Sunday, January 9, 2022
Covid and Seniors
I thought I would start this 2022 post with what is on everybody's mind. This link will give you the best information on what is going on with assisted-living's and senior living in Ohio.
When I was working in a senior living community OALA is where we would always go for the latest information. I hope you find this helpful.
https://ohioassistedliving.org/covid-19-resources/
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Exposure to Light Could Help Alzheimer’s Patients Sleep Better
This was forwarded to me by one of my family members. I found it very interesting.
New Study From the Lighting Research Center at Rensselaer is the First To Collect Circadian Light Exposure and Activity Data in Individuals With Alzheimer’s Disease
Troy, N.Y. — Individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) often sleep during the day and are awake at night. The situation can turn life-threatening if they leave their homes and wander around outside. This irregular sleep schedule and night wandering, and the consequent burden on their caretakers, is a primary reason individuals with ADRD are placed in more controlled environments such as nursing homes. A new study from the Lighting Research Center (LRC) at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute lays the foundation for the importance of tailored light exposures as a viable treatment option for the reduction of sleep disturbances in older adults and those with ADRD.
Funded by a R01 grant from the National Institute on Aging (NIA), the study is the first to collect circadian light exposures in individuals with ADRD. Results of the quantitative study show that individuals with ADRD experienced lower light levels, exhibited lower activity levels, and had greater disruption to their natural circadian rhythms than healthy older adults. The findings also show that people with ADRD experience lower levels of light exposure and greater levels of circadian disruption during the winter.
“We used light/dark and activity/rest patterns to assess circadian disruption and our results are consistent with previous studies. However, this is the first field study to examine the synchrony between the circadian light pattern and the activity response pattern to assess circadian disruption,” said Mariana Figueiro, associate professor at Rensselaer and director of the Light and Health Program at the LRC, who led the study. “Measurements revealed that those with ADRD experienced more circadian disruption than healthy older adults.”
Results of the study, titled “Field Measurements of Light Exposures and Circadian Disruption in Two Populations of Older Adults,” will appear in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease. Figueiro presented the research team’s findings at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference in Vancouver on July 17.
Along with Figueiro, co-authors of the study are LRC Director and Professor Mark S. Rea, LRC Research Specialist Robert Hamner, along with Patricia Higgins and Thomas Hornick, clinicians at Case Western Reserve University and Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center in Cleveland, Ohio.
Growing evidence indicates that circadian disruption by irregular light/dark patterns is associated with reduced quality of life and increased risk of disease. Circadian rhythms are governed by the human body’s master clock in what is known as the suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN), which has an intrinsic period slightly longer than 24 hours. On average, the SCN runs with a period of 24.2 hours. Light/dark patterns on the retina, the photosensitive part of the eye, synchronizes the SCN to the 24-hour solar day, regulating biological rhythms such as when we are active and when we sleep. Without exposure to a regular, daily pattern of light and dark, circadian rhythms can become irregular.
“Biology is driven by circadian rhythms at every level, and light is the main stimulus for synchronizing the circadian system to the solar day. By quantifying an individual’s light/dark exposure pattern, we can prescribe ‘light treatments’ promoting circadian entrainment, thereby improving health and well-being,” said Figueiro.
To collect data for the study, the research team used a Dimesimeter, a dime-sized device developed by the LRC, to record how much photopic and circadian light an individual is exposed to and whether they are active or resting. The data-logging device records these light and activity levels continuously over many days, and can be easily attached to shirt collars, lapels, hats, wristbands, or eyeglasses. The Dimesimeter enables researchers to examine light/dark and activity/rest patterns in those experiencing circadian sleep disorders, such as Alzheimer’s patients. Data from the device can be downloaded to a computer and processed to calculate a cross-correlation of the activity/rest and light/dark exposure data, a measure of circadian entrainment/disruption.
“The Dimesimeter system allows researchers to accurately measure light/dark exposure and activity/rest patterns to quantify circadian disruption. In this way, we can collect ecological data on populations who suffer from circadian sleep disorders,” said Rea. “This new study using the Dimesimeter is a major step toward the goal of better understanding the impact of circadian disruption on human health.”
For the new NIA-funded study, the research team enlisted 16 healthy older adults and 21 adults with ADRD to wear a Dimesimeter on their wrists for one week. The research team in Cleveland collected data from those with ADRD and the research team in Troy collected the data from healthy older adults. From the resulting data, the researchers calculated two metrics for each subject: relative activity (RA) to measure activity, and phasor magnitude to measure both light exposure and activity. The analysis revealed that during winter, those with ADRD exhibited more circadian disruption than healthy adults as reflected by their significantly shorter phasor magnitudes and lower RA values. Those with ADRD studied in winter also had significantly shorter phasor magnitudes than those studied in summer. ADRD adults were less active during waking hours than healthy adults, and ADRD adults studied in winter were exposed to less light than healthy adults in winter and ADRD adults in summer. The research team is currently delivering a lighting intervention to those with ADRD and their caretakers and measuring its impact on their sleep efficiency and circadian disruption.
New Study From the Lighting Research Center at Rensselaer is the First To Collect Circadian Light Exposure and Activity Data in Individuals With Alzheimer’s Disease
Troy, N.Y. — Individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) often sleep during the day and are awake at night. The situation can turn life-threatening if they leave their homes and wander around outside. This irregular sleep schedule and night wandering, and the consequent burden on their caretakers, is a primary reason individuals with ADRD are placed in more controlled environments such as nursing homes. A new study from the Lighting Research Center (LRC) at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute lays the foundation for the importance of tailored light exposures as a viable treatment option for the reduction of sleep disturbances in older adults and those with ADRD.
Funded by a R01 grant from the National Institute on Aging (NIA), the study is the first to collect circadian light exposures in individuals with ADRD. Results of the quantitative study show that individuals with ADRD experienced lower light levels, exhibited lower activity levels, and had greater disruption to their natural circadian rhythms than healthy older adults. The findings also show that people with ADRD experience lower levels of light exposure and greater levels of circadian disruption during the winter.
“We used light/dark and activity/rest patterns to assess circadian disruption and our results are consistent with previous studies. However, this is the first field study to examine the synchrony between the circadian light pattern and the activity response pattern to assess circadian disruption,” said Mariana Figueiro, associate professor at Rensselaer and director of the Light and Health Program at the LRC, who led the study. “Measurements revealed that those with ADRD experienced more circadian disruption than healthy older adults.”
Results of the study, titled “Field Measurements of Light Exposures and Circadian Disruption in Two Populations of Older Adults,” will appear in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease. Figueiro presented the research team’s findings at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference in Vancouver on July 17.
Along with Figueiro, co-authors of the study are LRC Director and Professor Mark S. Rea, LRC Research Specialist Robert Hamner, along with Patricia Higgins and Thomas Hornick, clinicians at Case Western Reserve University and Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center in Cleveland, Ohio.
Growing evidence indicates that circadian disruption by irregular light/dark patterns is associated with reduced quality of life and increased risk of disease. Circadian rhythms are governed by the human body’s master clock in what is known as the suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN), which has an intrinsic period slightly longer than 24 hours. On average, the SCN runs with a period of 24.2 hours. Light/dark patterns on the retina, the photosensitive part of the eye, synchronizes the SCN to the 24-hour solar day, regulating biological rhythms such as when we are active and when we sleep. Without exposure to a regular, daily pattern of light and dark, circadian rhythms can become irregular.
“Biology is driven by circadian rhythms at every level, and light is the main stimulus for synchronizing the circadian system to the solar day. By quantifying an individual’s light/dark exposure pattern, we can prescribe ‘light treatments’ promoting circadian entrainment, thereby improving health and well-being,” said Figueiro.
To collect data for the study, the research team used a Dimesimeter, a dime-sized device developed by the LRC, to record how much photopic and circadian light an individual is exposed to and whether they are active or resting. The data-logging device records these light and activity levels continuously over many days, and can be easily attached to shirt collars, lapels, hats, wristbands, or eyeglasses. The Dimesimeter enables researchers to examine light/dark and activity/rest patterns in those experiencing circadian sleep disorders, such as Alzheimer’s patients. Data from the device can be downloaded to a computer and processed to calculate a cross-correlation of the activity/rest and light/dark exposure data, a measure of circadian entrainment/disruption.
“The Dimesimeter system allows researchers to accurately measure light/dark exposure and activity/rest patterns to quantify circadian disruption. In this way, we can collect ecological data on populations who suffer from circadian sleep disorders,” said Rea. “This new study using the Dimesimeter is a major step toward the goal of better understanding the impact of circadian disruption on human health.”
For the new NIA-funded study, the research team enlisted 16 healthy older adults and 21 adults with ADRD to wear a Dimesimeter on their wrists for one week. The research team in Cleveland collected data from those with ADRD and the research team in Troy collected the data from healthy older adults. From the resulting data, the researchers calculated two metrics for each subject: relative activity (RA) to measure activity, and phasor magnitude to measure both light exposure and activity. The analysis revealed that during winter, those with ADRD exhibited more circadian disruption than healthy adults as reflected by their significantly shorter phasor magnitudes and lower RA values. Those with ADRD studied in winter also had significantly shorter phasor magnitudes than those studied in summer. ADRD adults were less active during waking hours than healthy adults, and ADRD adults studied in winter were exposed to less light than healthy adults in winter and ADRD adults in summer. The research team is currently delivering a lighting intervention to those with ADRD and their caretakers and measuring its impact on their sleep efficiency and circadian disruption.
Thursday, July 5, 2012
Talking With Elderly Parents
Talking With Elderly Parents
Written By : Dianna Malkowski
Caring for your elderly parents can be a challenging task. As the body gets older, it falls victim to a number of health problems, which can be difficult for us to cope with. Seniors often become depressed and upset over small things because their bodies are unable to keep up with their minds. Other seniors will have mental health problems, which takes its toll on them and everyone around them. You will need to make some simple modifications to their home and shop for things that you may not have imagined like incontinence pads and enemas.
In order to properly care for your elderly parents, you need to learn how to communicate with them. Here are 5 simple ways you can open the lines of communication and build a strong and healthy relationship with your parents:
Show them respect. Just because you need to come over every morning and get them ready for the day does not mean they are a child. Your parents want you to still look upon them as the parents, not as an infant that needs care. Show them respect by treating them as your equal. You still need to sit down with them and ask them for advice and their opinions. Give them the opportunity to share their opinions instead of making it for them. They need to make their voice heard; even if you think what they have to say is a little odd.
Learn how to listen to your elderly parents. Parents like to be heard by their children, no matter what age they are. You need to respect them by listening to what they have to say. Truly listen to them instead of pretending to listen. When they are talking, give them your complete attention. Sit down with them and let them tell stories for hours and engage in fun conversations. Sometimes listening can be difficult and you may not hear exactly what they said, so you need to follow up with clarification questions. This is a great way to make their life a little easier and to make your care giving time more enjoyable.
Remain calm. Elderly parents may be slipping into the early stages of dementia and sometimes they say things that they don't mean. Many researchers have found that some elderly people tend to think they can say whatever is on their mind and people cannot combat it because they are "old". Be mindful of things that your elderly parents may say that are hurtful. Instead of lashing out at them when they say something hurtful, take a deep breath and walk away. If they continue to exhibit this behavior, kindly confront them about it and express your feelings. You may need to talk to their doctor about it because they may have dementia or it could indicate that they have suffered a small stroke.
