- The Dementia Newsletter, by elumenEd
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- There are two ways to say "no": one kills and one heals
There are two ways to say "no": one kills and one heals
Also in this edition: find the perfect father's day gift for a loved one with dementia, and pick up your invitation to the "revolution"!
Ben Couch
June 07, 2025
In partnership with
In this edition: |
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• 🎥 The Two Ways to Say “No!” 🎞️ |
There are Two Ways to Say "NO": One Kills and One Heals
Which kind of "no" do you find yourself saying more often?Click your choice below. |
Putting out this newsletter a few times a week is an awesome feeling! It’s a joy every time I get to put it together.
That said, keeping this going does come with its own challenges — including financial ones. Your support is critical to keeping this resource going strong.
If this newsletter has helped you breathe a little easier, feel a little stronger, or simply reminded you that you're not alone in this journey — and you're in a position to do so — I’d be deeply grateful for a tip to help keep it going.
Caregiver’s Corner: Saying “No” with Purpose—Reclaiming Agency Through Radical Acceptance
As dementia caregivers, we often face moments when we must say “no”—to our loved ones, to professionals, or even to ourselves. But not all “no’s” are created equal. The intention behind the word can either close us off from growth or open the door to meaningful change.
When we say “no” as a rejection of reality—perhaps denying a loved one’s cognitive decline or resisting the limits of our time and energy—we may feel a fleeting sense of control. But in truth, this kind of “no” robs us of our agency. It keeps us stuck in frustration, unable to respond effectively to the challenges before us. Denial may feel protective, but it ultimately leaves us powerless.
In contrast, when we say “no” from a place of radical acceptance, we acknowledge what is—without judgment or resistance. We accept the reality of the disease, our own limitations, and the emotional toll of caregiving. From this grounded place, our “no” becomes a boundary, not a barrier. It affirms our values, protects our well-being, and clarifies what we can and cannot do.
Radical acceptance doesn’t mean giving up. It means choosing to face the truth with courage and compassion. And in doing so, we reclaim our ability to act with intention, to care with clarity, and to say “yes” to what truly matters.
Let your “no” be a tool of empowerment—not avoidance. In acceptance, there is strength.
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🔗 Father’s Day Is Almost Here! 🔗
This week, I’m focusing on getting you ready for Father’s Day with the only link you’ll need!
My colleague Adria Thompson of Be Light Care recently put out an Amazon list of gift ideas for dads with dementia: it completely blew me away! There are so many thoughtful and useful gifts in several price ranges.
If you’re struggling with finding the perfect gift, this might be the answer you’re looking for. Happy shopping!
Click here for Be Light Care’s curated list of Father’s Day gifts for your loved one.
💥 RSVP for the Revolution 💥
Real self-care is about more than taking a yoga class or having a night out with friends. Instead of adding another distracting event to your calendar in search of temporary relief, you have an opportunity to learn techniques that offer real and lasting peace. Embrace this rare opportunity for growth and self-discovery in this course, and find peace in the midst of the storm. |
SOME OF THE LINKS IN THIS NEWSLETTER ARE AFFILIATE LINKS, WHICH MEANS WE MAY EARN A COMMISSION IF YOU CLICK AND MAKE A PURCHASE, AT NO ADDITIONAL COST TO YOU. WE ONLY RECOMMEND PRODUCTS AND SERVICES WE TRUST.
At The Dementia Newsletter, we’re dementia professionals but we’re not medical doctors or lawyers. The information provided is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical or legal advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for medical diagnosis, treatment, or any health-related concerns and consult with a lawyer regarding any legal matters.
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