Showing posts with label Alzheimer's and Dementia. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Alzheimer's and Dementia. Show all posts
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Health Insurance and Medical Insurance News Feeds Added to the Caregiver's Beacon
A live news feed from the website Medical News Today for Health Insurance and Medical Insurance has been added to the Caregiver's Beacon. Other live news feeds currently include Alzheimers and Dementia, Caregivers and Home Care, Stroke and Hypertension, and Arthritis. There are also live video feeds for Alzheimer's Caregivers and for Stroke. A live newsreel also covers eldercare, nursing homes, home care and caregivers.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
AlzheimersWeekly.com Caregiver Boards - "How to Dance in the Rain"
At AlzheimersWeekly.com forum moderator Ann writes on 12-23-07, "Life isn't about how to survive the storm, but how to dance in the rain." She relates a forwarded story about a man who kept going to the nursing home every morning to visit his wife, even though she didn't know who he was anymore. The point was that HE knew who SHE was, and true love never dies.
No longer do Alzheimers caregivers need to try to cope alone, now that they can connect online with others in the same situation. Recently a forum member at AlzheimersWeekly.com discussed coping with an alzheimers sufferer who keeps asking the same questions, saying "I am always calm and gently answer but my insides are churning and I wonder how many days, weeks, months , years I can continue this." The forum members offered their suggestions and plenty of good ideas.
AlzheimersWeekly.com offers "support and insight for the Autumn of life" and includes news articles, groups, forums, and a wealth of resources. The caregiver boards even offer a section for "Poems and Musings."
No longer do Alzheimers caregivers need to try to cope alone, now that they can connect online with others in the same situation. Recently a forum member at AlzheimersWeekly.com discussed coping with an alzheimers sufferer who keeps asking the same questions, saying "I am always calm and gently answer but my insides are churning and I wonder how many days, weeks, months , years I can continue this." The forum members offered their suggestions and plenty of good ideas.
AlzheimersWeekly.com offers "support and insight for the Autumn of life" and includes news articles, groups, forums, and a wealth of resources. The caregiver boards even offer a section for "Poems and Musings."
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Dementia - Early Warning Signs - Forgetfulness, Confusion, Agitation, Inability to Organize
The video below titled "The Importance of Early Diagnosis" features an accountant who began having signs of dementia before the age of 50 and was diagnosed with it six years later. He and his wife describe in their own words the warning signs of dementia that he experienced, including losing things, inability to organize, upset, forgetfulness, and short term memory loss. The video emphasizes the importance of early detection.
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Study Shows Therapy Pets Sooth Alzheimer's Agitation
An article at the Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Research Foundation titled "Therapy Pets Prove Soothing to People with Alzheimer's" says "Studies at the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Nursing show that even a short-term visit by a therapy dog to a nursing home can ease agitation in people with Alzheimer's." The article said that during the sundowner time of day, early evening, the effects of pet therapy seem to be most obvious.
Additionally, a study of Alzheimer's patients living in a Special Care Unit in a midwest Veterans Home showed that a visit from a therapy pet improved social behaviors, including "smiles, laughs, looks, leans, touches, and verbalizations."
Studies have also proved that "petting or stroking a pet can be very relaxing, slowing heart rates and lowering blood pressure."
As one might expect, dogs were especially useful for getting people to move away from the couch and television and get some exercise walking.
Seniors with dogs, according to the article, were more able to perform the activities of daily living.
Additionally, a study of Alzheimer's patients living in a Special Care Unit in a midwest Veterans Home showed that a visit from a therapy pet improved social behaviors, including "smiles, laughs, looks, leans, touches, and verbalizations."
Studies have also proved that "petting or stroking a pet can be very relaxing, slowing heart rates and lowering blood pressure."
As one might expect, dogs were especially useful for getting people to move away from the couch and television and get some exercise walking.
Seniors with dogs, according to the article, were more able to perform the activities of daily living.
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Research - Says "Interact With The Afflicted Person Within His or Her Own Frame of Reference"
The Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Research Foundation, directed by Nobel Laureate Dr. Paul Greengard at The Rockefeller University, says "interact with the afflicted person within his or her own frame of reference for the world, even if it has little to do with reality." Different stages of Alzheimer's or Dementia require different approaches to interaction and communication.
When I was working at a skilled nursing facility that specialized in Alzheimers and Dementia there were three main sections in the building for the residents. Each wing was for residents at a different stage. The style of communicating was according to the stage of their illness.
(1) Early Stage. One wing had residents in the early stages of Alzheimer's or Dementia, who might be forgetful or confused sometimes, but still recognized people and places much of the time. Part of the time they might seem as if there was nothing wrong with the way the brain was functioning, and then part of the time some confusion or forgetfulness would occur.
People in the earliest stages might still be gently cued or prompted to bring them back to our usual reality when they became confused. If this did not seem to work, or it caused agitation, then we would just go with their reality.
(2) Mid-Stage. A second wing had people in the mid-stage of Alzheimer's or Dementia. In a way, this was the most challenging wing for the staff. One moment someone might be completely lucid, and perhaps later in the day, when fatigue or sundowners began, the person might be in another world.
For example, there was one resident who would be fine in the morning, but in the late afternoon she would ask for some dressy clothing, her fancy hat and a dress purse. She would want to get ready to put on her fanciest outfit to get on a plane later for "the trip."
We might say something like "OK, but let's just eat dinner first, before you go, then we'll get ready." Moment by moment the reality changes and after dinner everything would be different again.
The residents in the mid-stage wing were sometimes agitated or combative, and we learned to relate to them in their own reality, not to argue or contradict.
(3) Advanced Stage. The third wing had residents who were in advanced Alzheimer's or Dementia. They usually had severe difficulty with the ability to speak, to perform simple tasks of the activities of daily living, and to walk.