Have rules and boundaries. As a caregiver you are giving up a large part of your life for your elderly parents. They will recognize this sacrifice and devotion to them so you don't need to constantly tell them. It is important for you to set some boundaries and rules with your elderly parents to keep your relationship strong and healthy. Let them know that some of their requests are unreasonable and learn how to tell them no. If your elderly parents cause too much stress on other loved ones, try to limit your visit at that person's home. Keeping it short and sweet may be easier for some of your siblings that do not understand dementia.
Love them. The best way to open up the lines of communication with your parents is to simply love them. Acknowledge when they do things that try to help you out. They may not be able to do things the way you want, but they are trying. Always tell them how much you appreciate them and love having them in their life so they know they are needed.
Written By : Dianna Malkowski
Caring for your elderly parents can be a challenging task. As the body gets older, it falls victim to a number of health problems, which can be difficult for us to cope with. Seniors often become depressed and upset over small things because their bodies are unable to keep up with their minds. Other seniors will have mental health problems, which takes its toll on them and everyone around them. You will need to make some simple modifications to their home and shop for things that you may not have imagined like incontinence pads and enemas.
In order to properly care for your elderly parents, you need to learn how to communicate with them. Here are 5 simple ways you can open the lines of communication and build a strong and healthy relationship with your parents:
Show them respect. Just because you need to come over every morning and get them ready for the day does not mean they are a child. Your parents want you to still look upon them as the parents, not as an infant that needs care. Show them respect by treating them as your equal. You still need to sit down with them and ask them for advice and their opinions. Give them the opportunity to share their opinions instead of making it for them. They need to make their voice heard; even if you think what they have to say is a little odd.
Learn how to listen to your elderly parents. Parents like to be heard by their children, no matter what age they are. You need to respect them by listening to what they have to say. Truly listen to them instead of pretending to listen. When they are talking, give them your complete attention. Sit down with them and let them tell stories for hours and engage in fun conversations. Sometimes listening can be difficult and you may not hear exactly what they said, so you need to follow up with clarification questions. This is a great way to make their life a little easier and to make your care giving time more enjoyable.
Remain calm. Elderly parents may be slipping into the early stages of dementia and sometimes they say things that they don't mean. Many researchers have found that some elderly people tend to think they can say whatever is on their mind and people cannot combat it because they are "old". Be mindful of things that your elderly parents may say that are hurtful. Instead of lashing out at them when they say something hurtful, take a deep breath and walk away. If they continue to exhibit this behavior, kindly confront them about it and express your feelings. You may need to talk to their doctor about it because they may have dementia or it could indicate that they have suffered a small stroke.
Have rules and boundaries. As a caregiver you are giving up a large part of your life for your elderly parents. They will recognize this sacrifice and devotion to them so you don't need to constantly tell them. It is important for you to set some boundaries and rules with your elderly parents to keep your relationship strong and healthy. Let them know that some of their requests are unreasonable and learn how to tell them no. If your elderly parents cause too much stress on other loved ones, try to limit your visit at that person's home. Keeping it short and sweet may be easier for some of your siblings that do not understand dementia.
Love them. The best way to open up the lines of communication with your parents is to simply love them. Acknowledge when they do things that try to help you out. They may not be able to do things the way you want, but they are trying. Always tell them how much you appreciate them and love having them in their life so they know they are needed.
Friday, May 25, 2012
Vitamin D explained: Why it's so important
There's a veritable alphabet soup of vitamins in the market, and it's likely very few of us know precisely what they do -- with the exception of vitamin C, which most of us rush to take whenever we feel a cold coming on. But even then, its effectiveness as a cold-stopping agent is a matter of dispute among medical professionals and those we rely on to tell us what's best for our bodies. Lately, those same folks have been proclaiming the virtues of vitamin D. The obvious question now is: What does vitamin D do and what are the various vitamin D benefits as we get older?
One of the biggest vitamin D benefits to those of us who'd like to stick around for a long time and still stay strong and healthy in the process is its beneficial impact on bone health. Vitamin D accomplishes this task by helping our bodies absorb calcium and phosphate, which in turn keeps the body's bones strong and makes them far less susceptible to breakage.
Additional vitamin D benefits
As if that weren't enough to sell you on its benefits, recent studies say vitamin D may also be beneficial for a number of other important health functions, including:
Immune functions
Brain functions
Nerve center functions
Muscular functions
Vitamin D consumption methods
So how do you get vitamin D into your system? There are actually three uniquely different methods of accomplishing that end.
Eating certain foods, like fatty fish, meat, eggs and mushrooms. Wouldn't you know it? Some of the foods that we're told to stay away from actually contain something our bodies need. This is probably the best evidence that proves that moderation is the best method of achieving longevity.
Exposure to sunshine. This is one area you'll have to tread lightly on. The older we get, the more susceptible we become to the effects of the sun. If you don't want to have a knock-down, drag-out brawl with your dermatologist, it's best to discuss this with them at length before stripping to your skivvies and taking an hour-long sunbath -- even though that length of time may not necessary to get your vitamin D fill. Doctors say that 15 to 20 minutes of exposure to sunlight per day should do the trick.
Taking vitamin D supplements. The trouble with opting for this approach is that it's possible to overdose on vitamin D. Therefore, before taking any supplements, consult your doctor to the right dosage for you.
Symptoms of vitamin D deficiency
Even if you do get enough sunshine and eat all the right things, it may be entirely possible that you can a vitamin D deficiency. If you're suffering from any of the following symptoms, you might be experiencing a deficiency:
Bodily aches and pains that range from mild to severe
Pain that's felt in your hips, ribs, feet and thighs
Weakness and lethargy
Osteomalacia, which is a softening of the bones
Who's at risk?
Some people bring about vitamin D deficiencies simply by their actions or habits. Ultimately, you may not need to take vitamin D supplements if you make some changes in your life. The three factors that can lead to lack of vitamin D in your body are: staying out of the sun too often, not eating any dairy products, or eating a strict vegetarian diet. Whether or not this sounds like you, it's important to see your doctor before treating yourself to determine the best course of action.
Content Provided by Spot55.com
One of the biggest vitamin D benefits to those of us who'd like to stick around for a long time and still stay strong and healthy in the process is its beneficial impact on bone health. Vitamin D accomplishes this task by helping our bodies absorb calcium and phosphate, which in turn keeps the body's bones strong and makes them far less susceptible to breakage.
Additional vitamin D benefits
As if that weren't enough to sell you on its benefits, recent studies say vitamin D may also be beneficial for a number of other important health functions, including:
Immune functions
Brain functions
Nerve center functions
Muscular functions
Vitamin D consumption methods
So how do you get vitamin D into your system? There are actually three uniquely different methods of accomplishing that end.
Eating certain foods, like fatty fish, meat, eggs and mushrooms. Wouldn't you know it? Some of the foods that we're told to stay away from actually contain something our bodies need. This is probably the best evidence that proves that moderation is the best method of achieving longevity.
Exposure to sunshine. This is one area you'll have to tread lightly on. The older we get, the more susceptible we become to the effects of the sun. If you don't want to have a knock-down, drag-out brawl with your dermatologist, it's best to discuss this with them at length before stripping to your skivvies and taking an hour-long sunbath -- even though that length of time may not necessary to get your vitamin D fill. Doctors say that 15 to 20 minutes of exposure to sunlight per day should do the trick.
Taking vitamin D supplements. The trouble with opting for this approach is that it's possible to overdose on vitamin D. Therefore, before taking any supplements, consult your doctor to the right dosage for you.
Symptoms of vitamin D deficiency
Even if you do get enough sunshine and eat all the right things, it may be entirely possible that you can a vitamin D deficiency. If you're suffering from any of the following symptoms, you might be experiencing a deficiency:
Bodily aches and pains that range from mild to severe
Pain that's felt in your hips, ribs, feet and thighs
Weakness and lethargy
Osteomalacia, which is a softening of the bones
Who's at risk?
Some people bring about vitamin D deficiencies simply by their actions or habits. Ultimately, you may not need to take vitamin D supplements if you make some changes in your life. The three factors that can lead to lack of vitamin D in your body are: staying out of the sun too often, not eating any dairy products, or eating a strict vegetarian diet. Whether or not this sounds like you, it's important to see your doctor before treating yourself to determine the best course of action.
Content Provided by Spot55.com
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Adult Children of Aging Parents
I have been a member of this group on Facebook for about a year now. I find it very informative for myself as a "adult child" myself and also helpful to be a resource to my famliies as I help them everyday to mounver thru this sometimes diffucult process.
Check it out and I hope you find it as interesting as I do and helpful to know we are in this together!
http://www.facebook.com/groups/65386071640
Check it out and I hope you find it as interesting as I do and helpful to know we are in this together!
http://www.facebook.com/groups/65386071640
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
9 Ways to Get Parents to Accept Assisted Living
1.First, plant the seed. Don't approach your parent as though you've already made the decision for him or her. Just mention that there are options that could make life easier and more fun.
2. Next, offer a tour of some local assisted living centers, if he or she is willing, but don't push it. Drop the subject if necessary, and wait for another day.
3. Watch for a "teachable moment." Did Mom fall, but escape getting badly hurt? Use that as a springboard. You may want to wait a bit, or immediately say something like, "Wow, that was close. Once you're feeling better, maybe we could go look at the new assisted living center over by the church. We'd both feel better if you had people around." Go with your gut on the timing, but use the "moment."
4. Again, don't push unless you consider this an emergency. It's hard to wait, but you may need to. Wait for, say, a very lonely day when Mom is complaining about how she never sees her friends anymore. Then, gently, try again.
5. Check with your friends and friends of your parents. See if any live happily in an assisted living center nearby, or if their parents do. Just like your first day of school when you looked for a friend – any friend – who may be in your class, your parent would feel much better if there were a friend already in the center.
6. Even if they won't know anyone, you can still take your parent to watch a group having fun playing cards or wii bowling. Show off the social aspects of a good center. Keep it light and don't force the issue. Tour more than one center, if possible, and ask your parent for input. Big center or small? New and modern or older and cozy?
7. Show interest in how much privacy a resident has. Ask about bringing furniture from home and how much room there is. Take measuring tapes and visualize, if you can see some rooms, how your parent's room(s) would look. Show excitement, as you would do if you were helping your parent move to a new apartment, because that's what you are doing.
8. Stress the safety aspects.
9. Stress the fact that there's no yard cleanup, but flowers can be tended to. There's no need to call a plumber if the sink breaks, but there are plenty of things to do if people want. There's plenty of freedom to be alone, but company when they desire it.
Courtesy of Agingcare.com
2. Next, offer a tour of some local assisted living centers, if he or she is willing, but don't push it. Drop the subject if necessary, and wait for another day.
3. Watch for a "teachable moment." Did Mom fall, but escape getting badly hurt? Use that as a springboard. You may want to wait a bit, or immediately say something like, "Wow, that was close. Once you're feeling better, maybe we could go look at the new assisted living center over by the church. We'd both feel better if you had people around." Go with your gut on the timing, but use the "moment."
4. Again, don't push unless you consider this an emergency. It's hard to wait, but you may need to. Wait for, say, a very lonely day when Mom is complaining about how she never sees her friends anymore. Then, gently, try again.
5. Check with your friends and friends of your parents. See if any live happily in an assisted living center nearby, or if their parents do. Just like your first day of school when you looked for a friend – any friend – who may be in your class, your parent would feel much better if there were a friend already in the center.
