A little stress can be a great motivator, as any student can tell you. A lot of stress, however, can often create more of an obstacle than a benefit. This is true when it comes to many things, including health-promoting behaviors, relationships, and even our memories. Stress can inhibit the way we form and retrieve […]
An old adage is again proving true: What we think will happen, happens. Essentially, as we age, we become what we think we will become. This is the thesis that Yale University professor of public health and psychology, Becca Levy, Ph.D., has been researching for more than 20 years. One study authored by Dr. Levy […]
This is usually the most difficult activity you and your caregiver will have to do on a regular basis. It’s an intimate experience that may make you feel threatened, uncomfortable, or frightened. In some cases, your caregiver may even have to get in the shower with you to help you feel more secure. Other causes […]
FOR THE CAREGIVER These are tips to help you begin the journey: Allow grieving to take place. Let yourself be angry or depressed! Recognize your feelings and accept them. Keep a journal with your feelings and thoughts. Realize that these feelings are normal. Keeping a journal allows you to vent without hurting your loved one […]
Our attraction to food or lack thereof is a good way to detect potential problem with your senior loved one. Did your Dad love to eat but no longer finds that appealing. It could be a problem. Change in appetite may be a sign of depression. Is Mom or Dad losing or gaining weight??? If […]
Its a wonderful time of the year–for everyone. If you are caring for someone with Alzheimers there are some easy safety tips to ensure a pleasant summertime experience. Ensure your loved one stays in the shade and try not to have them outdoors between 10-2. Wear sunglasses and a sun hat!! WATER WATER WATER–drink lots […]
Don’t panic if you forget things from time to time. We are busy people who have busy lives. If , however you have genuine concerns see your doctor. -SOMETIMES forgetting names or appointments is normal especially if you remember them later. If this disrupts your normal life you may want to see your doctor. […]
Everyone forgets occasionally but memory loss is nothing to take lightly. Consider some steps to sharpen your memory: -Stay mentally active- crossword puzzles, play a musical instrument,take a new route home from a friends house. -Socialize regularly. It helps ward off stress and depression. -Get organized- Clutter is not your friend. Limit distractions and do […]
We’ve all heard –you can’t drink from an empty cup,right?? There is nothing in the world more difficult than being a caregiver;especially if you feel like you are in over your head. Conversely the rewards are extraordinary…. If you find yourself feeling hopeless and helpless, have trouble relaxing or your entire life revolves around care […]
TRAVEL SAFETY You don’t have to stop traveling just because your loved one has dementia. It just requires careful planning to ensure safety, comfort and enjoyment for everyone. Before you travel, be sure to enroll your loved one in the Alzheimer’s Safe Return Program, a national registry that can help if your loved one wanders […]
“I promised I’d always take care of you and I would never put you in a nursing home…” Your loved one has been diagnosed with dementia and may ask you to make promises about how you will provide for their care, either now or in the future. A common promise that caregivers are asked to […]
Kemper House offers community educational events and programs. Please join us! MEMORY FITNESS SERIES: Please join us at one of these area libraries and learn about the impact that nutrition, exercise, and sleep have on our mental well-being. Thursday, August 24th 2:00pm: Brook Park Library “How Exercise Can Help Keep Your Mind Healthy“ Thursday, August 31th […]