In the beginning, caring for a loved one with dementia is seemingly a good idea and the right thing to do. It is certainly something we think we can handle on our own. Caregivers are devoted and determined. Our life is now different than before this disease, but we adjust. Even when we don’t really…
While caregivers all have good intentions, we sometimes find ourselves listening only half-heartedly. All too often we’re doing a hundred other things, or our mind is elsewhere when we should be actively listening. We hear what a loved one is saying but are not consciously listening with the purpose of understanding. Be authentically interested. Actively…
Caregiver Corner by Pam Johnson In the world of dementia, there is always a dilemma when it comes to telling lies vs being honest. Is it ever okay to tell a lie? Is honesty really the best policy when caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia? These might seem to be easy questions but not…
Mindfulness and meditation are two effective techniques for reducing stress associated with caring for a loved-one with dementia. Although each of these are shown to be effective stress-reducing activities, UCLA researchers found even greater health benefits to caregivers when these two skills are combined. Various studies indicate that practicing mindful meditation improves both emotional and…
Can you have dementia and not have Alzheimer’s? The answer is “Yes.” Although Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form, there are other types of dementia, too. Lewy Body Dementia, Vascular Cognitive Impairment (VCI), Frontotemporal Dementia and Parkinson’s Disease Dementia are all types of irreversible dementias. Dementia is used to describe a group of…
Using the principles of DIRM can greatly minimize or even prevent many of the upsets and frustrations that caregiver’s encounter each and every day. Very simply, DIRM is an acronym for “Does It Really Matter?” And, if one takes the time to ask this essential question, before reacting or responding, they find the answer is…
Vacations are supposed to be fun. However, if you are traveling with someone with dementia, it can be a very stressful time and sometimes even dangerous. Many family caregivers talk about wanting to travel “while we still can.” Then, they plan when and where to go. But families should first ask this most important question.…
When someone has dementia, their language skills are impaired, making communication challenging for everyone concerned. In order to help them maintain their dignity and minimize stress, it is essential that caregivers learn to speak differently than they always did in the past. It is truly like learning a new language. Good communication skills and guidelines…
During the winter months, people often don’t consider that dehydration is a true health threat. With colder weather, we often have a very dry, raw environment with low humidity outdoors and heat running nonstop indoors, which is also drying. With flu season in full force, unsettled stomachs and the inability to keep anything down can…
Holidays are full of families and traditions, but can be a challenge for families living with dementia. With a little planning and adjustments, the holidays can still be an enjoyable time for your family. Update others of your current status with a short note or phone call to briefly explain some of the changes visitors…