6. Even if they won't know anyone, you can still take your parent to watch a group having fun playing cards or wii bowling. Show off the social aspects of a good center. Keep it light and don't force the issue. Tour more than one center, if possible, and ask your parent for input. Big center or small? New and modern or older and cozy?
7. Show interest in how much privacy a resident has. Ask about bringing furniture from home and how much room there is. Take measuring tapes and visualize, if you can see some rooms, how your parent's room(s) would look. Show excitement, as you would do if you were helping your parent move to a new apartment, because that's what you are doing.
8. Stress the safety aspects.
9. Stress the fact that there's no yard cleanup, but flowers can be tended to. There's no need to call a plumber if the sink breaks, but there are plenty of things to do if people want. There's plenty of freedom to be alone, but company when they desire it.
Courtesy of Agingcare.com
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Should Your Parents Still Be Living on Their Own
As we age, giving up independence is one of the hardest things to do. Determining when it is the right time for a senior to move out of their home can be difficult. Here are tips that will help know how to make the decision when you parents should not be living alone any longer.
First, you must know this decision will be met with resistance, especially if your loved one is not injured and can still get around. You will need to be prepared to help them through this with sensitivity and understanding.
But there are some very basic activities they must still be able to accomplish if they are going to continue safely living on their own.
Questions to ask and observations to make:
1. Are they able to get out of the home to go to the store or doctor? To remain independent your senior must have the ability to get outside the home to accomplish tasks. Do they still drive or do they have a friend or relative that will drive them is the big question.
2. Do they have mobility issues that make it difficult to get around? If they can still get around well without the risk of falling, that is what you want to look for. If they show signs of instability, that can pose dangers living on their own.
3. Are they able to still cook and prepare meals for themselves? Observe how they operate around the kitchen. Can they still function safely with the stove and oven? Do they remember to turn these off when not in use? If they are not doing well in the kitchen, that can be a real problem.
4. How do they do with their medication? Put all their medication in a plastic container that has a separate compartment for each day. Keep an eye on this and watch to make sure they are taking all their medications at the proper times and the right days.
5. How is their hearing and vision? Are they able to use the telephone? A person can actually have challenges in these and still live on their own. There are special phones designed for those with poor vision or hearing.
When the time comes to move your loved senior family member from their home be sensitive to how difficult this will be for them. It is often best to explore options and talk over the best solution with them. Be sure to point out the safety reasons and that you are doing this out of love.
Written By : Mark Myers
First, you must know this decision will be met with resistance, especially if your loved one is not injured and can still get around. You will need to be prepared to help them through this with sensitivity and understanding.
But there are some very basic activities they must still be able to accomplish if they are going to continue safely living on their own.
Questions to ask and observations to make:
1. Are they able to get out of the home to go to the store or doctor? To remain independent your senior must have the ability to get outside the home to accomplish tasks. Do they still drive or do they have a friend or relative that will drive them is the big question.
2. Do they have mobility issues that make it difficult to get around? If they can still get around well without the risk of falling, that is what you want to look for. If they show signs of instability, that can pose dangers living on their own.
3. Are they able to still cook and prepare meals for themselves? Observe how they operate around the kitchen. Can they still function safely with the stove and oven? Do they remember to turn these off when not in use? If they are not doing well in the kitchen, that can be a real problem.
4. How do they do with their medication? Put all their medication in a plastic container that has a separate compartment for each day. Keep an eye on this and watch to make sure they are taking all their medications at the proper times and the right days.
5. How is their hearing and vision? Are they able to use the telephone? A person can actually have challenges in these and still live on their own. There are special phones designed for those with poor vision or hearing.
When the time comes to move your loved senior family member from their home be sensitive to how difficult this will be for them. It is often best to explore options and talk over the best solution with them. Be sure to point out the safety reasons and that you are doing this out of love.
Written By : Mark Myers
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Talking With Elderly Parents
Caring for your elderly parents can be a challenging task. As the body gets older, it falls victim to a number of health problems, which can be difficult for us to cope with. Seniors often become depressed and upset over small things because their bodies are unable to keep up with their minds. Other seniors will have mental health problems, which takes its toll on them and everyone around them. You will need to make some simple modifications to their home and shop for things that you may not have imagined like incontinence pads and enemas.
In order to properly care for your elderly parents, you need to learn how to communicate with them. Here are 5 simple ways you can open the lines of communication and build a strong and healthy relationship with your parents:
1. Show them respect. Just because you need to come over every morning and get them ready for the day does not mean they are a child. Your parents want you to still look upon them as the parents, not as an infant that needs care. Show them respect by treating them as your equal. You still need to sit down with them and ask them for advice and their opinions. Give them the opportunity to share their opinions instead of making it for them. They need to make their voice heard; even if you think what they have to say is a little odd.
2. Learn how to listen to your elderly parents. Parents like to be heard by their children, no matter what age they are. You need to respect them by listening to what they have to say. Truly listen to them instead of pretending to listen. When they are talking, give them your complete attention. Sit down with them and let them tell stories for hours and engage in fun conversations. Sometimes listening can be difficult and you may not hear exactly what they said, so you need to follow up with clarification questions. This is a great way to make their life a little easier and to make your care giving time more enjoyable.
3. Remain calm. Elderly parents may be slipping into the early stages of dementia and sometimes they say things that they don't mean. Many researchers have found that some elderly people tend to think they can say whatever is on their mind and people cannot combat it because they are "old". Be mindful of things that your elderly parents may say that are hurtful. Instead of lashing out at them when they say something hurtful, take a deep breath and walk away. If they continue to exhibit this behavior, kindly confront them about it and express your feelings. You may need to talk to their doctor about it because they may have dementia or it could indicate that they have suffered a small stroke.
4. Have rules and boundaries. As a caregiver you are giving up a large part of your life for your elderly parents. They will recognize this sacrifice and devotion to them so you don't need to constantly tell them. It is important for you to set some boundaries and rules with your elderly parents to keep your relationship strong and healthy. Let them know that some of their requests are unreasonable and learn how to tell them no. If your elderly parents cause too much stress on other loved ones, try to limit your visit at that person's home. Keeping it short and sweet may be easier for some of your siblings that do not understand dementia.
5. Love them. The best way to open up the lines of communication with your parents is to simply love them. Acknowledge when they do things that try to help you out. They may not be able to do things the way you want, but they are trying. Always tell them how much you appreciate them and love having them in their life so they know they are needed.
Written By : Dianna Malkowski
In order to properly care for your elderly parents, you need to learn how to communicate with them. Here are 5 simple ways you can open the lines of communication and build a strong and healthy relationship with your parents:
1. Show them respect. Just because you need to come over every morning and get them ready for the day does not mean they are a child. Your parents want you to still look upon them as the parents, not as an infant that needs care. Show them respect by treating them as your equal. You still need to sit down with them and ask them for advice and their opinions. Give them the opportunity to share their opinions instead of making it for them. They need to make their voice heard; even if you think what they have to say is a little odd.
2. Learn how to listen to your elderly parents. Parents like to be heard by their children, no matter what age they are. You need to respect them by listening to what they have to say. Truly listen to them instead of pretending to listen. When they are talking, give them your complete attention. Sit down with them and let them tell stories for hours and engage in fun conversations. Sometimes listening can be difficult and you may not hear exactly what they said, so you need to follow up with clarification questions. This is a great way to make their life a little easier and to make your care giving time more enjoyable.
3. Remain calm. Elderly parents may be slipping into the early stages of dementia and sometimes they say things that they don't mean. Many researchers have found that some elderly people tend to think they can say whatever is on their mind and people cannot combat it because they are "old". Be mindful of things that your elderly parents may say that are hurtful. Instead of lashing out at them when they say something hurtful, take a deep breath and walk away. If they continue to exhibit this behavior, kindly confront them about it and express your feelings. You may need to talk to their doctor about it because they may have dementia or it could indicate that they have suffered a small stroke.
4. Have rules and boundaries. As a caregiver you are giving up a large part of your life for your elderly parents. They will recognize this sacrifice and devotion to them so you don't need to constantly tell them. It is important for you to set some boundaries and rules with your elderly parents to keep your relationship strong and healthy. Let them know that some of their requests are unreasonable and learn how to tell them no. If your elderly parents cause too much stress on other loved ones, try to limit your visit at that person's home. Keeping it short and sweet may be easier for some of your siblings that do not understand dementia.
5. Love them. The best way to open up the lines of communication with your parents is to simply love them. Acknowledge when they do things that try to help you out. They may not be able to do things the way you want, but they are trying. Always tell them how much you appreciate them and love having them in their life so they know they are needed.
Written By : Dianna Malkowski
Thursday, July 28, 2011
What you need to know about MOM and DAD, NOW!
Q. Do you know which medications your parents take?
A. Nearly half of adult children cannot name even one medication that their parents take.
This fact is alarming considering a majority of those same children say they expect to become the caregivers and/or decision makers for those same aging parents. Taking medications is complex and involves timing, watching for interaction and effectiveness.
Prevent stress and uncertainty now by finding out what medications your senior loved ones are taking.
Here are some planning tips to help you be an advocate for your parents’ medication management:
• Sit down with your parents and have a conversation about what medications they take, including vitamins and supplements. Have all the medications in front of you while you are talking.
• Have multiple copies of this sheet available in several safe places and share it with doctors, dentists, specialists and other caregivers.
• Accompany them on doctor visits and make sure that current prescriptions are still necessary. Update their medication tracker sheets often.
Brought to you by your friends at The Harbor Court. Our nurses are here to help you understand the complexities and simplify the process of managing your parents’ medications.
--At The Harbor Court our medication management program includes a Pharmacy and Nursing Staff that double checks all residents’ medications for drug interactions, allergies and duplicated medications. We also manage all lab work associated with these prescriptions.
Our nurses are here to help you understand the complexities and simplify the process of managing your parents’ medication schedule.
To download a free copy of our Medication Information Worksheet, visit our websites at www.theharborcourt.com/seniorconnections
A. Nearly half of adult children cannot name even one medication that their parents take.
This fact is alarming considering a majority of those same children say they expect to become the caregivers and/or decision makers for those same aging parents. Taking medications is complex and involves timing, watching for interaction and effectiveness.
Prevent stress and uncertainty now by finding out what medications your senior loved ones are taking.
Here are some planning tips to help you be an advocate for your parents’ medication management:
• Sit down with your parents and have a conversation about what medications they take, including vitamins and supplements. Have all the medications in front of you while you are talking.
• Have multiple copies of this sheet available in several safe places and share it with doctors, dentists, specialists and other caregivers.
• Accompany them on doctor visits and make sure that current prescriptions are still necessary. Update their medication tracker sheets often.
Brought to you by your friends at The Harbor Court. Our nurses are here to help you understand the complexities and simplify the process of managing your parents’ medications.
--At The Harbor Court our medication management program includes a Pharmacy and Nursing Staff that double checks all residents’ medications for drug interactions, allergies and duplicated medications. We also manage all lab work associated with these prescriptions.
Our nurses are here to help you understand the complexities and simplify the process of managing your parents’ medication schedule.
To download a free copy of our Medication Information Worksheet, visit our websites at www.theharborcourt.com/seniorconnections
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Most Baby Boomers lack a plan to care for parents
A majority of Baby Boomers say they are likely to become caregivers for their parents, but only half can name any medications their parents take, a new survey shows.
