Dementia & Diabetes: The Missing Link?
By Janice Wood Associate News Editor People with diabetes face a far greater risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and now researchers at The City College of New York say they have found a reason why. Biologist Dr. Chris Li and her colleagues found that a single gene, known to be present in many Alzheimer’s disease […]
8 Steps to Consider If You Are a Family Caregiver. Steps 6-8
Step 6. Define and set limits. Some of the behaviors of a person with dementia, such as wandering away from home, erratic sleep patterns, and violent or belligerent conduct, may compromise the health and safety of your loved one and/or others in the home. Write down and talk to others about what you perceive ahead […]
8 Steps to Consider If You Are a Family Caregiver. Steps 4 & 5
Step 4. Facilitate conversations. Discussion about health conditions, finances, legal affairs, and end-of-life care are often difficult conversations at best, even among loving family members. But they are critical to understanding the needs and desires of our loved ones as they age, particularly if we become the guardian of those wishes. Timing and place are […]
8 Steps to Consider If You Are a Family Caregiver.Steps 2-3
Step 2. Educate yourself and your loved ones about dementia. “If only I knew then what I know now” is an irony known to many dementia caregivers. Knowing what to expect prepares you to navigate the difficult road ahead. It also provides tools for dealing with some of the cognitive and behavioral challenges associated with […]
8 Steps to Consider If You Are a Family Caregiver
Most people do not consciously choose to become a primary caregiver for a loved one with dementia. As devoted and loving family members or friends, we usually assume this new role without much consideration, preparation, or planning. By creating a strategic plan of care from the outset, however, we can significantly enhance our ability to […]
How to Communicate with People Who Have Dementia Part 6
Determine “Who makes the decision?” Health-care decisions should be made by the agent appointed in an advance directive or medical durable power of attorney. In some States you may need to have a mental health power of attorney. Please check with the Attorney Generals office in your State for the proper legal documents that are […]
How to Communicate with People Who Have Dementia Part 5
Ask yourself, “What difference does it make?” The simple question, “What difference does it make?” may simplify the complex question of “How cognitively intact must a person be to make this decision?” For instance, it matters very little if a person’s clothing matches (the person with dementia can choose what to wear); or what a […]
How to Communicate with People Who Have Dementia Part 5
Use important nonverbal communications. Using these tips is key to showing respect and to enhancing the quality of life for individuals with dementia—and may be more important than verbal communication Smile and be at ease. The message being conveyed is one of trust and respect. Notice your facial cues. Avoid furrowing your brows, rolling your […]
How to Communicate with People Who Have Dementia Part 3
Use these verbal communication tips Good communication skills are critical to respecting the autonomy of individuals living with dementia and to encouraging them to make their own choices. The following communication techniques are respectful and socially engaging, and they encourage choice: Maintain eye contact with the person. Use the person’s name frequently. […]
How to Communicate with People Who Have Dementia
Recognize the difference between competency and capacity While individuals with dementia may be judged legally incompetent, they generally retain some cognitive capacity to make decisions and exercise personal choice. Preserving their personal choice is critical to respecting them, to enhancing their personal worth, and to fostering social engagement. Competency is a legal term. Because it […]
