If you are caring for someone living with Alzheimer’s disease, the recommended social distancing and stay at home orders can result in further challenges and feelings of isolation. Engaging your loved one in a satisfying activity helps to reduce anxiety, agitation, depression and anger. It may also help to reduce challenging behaviors like sundowning. Each person is different, so it…
June is National Safety Month. There are so many things we can do to help keep the older adults in our lives safe from injury while they continue to live independently. These tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are a good place to start: We can all help keep the older adults in our lives safe from…
According to the Alzheimer's Association, alz.org, this is a question that continues to intrigue researchers and fuel new investigations. There are no clear-cut answers yet — partially due to the need for more large-scale studies in diverse populations — but promising research is under way. The Alzheimer's Association® is leading the worldwide effort to find a treatment for Alzheimer's, delay…
June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia and symptoms usually develop slowly and gradually worsen over time. This article from helpguide.org outlines the signs, symptoms and stages of the disease. What is Alzheimer’s disease? Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, a brain disorder that impacts daily living through…
The COVID-19 pandemic presents unique challenges for more than 5 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s, as well as their family caregivers. This article from the Alzheimer’s Association answers some common questions and outlines what your family needs to know during the pandemic. The article is a one-on-one Q&A interview with Beth Kallmyer, Vice President, Care and Support at the Alzheimer's…
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] During the COVID-19 pandemic, families need to protect their loved ones while also following stay-at-home and social distancing directives. However, for many, staying at home without care is anything but safe. With reports of COVID-19 spread in senior living facilities dominating the headlines, assisted living or nursing homes may no longer be a viable option. Larger facilities may not…
It can be difficult to accept that our parents are aging and may no longer be capable of caring for themselves without some help. After all, as we were growing up, they took care of us. As people age, though, there often comes a time when they are unable to adequately care for themselves and their homes, and living alone…
Currently, there are more than 50 million Americans aged 65 years and older. Physical distancing during this public health crisis is essential in preventing the spread of the virus, but it can come at a high cost to seniors' mental health and well-being, resulting in loneliness, anxiety, depression, and cognitive problems. There are now more than 40,000 cases of coronavirus…
Stroke recovery can be especially daunting for family caregivers and can cause high levels of emotional, mental, and physical stress for both the stroke survivor and their caregiver, says the National Stroke Association. To help a loved one get back on track quickly with less stress, you may want to look into temporary or longer-term assistance from a local licensed…
Regardless of whether you are a spouse, child, friend, or formal caregiver, taking care of a person with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is challenging on so many levels. However, with the right mindset, support from others, and proper assistive devices, caring for someone with ALS can be fulfilling. Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you navigate…