The survey of 600 adults ages 45 to 65, conducted for the Home Instead Senior Care network, also found:
•31% don't know how many medications their parents take.
•34% don't know whether their parents have a safe deposit box or where the key is.
•36% don't know where their parents' financial information is located.
"The majority of caregivers we work with have done no advance planning,'' says Jeff Huber, president of Home Instead Senior Care, a company that provides non-medical care services. "It is not important until it's urgent. So much stress and uncertainty down the road can be prevented."
Lack of planning can lead to serious complications when decisions need to be made quickly, says palliative care nurse practitioner Mimi Mahon, an associate professor at George Mason University in Virginia. "It's vitally important to plan ahead and have these conversations with parents, or families can act out of fear and make mistakes when emergencies arise."
Prescription drugs are of particular concern. In the survey, 49% couldn't name a single drug their parents took. Ask parents about their medications and, if necessary, do research, experts say. Find out the dose, what it's for, who prescribed it and why. People 65 and older account for about a third of all medications prescribed in the U.S., according to the National Institutes of Health, and older patients are more likely to have long-term and multiple prescriptions, which could lead to unintentional misuse.
"It's kind of a never-ending process for caregivers," says Sandy Markwood, head of the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging, part of the Department of Health and Human Services. "It gets further complicated when there is more than the family practitioner. A parent might have several specialists. It's a lot for a caretaker to keep up."
Markwood says the Administration on Aging, also under HHS, has been encouraging better record-keeping by seniors and stronger communication between seniors and caretakers since Hurricane Katrina. "Then you had a situation when seniors were evacuated without their medications and no one knew what medications they were on," Markwood says. "Doctors had to start from scratch."
One must-have answer for caretakers: What drugs can parents go without and which ones must be taken on schedule. For instance, blood pressure and anti-depressant medications cannot be missed, Mahon says.
The bottom line, she says, is being a staunch advocate for your parents' health care starts with "having conversations and putting plans in place."
USA TODAY
The survey of 600 adults ages 45 to 65, conducted for the Home Instead Senior Care network, also found:
•31% don't know how many medications their parents take.
•34% don't know whether their parents have a safe deposit box or where the key is.
•36% don't know where their parents' financial information is located.
"The majority of caregivers we work with have done no advance planning,'' says Jeff Huber, president of Home Instead Senior Care, a company that provides non-medical care services. "It is not important until it's urgent. So much stress and uncertainty down the road can be prevented."
Lack of planning can lead to serious complications when decisions need to be made quickly, says palliative care nurse practitioner Mimi Mahon, an associate professor at George Mason University in Virginia. "It's vitally important to plan ahead and have these conversations with parents, or families can act out of fear and make mistakes when emergencies arise."
Prescription drugs are of particular concern. In the survey, 49% couldn't name a single drug their parents took. Ask parents about their medications and, if necessary, do research, experts say. Find out the dose, what it's for, who prescribed it and why. People 65 and older account for about a third of all medications prescribed in the U.S., according to the National Institutes of Health, and older patients are more likely to have long-term and multiple prescriptions, which could lead to unintentional misuse.
"It's kind of a never-ending process for caregivers," says Sandy Markwood, head of the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging, part of the Department of Health and Human Services. "It gets further complicated when there is more than the family practitioner. A parent might have several specialists. It's a lot for a caretaker to keep up."
Markwood says the Administration on Aging, also under HHS, has been encouraging better record-keeping by seniors and stronger communication between seniors and caretakers since Hurricane Katrina. "Then you had a situation when seniors were evacuated without their medications and no one knew what medications they were on," Markwood says. "Doctors had to start from scratch."
One must-have answer for caretakers: What drugs can parents go without and which ones must be taken on schedule. For instance, blood pressure and anti-depressant medications cannot be missed, Mahon says.
The bottom line, she says, is being a staunch advocate for your parents' health care starts with "having conversations and putting plans in place."
USA TODAY
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Take Care of Yourself
Taking care of yourself is one of the most important things you can do as a caregiver. This could mean asking family members and friends to help out, doing things you enjoy, using adult day care services, or getting help from a local home health care agency. Taking these actions can bring you some relief. It also may help keep you from getting ill or depressed.
Here are some ways you can take care of yourself:
* Ask for help when you need it.
* Join a caregiver's support group.
* Take breaks each day.
* Spend time with friends.
* Keep up with your hobbies and interests.
* Eat healthy foods.
* Get exercise as often as you can.
* See your doctor on a regular basis.
* Keep your health, legal, and financial information up-to-date.
Getting help
Everyone needs help at times. It's okay to ask for help and to take time for yourself. However, many caregivers find it hard to ask for help.
They feel:
* They should be able to do everything themselves.
* That it's not all right to leave the person with someone else.
* No one will help even if they ask.
* They don't have the money to pay someone to watch the person for an hour or two.
If you have trouble asking for help, try using some of the tips below.
Here are some reminders about how to get help:
* It's okay for me to ask for help from family, friends, and others. I don't have to do everything myself.
* I can ask people to help out in specific ways like making a meal, visiting the person, or taking the person out for a short time.
* I will join a support group to share advice and understanding with other caregivers.
* I will call for help from home health care or adult day care services when I need it.
* I will use national and local resources to find out how to pay for some of this help.
You may want to join a support group of AD caregivers in your area or on the Internet. These groups meet in person or online to share experiences and tips, and to give each other support. Ask your doctor, check online, or look in the phone book for a local chapter of the Alzheimer's Association.
You also can call the Alzheimer's Disease Education and Referral Center at no cost. The phone number is 1-800-438-4380. Visit on the Internet at http://www.nia.nih.gov/Alzheimers.
Your emotional health
You may be so busy caring for the person with AD that you don't have time to think about your emotional health. But, you need to. Caring for a person with AD takes a lot of time and effort. Your job as caregiver can become even harder when the person you're caring for gets angry with you, hurts your feelings, or forgets who you are. Sometimes, you may feel really discouraged, sad, lonely, frustrated, confused, or angry. These feelings are normal.
Here are some things you can say to yourself that might help you feel better:
* I'm doing the best I can.
* What I'm doing would be hard for anyone.
* I'm not perfect, and that's okay.
* I can't control some things that happen.
* Sometimes, I just need to do what works for right now.
* Even when I do everything I can think of, the person with AD will still have problem behaviors because of the illness, not because of what I do.
* I will enjoy the moments when we can be together in peace.
* I will try to get help from a counselor if caregiving becomes too much for me.
Meeting your spiritual needs
Many of us have spiritual needs. Going to a church, temple, or mosque helps some people meet their spiritual needs. They like to be part of a faith community. For others, simply having a sense that larger forces are at work in the world helps meet their spiritual needs. As the caregiver of a person with AD, you may need more spiritual resources than others do.
Meeting your spiritual needs can help you:
* Cope better as a caregiver.
* Know yourself and your needs.
* Feel recognized, valued and loved.
* Become involved with others.
* Find a sense of balance and peace.
Other caregivers made these suggestions to help you cope with your feelings and spiritual needs:
* Understand that you may feel powerless and hopeless about what's happening to the person you care for.
* Understand that you may feel a sense of loss and sadness.
* Understand why you've chosen to take care of the person with AD. Ask yourself if you made this choice out of love, loyalty, a sense of duty, a religious obligation, financial concerns, fear, a habit, or self-punishment.
* Let yourself feel day-to-day "uplifts." These might include good feelings about the person you care for, support from other caring people, or time to spend on your own interests and hobbies.
* Keep a connection to something "higher than yourself." This may be a belief in a higher power, religious beliefs, or a belief that something good comes from every life experience.
The information contained in this article is from the National Institute on Aging website.
Here are some ways you can take care of yourself:
* Ask for help when you need it.
* Join a caregiver's support group.
* Take breaks each day.
* Spend time with friends.
* Keep up with your hobbies and interests.
* Eat healthy foods.
* Get exercise as often as you can.
* See your doctor on a regular basis.
* Keep your health, legal, and financial information up-to-date.
Getting help
Everyone needs help at times. It's okay to ask for help and to take time for yourself. However, many caregivers find it hard to ask for help.
They feel:
* They should be able to do everything themselves.
* That it's not all right to leave the person with someone else.
* No one will help even if they ask.
* They don't have the money to pay someone to watch the person for an hour or two.
If you have trouble asking for help, try using some of the tips below.
Here are some reminders about how to get help:
* It's okay for me to ask for help from family, friends, and others. I don't have to do everything myself.
* I can ask people to help out in specific ways like making a meal, visiting the person, or taking the person out for a short time.
* I will join a support group to share advice and understanding with other caregivers.
* I will call for help from home health care or adult day care services when I need it.
* I will use national and local resources to find out how to pay for some of this help.
You may want to join a support group of AD caregivers in your area or on the Internet. These groups meet in person or online to share experiences and tips, and to give each other support. Ask your doctor, check online, or look in the phone book for a local chapter of the Alzheimer's Association.
You also can call the Alzheimer's Disease Education and Referral Center at no cost. The phone number is 1-800-438-4380. Visit on the Internet at http://www.nia.nih.gov/Alzheimers.
Your emotional health
You may be so busy caring for the person with AD that you don't have time to think about your emotional health. But, you need to. Caring for a person with AD takes a lot of time and effort. Your job as caregiver can become even harder when the person you're caring for gets angry with you, hurts your feelings, or forgets who you are. Sometimes, you may feel really discouraged, sad, lonely, frustrated, confused, or angry. These feelings are normal.
Here are some things you can say to yourself that might help you feel better:
* I'm doing the best I can.
* What I'm doing would be hard for anyone.
* I'm not perfect, and that's okay.
* I can't control some things that happen.
* Sometimes, I just need to do what works for right now.
* Even when I do everything I can think of, the person with AD will still have problem behaviors because of the illness, not because of what I do.
* I will enjoy the moments when we can be together in peace.
* I will try to get help from a counselor if caregiving becomes too much for me.
Meeting your spiritual needs
Many of us have spiritual needs. Going to a church, temple, or mosque helps some people meet their spiritual needs. They like to be part of a faith community. For others, simply having a sense that larger forces are at work in the world helps meet their spiritual needs. As the caregiver of a person with AD, you may need more spiritual resources than others do.
Meeting your spiritual needs can help you:
* Cope better as a caregiver.
* Know yourself and your needs.
* Feel recognized, valued and loved.
* Become involved with others.
* Find a sense of balance and peace.
Other caregivers made these suggestions to help you cope with your feelings and spiritual needs:
* Understand that you may feel powerless and hopeless about what's happening to the person you care for.
* Understand that you may feel a sense of loss and sadness.
* Understand why you've chosen to take care of the person with AD. Ask yourself if you made this choice out of love, loyalty, a sense of duty, a religious obligation, financial concerns, fear, a habit, or self-punishment.
* Let yourself feel day-to-day "uplifts." These might include good feelings about the person you care for, support from other caring people, or time to spend on your own interests and hobbies.
* Keep a connection to something "higher than yourself." This may be a belief in a higher power, religious beliefs, or a belief that something good comes from every life experience.
The information contained in this article is from the National Institute on Aging website.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
New guidelines for Alzheimer’s could lead to earlier diagnosis
NEW YORK — For the first time in 25 years, medical specialists are proposing a major change in the criteria for Alzheimer’s disease, part of a new movement to diagnose and, eventually, treat the disease earlier.The new diagnostic guidelines, presented yesterday at an international Alzheimer’s meeting in Hawaii, would mean that new technology such as brain scans would be used to detect the disease before there are evident memory problems or other symptoms.
