a collection of articles on dementia and Alzheimer’s disease here: https://christianliferesources.com/medical-concerns/dementia-alzheimers-disease/

CLR also has a carefully curated Pro-Life 101 section on caregiving here: https://christianliferesources.com/caregiving/

Find strength and courage in your faith at this year’s FEARLESS FAITH Conference. Inspired by Joshua 1:9, “Be strong and courageous,” join us Saturday, September 13, at Kettle Moraine Lutheran High School in Jackson, Wisconsin, for presentations on navigating life’s storms, understanding God’s peace, and engaging in crucial conversations about euthanasia, anorexia, abortion, prenatal genetic testing, and more. Hear powerful journeys of faith through loss and hope. Don’t miss this empowering event! $50 in person or $40 virtual. Register now: https://christianliferesources.com/resources/events/2025-conference/

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Chapters

1. Caring for Aging Parents: One Woman’s Path Through Dementia and Devotion (00:00:00)

2. [Ad] Friar Time (00:16:47)

3. (Cont.) Untitled Episode (00:17:23)

4. (Cont.) Caring for Aging Parents: One Woman’s Path Through Dementia and Devotion (00:17:23)