However, some could walk very well, but had severe sundowners and agitation. When they were in a sundowners episode they might walk and walk. Up and down, and all around the halls of the facility they would go, which was locked to protect them from wandering outside and getting lost.
We learned to determine what the person's reality was, and to speak and interact with each unique person by referring to his or her reality.
When I was working at a skilled nursing facility that specialized in Alzheimers and Dementia there were three main sections in the building for the residents. Each wing was for residents at a different stage. The style of communicating was according to the stage of their illness.
(1) Early Stage. One wing had residents in the early stages of Alzheimer's or Dementia, who might be forgetful or confused sometimes, but still recognized people and places much of the time. Part of the time they might seem as if there was nothing wrong with the way the brain was functioning, and then part of the time some confusion or forgetfulness would occur.
People in the earliest stages might still be gently cued or prompted to bring them back to our usual reality when they became confused. If this did not seem to work, or it caused agitation, then we would just go with their reality.
(2) Mid-Stage. A second wing had people in the mid-stage of Alzheimer's or Dementia. In a way, this was the most challenging wing for the staff. One moment someone might be completely lucid, and perhaps later in the day, when fatigue or sundowners began, the person might be in another world.
For example, there was one resident who would be fine in the morning, but in the late afternoon she would ask for some dressy clothing, her fancy hat and a dress purse. She would want to get ready to put on her fanciest outfit to get on a plane later for "the trip."
We might say something like "OK, but let's just eat dinner first, before you go, then we'll get ready." Moment by moment the reality changes and after dinner everything would be different again.
The residents in the mid-stage wing were sometimes agitated or combative, and we learned to relate to them in their own reality, not to argue or contradict.
(3) Advanced Stage. The third wing had residents who were in advanced Alzheimer's or Dementia. They usually had severe difficulty with the ability to speak, to perform simple tasks of the activities of daily living, and to walk.
However, some could walk very well, but had severe sundowners and agitation. When they were in a sundowners episode they might walk and walk. Up and down, and all around the halls of the facility they would go, which was locked to protect them from wandering outside and getting lost.
We learned to determine what the person's reality was, and to speak and interact with each unique person by referring to his or her reality.
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Jacqueline Marcell's Book "Elder Rage, or Take My Father Please" Has Advice and Humor Too
At the website for "ElderRage - Or, Take My Father Please!" eldercare expert Jacqueline Marcell tells about the times she had to intervene when her father, who was mostly blind, and had bad hearing and memory loss, hid the car keys so he could take the car out later. He insisted he did not know where the keys were. After Jacqueline heard a clanking when he walked she found the car keys masking-taped to his leg.
Another story titled, "Midsummer's Nightmare at the Alamo" tells of the time her father came in to wake her and tell her there were two guys in the house, one wearing a coon-skin cap like Davy Crockett, and another who looked like someone from the FBI. He pointed at Jacqueline's mom and said, "There's one of them now." But when they got closer to get a better look he said, "Oh, that's no guy, that's my wife."
By the end of the story Jacqueline's Dad is back in bed. Jacqueline relates, "I went back to my bed and intensely studied the texture of the ceiling as tears streamed down the sides of my face and clogged my ears. I'd have never guessed that I'd have to be my parent's parent..."
Jacqueline has been featured on television shows such as Regis Philbin's show, and on CNN. On the website you'll see over 50 endorsements for Jacqueline and her book, as well as information about her weekly radio show and schedule of speaking engagements.
Jacqueline's site has a wealth of Alzheimer's and eldercare information. She is a caregiver advocate who understands well the situations Alzheimer's caregivers encounter, from having experienced them herself.
Another story titled, "Midsummer's Nightmare at the Alamo" tells of the time her father came in to wake her and tell her there were two guys in the house, one wearing a coon-skin cap like Davy Crockett, and another who looked like someone from the FBI. He pointed at Jacqueline's mom and said, "There's one of them now." But when they got closer to get a better look he said, "Oh, that's no guy, that's my wife."
By the end of the story Jacqueline's Dad is back in bed. Jacqueline relates, "I went back to my bed and intensely studied the texture of the ceiling as tears streamed down the sides of my face and clogged my ears. I'd have never guessed that I'd have to be my parent's parent..."
Jacqueline has been featured on television shows such as Regis Philbin's show, and on CNN. On the website you'll see over 50 endorsements for Jacqueline and her book, as well as information about her weekly radio show and schedule of speaking engagements.
Jacqueline's site has a wealth of Alzheimer's and eldercare information. She is a caregiver advocate who understands well the situations Alzheimer's caregivers encounter, from having experienced them herself.
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Alzheimer's Sundowning - Things That Can Help
For many years I worked with caregiver agencies, and many of the clients had Alzheimer's Sundowning. I found that the things that helped were unique in each person's case. Below are descriptions of some typical situations and what worked to make things better.
One lady who had sundowning had previously wandered outside, while her husband was napping in the late afternoon. She walked downtown in a tourist area. Passing travelers saw she looked like she needed help and picked her up in their car.
She couldn't remember her name or where she lived, and they drove around for hours trying to see if anything looked familiar to her. Although she had lived in the town for decades, she did not recognize anything. Eventually someone recognized her and was able to guide them to her home.
When her husband became ill and was hospitalized, I arrived as a 24 hour stand-by-assist caregiver for a long row of days. The first afternoon I was there she became more and more agitated. Suddenly she went out the door and walked rapidly toward town, saying she had to catch a train to go home.
I caught up with her and used my cell phone to call someone with a car to come and pick us up. She accepted that I was a friend. She believed she was staying with me for awhile for company. She didn't recognize her own home.
