Blog

Maybe it’s not Alzheimer’s

February 19, 2024 — “Dementia” is not a diagnosis in and of itself. It describes a collection of symptoms that involve memory and thinking that are enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer’s is the most common cause, but there are many other reasons a person might have dementia symptoms. Most of the conditions that cause dementia cannot be... Read More

Tech support for your relative(s)

February 12, 2024 — Technology has done wonders to help us stay connected with family members. But beginning users have to learn new terms and skills. In-person classes are often available through senior centers or the library. And AARP’s AgeTech Collaborative offers online video tutorials and classes through SeniorPlanet.org. Even if you seek to provide less complicated devices, it’s... Read More

Burn and fire safety

February 5, 2024 — Persons over age 65 are 2.6 times more likely than the general population to die in a home fire. That’s alarming! Older adults most often incur burns at home, typically when cooking or bathing. The most common burn injuries are from scalding hot water or flames. Many factors contribute to an older adult’s high susceptibility... Read More

Early-onset dementia: Money issues

January 29, 2024 — Finances are bound to be a concern if your spouse has received a diagnosis of dementia before age 65. As in many households, your partner’s job may cover important monthly bills. And perhaps essentials such as family health insurance or retirement funding. In the early stages, your partner may be able to reduce hours or... Read More

Making the most of regret

January 22, 2024 — Regret tends to be one of those emotions we’d prefer not to feel. Which is unfortunate, according to researcher Brené Brown. Her point is that “regret can be a fair but tough teacher.” If we don’t let regret mire us in the past—with self-blame and guilt—then we can use it to guide our future. Regret... Read More

Acting as a “human guide”

January 15, 2024 — If the person you care for has a low-vision diagnosis, you are likely concerned about their ability to orient themselves and learn to move safely without falling or becoming injured. Many people with low vision rely on the assistance of a “human guide.” You may already serve in that function for your loved one. Perhaps... Read More

Skin care and aging

January 8, 2024 — The skin is the body’s largest organ and its essential “armor.” To maintain good health, skin needs extra attention as we age. The skin has three layers. Working together, they act as the body’s shield by preventing bacteria and viruses from getting into the body and keeping body fluids from evaporating out; insulation by preserving... Read More

Positive connections with staff

January 1, 2024 — Your loved one’s daily experience in a hospital, rehab, or assisted living community—even at home with paid home help—greatly depends on the aides who care for them. You can help ensure a good experience by building a positive relationship with those staff so they are inclined to go the extra mile, even on a bad... Read More

Choosing a “senior tablet”

December 25, 2023 — Much of life’s interactions occurs online these days. If your loved one is not tech savvy, has mild dementia, or has little access to support in a facility, you might consider a “senior tablet.” They have limitations compared to the typical consumer tablet, but could well be worth it. They are streamlined and simplified so... Read More

Dementia: Navigating the airport

December 18, 2023 — As exciting as a trip can be, for a person with dementia, the loss of routine is confusing. And the loud, large, busy terminal spaces are often distressing. Too much stimuli! Your job is to keep the process as calm and unhurried as possible. If you are rushing, flustered, and anxious, your loved one with... Read More