If the guidelines are adopted in the fall, as expected, some specialists predict a two- to threefold increase in the number of people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Many more people would be told they probably are on their way to getting it.
The changes could also help drug companies that are developing new drugs to try to attack the disease earlier. So far, no drugs alter the course of the disease.
Development of the guidelines, by panels convened by the National Institute on Aging and the Alzheimer’s Association, began a year ago because, with a new understanding of the disease and new ways of detection, it was becoming clear that the old method of diagnosing Alzheimer’s was sorely outdated.
The current criteria for diagnosing Alzheimer’s require steadily progressing dementia — memory loss and an inability to carry out day-to-day activities — along with a pathologist’s report of plaque and another abnormality, known as tangles, in the brain after death.
But researchers now believe the disease is present a decade or more before dementia.
“Our thinking has changed dramatically,’’ said Dr. Paul Aisen, an Alzheimer’s researcher at the University of California at San Diego, who is helping formulate the new guidelines. “We now view dementia as a late stage in the process.’’
The new guidelines include criteria for three stages: preclinical disease, mild cognitive impairment due to Alzheimer’s disease, and, lastly, Alzheimer’s dementia. The guidelines should make diagnosing the final stage of the disease in people who have dementia more definitive. But the guidelines also say that the earlier a diagnosis is made the less certain it is. So the new effort to diagnose the disease earlier could, at least initially, lead to more mistaken diagnoses.
Under the new guidelines, diagnoses will aim to identify the disease as it is developing by using results from so-called biomarkers — tests like brain scans, MRI scans, and spinal taps that reveal telltale brain changes.
The biomarkers were developed and tested only recently, and none has been formally approved for Alzheimer’s diagnosis. One of the newest, a PET scan, shows plaque in the brain. The others provide strong indications that Alzheimer’s is present, even when patients do not yet have dementia or much memory loss.
Aisen says he foresees a day when people in their 50s routinely have biomarker tests for Alzheimer’s and, if the tests indicate the disease is brewing, take drugs to halt it. That is not expected soon, he says, but “it’s where we are heading.’’
“This is a major advance,’’ said Dr. John Morris, an Alzheimer’s researcher at Washington University in St. Louis who helped write the guidelines. “We used to say we did not know for certain it was Alzheimer’s until the brain is examined on autopsy.’’
By Gina Kolata
New York Times / July 14, 2010
If the guidelines are adopted in the fall, as expected, some specialists predict a two- to threefold increase in the number of people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Many more people would be told they probably are on their way to getting it.
The changes could also help drug companies that are developing new drugs to try to attack the disease earlier. So far, no drugs alter the course of the disease.
Development of the guidelines, by panels convened by the National Institute on Aging and the Alzheimer’s Association, began a year ago because, with a new understanding of the disease and new ways of detection, it was becoming clear that the old method of diagnosing Alzheimer’s was sorely outdated.
The current criteria for diagnosing Alzheimer’s require steadily progressing dementia — memory loss and an inability to carry out day-to-day activities — along with a pathologist’s report of plaque and another abnormality, known as tangles, in the brain after death.
But researchers now believe the disease is present a decade or more before dementia.
“Our thinking has changed dramatically,’’ said Dr. Paul Aisen, an Alzheimer’s researcher at the University of California at San Diego, who is helping formulate the new guidelines. “We now view dementia as a late stage in the process.’’
The new guidelines include criteria for three stages: preclinical disease, mild cognitive impairment due to Alzheimer’s disease, and, lastly, Alzheimer’s dementia. The guidelines should make diagnosing the final stage of the disease in people who have dementia more definitive. But the guidelines also say that the earlier a diagnosis is made the less certain it is. So the new effort to diagnose the disease earlier could, at least initially, lead to more mistaken diagnoses.
Under the new guidelines, diagnoses will aim to identify the disease as it is developing by using results from so-called biomarkers — tests like brain scans, MRI scans, and spinal taps that reveal telltale brain changes.
The biomarkers were developed and tested only recently, and none has been formally approved for Alzheimer’s diagnosis. One of the newest, a PET scan, shows plaque in the brain. The others provide strong indications that Alzheimer’s is present, even when patients do not yet have dementia or much memory loss.
Aisen says he foresees a day when people in their 50s routinely have biomarker tests for Alzheimer’s and, if the tests indicate the disease is brewing, take drugs to halt it. That is not expected soon, he says, but “it’s where we are heading.’’
“This is a major advance,’’ said Dr. John Morris, an Alzheimer’s researcher at Washington University in St. Louis who helped write the guidelines. “We used to say we did not know for certain it was Alzheimer’s until the brain is examined on autopsy.’’
By Gina Kolata
New York Times / July 14, 2010
Friday, May 7, 2010
The Sandwich Generation- Care for the Caregiver
The Sandwich Generation": those caught between caring for their aging parents and their own children. Many Baby Boomers (the generation born between 1946-1961) find themselves a part of this Sandwich Generation. The typical Baby Boomer is a 46 year old female, having some college education, and working full time. This is the typical demographic of the person trying to balance a full time job, caring for elderly parents and caring for their own growing children. It goes without saying that trying to juggle these responsibilities comes at a cost-usually to the caregiver. But who cares for the caregiver?
If you find yourself in this group, it is very important to remember to care of yourself. If you don't, the stress of juggling so many responsibilities will take its toll on you. Remember, you are no good to anyone if you are not taking care of yourself. There are several things you should do to take care of yourself. The first is to eat well. Avoid junk food and simple carbs as they can raise insulin levels and actually increase your stress levels.
Include yourself on the list of people you take care of- make yourself a priority. You can't provide care for others if you let your own health and well-being decline. Taking care of yourself must become a necessity, not an indulgence. Thinking of yourself this way may seem foreign but remember, it's not optional.
Remember to spend time with family and friends. You deserve that time and it can fortify you to continue as an effective caregiver. Many people find themselves spread too thin and when something needs to give, it's usually the time spent with family and friends.
Call upon brothers and/or sisters to share the load. In time, caring for an aging parent can become impossible to do alone, especially if you work full time. Speak with siblings and ask them how they can participate in your parents' care. It's not a burden for only one.
Consider utilizing the services of a home care agency. Affordable in-home care is available to relieve you of some of the daily activities of living. Help is available for assistance with bathing, cooking, cleaning, laundry, errands, and even general companionship. This can be a low cost way to free you up to spend quality time with your aging parents.
Seek the advice of an elder law attorney. This can be money well spent. Make sure wills are drawn up. Consider obtaining any documents required to designate a power of attorney should it become necessary.
The help of a Geriatric Care Manager can be a valuable asset, especially to Boomers who live a long distance from their aging parents. Geriatric Care Managers are professionals that specialize in issues related to seniors. Care managers function as an advocate for their clients through needs assessment, problem solving, care coordination and referrals for other services as needed.
Being the caregiver of an aging loved one is never an easy task, but by making yourself a priority and utilizing the help of others, you can handle the takes healthier and longer.
Written By : Murphy Ortiz
If you find yourself in this group, it is very important to remember to care of yourself. If you don't, the stress of juggling so many responsibilities will take its toll on you. Remember, you are no good to anyone if you are not taking care of yourself. There are several things you should do to take care of yourself. The first is to eat well. Avoid junk food and simple carbs as they can raise insulin levels and actually increase your stress levels.
Include yourself on the list of people you take care of- make yourself a priority. You can't provide care for others if you let your own health and well-being decline. Taking care of yourself must become a necessity, not an indulgence. Thinking of yourself this way may seem foreign but remember, it's not optional.
Remember to spend time with family and friends. You deserve that time and it can fortify you to continue as an effective caregiver. Many people find themselves spread too thin and when something needs to give, it's usually the time spent with family and friends.
Call upon brothers and/or sisters to share the load. In time, caring for an aging parent can become impossible to do alone, especially if you work full time. Speak with siblings and ask them how they can participate in your parents' care. It's not a burden for only one.
Consider utilizing the services of a home care agency. Affordable in-home care is available to relieve you of some of the daily activities of living. Help is available for assistance with bathing, cooking, cleaning, laundry, errands, and even general companionship. This can be a low cost way to free you up to spend quality time with your aging parents.
Seek the advice of an elder law attorney. This can be money well spent. Make sure wills are drawn up. Consider obtaining any documents required to designate a power of attorney should it become necessary.
The help of a Geriatric Care Manager can be a valuable asset, especially to Boomers who live a long distance from their aging parents. Geriatric Care Managers are professionals that specialize in issues related to seniors. Care managers function as an advocate for their clients through needs assessment, problem solving, care coordination and referrals for other services as needed.
Being the caregiver of an aging loved one is never an easy task, but by making yourself a priority and utilizing the help of others, you can handle the takes healthier and longer.
Written By : Murphy Ortiz
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Aging Gracefully or Not - 8 Mistakes
Taking care of aging parents is not an easy task. Many in our aging society are not aging gracefully, and fighting or ignoring their decline in physical and cognitive abilities. No matter how well we eat, how much we exercise, how many supplements we take, there is nothing that stops the aging process. Granted, we all age at different rates, but eventually our bodies wear out, and we can no longer do things as easily as we once did. Taking care of an aging loved one is not for sissies! To assist you as you go the through process of aging with your loved one, here are the top 8 common mistakes made by seniors and their families.
Not planning ahead, even for a health care crisis
Common sense tells us that as we age we should expect to require some assistance , or even total care at some point. Yet, many aging adults find aging gracefully difficult. Fear of aging and a need to hold on to their independence causes many seniors not to ask for help. Those in the early stages of dementia may not recognize their need. Family members need to prepare themselves so that if a health care crisis does occur that their aging loved one will have some protection. Preparing for this will take time and energy. It requires learning about Medicare, Medicaid, insurance policies, legal forms and health care options available. Being prepared, can decrease stress and anxiety in a time of crisis, and gives you a sense of confidence as you assist your aging parent in making important decision.
Denial
Many adults who have a fear of aging neglect signs of poor heath.. Many overlook health problems for such reasons as worrying about paying their co pay, so they delay going to the doctors until the condition worsens. Such a delay can result in more advanced stages of a condition. Many aging adults feel as if they can fight the process and refuse to wear hearing aides, braces or walking aids. Family members often do not address these behaviors as they are met with strong resistance. This can be a difficult and uncomfortable situation for many family members. Sometimes having a family meeting and having a person that your parent respects and trusts will open the lines of communication.
Reluctance
Not aging gracefully causes many adults to be reluctant to discuss that they need assistance, because to admit that fact means they are growing old. To many aging adults, that is a blow to their self esteem and many perceive that they must give up their independence or become a burden to the family. Family members, many times are reluctant to bring up the subject of your aging parent needing care, due to family dynamics. Within the family there may be challenges of overcoming guilt, anxiety or even anger. It is important that you make your aging parent aware that you are there to support them and not to interfere, that their safety and health are your utmost concern.
Are not aware of all the options and levels of care available
The healthcare delivery system can be overwhelming. Many families have no idea that where to begin to look for assistance or what services and options are available. There are many county, state and senior services that can provide direct access to specific care providers. Your local agency on aging can direct you to programs and services that are specific to your area. You clergy member may be able to assist you in directing you and your family members to professionals that have successfully supported other church members. You may want to utilize the services of a care manager or eldercare consultant to assist you in maneuvering the health care system. These are individuals that specialize in the care of the aging population and can advocate, make recommendations and assist in overseeing every aspect of the care and services that are needed for your aging parent.
