Warning: This is a graphic topic. Learning and Procedural Memory Today, I received a call from a good friend who was very upset. She is caring for her father and he is smearing his poop all over the bathroom. Towels, walls, any surface within reach. He is leaving the bathroom […]
(formerly the 10 Commandments of Dementia Care) I am currently writing a book, “Make Dementia Your B*tch.” This book contains many of the blogs but have been updated and organized into a very reader-friendly text. It will be available by mid-November in print, e-book, kindle, and other formats. I am […]
Valentine’s Day is traditionally about romance. It celebrates the fun side of love. For many carers and care partners of persons living with dementia, love is demonstrated daily through multiple acts of kindness and dignity. Here is my Valentine’s message to these heroes. Send a care partner that you know something special this Valentine’s Day.
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.
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.
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.
People with dementia DO feel pain. They may be unable to tell you in words, but they are communicating in other ways!
People with dementia may no longer recognize themselves in a mirror and may think they have a new friend.
The person with dementia wants an outlet for that drive and energy but is no longer able to channel these desires into appropriate (for us) venues. If I do not provide an outlet for that energy, drive, or purpose, then I create a problematic situation.