During the next days I got a system going. We spent afternoons playing dominoes, coloring pictures, eating healthy snacks, looking at magazine pictures, doing easy jigsaw puzzles, playing easy card games, doing crossword puzzles and looking at photo albums. I might be doing most of the picture coloring but she picked out the colors. Visual activities worked well, but conversation was difficult because she could not follow it.
For the crosswords I would read the question and we'd make guesses together on the answers. For cards I would lay them out and play both sides but she watched while I explained it. Even if I was doing most of the activity she was still enjoying participating by watching.
When she lost interest I switched to another activity and so on. We put the pictures we colored up with tape. She enjoyed making more pictures with me each day.
If she was participating in an activity it kept her attention busy, so she didn't hop up and start out the door to go wandering when sundowners started in the late afternoon. Watching TV didn't work well because she didn't get involved enough with it.
I also found that having lots of lights on helped. I'm not sure if it made her feel it was earlier in the day, or if she could see better, or if it helped avoid shadows and hallucinations. But, having the house well lit helped.
Being active during the day helped her sleep better at night. We tried going out in the car for scenic drives, going for walks, and going downtown to sit and watch people and activities.
All these things helped pass the time, keep her attention, and provide enough activity, without overdoing it. By night time she was ready to rest.
Too much activity though and exhaustion or stress could make sundowners worse. It had to be a balance that was just right, but since each day is different all I could do was try my best.
Soothing music also helped. Some people liked to listen to soft spiritual music and old favorite hymns, such as "Shall We Gather At the River." Others just seemed more content and calm with any smooth, easy going music that was popular with their age group.
I would try to keep my voice and actions calm and quiet, and just go with the flow. One lady with Alzheimer's Sundowners frequently thought we were in an airport. When I was assisting her as she used her walker to head for the bathroom she would say she hoped we didn't lose her husband in the airport.
She had me tear up pieces of paper and drop them on the floor, so that her husband could follow them to find her. She was so afraid of losing him in the airport. In the morning she knew she was in her own home and recognized us. But by late afternoon Sundowners time she thought she was in an airport.
The people with Alzheimer's Sundowners will not believe you if they don't recognize their own home, but you insist that they are indeed in their home. Just going with the reality they are experiencing instead of arguing is important. Wherever they say they believe they are, that is the location and reality you go along with.
If they don't recognize their home, I've asked them to stay in the house for the night, before returning to their own home tomorrow. Usually in the morning they recognize it as their own, but when late afternoon Sundowners starts then once again they may want "to go home."
At any moment people with Alzheimer's may be completely cognizant. But you cannot make assumptions, because in the next moment that can change. Clear thinking one minute, with good memory recall, can switch to confusion with lack of memory the next minute.
One lady who had sundowning had previously wandered outside, while her husband was napping in the late afternoon. She walked downtown in a tourist area. Passing travelers saw she looked like she needed help and picked her up in their car.
She couldn't remember her name or where she lived, and they drove around for hours trying to see if anything looked familiar to her. Although she had lived in the town for decades, she did not recognize anything. Eventually someone recognized her and was able to guide them to her home.
When her husband became ill and was hospitalized, I arrived as a 24 hour stand-by-assist caregiver for a long row of days. The first afternoon I was there she became more and more agitated. Suddenly she went out the door and walked rapidly toward town, saying she had to catch a train to go home.
I caught up with her and used my cell phone to call someone with a car to come and pick us up. She accepted that I was a friend. She believed she was staying with me for awhile for company. She didn't recognize her own home.
During the next days I got a system going. We spent afternoons playing dominoes, coloring pictures, eating healthy snacks, looking at magazine pictures, doing easy jigsaw puzzles, playing easy card games, doing crossword puzzles and looking at photo albums. I might be doing most of the picture coloring but she picked out the colors. Visual activities worked well, but conversation was difficult because she could not follow it.
For the crosswords I would read the question and we'd make guesses together on the answers. For cards I would lay them out and play both sides but she watched while I explained it. Even if I was doing most of the activity she was still enjoying participating by watching.
When she lost interest I switched to another activity and so on. We put the pictures we colored up with tape. She enjoyed making more pictures with me each day.
If she was participating in an activity it kept her attention busy, so she didn't hop up and start out the door to go wandering when sundowners started in the late afternoon. Watching TV didn't work well because she didn't get involved enough with it.
I also found that having lots of lights on helped. I'm not sure if it made her feel it was earlier in the day, or if she could see better, or if it helped avoid shadows and hallucinations. But, having the house well lit helped.
Being active during the day helped her sleep better at night. We tried going out in the car for scenic drives, going for walks, and going downtown to sit and watch people and activities.
All these things helped pass the time, keep her attention, and provide enough activity, without overdoing it. By night time she was ready to rest.
Too much activity though and exhaustion or stress could make sundowners worse. It had to be a balance that was just right, but since each day is different all I could do was try my best.
Soothing music also helped. Some people liked to listen to soft spiritual music and old favorite hymns, such as "Shall We Gather At the River." Others just seemed more content and calm with any smooth, easy going music that was popular with their age group.
I would try to keep my voice and actions calm and quiet, and just go with the flow. One lady with Alzheimer's Sundowners frequently thought we were in an airport. When I was assisting her as she used her walker to head for the bathroom she would say she hoped we didn't lose her husband in the airport.
She had me tear up pieces of paper and drop them on the floor, so that her husband could follow them to find her. She was so afraid of losing him in the airport. In the morning she knew she was in her own home and recognized us. But by late afternoon Sundowners time she thought she was in an airport.
The people with Alzheimer's Sundowners will not believe you if they don't recognize their own home, but you insist that they are indeed in their home. Just going with the reality they are experiencing instead of arguing is important. Wherever they say they believe they are, that is the location and reality you go along with.
