Becoming forgetful is a common sign of getting older. In fact, at least half of all people over the age of 65 report feeling more forgetful than when they were younger. But when does forgetfulness start to cross the line into signs of dementia? This can be a stressful thing to worry about for seniors and those who care for them. Here are some of the differences between forgetfulness and dementia. [Read more…]
Dear Paul:
My mom was diagnosed with early Alzheimer’s disease about 18 months ago. Since then my father, sister and I have worked together to try to manage her illness at home.
Our challenge is that we all work full-time. So far we’ve been able to use home care aides to help during the daytime hours when none of us can be there. But lately my mom has started wandering and it often happens during the middle of the night when my dad is trying to sleep. Even though we have an alarm system on the house and a GPS watch that allows us to quickly locate her, it has just gotten to be too much. The three of us are exhausted from trying to take turns staying up at night to keep an eye on my mom. [Read more…]
Alzheimer’s disease is a difficult journey for both the older adult who lives with it and for their family. It is often referred to as “the long goodbye.”
When a senior you love has advanced Alzheimer’s, safely caring for them at home becomes increasingly difficult. Wandering is a common and dangerous behavior for people with Alzheimer’s disease.
The statistics on wandering are indeed frightening. Half of people with Alzheimer’s who wander and aren’t found within 24 hours are injured or die before they are located. This behavior often forces families to accept the idea that a memory care placement may be necessary.
Guilt and fear are very common emotions for loved ones to feel during this time. [Read more…]
A hospital stay is frightening and stressful at any age. When an adult has Alzheimer’s disease or a related form of dementia, the hospital can be especially difficult and disorienting.
Knowing what to expect and taking extra precautions to keep your loved one safe can make a hospital stay easier for everyone.
If your senior loved one will be admitted to a Dallas or Fort Worth area hospital for surgery or another procedure, request a private room. A calm, quiet is best for adults with Alzheimer’s disease. [Read more…]
Facing a diagnosis such as dementia with a loved one can be very challenging. The concerns around your loved one’s health are paramount, of course. Soon, though, comes the reality of finding adequate care for him or her. Factors such as location, levels of care, and finances come into play. You have several options for Dallas Memory Care facilities. [Read more…]