- Adult Day Services
- Aging in Place
- Caregiver Burnout
- Caregiver Support
- Communicating with Loved Ones
- Dealing with Grief & Guilt
- Geriatric Care Managers: How They Can Help
- Get Organized: Tools for Caregiving
- Handling Dementia Behaviors
- Hospitalization
- Respite
- Senior Driving Issues
Sundowner’s Syndrome—Causes, Symptoms, Suggestions
“The nights are the hardest.” I’ve heard this phrase from many people I’ve known—family members who’ve lost loved ones, friends recovering from addictions. Somehow in nighttime, with its relative quiet and vivid darkness, it’s nearly impossible to hide from one’s own mind. For people in the early stages of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, nighttime can be so much more than a bit too dark and quiet. In fact, sundown may be a trigger for extreme agitation and confusion...Read the rest of this article »
How to Talk to an Elder with Dementia Using Validation Therapy, Redirection & Other Techniques
If you have a loved one with Alzheimer's or dementia, then you know how difficult it can be to communicate with him or her. Maybe there are good or bad days. Maybe there are certain times of the day that are better or worse. Whatever the case may be, this article will walk you through techniques that are sure to improve communication with the person you love. Put Yourself in Their Shoes Imagine, for a moment, that you are...Read the rest of this article »
How to Improve the Quality of Life of an Elder with Dementia
People with Alzheimer's or dementia can still lead meaningful, enjoyable lives. If you have a loved one who has been diagnosed, read on to learn about the many steps you can take to improve the quality of life of the person you care about. Things to Pay Attention To Environment Try to decipher whether problematic behaviors are a result of your loved one's environment. Consider the following issues when assessing the environment: Look for patterns of behavior. Something as...Read the rest of this article »
How to Deal with Combativeness
It's not uncommon for care recipients to display abusive behavior. Following are a few suggestions for caregivers dealing with combativeness. Gilbert Guide also offers tips on caring for patients with dementia. When Does It Happen? Although combative behaviors can seemingly come from nowhere, do not assume it is a simply personality trait. Are the combative outbursts tied to particular activities? Do they occur at specific times, such as late afternoons or evenings? Finding a common denominator may help you understand...Read the rest of this article »
Early Signs and Symptoms of Dementia: What to Look For
This article outlines some of the early symptoms and signs of Alzheimer's and dementia. Keep in mind that some symptoms can also be attributed to the normal effects of aging or due to factors such as stress or depression. If your loved one experiences any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a physician for a proper diagnosis. Because Alzheimer's and other dementias affect the brain and its functioning, both behavioral and cognitive changes are apparent early in...Read the rest of this article »
