What should I tell my grandchildren about Alzheimer’s disease?

    May 18, 2012

    Children handle these types of things differently and can have widely varying reactions, depending on their age, upbringing and personality. They also will devise different ways of coping. But no matter what the age, be honest with them — at a level they can comprehend. Then let your grandchildren talk openly about their feelings. Having someone [...]

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    I’m a member of the ‘sandwich generation’ and need help now that Alzheimer’s has entered the picture

    May 17, 2012

    “Sandwich generation” refers to individuals or families that find themselves raising not only their children but also parents or other elderly relatives, often while also holding a job. This obviously is a complicated scenario and can be very stressful for everyone involved. The oldest might become harsh or impatient with the younger members of the [...]

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    What’s recommended when looking for an in-home caregiver?

    May 16, 2012

    There are several groups that can give you a list of private-duty agencies that provide in-home care in your area, including: the Alzheimer’s Association, your Area Agency on Aging, Department on Aging, and Social and Rehabilitation Services. You can find a wide range of abilities and offerings, from aides to sitters and homemakers. They can [...]

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    How likely is it that my loved one with more lucid days and less lucid days with Alzheimer’s?

    May 11, 2012

    It is very likely he or she will be just like anyone else: The person will have good days and bad days, clearer days and foggier days. Sometimes it will seem like nothing is wrong; others, there will be no doubt Alzheimer’s is at work. On a good day, the person might remember things like [...]

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    Can I seriously consider being blessed to be a caregiver?

    May 10, 2012

    As devastating as Alzheimer’s is, you can look at it as a burden or a blessing. We cannot control so much of our life — like what people think of us or how they run their lives. Or whether we get a disease. But what we CAN control is our own reactions. While it might [...]

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    Does music help aggressive behavior in dementia patients?

    May 9, 2012

    Generally speaking, most individuals with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia respond well to music. Music is known as “the international language” and can be very helpful in many therapy endeavors. Of course, responses depend greatly on the individual, the Alzheimer’s stage — and sometimes even to the degree the person liked (or didn’t like) [...]

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    Sometimes my mother totally refuses to cooperate with me (for dressing, cleaning up, etc.). But if we call in a familiar nurse-aide, Mom’s a peach and there are no problems. What gives?

    May 3, 2012

    The difference in relationships matters. Non-relatives sometimes have easier access or more cooperation precisely because they are NOT family members. Many times, loved ones are harder on their relatives than anyone else. Your mother probably feels she can act however she wants around relatives. Sometimes, loved ones don’t have good relationships to start with and [...]

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    My father has Alzheimer’s and is abusive to many of us, including my mother, who lives with him. How can we help her?

    May 2, 2012

    Even if an abuser has Alzheimer’s disease and can’t control his temper because of it, it is still difficult to put up with. But you can’t take it personally.  If his behavior is merely an extension of the way he used to treat people, you at least know what is happening. But if it’s a [...]

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    If a person has Alzheimer’s disease, how important are routines for them?

    May 1, 2012

    This is a very good question because routines are very, very important. A steady routine will be familiar and comforting as a person with Alzheimer’s progresses into the disease and loses more memory. If you live with your loved one, make everything a part of a schedule or routine if possible. You should do this [...]

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    Would it be helpful to have my mother hold a doll since she is in Stage 5 of Alzheimer’s and always looking for ‘her children’?

    April 27, 2012

    There are pros and cons to this, but it is probably worth a try. It has worked for many people who have Alzheimer’s since a basic human need is to nurture. There have been many people with Alzheimer’s who have thought the doll was real. It can be beneficial, as they carry the doll everywhere [...]

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