Tag: understanding behavior

The Power of Procedural Memory: What Tony Bennett, Salmon Patties, and Fridge Worms Have in Common

October 19, 2021

At the time of this writing, Tony Bennett gave a concert with Lady Gaga. In spite of severe memory loss, Mr. Bennett gave a flawless performance. This is an example of procedural memory. In Mr. Bennett’s case, he had sung his songs thousands of times over decades. His “library of songs” is an over-learned skill. … More The Power of Procedural Memory: What Tony Bennett, Salmon Patties, and Fridge Worms Have in Common

2021 Crash Course in Dementia-Centric Communication

October 5, 2021

Dementia-centric communication is the ability to interact with people who have dementia in a respectful and meaningful way. I hear, over and over again, “I don’t know what to say to a person with dementia.” “What if I do something wrong?” Fear not, I am here to help by providing some key points to guide … More 2021 Crash Course in Dementia-Centric Communication

Dementia & Poop: How to Avoid Accidents and Stop Smearing

August 27, 2021

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 with feces all over his … More Dementia & Poop: How to Avoid Accidents and Stop Smearing

Caregiver upset about person with dementia able to remember some items and forgetting other information.

Do People with Dementia Remember What They Want to Remember?

July 25, 2018

Caregivers find selective memory difficult and frustrating with people with dementia. This blog provides insight and help. … More Do People with Dementia Remember What They Want to Remember?

Dementia is an umbrella word for progressive memory loss. Other dementias include Alzheimer's, Lewy Body, vascular, and fronto-temporal.

Meet the Dementias: Start Here

July 10, 2018

Many people confuse dementia with Alzheimer’s Disease. A person with Alzheimer’s has dementia. A person with dementia does not always have Alzheimer’s Disease. … More Meet the Dementias: Start Here

Brain shrinkage happens in dementia and is the root cause for many of the problematic behaviors.

The “Why” Behind the “What:” Shrinking Brain and Memory Loss

July 3, 2018

I explain how the shrinking brain causes many of the repetitive questions and behaviors that caregivers find frustrating.
… More The “Why” Behind the “What:” Shrinking Brain and Memory Loss

Alzheimer's and other dementias causes compartments in the brain to break down, mixing up the memories.

The “Why” Behind the “What:” Mixed-up Memories

June 20, 2018

Avoid quizzing the person with dementia. Logic does not work. Arguing does not work. … More The “Why” Behind the “What:” Mixed-up Memories