If they don't recognize their home, I've asked them to stay in the house for the night, before returning to their own home tomorrow. Usually in the morning they recognize it as their own, but when late afternoon Sundowners starts then once again they may want "to go home."
At any moment people with Alzheimer's may be completely cognizant. But you cannot make assumptions, because in the next moment that can change. Clear thinking one minute, with good memory recall, can switch to confusion with lack of memory the next minute.
Monday, November 12, 2007
National Memory Screening Day Is November 13, 2007 - The First Step Towards Getting Help
National Memory Screening Day is tomorrow, November 13, 2007. Spearheaded by the Alzheimer's Foundation of America, and it is now presented as a shared effort by a group of organizations. If someone you know has any of the warning signs of memory issues this is the chance to get more information. Below are some of the signs listed at the Alzheimer's Foundation of America that it is time for a memory screening.
- Forgetfulness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Difficulty performing tasks
- Difficulty remembering words or names
- Forgetting where you are
- Misplacing things
- Getting lost in a familiar place
- Mood or personality changes
If someone you know has been avoiding getting a memory screening then Nov. 13 provides a good opportunity to get one without actually having to go to the doctor's office. Screenings are held in a variety of locations and health professionals from a number of related careers provide the memory screening.
You can go to the alzfdn.org to look for the locations of memory screening sites. You can also call your local Seniors' Center as they often have this type of information and may well be participating in the screening.
The screening is held in a private setting. Questions or tasks test memory, language, thinking, and other mental skills. The results are confidential.
According to the Alzheimer's Foundation other warning signs of dementia can include the following.
Relying on memory helpers
Depression or irritability
Seeing or hearing things
The site explains that depression, vitamin deficiencies or thyroid problems can also cause memory issues and that after a screening the next step is to see a doctor for further tests.
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Alzheimer's Association "Redefining the Quality of Life"
"Alzheimer's Awareness - Redefining the Quality of Life," November 2007, has a series of articles including "Chemistry in Our Daily Life," "Life Enrichment," "Music Therapy," "Early Stage Support Groups," "Would Care Management Help?," and "Getting What You Need."
Sara Bartlett, Caregiver Consultant, Alzheimer's Association, San Luis Obispo Office, writes "There is hope on the horizon, with nine drugs for Alzheimer's currently in clinical trials and advances in diagnostic tools." Her article, "Who We Are, What We Do," provides an overview of the Alzheimer's Association.
Below is a list of services available through the Association.
(1) Client and Family consultations in the office or home
(2) Assessment to ascertain the needs of family
(3) Long term care planning
(4) Information and referral to resources in the community
(5) Education and training tailored to the family's individual needs
(6) Practical tools for care-giving
(7) Current information on the disease
(8) Suggestions for caregiver's self-care
(9) Outreach to the community
(10)Support groups for family members, caregivers, and those with Alzheimer's
(11) Safe Return Program for identifying those with dementias that become lost
(12) Respite care Funds to help caregivers take care of themselves
(13) Services available in Spanish or English
(14) Resource library of books, videos and journals
The supplement "Alzheimer's Awareness - Redefining the Quality of Life," appeared as a supplement in "The Tribune" of San Luis Obispo County, California.
For more information you can locate your nearest Alzheimer's Association office by going to the website at alz.org.
Sara Bartlett, Caregiver Consultant, Alzheimer's Association, San Luis Obispo Office, writes "There is hope on the horizon, with nine drugs for Alzheimer's currently in clinical trials and advances in diagnostic tools." Her article, "Who We Are, What We Do," provides an overview of the Alzheimer's Association.
Below is a list of services available through the Association.
(1) Client and Family consultations in the office or home
(2) Assessment to ascertain the needs of family
(3) Long term care planning
(4) Information and referral to resources in the community
(5) Education and training tailored to the family's individual needs
(6) Practical tools for care-giving
(7) Current information on the disease
(8) Suggestions for caregiver's self-care
(9) Outreach to the community
(10)Support groups for family members, caregivers, and those with Alzheimer's
(11) Safe Return Program for identifying those with dementias that become lost
(12) Respite care Funds to help caregivers take care of themselves
(13) Services available in Spanish or English
(14) Resource library of books, videos and journals
The supplement "Alzheimer's Awareness - Redefining the Quality of Life," appeared as a supplement in "The Tribune" of San Luis Obispo County, California.
For more information you can locate your nearest Alzheimer's Association office by going to the website at alz.org.
Thursday, November 8, 2007
Candles of Care for Alzheimer's - Photos, A Day of Caring
The National Commemorative Candle of Care Lighting Ceremony for Alzheimer's, sponsored by the Alzheimer's Foundation of America was celebrated today. Shining a light on Alzheimer's, and related illnesses, from coast to coast, people everywhere shared a day of caring.
At the local Central Coast Senior's Center, San Luis Obispo, California, there were 27 candles lit, people gathered in a circle, shared prayers and memories, and Kristi Gott provided a speech with information about Alzheimer's and research. For the speech Kristi used quotations for emphasis from Eric Hall, CEO and founder of the Alzheimer's Foundation of America, and from Carol Bradley Bursack, author of Minding Our Elders, both of whom write blogs at OurAlzheimers.com.
After Kristi's prayer of thanks and hope for a cure, many people offered their prayers and memories also.
Nearby, a local seniors' "Expo 55" was held, sponsored by the Arroyo Grande Community Hospital, Arroyo Grande Chamber of Commerce, and Community Health Centers. The Central Coast Seniors had a Candle Lighting Ceremony at the beginning of the day at their exhibit and kept a Candle of Care lit all day.
At both ceremonies resources were provided where people can get information about Alzheimer's, dementia, and related diseases.
