Short-term memory problems. Confusion. Inability to focus. Could it be dementia? Possibly; but if you’re a cancer survivor, there’s another likely culprit that could be at play: chemotherapy. Known as “chemo brain” or by its technical...
Read moreReaching Seniors with Dementia Effectively – Virtually
Imagine for a second how it might feel to struggle with the cognitive complications of Alzheimer’s disease. The family and friends who are closest to you are no longer familiar. The words and phrases that would roll off your tongue without...
Read moreAlzheimer’s Disease Research Brings New and Unexpected Information
If there is one constant in Alzheimer’s disease research, it is change. It seems as though whenever scientists begin to get a grasp on one aspect, emerging insight shifts their hypotheses in a different direction. That’s certainly the situation...
Read moreDementia Behaviors: How to Respond Safely to Aggression Using the 6 R’s
Of the many difficult dementia behaviors, possibly the most challenging to manage is aggression. A senior who has always been mild-mannered can suddenly lash out in outbursts which are truly intimidating: hitting, yelling, cursing, kicking...
Read moreSleep Problems in the Elderly with Dementia and How to Help
If it appears as though a senior loved one with Alzheimer’s has totally rewritten the rules on when and how to sleep, you’re not dreaming. For reasons that aren’t yet entirely understood, sleep problems in the elderly with dementia are due to...
Read moreDiscussing a Possible Alzheimer’s Diagnosis with a Doctor
Anxiety. Embarrassment. Fear. The thoughts and feelings caused by a possible Alzheimer’s diagnosis may cause seniors to keep their suspicions to themselves. A recent AARP survey peeled away a few of the layers of emotion to find the root...
Read moreLatino Families Impacted by Dementia with Greater Decline and Depression
A new study sponsored by the Alzheimer’s Association is revealing some surprising results in how dementia may present differently in Hispanics. While further exploration is needed to fully understand whether these differences are the result of...
Read moreNew Findings on the Symptoms and Progression of Alzheimer’s
For decades, researchers have been examining the advancement of Alzheimer’s through one basic model, even though the symptoms and progression of Alzheimer’s can vary from person to person. Now, however, a new, collaborative study between...
Read moreHow Quickly Can Dementia Progress?
One of the primary questions in most people’s minds when a family member is diagnosed with dementia is, “How quickly can dementia progress in the coming months and years?” We know that the unmistakable sign of dementia is the increasing decline...
Read moreWhen Short-Term Clarity Returns in Late Stage Alzheimer’s and What it Means in the Search for a Cure
Can cognitive function return in late stage Alzheimer’s? In fact, yes, albeit short-term. Previously termed “terminal lucidity,” it’s more frequently referred to now as “paradoxical lucidity.” It signifies a sudden, short-term return of clarity...
Read moreEnriching Activities for Seniors Living with Vision Loss and Dementia
Finding engaging and fun activities for a family member with dementia can be a challenge. Add in vision impairment, and it could seem nearly impossible. Nevertheless, it’s extremely important to ensure each day holds opportunities for joy...
Read moreSenior Dementia Care 101: The Benefits of Creating a Memory Book for a Loved One
“Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory.” – Dr. Seuss Memories are the glue that binds together our past with who we are today; and for someone with Alzheimer’s disease, confusion around these memories...
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