There’s nothing better than a tall, cold drink on a hot summer day, but for a senior with dysphagia, this simple pleasure can be dangerous. Dysphagia – or trouble with swallowing – impacts millions of seniors, due to weakened mouth and/or throat muscles. Alzheimer’s, MS, cancer, and stroke are all root causes as well. We’ve […]
Among the first questions in most people’s minds when a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer's or another dementia is what can be expected in the time to come. We know that the hallmark of dementia is the progressive decline in cognitive abilities and also the skills needed to manage daily life. Yet, every person […]
We’ve known for a while that there are certain medications that enhance the danger of falls for seniors. Twenty years ago, slightly over 50% of elderly people were impacted by that risk; presently, that number has risen dramatically to a full 94% of seniors who are now vulnerable to falling as a result of medication […]
What are your first thoughts as soon as you wake up in the morning? Are you looking forward to what your day holds, or would you like to crawl back beneath the covers and remain there? If you’re feeling more caregiver dread than delight as you consider your responsibilities for the day, you are not […]
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 […]
