We all want to live life fully for as long as possible. Those who live to be 100 years and beyond—centenarians– are an interesting segment of the population to study since they may provide clues as to how this may be achieved. One of the common character traits of centenarians is the ability to remain Read More
Incontinence and Dementia
Often individuals with dementia are in denial to something as evident as incontinence, deny they have a problem and make excuses for the wetness on their clothing or furniture. This is embarrassing to family members and presents a hygiene issue to the family member with dementia. This could be the sign of a urinary tract Read More
Dementia and Communication
It is important in communicating with someone who has Alzheimer’s or a related dementia, to know the words they have always used for a room like the toilet – did they say “powder room”, “bathroom”, ”can” or another? If your family member is going into a care center, retirement community or dementia care facility and Read More
Autonomy vs. Safety: A Dilemma for Families Caring for Seniors
Do you allow Mom to smoke, despite her dementia and living alone in a senior apartment complex? Do you respect your Dad’s right and autonomy despite his 90+ years of life? With poor vision and beginning forgetfulness, do you allow him to drive across the state to see an old friend who is ill? Adult Read More
Senior, Elder or Older Adult: What do you want to be called when you are 55 or 65 years old?
We have a tendency to lump age groups together. We name groups “toddlers” or “teens”, which make common sense. Some individuals in our society who are over the age of 55 are annoyed if you call them senior or elder. I remember leaving a shopping trip at a local store thinking that they didn’t charge Read More
The Knock on the Door & Mom’s Purse is gone…Tell your Aging family members not to open the door to strangers!
Elder abuse is rising. Even though my mother is bright and doing well living alone, which she prefers, she is a target just because of her age! Mom is almost 88 and out and about going to clubs and driving friends around. She lives in a major urban city and has since her birth. The Read More