Pictured on the left is Central Coast Seniors Center manager Betty Milne at the "Expo 55+", with brochures about Alzheimer's and a Candle of Care burning brightly.
At the local Central Coast Senior's Center, San Luis Obispo, California, there were 27 candles lit, people gathered in a circle, shared prayers and memories, and Kristi Gott provided a speech with information about Alzheimer's and research. For the speech Kristi used quotations for emphasis from Eric Hall, CEO and founder of the Alzheimer's Foundation of America, and from Carol Bradley Bursack, author of Minding Our Elders, both of whom write blogs at OurAlzheimers.com.
After Kristi's prayer of thanks and hope for a cure, many people offered their prayers and memories also.
Nearby, a local seniors' "Expo 55" was held, sponsored by the Arroyo Grande Community Hospital, Arroyo Grande Chamber of Commerce, and Community Health Centers. The Central Coast Seniors had a Candle Lighting Ceremony at the beginning of the day at their exhibit and kept a Candle of Care lit all day.
At both ceremonies resources were provided where people can get information about Alzheimer's, dementia, and related diseases.
Pictured on the left is Central Coast Seniors Center manager Betty Milne at the "Expo 55+", with brochures about Alzheimer's and a Candle of Care burning brightly.
Monday, November 5, 2007
Alzheimer's Consultant and Caregiver's Guide Provide Resources
"What Now? Caregiver's Quick Guide and Resource Manual" from the Alzheimer's Association enables caregivers to attend "Caregiver University."
I learned more about it when I met with Alzheimer's Consultant Jacque Murray (pictured) of the California Central Coast Chapter. Jacque provides consultations in a variety of settings and makes appointments for in-home consultations as well.
The guide is just one of the many resources you can find at the Alzheimer's Association.
A look at Section 1 of the book shows that among many topics the following are covered.
"(1) What is Alzheimer's Disease (2) The Dementia Umbrella (3) Medical and Scientific Basics (4) Get a Complete Diagnosis (5) Is It Alzheimer's Disease or...(6) Are All Person's With Alzheimer's Disease Alike (7) What Can I Expect From My Loved One (8) EarlyOnset Alzheimer's Disease (9) A Reminder About the Symptoms and Stages (10) The Three Stages."
Other Sections cover such topics as "Putting Legal and Financial Affairs in Order", "Learning to Manage Challenging Behaviors," and "Hiring and Managing In-Home Caregivers."
The book is available to Alzheimer's caregivers, along with an extensive group of other helpful material about Alzheimer's and caregiving.
Contact your local Alzheimer's Association for information about having a consultant come to your home and about obtaining Alzheimer's information.
I learned more about it when I met with Alzheimer's Consultant Jacque Murray (pictured) of the California Central Coast Chapter. Jacque provides consultations in a variety of settings and makes appointments for in-home consultations as well.The guide is just one of the many resources you can find at the Alzheimer's Association.
A look at Section 1 of the book shows that among many topics the following are covered.
"(1) What is Alzheimer's Disease (2) The Dementia Umbrella (3) Medical and Scientific Basics (4) Get a Complete Diagnosis (5) Is It Alzheimer's Disease or...(6) Are All Person's With Alzheimer's Disease Alike (7) What Can I Expect From My Loved One (8) EarlyOnset Alzheimer's Disease (9) A Reminder About the Symptoms and Stages (10) The Three Stages."
Other Sections cover such topics as "Putting Legal and Financial Affairs in Order", "Learning to Manage Challenging Behaviors," and "Hiring and Managing In-Home Caregivers."
The book is available to Alzheimer's caregivers, along with an extensive group of other helpful material about Alzheimer's and caregiving.
Contact your local Alzheimer's Association for information about having a consultant come to your home and about obtaining Alzheimer's information.
Saturday, November 3, 2007
An Alzheimer's Family Caregiver Speaks on Isolation, Exhaustion and Stress
In honor of National Family Caregivers Month and National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month today's blog post is dedicated to family caregivers and people whose lives have been touched by Alzheimer's.In the picture are two ladies whose story highlights this month's messages, and who represent so many others who are in similar circumstances.
Stella Carrasco, on the left in the picture, is a 63 year old family caregiver who is going through tests for a liver transplant. For the last four years she has been the sole caregiver for her mother, Mary Chaparro, 82, who has Alzheimer's. Stella gave permission for her story to be part of this blog, and she hopes it will help others to understand what a situation like hers is like. In the photo Stella and Mary are at a local Craft Fair, held today, displaying some of the beautiful items they create by hand at home.
There is no caregiver relief or support because Mary, due to the Alzheimer's symptoms, rejects the relief caregivers they've tried. "Mom has been so against it," Stella said. "She doesn't trust anybody, she's always thinking they are taking her money, then she hides, it, and accuses me of taking the money."
Stella is with her mom 24 hours a day because Mary cannot be left alone due to the Alzheimer's Disease. They tried having some outside help, but Stella explained the caregivers who came in were young and inexperienced, and did not understand Alzheimer's Disease or communication with someone who has it.
Stella explained, "What hurts me to no end is when she accuses me of taking her money. It brings me to tears." She said that when exhaustion and stress get to be too much she sleeps all day, but keeps the door to her room open in order to hear her mom and wake up if she is needed.
She said, "Being at the craft fair at the Central Coast Seniors Center today is the first real outing since 2003. On Sundays someone takes Mom to Mass and I can rest for awhile. Otherwise we are at home working on crafts. I don't have anybody I can really talk to. I don't have a social life. I am isolated."