Family disagreement
Inaction by family members due to differences of opinion with in a family as to what care is needed, and where and from whom it should come. Nothing can revive conflicts in adult siblings than making decisions about an aging parent. All the old roles, parents favorite, the black sheep, the unresolved battles and family rivalries resurface. Old family dynamics come back, and adult siblings can sabotage wise decisions during those anxiety producing conversations about the aging parent. There are also cultural differences, where the eldest son, no matter what his relationship with his aging parents has been, is expected to be the decision maker in those families. Many of the sisters/daughters in these cultures are not involved in the decision making process, even though they are the ones that have been providing the care. It is important to focus, as a group, on what your parents would want and provide them with the best possible care in a safe and comfortable environment. In these situations, an outside objective third party is recommended. There are eldercare facilitators, care managers and eldercare consultants to assist your family through this process.
Misunderstanding of what health insurance, long term care, and supplements provide
It is important for seniors and their family members to investigate and understand what Medicare, Medicare supplements and Medicaid covers. If your aging parent has long term care insurance, it is also important to review waiting periods, cost of living riders and home care coverage. This is the first time many family members hear the term, "spend down". Spend down is depleting private or family finances to the point where an individual is sufficiently poor to meet the eligibility criteria for Medicaid. The spend down process and transition to poverty can involve multiple losses. It is wise to consult an elder care attorney early, before a crisis to assist you in planning to protect your aging parent's assets.
Concern over financial loss and downsizing
Many aging adults have worked their entire life and they want to leave an inheritance. They do not want to give up everything they have worked for. There are emotional and logistical factors of downsizing. It is emotionally traumatizing and overwhelming to the aging parent to give up their possessions. For many, their former life style was their identity. It is can be a difficult transition to fit into this new lifestyle. People want to age in their homes and do not realize there are options available to them to help keep them there. Eighty percent of long term care is provided by families, not institutions. There are more than 20 million Americans that provide care for an aging loved one. This allows the aging parent to continue to age in place in the comfort of familiar surroundings and be close to their loved ones.
Inability to discuss end of life issues
Aging gracefully is no longer a part of our culture. Billions of dollars are spent trying to avoid growing old. It is a fact that no one lives forever. We all are going to die. If we don't die young, we are going to die old. So we should prepare for this time. We should be able to say what we want to do to stay alive. Some choose multiple medical tests, invasive and painful procedures and multiple admissions to the hospital to avoid death at all costs. Others, do not discuss death and do not express their wishes to others, and leave the difficult decisions to family members. This takes a terrible toll on a family during a very difficult time. There is such a thing as dying with dignity. It is the very last thing we can have a say in as we age. Establish advanced directives now. Five Wishes, an advanced directive form, is a very complete and unique among all other living will and health agent forms because it looks to all of a person's needs: medical, personal, emotional and spiritual. Five Wishes also encourages discussing your wishes with your family and physician. Complete durable power of attorney for finances and durable power attorney for health care. These simple documents allow another person to make financial and health decisions for you should you become incapacitated in the future. You should also discuss developing a will and planning funeral arrangements. This will not only save you money, by preparing for your final arrangements, your family will have comfort in knowing that your final wishes are being honored. It will alleviate stress and allow them to celebrate you and your life.
In an effort to help family members become better informed and more feel empowered about assisting or even just with dealing with the issues of your aging parent, the resources are there. You just need to take the time, have the energy and the commitment to getting the right assistance at the right time. Being proactive and planning ahead makes this process much easier. Realize that your parents are adults and are responsible for their own lives.
You can only do what they will allow you to do. Hang in there and continue to work with your parents and do not take what they are saying personally. It is about them and fear of aging and change, fear of loss of independence and fear of loosing control, over their lives.
Not planning ahead, even for a health care crisis
Common sense tells us that as we age we should expect to require some assistance , or even total care at some point. Yet, many aging adults find aging gracefully difficult. Fear of aging and a need to hold on to their independence causes many seniors not to ask for help. Those in the early stages of dementia may not recognize their need. Family members need to prepare themselves so that if a health care crisis does occur that their aging loved one will have some protection. Preparing for this will take time and energy. It requires learning about Medicare, Medicaid, insurance policies, legal forms and health care options available. Being prepared, can decrease stress and anxiety in a time of crisis, and gives you a sense of confidence as you assist your aging parent in making important decision.
Denial
Many adults who have a fear of aging neglect signs of poor heath.. Many overlook health problems for such reasons as worrying about paying their co pay, so they delay going to the doctors until the condition worsens. Such a delay can result in more advanced stages of a condition. Many aging adults feel as if they can fight the process and refuse to wear hearing aides, braces or walking aids. Family members often do not address these behaviors as they are met with strong resistance. This can be a difficult and uncomfortable situation for many family members. Sometimes having a family meeting and having a person that your parent respects and trusts will open the lines of communication.
Reluctance
Not aging gracefully causes many adults to be reluctant to discuss that they need assistance, because to admit that fact means they are growing old. To many aging adults, that is a blow to their self esteem and many perceive that they must give up their independence or become a burden to the family. Family members, many times are reluctant to bring up the subject of your aging parent needing care, due to family dynamics. Within the family there may be challenges of overcoming guilt, anxiety or even anger. It is important that you make your aging parent aware that you are there to support them and not to interfere, that their safety and health are your utmost concern.
Are not aware of all the options and levels of care available
The healthcare delivery system can be overwhelming. Many families have no idea that where to begin to look for assistance or what services and options are available. There are many county, state and senior services that can provide direct access to specific care providers. Your local agency on aging can direct you to programs and services that are specific to your area. You clergy member may be able to assist you in directing you and your family members to professionals that have successfully supported other church members. You may want to utilize the services of a care manager or eldercare consultant to assist you in maneuvering the health care system. These are individuals that specialize in the care of the aging population and can advocate, make recommendations and assist in overseeing every aspect of the care and services that are needed for your aging parent.
Family disagreement
Inaction by family members due to differences of opinion with in a family as to what care is needed, and where and from whom it should come. Nothing can revive conflicts in adult siblings than making decisions about an aging parent. All the old roles, parents favorite, the black sheep, the unresolved battles and family rivalries resurface. Old family dynamics come back, and adult siblings can sabotage wise decisions during those anxiety producing conversations about the aging parent. There are also cultural differences, where the eldest son, no matter what his relationship with his aging parents has been, is expected to be the decision maker in those families. Many of the sisters/daughters in these cultures are not involved in the decision making process, even though they are the ones that have been providing the care. It is important to focus, as a group, on what your parents would want and provide them with the best possible care in a safe and comfortable environment. In these situations, an outside objective third party is recommended. There are eldercare facilitators, care managers and eldercare consultants to assist your family through this process.
Misunderstanding of what health insurance, long term care, and supplements provide
It is important for seniors and their family members to investigate and understand what Medicare, Medicare supplements and Medicaid covers. If your aging parent has long term care insurance, it is also important to review waiting periods, cost of living riders and home care coverage. This is the first time many family members hear the term, "spend down". Spend down is depleting private or family finances to the point where an individual is sufficiently poor to meet the eligibility criteria for Medicaid. The spend down process and transition to poverty can involve multiple losses. It is wise to consult an elder care attorney early, before a crisis to assist you in planning to protect your aging parent's assets.
Concern over financial loss and downsizing
Many aging adults have worked their entire life and they want to leave an inheritance. They do not want to give up everything they have worked for. There are emotional and logistical factors of downsizing. It is emotionally traumatizing and overwhelming to the aging parent to give up their possessions. For many, their former life style was their identity. It is can be a difficult transition to fit into this new lifestyle. People want to age in their homes and do not realize there are options available to them to help keep them there. Eighty percent of long term care is provided by families, not institutions. There are more than 20 million Americans that provide care for an aging loved one. This allows the aging parent to continue to age in place in the comfort of familiar surroundings and be close to their loved ones.
Inability to discuss end of life issues
Aging gracefully is no longer a part of our culture. Billions of dollars are spent trying to avoid growing old. It is a fact that no one lives forever. We all are going to die. If we don't die young, we are going to die old. So we should prepare for this time. We should be able to say what we want to do to stay alive. Some choose multiple medical tests, invasive and painful procedures and multiple admissions to the hospital to avoid death at all costs. Others, do not discuss death and do not express their wishes to others, and leave the difficult decisions to family members. This takes a terrible toll on a family during a very difficult time. There is such a thing as dying with dignity. It is the very last thing we can have a say in as we age. Establish advanced directives now. Five Wishes, an advanced directive form, is a very complete and unique among all other living will and health agent forms because it looks to all of a person's needs: medical, personal, emotional and spiritual. Five Wishes also encourages discussing your wishes with your family and physician. Complete durable power of attorney for finances and durable power attorney for health care. These simple documents allow another person to make financial and health decisions for you should you become incapacitated in the future. You should also discuss developing a will and planning funeral arrangements. This will not only save you money, by preparing for your final arrangements, your family will have comfort in knowing that your final wishes are being honored. It will alleviate stress and allow them to celebrate you and your life.
In an effort to help family members become better informed and more feel empowered about assisting or even just with dealing with the issues of your aging parent, the resources are there. You just need to take the time, have the energy and the commitment to getting the right assistance at the right time. Being proactive and planning ahead makes this process much easier. Realize that your parents are adults and are responsible for their own lives.
You can only do what they will allow you to do. Hang in there and continue to work with your parents and do not take what they are saying personally. It is about them and fear of aging and change, fear of loss of independence and fear of loosing control, over their lives.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Caregiver Stress Check
Do you regularly . . .
1.Feel like you have to do it all yourself, and that you should be doing more
Yes No
2.Withdraw from family, friends and activities that you used to enjoy
Yes No
3.Worry that the person you care for is safe
Yes No
4.Feel anxious about money and healthcare decisions
Yes No
5.Deny the impact of the disease and its effects on your family
Yes No
6.Feel grief or sadness that your relationship with the person isn't what it used to be
Yes No
7.Get frustrated and angry when the person with dementia continually repeats things and doesn't seem to listen
Yes No
8.Have health problems that are taking a toll on you mentally and physically
Yes No
To get help with resouces and tips regarding your answers go to:
http://www.alz.org/stresscheck/
1.Feel like you have to do it all yourself, and that you should be doing more
Yes No
2.Withdraw from family, friends and activities that you used to enjoy
Yes No
3.Worry that the person you care for is safe
Yes No
4.Feel anxious about money and healthcare decisions
Yes No
5.Deny the impact of the disease and its effects on your family
Yes No
6.Feel grief or sadness that your relationship with the person isn't what it used to be
Yes No
7.Get frustrated and angry when the person with dementia continually repeats things and doesn't seem to listen
Yes No
8.Have health problems that are taking a toll on you mentally and physically
Yes No
To get help with resouces and tips regarding your answers go to:
http://www.alz.org/stresscheck/
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
10 Signs of Alzheimer's
1. Memory changes that disrupt daily life
One of the most common signs of Alzheimer's, especially in the early stages, is forgetting recently learned information. Others include forgetting important dates or events; asking for the same information over and over; relying on memory aides (e.g., reminder notes or electronic devices) or family members for things they used to handle on their own.
