Even as memory loss and confusion escalate throughout the progression of dementia, there is an interesting and pleasant reprieve that often occurs. Previously termed “terminal lucidity,” it’s more frequently known as “paradoxical lucidity.” It signifies an unexpected, temporary return of clarity to a nearly pre-dementia state of mind during the end stages of dementia. During […]

If there’s one particular positive after-effect regarding the pandemic, it’s the awareness generated for the plight of family caregivers. Finding a post-pandemic work-life balance will be without question an incredible challenge for people taking care of an older relative. As Lindsay Jurist-Rosner, CEO of Wellthy, explains, “Caregiving went from a silent struggle to being in […]

The cool dampness of rich soil. The heat of the sun. The happy trills of songbirds. Gardening has the ability to engage every one of our senses, and some studies have found a strong link between gardening and senior health. Regardless of ability level or any space restrictions, there’s always a way to help older […]

Finding fun and engaging activities for seniors with low vision can be a challenge. Add in Alzheimer’s, and it may seem overwhelming. Nevertheless, it’s important to make certain each day holds possibilities for purpose, joy, and meaning – decreasing the level of frustration, agitation, as well as other challenging behaviors and emotions in dementia. The […]

It’s been more than one year since the COVID-19 pandemic started; a year of fear, isolation, and loneliness for a great many older adults. Physical distancing has eliminated the ability to provide the warmth and comfort of a hug or even an in-person smile in many cases. Yet humans are social creatures, and this lack […]

With so much negative news in the forefront of 2020, it’s worth reflecting on some of the incredible achievements the year brought – such as the advancements in Alzheimer’s research milestones. Katie McDonough, director of programs and services at the Alzheimer’s Association, shares, “There are many things that we’re learning and it’s an exciting time […]

There are specific milestones we might encounter in our lives that, while not automatically negative, are known stressors. Losing a job. Starting a brand new job. Getting divorced. Getting married. And one that we in the home care industry are especially mindful of: the mental and physical effect on family members who are caring for […]

The isolation and fear due to COVID-19 has wreaked havoc on the wellbeing of older adults, with nearly half of seniors surveyed in a Kaiser Family Foundation poll stating that their degree of stress and worry was negatively impacting their own health. Even though it still may be unsafe to visit in person, when caring […]

It might have come altogether out of nowhere: an unanticipated fall that caused a fractured hip and the need for Mom to have assistance to stay at home. Or, it may have been building up over the years, such as through the incremental and slow progression of dementia. Regardless of the circumstances, you’ve now found […]

It’s easy to get swept up in the day-to-day tasks of caregiving for an older adult you love. There is so much to be done, and often it’s just much easier and a lot more efficient to do it all on your own, letting a senior loved one relax. After all, our elders have taken […]