Caring for someone with dementia is certainly not something to laugh about. Nonetheless, research is increasingly pointing towards the benefits associated with humor, and adding it into dementia care may be just what the doctor ordered to enhance quality of life for a senior loved one. For instance, an Australian study recently announced that humor therapy works to reduce agitation in […]
Of all of the many responsibilities a family caregiver encounters, potentially one of the most overwhelming is managing elderly health issues. The National Council on Aging reports that about three-quarters of all seniors are identified as having at least two chronic conditions, and are seeing on average four healthcare specialists. As your senior parent’s advocate, it is essential […]
After 16 very long years without any truly viable Alzheimer’s treatment options, there's some optimism on the horizon, in a stunning reversal on the previously-rejected antibody therapy, aducanumab Alzheimer drug. The most recent research uncovers that high doses of the medication do, in fact, lessen cognitive decline in the early stages of Alzheimer’s. According to Rebecca Edelmayer, director of […]
If you are one of the 8% of Americans who actually stick with their New Year’s resolution goals, congratulations! However, if you’re like most of us, you quit well before even turning the calendar page to February. Although it is commendable to make an effort to better ourselves by resolving to lose 10 pounds or eat healthier, […]
One of the most delicate issues to navigate in senior care is taking over elderly parent’s finances. Personal finances are both exceedingly personal and a representation of our self-sufficiency, and adult children specifically may be met with resistance when stepping into the financial arena with their senior parents. Yet for many reasons, like the mounting incidence of senior scams and […]
Family care providers recognize that navigating the process of locating appropriate care resources for a senior can feel like trying to cross the ocean in a rowboat – blindfolded, and blindsided by the buffeting waves and winds. The chances of arriving safely to your destination are fairly slim without having the necessary tools, and an […]
Talking with a senior trying to cope with all the struggles of Alzheimer’s, especially in the middle and later stages, could very well be discouraging – both for you and for the senior loved one. Brain changes impede the ability to listen, process, and respond effectively to conversations, and it is up to us to […]
Have you ever caught yourself preparing to bubble over with uncontrollable laughter at the most inopportune moment – in a packed elevator, a hushed waiting room, or a religious service? While there are, of course, times when we need to control the silliness, author Jane Heller says that, “Humor can keep us balanced, even in […]
There is no question that it’s a wonderful honor to care for people we love. Family caregivers encounter a closeness and bond with those in their care that very often far outweighs the downsides. However, there are difficulties. A perpetual to-do list to ensure the person you're providing care for is as healthy and happy […]
While there are particular commonalities, Alzheimer’s disease affects every individual differently. Our specially trained dementia caregivers know, for example, that even though one individual may appreciate being outdoors, another person could be overwhelmed by so much sensory input and favor a tranquil indoor environment. One may love a morning bath routine, while a bit of […]