Stella and I met when I was taking digitial photos of a Craft Fair and Bake Sale for the Central Coast Seniors Center site. She explained about her mother, and we sat down for a visit. Stella donated a beautiful handmade afghan for the raffle today. The exquisite heirloom quality handmade crafts that she and her mother make use many vintage items as decoration.
What can be done? The manager of the Central Coast Seniors Center, and a local church pastor, and I gave Stella our phone numbers and took her number. She won't be alone because we will call her, she can call us, and we will get together to visit. We are working on some ideas for some relief and support for Stella.
Betty Milne, the manager at the Central Coast Seniors Center, is checking the schedule to see when we can schedule a caregivers day out with lunch and a video on the large screen at the center. Stella said a humorous movie would help reduce stress. She will bring her mother to enjoy the movie too. We exchanged hugs, and I am so happy to have met such a dedicated caregiver and friend.
Additionally, we are getting into contact with the local Area Agency on Aging and the local Alzheimer's Association, as well as resources at San Luis Seniors. As we progress with support more updates will be available.
Friday, November 2, 2007
National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month - Light a Candle of Care
This month is National Alzheimer's Awareness Month and the Alzheimer's Foundation of America has some special events planned. On November 8, 2007 there will be The National Commemorative Candle Lighting, for lighting a "Candle of Care." The following week, on November 13, 2007 is National Memory Screening Day.
At the website for the Alzheimer's Foundation of America you can find information about joining the Dementia Care Professionals of America, educational tools, and a wealth of information.
The Alzheimer's Foundation of American Quilt to Remember is a project that includes quilt panels made by contributors. Each panel tells a special story about someone whose life was touched in some way by Alzheimer's.
At The National Alzheimer's Association you can find steps to take to increase Alzheimer's Awareness this month, including donating, joining a memory walk, fundraising, and becoming an Alzheimer's Champion. You can sign up to be part of the National Alzheimer's Advocate Network to help create a world without Alzheimer's.
For a group of expert's blogs, resources, news, and shareposts you can go to Our Alzheimer's , which is part of Health Central. The daily updates from a variety of experts will keep you informed. Nationally known Caregiver Expert and author of Minding Our Elders, Carol Bradley Bursack provides insight gained from experience.
At the website for the Alzheimer's Foundation of America you can find information about joining the Dementia Care Professionals of America, educational tools, and a wealth of information.
The Alzheimer's Foundation of American Quilt to Remember is a project that includes quilt panels made by contributors. Each panel tells a special story about someone whose life was touched in some way by Alzheimer's.
At The National Alzheimer's Association you can find steps to take to increase Alzheimer's Awareness this month, including donating, joining a memory walk, fundraising, and becoming an Alzheimer's Champion. You can sign up to be part of the National Alzheimer's Advocate Network to help create a world without Alzheimer's.
For a group of expert's blogs, resources, news, and shareposts you can go to Our Alzheimer's , which is part of Health Central. The daily updates from a variety of experts will keep you informed. Nationally known Caregiver Expert and author of Minding Our Elders, Carol Bradley Bursack provides insight gained from experience.
Along with Carol Bursack, you'll find the panel of experts who write at the Our Alzheimer's site includes the following.
(1) Dorian Martin, an Alzheimer's Caregiver for her mother and an expert in communications and education
(2) Leah, a former schoolteacher who has Vascular Dementia
(3) Jacqueline Marcell, nationally known expert, speaker and author of the book Elder Rage,
(4) Craig Stoltz, Health Journalist, who spent six years as editor of The Washington Post Health Section,
(5) Eric J. Hall, founder and CEO of the Alzheimer's Foundation of America
(6) David Roeltgen, M.D. , Neurologist and Professor with 20 years of experience
(7) Alzheimer's Foundation of America Social Services Team, which is available for counseling and referrals
There are so many excellent sites you can visit, and more of them will be covered in later posts. On the left side of this blog is a list of caregivers blogs, and reading these first person accounts is a way to share and learn along with the Alzheimer's community online.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Self Help Magazine Advises Relaxing Images and Slow Breathing to Reduce Stress
(Photo: Seagull over the ocean at Montana de Oro, Los Osos, California, October 28, 2007. Relaxing images and deep breathing can provide a break from stress. Photo by Kristi Gott)
The award winning mental health site Self Help Magazine advises people to reduce stress by selecting a calming photograph, relaxing, "breathing slowly and gently," and imagining that "you are there, and that you are feeling good and calm."
Self Help Magazine has a slideshow of calming photos, including pictures of sunsets, landscapes, mountains and other scenery. Taking some time to get away from stress with a relaxation break is important for mental and physical health. Emotional and mental tension are part of the "Caregivers Syndrome" of stress and exhaustion. Small breaks to unwind and step away from stress can make a big difference.
Images of soothing scenes can be a tool for the caregiver for self-help or to use when assisting someone who is tense or agitated. I bring library books with me sometimes when I'm assisting people. The large, coffee table scenic tour type books are a relaxing way to spend time with someone. If the person has happy memories of a favorite place, such as the Oregon coastline, I bring a book for that.
When I've assisted people who had Alzheimer's I found they enjoyed the visuals in the large photo tour books. This was especially helpful when the time of day arrived when they were apt to experience sundowners and wandering. Redirecting the person with Alzheimer's to focus on relaxing images and talking in a calm voice about the places in the photos were a big help.
For the stressed, exhausted caregiver, a break in the day to relax, breath slowly, and focus on some relaxing images is a way to reduce stress and unwind.
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Alzheimer's Caregivers Consultations and Support
I had an opportunity to visit with Alzheimer's community resource specialist Jacque Murray yesterday, who was giving Caregiver Consultations at the Central Coast Seniors Center, San Luis Obispo area, California, where I write a blog for their organization. Jacque Murray, of the San Luis Obispo, California, Alzheimer's Association became a Caregiver's Consultant after her mother passed away from Alzheimer's ten years ago.
