When a family member is diagnosed with a progressive dementia, it is challenging not only for the “patient” but even more so for the entire family system. Diseases such as Alzheimer’s impact everyone in the family and sometimes in the community (if the person doesn’t have family).
Those who oversee the care of someone with a [...]
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It is hard, as adult children, to know – Is my Mother tired? Or, is she depressed? Or, is she just not feeling well in general?
Viewing our parents objectively is challenging. Parents often shield their children from negative thoughts, feelings, depression or discomfort.
In addition, hearing is often diminished and being in a busy environment can [...]
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Often families try to do all the care themselves out of love or necessity – or maybe “control”. Whatever it is that causes you to be the only one caring for a dependent older adult – you need to know the importance of finding a balance and sharing the care.
Caregiver research shows that at least [...]
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Days are darker and shorter, the weather is cold or wet, and yes, it is winter. The holidays have come and gone and you find yourself feeling sad, tired and depleted. This is somewhat normal for many of us and even more so for the older population. They might have had lots of activity during [...]
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An individual with a dementia can be easily overwhelmed by all of the activities of holiday celebrations and become overly anxious, depressed or more confused.
Most individuals with dementia do relatively well with set routines and naturally pull back from extra activities that might tax their memory or set them up for failure. Sometimes a refusal [...]
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