We look back at our lives as a series of memories of people and events. Our memories remind us of what we’ve done, where we’ve been and who we are. Dementia takes away these memories. If you are caring for a person with dementia, you can help them revisit their memories by creating a “place” for them to find them. … Read More
Alzheimer’s and Doctor’s Appointments
People with Alzheimer’s disease need regular medical care to address a range of issues. If you’re accompanying a loved one with Alzheimer’s on doctor’s visits, you probably have many questions — and a very short time available with the doctor. Here are some tips for making these appointments as productive as possible. Be Prepared Write down a list of everything … Read More
Alzheimer’s and Sleep Problems
Sleep problems and dementia are usually a package deal. You can help everyone get a good night’s sleep by understanding what contributes to sleep problems for people with Alzheimer’s. Why is sleeping difficult? Seniors often have problems sleeping, but people with Alzheimer’s usually have an even tougher time. Dementia can reverse the sleep/wake cycle, causing nighttime restlessness and daytime drowsiness. … Read More
Doorways and Forgetting
Have you ever found yourself standing in a room wondering why you went there in the first place? If so, you’ll be interested to know that new research may have identified the reason. It’s the doorways. In a paper published in the Quarterly Journal of Experimental Psychology, Professor Gabriel Radvansky suggests that when we move from room to room —especially … Read More
Asking For Help With Alzheimer’s Caregiving
Caring for a person with Alzheimer’s is a challenging task that is not a one-person job. No one is capable of caring for someone 24/7, alone. If you are caring for a loved one who has dementia, you will need to learn to ask for help. In the early stages of dementia, you may be capable of caring for a … Read More
End of Life Care: What to Expect
Caring for a loved one who is dying is not an easy experience. Though you know the end of life is approaching for them, you will probably never feel ready. Knowing what to expect, and what you can do to assist, can be helpful.
How To Deal With Resistance To Home Care
One of the biggest hurdles you can face when helping a loved one is resistance to care. How can you help someone who doesn’t want help? By keeping them involved in decisions and explaining the benefits of home care, you may be able to help your loved one feel more comfortable about accepting the help they need. What is behind … Read More
Helping People with ALS Communicate
Many ALS patients have stated that losing the ability to speak is the worst part of the disease. The power of speech is something most of us take for granted, even though it is a crucially important tool that keeps us connected with others. In the early stages of ALS, some patients may begin to lose their speech partially. In … Read More
What is Long-Distance Caregiving
When a loved one needs care and you are far away, there are still many things you can do to help with their care from a distance. Coordinate services – arranging for in-home care and household help. Manage finances, medical bills and records. Provide support to a primary caregiver. To be effective as a long-distance caregiver Have a family meeting. … Read More
June is ALS Awareness Month
In Canada, June is ALS month. Local groups and individuals take part in a wide range of activities aimed at raising awareness of ALS in their communities. One of the most popular events is Walk for ALS. WALK for ALS is a fun, family friendly event that occurs across the country each year in more than 84 communities. These walks … Read More