It’s been twelve weeks since my last post about dementia caregiving and coronavirus issues. I apologize for my lack of posts. Like many of you, I’ve had to quickly adapt to the “new normal.” Here are some of the ways the pandemic has affected my work….and lessons learned that I’d like to share.
Both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Alzheimer’s Association have excellent general resources for dementia caregivers in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Please refer to those sites first; I am not going to repeat their advice on this blog. Instead, I provide some additional and practical COVID-19 and dementia caregiving tips … More COVID-19 and Dementia Caregiving Tips
It may seem like common sense to remove firearms from the house of a person with dementia. Especially if you have observed prior instances of unsafe behavior. But what happens when the person with dementia reports the guns as stolen? Read more for pre-emptive strategies and approaches for both family members and law enforcement. … More Guns and Dementia: No Brainer?
Chocolates, plush animals, and romantic cards. Those are the staples of Valentine’s Day. But want to see real love in action? Watch a care partner for someone with dementia. … More Happy Valentine’s Day to Dementia CarePartners
Drowning in Dementia in Alabama According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 304,000 people in Alabama are family caregivers for 92,000 people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. This number only includes people who are 65 years old or older. It does not capture the 13% of people aged 45 or older who have some type of cognitive impairment, … More The PANDA Project: New Resources for Dementia Caregivers in Alabama
I suck at selecting and giving gifts. My family members and friends are probably rolling their eyes as I tackle the topic of best gifts for dementia caregivers. Other organizations have general information about selecting appropriate gifts for persons with dementia. Alzheimers.net, for example, has a terrific one. They recommend tailoring the gift according to the … More What Gifts are Best for Caregivers of Persons with Dementia?
Caregivers struggle with how best to celebrate holidays with persons with Alzheimer’s dementia. I provide strategies for maximizing enjoyment while minimizing distress for all. … More Tips for Dementia Caregivers During The Holidays
Halloween marks the beginning of the fall and winter holidays. I will be posting more content about holidays and dementia. Here are some simple ideas and tips for CarePartners to have a safe and sane (ok, as sane as possible) holiday.
Once you realize that the person with dementia is having pain, the next step is to address the pain. … More Dementia and Pain: Fixing the Cause
People with dementia DO feel pain. They may be unable to tell you in words, but they are communicating in other ways! … More Dementia and Pain
