Getting Into Their Heads: The Advantages of Not Arguing With Someone Who Has Dementia
“Where’s my college ring?” This had become Dad’s mantra during some months of his early demented years. I knew he hadn’t gotten a ring...
Dementia care
Humor Is a Survival Mechanism for Caregivers; No Disrespect Meant
Dear Carol: Is it wrong for a caregiver to laugh at situations that occur when someone is living with dementia? My grandma has Alzheimer’s....
9 Mistakes to Avoid When Caregiving for Someone Living With Alzheimer’s
Most of us who have cared for someone living with dementia have tried our best to determine how best to provide that care. We...
When We Become Caregivers, Friends May Disappear
Most people have not personally provided care for a loved one and therefore cannot fully understand everything that goes into being a family caregiver....
Celebrating Valentine’s Day When a Loved One Has Dementia
Every family has their own favorite special occasions that they enjoy celebrating. Some may not be big into Halloween, Valentine’s Day or Independence Day,...
Elder Care Needs Can Change in an Instant
During the years I cared for multiple elders, I grew to dread the ringing of the telephone. It seemed most calls meant emergencies. One...
Paying for Assisted Living: When Siblings Split Costs, What Is Fair?
There are many options for the care of our aging parents, but most of them are costly. There was a stretch of time during...
What to Look for When Visiting an Elder in Senior Housing
So, you and your loved one have taken the plunge. You’ve put in the time and effort to research senior housing options, take tours...
Elders Who Abuse Their Family Caregivers
Most of us have seen evidence of people being harder on those they love than they are on strangers, or even people they don’t...
Dementia Can Open the Door to Artistic Expression
The treatment of people with dementia has changed dramatically since I first became personally involved with the disease. It’s now widely recognized that while...