Jacque said she is concerned that many people who could benefit from resources offered by the Alzheimer's Association are not aware of the support that is provided, as well as the educational resources. She offers one-to-one visits where caregivers can have an opportunity to sit down with someone and discuss resources and ideas that will be of help.
When a diagnosis of Alzheimer's is made by a doctor a family may not know where to turn for help or who to call. They also may not be familiar with what to expect, how to cope, where to learn how to communicate and provide caregiving, and where to find resources. Your local Alzheimer's organization is there to answer questions, provide groups for sharing, and provide education for caregivers.
She also works with Alzheimer's Support Groups in the area where people share experiences and get educational information to help them cope.
To find your local Alzheimer's Association you can go to their website for locations. Isolation is often a problem for Alzheimer's Caregivers and attending one of the support groups and can provide an opportunity to share with others and make friends.
Education about Alzheimer's has been proven in studies to reduce the stress level of Alzheimer's caregivers, and your local Alzheimer's organization can be your educational resource as well as a support resource. The article at News Daily titled "Family Caregivers Life Shortened" explained the study in which the stress and exhaustion of being an Alzheimer's caregiver can shorten life by an average of 4 to 8 years.
The recent news articles, which were not unexpected, about the effects of stress and exhaustion on Alzheimer's caregivers, emphasize the importance of support for the caregivers. "Caregiver Syndrome," is described at CNN and you can read about it if you click on the link, and find it by doing a search on the website search box.
Jacque said she is concerned that many people who could benefit from resources offered by the Alzheimer's Association are not aware of the support that is provided, as well as the educational resources. She offers one-to-one visits where caregivers can have an opportunity to sit down with someone and discuss resources and ideas that will be of help.
When a diagnosis of Alzheimer's is made by a doctor a family may not know where to turn for help or who to call. They also may not be familiar with what to expect, how to cope, where to learn how to communicate and provide caregiving, and where to find resources. Your local Alzheimer's organization is there to answer questions, provide groups for sharing, and provide education for caregivers.
She also works with Alzheimer's Support Groups in the area where people share experiences and get educational information to help them cope.
To find your local Alzheimer's Association you can go to their website for locations. Isolation is often a problem for Alzheimer's Caregivers and attending one of the support groups and can provide an opportunity to share with others and make friends.
Education about Alzheimer's has been proven in studies to reduce the stress level of Alzheimer's caregivers, and your local Alzheimer's organization can be your educational resource as well as a support resource. The article at News Daily titled "Family Caregivers Life Shortened" explained the study in which the stress and exhaustion of being an Alzheimer's caregiver can shorten life by an average of 4 to 8 years.
The recent news articles, which were not unexpected, about the effects of stress and exhaustion on Alzheimer's caregivers, emphasize the importance of support for the caregivers. "Caregiver Syndrome," is described at CNN and you can read about it if you click on the link, and find it by doing a search on the website search box.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Why Do Some Brains Compensate As They Age?
Physical exercise and a lifestyle with "brain exercise" have been shown in studies to make a difference in avoiding memory decline as people age. There is an article titled "Doctors Discuss Theories on Aging Brains" by Lauren Neergaard in U.S. News and World Report, dated Oct. 15. It says "some senior's brains forge new pathways" as they age. This means that as aging causes memory decline, some people's brains compensate. When old pathways disintegrate. the brain creates new pathways in some people.
The article describes how in a healthy brain the "branch like tentacles" that extend from brain cells are like a thick bush. In a less healthy brain the branches are like twigs on a sparser bush. Fewer "twigs" means it is more difficult to connect and send messages.
Learning causes more of the tentacles, or twigs, to form.
In some older people if a path no longer works in the brain, the path is "rerouted" and messages take another path. Some older people also have "bushy" brains full of lots of tentacles, like twigs. If they lose some there are still plenty left.
Scientists are trying to figure out what causes some people to have brains that reroute or create new pathways.
The article said that people with challenging mental stimulation do better than "couch potatoes."
Tests showed that when older people had physical exercise their brains started showing patterns that looked more like younger people.
Exercising physically and exercising the brain make a difference. Crossword puzzles, computer brain training programs, and anything that avoids the "couch potato" lifestyle help people to avoid memory decline.
A summary of recent articles I've read would say keep on learning, don't be a couch potato, and exercise regularly. Live a healthy lifestyle in terms of nutrition, stress reduction, and rest. Have an active social life, avoiding isolation. These factors have been recommended in many articles on aging.
The article describes how in a healthy brain the "branch like tentacles" that extend from brain cells are like a thick bush. In a less healthy brain the branches are like twigs on a sparser bush. Fewer "twigs" means it is more difficult to connect and send messages.
Learning causes more of the tentacles, or twigs, to form.
In some older people if a path no longer works in the brain, the path is "rerouted" and messages take another path. Some older people also have "bushy" brains full of lots of tentacles, like twigs. If they lose some there are still plenty left.
Scientists are trying to figure out what causes some people to have brains that reroute or create new pathways.
The article said that people with challenging mental stimulation do better than "couch potatoes."
Tests showed that when older people had physical exercise their brains started showing patterns that looked more like younger people.
Exercising physically and exercising the brain make a difference. Crossword puzzles, computer brain training programs, and anything that avoids the "couch potato" lifestyle help people to avoid memory decline.
A summary of recent articles I've read would say keep on learning, don't be a couch potato, and exercise regularly. Live a healthy lifestyle in terms of nutrition, stress reduction, and rest. Have an active social life, avoiding isolation. These factors have been recommended in many articles on aging.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
New Blood Test Can Determine Alzheimer's
An article in The New York Times today titled "Progress Cited in Alzheimer's Diagnosis" by Andrew Pollack says there is a new blood test that is 90% accurate in determining Alzheimer's. It was also 80% accurate in determining which patients with mild cognitive memory issues would develop Alzheimer's in two to six years. The study took place mainly at Standford University, California.
