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
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
Alzheimer’s and Day-to-Day Activities
Alzheimer’s disease can make ordinary, day-to-day activities challenging. Here are some tips to make daily tasks easier for the patient, the caregivers and the family. Dressing Dementia can make getting dressed a very frustrating experience. Make it part of a routine. Help the person with Alzheimer’s to get dressed at the same time every morning. Don’t offer too many choices. … Read More
How Caregivers can Spot Stress Early
Every day, a caregiver is faced with anxiety-inducing events. Living in proximity to such unpredictable and dire emergencies can take both a physical and mental toll. It is absolutely essential that caregivers familiarize themselves with their own personal limits, lest they place their own health in jeopardy. Luckily, there’s a series of easily identifiable warning signs which can alert a … Read More
Recognizing the Signs of a Stroke
The symptoms of a stroke can be difficult to identify. Unfortunately, that lack of awareness can spell disaster. A stroke victim may suffer severe brain damage while people nearby fail to recognize the symptoms of a stroke. Experts say anyone can help recognize a stroke by asking four simple questions. If you think someone may be having a stroke, ask … Read More
Hospital Discharge Planning For Ottawa Seniors
Preparing for a senior’s discharge from hospital is complicated. There are things to arrange and decisions to make. Connecting with the hospital’s social worker is an important first step, as they are your in-hospital advocates. When the senior’s hospital discharge is being discussed or seems eminent, it’s vital to request a discharge planning conference so that you may discuss the … Read More
Music As Therapy For Seniors
At some point in our lives, most of us have picked up an instrument and played a few songs or managed to learn how to sing a few vocal arrangements. We’re just now discovering that music carries several important therapeutic qualities, which have now been observed to assist in the treatment of some substantial medical complications – from encouraging the … Read More