The cold weather brings snow and ice, which can lead to falls, which in turn can bring a trip to the emergency room. The flu season is upon us. And wintertime dehydration is one of the leading causes of hospitalizations in persons over 65 years of age. Good preplanning for emergencies makes an unexpected hospitalization…
Details“Go Ahead, Make My Day” is a famous quote by Clint Eastwood. Clearly, what “makes” Clint’s day is going to be quite different than what might make my day. Or your day. Or the day of a person living with dementia. But, the point is that it’s usually going to be up to someone else…
DetailsMost of us would agree that the best gifts are the ones we give as a caring expression of our love or concern for another. Throughout the year, Alzheimer’s caregivers give many “gifts” to those they love on a daily basis. But, caregivers are often much better at giving than receiving. As a caregiver of…
DetailsFeelings of guilt typically occur when a person believes that they have done something wrong or have violated a certain personal code of conduct. For a multitude of reasons, it is rare to find a family caregiver that is not consumed with guilt about something. Some guilty feelings can be avoided by accepting some basic…
DetailsCelebrate National Adult Day Services Week, September 13th – 19th, 2015 “Adult Day Services: Living Well Into the Future” What a great theme to highlight the importance of wellness – both as a goal of care as well as a benefit for programs offered by adult day centers across the county. In 1983, former President…
DetailsThe type of hoarding associated with dementia is quite different from what is depicted on television as a result of a serious mental health disorder. Hoarding as a disease related behavior of dementia tends to more of a collecting and/or gathering activity. And, there is a tendency to not only “pack-rat” the items but also…
DetailsAccording to the Alzheimer’s Association website, “A person with Alzheimer’s or other dementia may be prescribed multiple medications, and may take medications for other conditions as well. Medications are powerful. Care needs to be taken, especially when more than one medication is being used.” Use these safety tips to help avoid medication-related problems. Use a…
DetailsOur goal as caregivers is to create and maintain a safe and secure environment. In order to keep a loved-one with dementia safe requires us to have an awareness of potential dangers or risks – that they are often unable to recognize- and to protect them being hurt or lost. For their overall well-being, we…
DetailsIt’s a brand new year! For 2015, please consider making even just one of the following resolutions. It is imperative that you take the necessary steps to care for yourself, so you are able to successfully care for your loved one. #1. Set aside at least 15 minutes (or longer) each day to do something…
DetailsThis year, give yourself the gift of a week filled with fun and relaxation by taking a Christmas Staycation. It’s the perfect way for you and your loved one to truly enjoy all the holiday season has to offer. Keep in mind this will require some pre-planning and a commitment on your part to…
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