A Common Caregiver Confession: “I Secretly Wish My Ill Loved One Would Die”
…Most caregivers would have been devastated by the death of their loved ones before they took on this role. But when a care recipient...
Alzheimer’s
Can a Caregiver Be an Effective Advocate Without Appearing Adversarial?
Dear Carol: I’m confused about how much oversight I should provide for my dad who has moved into memory care. He’s in mid-stage dementia. I...
How to Communicate with Someone Who Can No Longer Speak
Years ago, I stumbled upon a video that remains vivid in my mind. In it, an elderly couple who had spent a lifetime devoted...
Alzheimer’s: Theft, Paranoia or Forgetfulness?
The truth, as they see it, is still the truth in their eyes. Delusions, hallucinations, agitation, aggression and depression are all part of the...
Confabulation: What’s Really Happening When People with Dementia Seem to Lie?
Dear Carol: I’m my mom’s only daughter, so we are close. Mom was recently diagnosed with mixed dementia, so I moved her in with me...
How to Get Rid of the Urine Smell When Incontinence Accidents Happen
Dear Carol: I feel like my home is becoming contaminated territory! My Dad is a sweetheart, but he’s got dementia and has developed incontinence....
People Living with Dementia May Fight Bathing: Compassion, Education Can Help
Many older adults may not bathe as often as younger people think they should, but what about people living with dementia? Here lies a much...
When Hiring In-Home Care Ask Questions to Determine a Good Fit
Dear Carol: I’m the sole caregiver for my mom who lives about 20 minutes away from me. I can’t quit working to be with...
When a Loved One with Alzheimer’s Doesn’t Recognize You
Watching a loved one move through the stages of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) can be one of life’s toughest and most heart-breaking challenges. If we...
Coping with the Stigma of Dementia
People stare. Most are not unkind, they are just curious. But when someone “different” from the norm becomes part of their environment, they often...
