Did you know that June is National Safety Month? That’s right, each and every June the National Safety Council holds “an annual observance to educate and influence behaviors around leading causes of preventable injuries and deaths.” This year’s theme is Safety Starts with Me, an idea that Friends Place can certainly get behind. The NSC…
While it’s often been thought that familiar music can successfully engage those affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia, recent research has shown that books written for these individuals can have a similar effect. (New Old Age) “Researchers have found in a number of studies that reading can improve a patient’s quality of life. The meanings of…
Happiness is a warm puppy.” – Charles M. Schultz The famous cartoonist and creator of the beloved Snoopy was certainly onto something when he spoke those famous words. One has to wonder though if the Peanuts writer understood there were actually facts to support his theory – that while happiness may not be measurable, the…
Avoiding the Arguments: Tips for Getting Loved Ones with Dementia to Attend an Adult Day Center Have you ever walked into an adult day program, listened to the laughter, or watched center participants – “members” – having a really good time with peers? It is surprising for most to learn that many of these same…
One of the definitions of the word expectation is: a standard of conduct or performance expected by or of somebody. We all have expectations of other individuals based upon the demeanor and behavior that they have shown to us in the past. Yet, in day to day caregiving a person with Alzheimer’s or another dementia,…
You may have seen it coming – or you may be feeling a little stunned by a recent diagnosis of Alzheimer’s for you or a close loved one. Since symptoms usually develop slowly and then get worse over time, hearing the actual diagnosis may come as a shock. Don’t despair – you’ll find plenty of…
If you are the primary caregiver of a loved one with Alzheimer’s, dementia or other special care requirements, you understand the tremendous commitment and responsibility that goes along with caring for seniors. If you need assistance with care giving in order to stay in the workplace; or if you need some personal time to rest…