What's typical? Sometimes forgetting names or appointments, but remembering them later.
2. Challenges in planning or solving problems
Some people may experience changes in their ability to develop and follow a plan or work with numbers. They may have trouble following a familiar recipe or keeping track of monthly bills. They may have difficulty concentrating and take much longer to do things than they did before.
What's typical? Making occasional errors when balancing a checkbook.
3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work or at leisure
People with Alzheimer's often find it hard to complete daily tasks. Sometimes, people may have trouble driving to a familiar location, managing a budget at work or remembering the rules of a favorite game.
What's typical? Occasionally needing help to use the settings on a microwave or to record a television show.
4. Confusion with time or place
People with Alzheimer's can lose track of dates, seasons and the passage of time. They may have trouble understanding something if it is not happening immediately. Sometimes they may forget where they are or how they got there.
What's typical? Getting confused about the day of the week but figuring it out later.
5. Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships
For some people, having vision problems is a sign of Alzheimer's. They may have difficulty reading, judging distance and determining color or contrast. In terms of perception, they may pass a mirror and think someone else is in the room. They may not realize they are the person in the mirror.
What's typical? Vision changes related to cataracts.
6. New problems with words in speaking or writing
People with Alzheimer's may have trouble following or joining a conversation. They may stop in the middle of a conversation and have no idea how to continue or they may repeat themselves. They may struggle with vocabulary, have problems finding the right word or call things by the wrong name (e.g., calling a "watch" a "hand-clock").
What's typical? Sometimes having trouble finding the right word.
7. Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
A person with Alzheimer's disease may put things in unusual places. They may lose things and be unable to go back over their steps to find them again. Sometimes, they may accuse others of stealing. This may occur more frequently over time.
What's typical? Misplacing things from time to time, such as a pair of glasses or the remote control.
8. Decreased or poor judgment
People with Alzheimer's may experience changes in judgment or decision-making. For example, they may use poor judgment when dealing with money, giving large amounts to telemarketers. They may pay less attention to grooming or keeping themselves clean.
What's typical? Making a bad decision once in a while.
9. Withdrawal from work or social activities
A person with Alzheimer's may start to remove themselves from hobbies, social activities, work projects or sports. They may have trouble keeping up with a favorite sports team or remembering how to complete a favorite hobby. They may also avoid being social because of the changes they have experienced.
What's typical? Sometimes feeling weary of work, family and social obligations.
10. Changes in mood and personality
The mood and personalities of people with Alzheimer's can change. They can become confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful or anxious. They may be easily upset at home, at work, with friends or in places where they are out of their comfort zone.
What's typical? Developing very specific ways of doing things and becoming irritable when a routine is disrupted.
One of the most common signs of Alzheimer's, especially in the early stages, is forgetting recently learned information. Others include forgetting important dates or events; asking for the same information over and over; relying on memory aides (e.g., reminder notes or electronic devices) or family members for things they used to handle on their own.
What's typical? Sometimes forgetting names or appointments, but remembering them later.
2. Challenges in planning or solving problems
Some people may experience changes in their ability to develop and follow a plan or work with numbers. They may have trouble following a familiar recipe or keeping track of monthly bills. They may have difficulty concentrating and take much longer to do things than they did before.
What's typical? Making occasional errors when balancing a checkbook.
3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work or at leisure
People with Alzheimer's often find it hard to complete daily tasks. Sometimes, people may have trouble driving to a familiar location, managing a budget at work or remembering the rules of a favorite game.
What's typical? Occasionally needing help to use the settings on a microwave or to record a television show.
4. Confusion with time or place
People with Alzheimer's can lose track of dates, seasons and the passage of time. They may have trouble understanding something if it is not happening immediately. Sometimes they may forget where they are or how they got there.
What's typical? Getting confused about the day of the week but figuring it out later.
5. Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships
For some people, having vision problems is a sign of Alzheimer's. They may have difficulty reading, judging distance and determining color or contrast. In terms of perception, they may pass a mirror and think someone else is in the room. They may not realize they are the person in the mirror.
What's typical? Vision changes related to cataracts.
6. New problems with words in speaking or writing
People with Alzheimer's may have trouble following or joining a conversation. They may stop in the middle of a conversation and have no idea how to continue or they may repeat themselves. They may struggle with vocabulary, have problems finding the right word or call things by the wrong name (e.g., calling a "watch" a "hand-clock").
What's typical? Sometimes having trouble finding the right word.
7. Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
A person with Alzheimer's disease may put things in unusual places. They may lose things and be unable to go back over their steps to find them again. Sometimes, they may accuse others of stealing. This may occur more frequently over time.
What's typical? Misplacing things from time to time, such as a pair of glasses or the remote control.
8. Decreased or poor judgment
People with Alzheimer's may experience changes in judgment or decision-making. For example, they may use poor judgment when dealing with money, giving large amounts to telemarketers. They may pay less attention to grooming or keeping themselves clean.
What's typical? Making a bad decision once in a while.
9. Withdrawal from work or social activities
A person with Alzheimer's may start to remove themselves from hobbies, social activities, work projects or sports. They may have trouble keeping up with a favorite sports team or remembering how to complete a favorite hobby. They may also avoid being social because of the changes they have experienced.
What's typical? Sometimes feeling weary of work, family and social obligations.
10. Changes in mood and personality
The mood and personalities of people with Alzheimer's can change. They can become confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful or anxious. They may be easily upset at home, at work, with friends or in places where they are out of their comfort zone.
What's typical? Developing very specific ways of doing things and becoming irritable when a routine is disrupted.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Sign of the Times
I find it interesting that in my line of work you can predict how the economy is doing. In the past 6 months we have not had many seniors moving from their homes. Most are staying as long as they can because they fear of not being able to sell their homes. The seniors that have moved into The Harbor Court are what we call "need" driven. This is a senior that is coming from a hospital or have finished their rehab at a nursing home, and are unable to go back home. In the past couple weeks this has turned around. I have some delightful young women moving in that are still independent and want to have a better quality of life. Some have sold their homes, which is a good sign, and some are waiting it out while they enjoy their life with us. But I think that even that this is taking place is a good sign for all of us. I am doing my part too, above is a photo of my daughter Christina, her friend Amanda and my niece Amy on a recent trip to the big apple. Anyone else see things getting better?
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Silver Alert Bill to Help Find Lost Dementia Victims Reintroduced in U.S. Senate
Silver Alert Bill to Help Find Lost Dementia Victims Reintroduced in U.S. Senate
House passed Silver Alert last month, many state and local governments setting up programs
March 17, 2009 – Legislation was reintroduced in the U.S. Senate last week to create a nationwide network for locating missing senior citizens and other adults. The Silver Alert Act, first introduced last Congress, would create a program modeled after the Amber Alert and provide federal coordination and assistance to local and state law enforcement agencies.
Last month, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed the National Silver Alert Act (H.R. 632), a version of the bill sponsored by Congressman Lloyd Doggett (D-TX).
U.S. Senator Herb Kohl (D-WI), Chairman of the Senate Special Committee on Aging, and U.S. Senator Mel Martinez (R-FL), Ranking Member, again joined forces to reintroduce a bill in the Senate.
“Setting up a Silver Alert system for seniors who go missing due to Alzheimer’s disease or dementia will promote the safety of our nation’s seniors, while bringing peace of mind to many concerned families,” said Senator Kohl. “With half a million new cases of Alzheimer’s every year, the need for a system of this kind will only grow.”
“With the growing number of aging Americans, especially those with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, thousands of adults go missing every year,” said Senator Martinez, the top Republican on the Senate’s Special Committee on Aging.
“Providing families and law enforcement agencies with the combined resources they need to locate loved ones is essential. This type of proven nationwide network will assist states and territories with developing their own location system and integrate local Silver Alert plans currently in place with the national network.”
The bill encourages states to develop Silver Alert plans and provides funding to enhance and integrate Silver Alert plans that are currently in place in various states by directing the Department of Justice to establish a national communications network to assist efforts to locate missing senior citizens.
It also reauthorizes Kristen’s Act, which helps to maintain a national, interconnected resource center and clearinghouse for missing adults.
The National Association of State Units on Aging surveyed states last spring to determine actions being taken in the states to establish Sliver Alert programs, which are primarily aimed at protecting adults with cognitive impairment.
“Silver Alert programs are modeled after the Amber Alert programs now present in all 50 states according to the report by NASUA.
“The Amber Alert programs can quickly distribute information about missing persons to law enforcement, radio, and television stations. It is designed to alert the public and law enforcement agencies so that citizens can be on the look out for missing adults.
“While the Amber Alert programs are targeted at getting information quickly disseminated about children, Silver Alert programs are targeted for adults with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.
Of the states that responded to the NASUA survey, seven states had Silver Alert Programs and at least two states reported that they had legislation pending.
Colorado, Georgia, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Texas, and Virginia have Silver Alert Programs in place, the survey found. Ohio had legislation that had been signed by the governor but was not yet effective.
House passed Silver Alert last month, many state and local governments setting up programs
March 17, 2009 – Legislation was reintroduced in the U.S. Senate last week to create a nationwide network for locating missing senior citizens and other adults. The Silver Alert Act, first introduced last Congress, would create a program modeled after the Amber Alert and provide federal coordination and assistance to local and state law enforcement agencies.
Last month, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed the National Silver Alert Act (H.R. 632), a version of the bill sponsored by Congressman Lloyd Doggett (D-TX).
U.S. Senator Herb Kohl (D-WI), Chairman of the Senate Special Committee on Aging, and U.S. Senator Mel Martinez (R-FL), Ranking Member, again joined forces to reintroduce a bill in the Senate.
“Setting up a Silver Alert system for seniors who go missing due to Alzheimer’s disease or dementia will promote the safety of our nation’s seniors, while bringing peace of mind to many concerned families,” said Senator Kohl. “With half a million new cases of Alzheimer’s every year, the need for a system of this kind will only grow.”
“With the growing number of aging Americans, especially those with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, thousands of adults go missing every year,” said Senator Martinez, the top Republican on the Senate’s Special Committee on Aging.
“Providing families and law enforcement agencies with the combined resources they need to locate loved ones is essential. This type of proven nationwide network will assist states and territories with developing their own location system and integrate local Silver Alert plans currently in place with the national network.”
The bill encourages states to develop Silver Alert plans and provides funding to enhance and integrate Silver Alert plans that are currently in place in various states by directing the Department of Justice to establish a national communications network to assist efforts to locate missing senior citizens.
It also reauthorizes Kristen’s Act, which helps to maintain a national, interconnected resource center and clearinghouse for missing adults.
The National Association of State Units on Aging surveyed states last spring to determine actions being taken in the states to establish Sliver Alert programs, which are primarily aimed at protecting adults with cognitive impairment.
“Silver Alert programs are modeled after the Amber Alert programs now present in all 50 states according to the report by NASUA.
“The Amber Alert programs can quickly distribute information about missing persons to law enforcement, radio, and television stations. It is designed to alert the public and law enforcement agencies so that citizens can be on the look out for missing adults.
“While the Amber Alert programs are targeted at getting information quickly disseminated about children, Silver Alert programs are targeted for adults with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.
Of the states that responded to the NASUA survey, seven states had Silver Alert Programs and at least two states reported that they had legislation pending.
Colorado, Georgia, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Texas, and Virginia have Silver Alert Programs in place, the survey found. Ohio had legislation that had been signed by the governor but was not yet effective.
