Driving & Dementia Driving involves several types of brain activities. These activities have to work together. A problem in one area can jeopardize the whole process. Driving definitely relies on procedural memory. Procedural memory is the memorization of all of the steps to do something. We create procedural memory by […]
After being on lockdown, everyone wants to get out, visit family, and enjoy summer events. Social interaction is healthy for both caregivers (who often feel isolated) and for persons living with dementia. Here are some tips for making these events enjoyable for persons with dementia and their carers!
“I really want to travel or go on vacation with my family member who has dementia. What do you think?” My response is, “It depends on a couple of things.” Did the Person Living with Dementia Enjoy Traveling? This may seem like a silly question, but it is really important. […]
People with dementia may no longer recognize themselves in a mirror and may think they have a new friend.
Members of minority groups who are at higher risk for diabetes and high blood pressure are at higher risk for vascular dementia. Vascular dementia may show up suddenly, after a stroke. It may also show up slowly as a result of years of heart and blood vessel disease.
Care partners for persons living with dementia need a back-up plan. There needs to be someone who can temporarily or permanently care for the person living with dementia. Best to plan for the situation now, rather than scramble under difficult situations. Medical Emergencies Care partners are familiar with medical emergencies […]
Sundowning refers to behaviors seen in persons with dementia that usually occur at the end of the day. Many clinicians and caregivers/care partners seem resigned that this will simply happen and that there is nothing that can be done to prevent or manage it. Which is why I hate the […]
An illusion is something that can be misinterpreted by your vision or or hearing. Hallucinations, on the other hand, involve hearing, seeing, or feeling something that is not there. Delusions are false beliefs usually arising from fears.
The 10 Commandments of Dementia Caregiving
The asking of the questions is a process; we are providing an opportunity to really find out what the other person is thinking. On one hand, we want to protect our loved ones from financial abuse or unsafe conditions. On the other hand, we want to respect their autonomy….their ability to make their own decisions.