Introduction to Dementia When we hear the term “dementia,” Alzheimer’s disease often comes to mind first. However, it’s important to clarify that dementia and Alzheimer’s are not synonymous. Dementia is not a specific disease but rather a general classification used to categorize symptoms associated with cognitive decline.1 Often referred to as an “umbrella term,” dementia includes over 100 different conditions, …
Impacts of COVID Social Isolation on People Living with Dementia and their Care Partners
By Joan Asseff, LCSW-S Definitions and Broader Impact on Older Adults Profound adverse health and mental health challenges stemming from the COVID19 pandemic are still a daily reality for many people living in the U.S. and globally. Large studies of the general population during the pandemic showed that many people experienced uncontrolled fears related to infection, pervasive anxiety, frustration, boredom, …
Don’t Take It So Hard, For Your Brain’s Sake
Taken From: http://www.alzheimersweekly.com/2013/10/dont-take-it-so-hard-for-your-brains.html The Study Women who suffer from a lot of stress in middle age may increase their risk of developing dementia. This is according to research published in the online journal BMJ Open. The researchers say that the response to common life events – such as divorce or serious illness or death of a close family member – …
Providing First Aid to a Person with Alzheimer’s
Taken From: a Pacific Medical Training article written by Sarah Gehrke, MSN, RN Recognize Alzheimer’s Disease Providing first aid for people with Alzheimer’s can be a challenge, and it’s crucial to remember that no two people are the same. The following tips will help you identify someone with dementia. The person may: Appear disoriented and confused. Appear fearful, agitated, frustrated, …
Holiday Caregiving Issues
The holidays can be a stressful time for us all, but those caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s face an added set of challenges, both practical and emotional. Dealing with grief during this cheery season, whether you’re grieving a deceased loved one or grieving the many daily losses of dementia, is very difficult. Furthermore, attending to holiday shopping, hosting …
4 Meaningful Thanksgiving Tips
Thanksgiving Day is a time of togetherness, celebrated with relatives and friends. People with a dementia such as Alzheimer’s need a special touch. Here are four insights holiday tips.
Dementia-Safe Bedrooms
Home Design: Use this safety Checklist for living at home with dementia. It can alert you to potential hazards. Your home is a personal and precious environment. As you go through this checklist, make adaptations that modify and simplify without severely disrupting the home. You may want to consider setting aside a special area for yourself, a space off-limits to …
10 Ways to Use the Power of Photos for Dementia Care
Reminiscence is a way of reviewing past events that is usually a very positive and rewarding activity. Even if the person with dementia cannot participate verbally it can still give them pleasure to be involved in reflections on their past. It can also be a means of distraction if the person becomes upset. While reviewing past events can provide a …
Emergency Rooms and Alzheimer’s Patients
EMERGENCY BAG CHECKLIST: People with Alzheimer’s need to be prepared for an emergency. Simple planning now will make future hospital trips a lot less stressful. Ease visits by preparing today for emergencies, as well as routine stays. Check out these tips.
Going Out With Alzheimer’s Disease
Plan Ahead with these tips to make outings fun People with mild Alzheimer’s often enjoy places they enjoyed in the past – a favorite restaurant, parade, park, shopping mall, swimming pool, museum, or theater. Plan outings for the time of day when the person with Alzheimer’s is at his or her best. Keep outings from becoming too long. Take note …