Friday, July 17, 2009
10 Uplifting Movies for Seniors
My personal Favorite is It's A Wonderful life.
The Gold Rush (1924)
Stars: Charlie Chaplin
Director: Charlie Chaplin
In classic Charlie Chaplin style, the tramp heads to Alaska as a lone prospector in search of his fortune, finding love and falling into the wrong crown along the way. Bittersweet, very funny, and ultra-touching, it’s one of the original and best feel-good films.
It's A Wonderful Life (1946)
Stars: James Stewart, Donna Reed
Director: Frank Capra
A suicidal man (Jimmy Stewart) has a chance encounter with a guardian angel. He’s given the opportunity to see his family, friends, and hometown as it would be without him. This sentimental tale is the epitome of what an uplifting movie should be- set during the Holidays, it’ll make you grateful to be alive.
Strictly Ballroom (1992)
Stars: Paul Mercurio, Tara Morice
Director: Baz Luhrmann
Daggy Fran wants to be a ballroom star, and has plenty of time to dream about it as she mops up the floors of the dance studio. Then she meets rebellious Scott, who is looking for a partner to work on his controversial dance moves. Baz Luhrmann's Aussie comedy shows us that anything is possible.
Singin' In the Rain (1952)
Stars: Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds
Director: Stanley Donen, Gene Kelly
A famous silent screen couple never expected their film to turn into a talkie, let alone a musical, and it’s apparent that the female lead can’t sing herself out of a paper bag. A chorus girl (Debbie Reynolds) is recruited to dub the songs secretly. This sprightly MGM musical will get you up and dancing. A true classic!
Grease (1978)
Stars: Olivia Newton-John, John Travolta
Director: Randal Kleiser
A goody-two-shoes girl falls for a bad boy in this musical about identity, transformation, and growing up. The music is unforgettable and the costumes are as fun as you get. You’ll be singing the songs for days after, and perhaps buy yourself a poodle skirt.
Bringing Up Baby (1938)
Stars: Katharine Hepburn, Cary Grant
Director: Howard Hawks
In this screwball comedy, Katherine Hepburn is a crazy It-Girl set on snagging the geeky paleontologist (Cary Grant), and all the while taking care of her pet cheetah Baby. Hot chemistry, unforgettable slapstick comedy, and speedy banter will give you a shot of energy.
My Fair Lady (1964)
Stars: Audrey Hepburn, Rex Harrison
Director: George Cukor
Eliza Doolitle is a foul-mouthed Cockney street-seller. She’s picked up by Professor Henry Higgins, a snooty phonetics professor, as part of a bet and experiment in voice work. Can he turn her into a high-society lady? Romantic, life-affirming and with a winning performance from Hepburn, this is pure delight.
The Odd Couple (1968)
Stars: Jack Lemmon, Walter Matthau
Director: Gene Saks
The classic comedy duo at their best! The guys move in together and discover that they don’t make so wonderful a pair after all. One’s an obsessive cleaner and the other’s a slob. Felix and Oscar's exploits and arguments are so hysterically funny they will have you falling out of your seat with laughter.
Some Like It Hot (1959)
Stars: Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis, Jack Lemmon
Director: Billy Wilder
When the Mob comes looking for a couple of musicians, they beat it for the French Riviera, disguised as broads and join an all-female band. They find trouble when they both fall head over heals for irresistible ukulele-player Sugar (Marilyn Monroe). Marilyn and the boys are unforgettable.
Billy Elliot (2000)
Stars: Jamie Bell, Julie Walters
Director: Stephen Daldry
Little Billy has big dreams of dancing Ballet. Unfortunately his dad says dancing is for sissies. Billy and his no-nonsense ballet teacher won’t let that stop him. Life-affirming, delightful, and poignant, Stephen Daldry’s movie is sure to be a feel-good classic for years to come.
The Gold Rush (1924)
Stars: Charlie Chaplin
Director: Charlie Chaplin
In classic Charlie Chaplin style, the tramp heads to Alaska as a lone prospector in search of his fortune, finding love and falling into the wrong crown along the way. Bittersweet, very funny, and ultra-touching, it’s one of the original and best feel-good films.
It's A Wonderful Life (1946)
Stars: James Stewart, Donna Reed
Director: Frank Capra
A suicidal man (Jimmy Stewart) has a chance encounter with a guardian angel. He’s given the opportunity to see his family, friends, and hometown as it would be without him. This sentimental tale is the epitome of what an uplifting movie should be- set during the Holidays, it’ll make you grateful to be alive.
Strictly Ballroom (1992)
Stars: Paul Mercurio, Tara Morice
Director: Baz Luhrmann
Daggy Fran wants to be a ballroom star, and has plenty of time to dream about it as she mops up the floors of the dance studio. Then she meets rebellious Scott, who is looking for a partner to work on his controversial dance moves. Baz Luhrmann's Aussie comedy shows us that anything is possible.
Singin' In the Rain (1952)
Stars: Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds
Director: Stanley Donen, Gene Kelly
A famous silent screen couple never expected their film to turn into a talkie, let alone a musical, and it’s apparent that the female lead can’t sing herself out of a paper bag. A chorus girl (Debbie Reynolds) is recruited to dub the songs secretly. This sprightly MGM musical will get you up and dancing. A true classic!
Grease (1978)
Stars: Olivia Newton-John, John Travolta
Director: Randal Kleiser
A goody-two-shoes girl falls for a bad boy in this musical about identity, transformation, and growing up. The music is unforgettable and the costumes are as fun as you get. You’ll be singing the songs for days after, and perhaps buy yourself a poodle skirt.
Bringing Up Baby (1938)
Stars: Katharine Hepburn, Cary Grant
Director: Howard Hawks
In this screwball comedy, Katherine Hepburn is a crazy It-Girl set on snagging the geeky paleontologist (Cary Grant), and all the while taking care of her pet cheetah Baby. Hot chemistry, unforgettable slapstick comedy, and speedy banter will give you a shot of energy.
My Fair Lady (1964)
Stars: Audrey Hepburn, Rex Harrison
Director: George Cukor
Eliza Doolitle is a foul-mouthed Cockney street-seller. She’s picked up by Professor Henry Higgins, a snooty phonetics professor, as part of a bet and experiment in voice work. Can he turn her into a high-society lady? Romantic, life-affirming and with a winning performance from Hepburn, this is pure delight.
The Odd Couple (1968)
Stars: Jack Lemmon, Walter Matthau
Director: Gene Saks
The classic comedy duo at their best! The guys move in together and discover that they don’t make so wonderful a pair after all. One’s an obsessive cleaner and the other’s a slob. Felix and Oscar's exploits and arguments are so hysterically funny they will have you falling out of your seat with laughter.
Some Like It Hot (1959)
Stars: Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis, Jack Lemmon
Director: Billy Wilder
When the Mob comes looking for a couple of musicians, they beat it for the French Riviera, disguised as broads and join an all-female band. They find trouble when they both fall head over heals for irresistible ukulele-player Sugar (Marilyn Monroe). Marilyn and the boys are unforgettable.
Billy Elliot (2000)
Stars: Jamie Bell, Julie Walters
Director: Stephen Daldry
Little Billy has big dreams of dancing Ballet. Unfortunately his dad says dancing is for sissies. Billy and his no-nonsense ballet teacher won’t let that stop him. Life-affirming, delightful, and poignant, Stephen Daldry’s movie is sure to be a feel-good classic for years to come.
Monday, July 6, 2009
Elder Care and Guilt Issues
After reading this article it brought some much of what I hear every day in my line of work. I am not sure if anyone saw the ABC show Family Issues. It was a very powerful show about a newly married couple that had the husband's mother who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's move in with them. Such a sad story. As this article mentions there is so much information and support for what we call the "adult child". If any one needs any questions answered or some support numbers please feel free to contact me.
By D. Gibson
Our society is in denial when it comes to aging. We spend millions trying to avoid looking like we have grown older. Sooner or later, however, we have to deal with aging, particularly when it effects our parents. This raises the issue of elder care and guilt.
Most people view life as a simple time line. You are born, your parents raise you, you become an adult and then you raise your own family. Most people do not factor in the subject of caring for their parents. When it becomes a necessity, it can be a huge wake up call from both a financial, emotional and practical point of view.
Many adults find themselves faced with making decisions on behalf of their parents. This often starts with small issues and then eventually blossoms into a wider range of subjects. This role reversal can result in the dredging up of old, painful issues as well as simply being a burden on the person making the decision.
As you become more involved in your parent's life, you will natural emotional reactions. These can range from the simple frustration of having to deal with them to guilt for thinking that way to anger to, well, the full gambit of feelings. How you deal with these issues is critical to getting through the process.
Dealing with parental issues is very mentally taxing. Now is not the time to play the tough guy role. Do what you must, but make sure you take care of yourself as well. Take time out each week for you. If things are rough, join a support group. It can make an absolute world of difference to be able to vent to someone who knows what you are going though. This is particularly true if you have a family member suffering from a form of dementia like Alzheimer's Disease.
Guilt is probably the biggest issue that people have trouble with. You have to nip this one in the bud. Growing old is a natural part of life. It happens to everyone. This also means the onset of ailments for many seniors. Again, this is a natural part of the cycle of life. While it may not be easy to go through, it is not your fault. You must live your life as well.
Elder care is become a huge issue as our population ages. Your parents are going to get older. They are going to need help. Don't think for a minute that you will not have to deal with these issues. You will. The key is to understand what is going on, prepare for it and keep as even a keel as you can. Remember to make time for yourself and consider joining a support group so you can vent a bit.
By D. Gibson
Our society is in denial when it comes to aging. We spend millions trying to avoid looking like we have grown older. Sooner or later, however, we have to deal with aging, particularly when it effects our parents. This raises the issue of elder care and guilt.
Most people view life as a simple time line. You are born, your parents raise you, you become an adult and then you raise your own family. Most people do not factor in the subject of caring for their parents. When it becomes a necessity, it can be a huge wake up call from both a financial, emotional and practical point of view.
Many adults find themselves faced with making decisions on behalf of their parents. This often starts with small issues and then eventually blossoms into a wider range of subjects. This role reversal can result in the dredging up of old, painful issues as well as simply being a burden on the person making the decision.
As you become more involved in your parent's life, you will natural emotional reactions. These can range from the simple frustration of having to deal with them to guilt for thinking that way to anger to, well, the full gambit of feelings. How you deal with these issues is critical to getting through the process.
Dealing with parental issues is very mentally taxing. Now is not the time to play the tough guy role. Do what you must, but make sure you take care of yourself as well. Take time out each week for you. If things are rough, join a support group. It can make an absolute world of difference to be able to vent to someone who knows what you are going though. This is particularly true if you have a family member suffering from a form of dementia like Alzheimer's Disease.
Guilt is probably the biggest issue that people have trouble with. You have to nip this one in the bud. Growing old is a natural part of life. It happens to everyone. This also means the onset of ailments for many seniors. Again, this is a natural part of the cycle of life. While it may not be easy to go through, it is not your fault. You must live your life as well.
Elder care is become a huge issue as our population ages. Your parents are going to get older. They are going to need help. Don't think for a minute that you will not have to deal with these issues. You will. The key is to understand what is going on, prepare for it and keep as even a keel as you can. Remember to make time for yourself and consider joining a support group so you can vent a bit.
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