The article explained that currently diagnosing Alzheimer's is based on mental and other tests, and on the physician's judgement.
The test will not be available for doctors to use for several years. The preliminary results will need to be validated and the tests approved.
If there is a test available to help predict the risk of Alzheimer's it will help people to plan ahead and be prepared.
The article explained that currently diagnosing Alzheimer's is based on mental and other tests, and on the physician's judgement.
The test will not be available for doctors to use for several years. The preliminary results will need to be validated and the tests approved.
If there is a test available to help predict the risk of Alzheimer's it will help people to plan ahead and be prepared.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Article Says People With Dementia Not Receiving Needed Meds
If you are a caregiver for someone with dementia there is an article at Science Daily titled "Community Model for Caregiving for Dementia Patients" that has some important information. In the article Dr. Boustani, a geriatrics specialist, explains that "60% of people with dementia or pre-dementia (also known as mild-cognitive impairment), are not recognized as having these conditions when they go to a hospital, and 80% are not recognized as having dementia or predementia by their primary by their primary care physicians."
The article says that less than 10% of people with dementia or predementia are receiving the medications that they need.
I think this is important for caregivers to know about because they can help by alerting the primary physician to check for dementia or predementia. Medications are available for these conditions.
At the website for aging-parents-and-elder-care.com there is a list of symptoms of dementia or Alzheimer's. Family caregivers and paid caregivers can read about symptoms and discuss them with a doctor if they are concerned about a loved one.
On October 20 there will be a summit meeting in Indianapolis for "Recognizing and Assessing the Progression of Cognitive Impairment and Dementia in Primary Care." The summit meeting will have the goal of developing a model for dementia care.
The article says that less than 10% of people with dementia or predementia are receiving the medications that they need.
I think this is important for caregivers to know about because they can help by alerting the primary physician to check for dementia or predementia. Medications are available for these conditions.
At the website for aging-parents-and-elder-care.com there is a list of symptoms of dementia or Alzheimer's. Family caregivers and paid caregivers can read about symptoms and discuss them with a doctor if they are concerned about a loved one.
On October 20 there will be a summit meeting in Indianapolis for "Recognizing and Assessing the Progression of Cognitive Impairment and Dementia in Primary Care." The summit meeting will have the goal of developing a model for dementia care.
Monday, October 8, 2007
Landmark Self-Help Book "Living With Progressive Memory Loss"
A new type of book about dementia is the self-help book "A Personal Guide to Living With Progressive Memory Loss" written by two gerontological nurses, Sandy Burgener and Prudence Twigg. Because this book is a self-help book, it's different from other books about memory loss. There is information to help people with memory loss regarding communication, self-esteem, and overcoming the stigma of memory loss.
The book is recommended by top experts including Linda L. Buettner, Professor at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Alzheimer's Association Early Stage Task Force. Linda says this book is "a landmark self-help book that focuses on the needs of the person with the diagnosis."
It was also recommended by John Keady, Ph.D., RMN, Professor of Older People's Mental Health Nursing at The University of Manchester/Bolton and Trafford Mental Health NHS Trust, and Co-Editor of Dementia: The International Journal of Social Research and Practice. He said this book "empowers people living with dementia, signposting hope, choice, and a life to be lived."
Stories of real people who have coped with the challenges of progressive memory loss are included in the book. Good and bad ways of coping are discussed and illustrated with examples. The experience of living with memory loss is described, and the authors recommend "staying active and engaged in society."
Caregivers experience the ways that progressive memory loss effects every part of a senior's life, including activities and relationships. It's interesting that once again the eldercare experts are recommending that people stay active and engaged in society. Becoming passive, withdrawing from people, and sharing fewer activities with others is something that caregivers see frequently with elderly seniors who have memory loss.
Enabling seniors with memory loss to participate in group activities at a senior center, senior day care, family activities, senior classes, and senior clubs can help them to stay active and connected socially.
Arts and crafts groups, bingo, healthcare classes, and clubs such as woodcarving are available at our local senior center. Many of the activities are fun for everyone, and having some memory loss will not interfere with participating.
The book is recommended by top experts including Linda L. Buettner, Professor at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Alzheimer's Association Early Stage Task Force. Linda says this book is "a landmark self-help book that focuses on the needs of the person with the diagnosis."
It was also recommended by John Keady, Ph.D., RMN, Professor of Older People's Mental Health Nursing at The University of Manchester/Bolton and Trafford Mental Health NHS Trust, and Co-Editor of Dementia: The International Journal of Social Research and Practice. He said this book "empowers people living with dementia, signposting hope, choice, and a life to be lived."
Stories of real people who have coped with the challenges of progressive memory loss are included in the book. Good and bad ways of coping are discussed and illustrated with examples. The experience of living with memory loss is described, and the authors recommend "staying active and engaged in society."
Caregivers experience the ways that progressive memory loss effects every part of a senior's life, including activities and relationships. It's interesting that once again the eldercare experts are recommending that people stay active and engaged in society. Becoming passive, withdrawing from people, and sharing fewer activities with others is something that caregivers see frequently with elderly seniors who have memory loss.
Enabling seniors with memory loss to participate in group activities at a senior center, senior day care, family activities, senior classes, and senior clubs can help them to stay active and connected socially.
Arts and crafts groups, bingo, healthcare classes, and clubs such as woodcarving are available at our local senior center. Many of the activities are fun for everyone, and having some memory loss will not interfere with participating.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
