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Understanding Dementia and Alzheimers Disease

Understanding Dementia and Alzheimers Disease will dispute the saying: “It’s just old age, don’t be concerned about it. We’ll all be there someday.”

When Granny forgot the simplest of things, It was common to believe that her memory loss was due to getting older. I did not want to get that old!

For my 5 critical tips on communicating with dementia and Alzheimers, click here.

Dementia and Alzheimers Disease are not confined to the aged. Both Alzheimers and dementia can strike people as young as 30s; they are not simply diseases of the elderly. It is difficult to care for someone at any age when they begin to lose their ability to think, talk, or connect with others in a rational way.

Alzheimer’s disease is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. It destroys brain cells thus causing varying states of memory loss. Through clinical trials and advanced research, progress has been made on slowing down this process; however, there is no known cure at this time.

Often overlooked is vitamin deficiencies or medication side effects. Symptoms due to vitamin deficiencies, medication side effects, or other medical conditions need to be considered. It is very important to be observant, keep notes, and inform the medical staff of any changes in memory or behavior.

Most caregivers are family members, especially in the early stages. Nearly 15 percent of those are long-distance caregivers, living an hour or more away from their loved ones. If you find yourself in this situation, know you are not alone. There are helps out there for you and others who have walked the path before you.

One helpful tool is a daily journal. Obviously, you won’t be able to journal everything; you can note major behavioral changes. For instance: did your loved one simply forget an appointment this week, or is this happening more frequently? As you consistently write down changes, you may see a pattern develop which could prove helpful in treatment.

Trustworthy information is vital. Find direct answers to many of your questions at the Alzheimers Association website with up-to-date information and good referral sites. Click here for more.

We are learning more about dementia, Alzheimers and other illnesses. New scientific discoveries in medicines and care are encouraging. I am thankful for those in the trenches, discovering new medicines and techniques to help the many suffering from these diseases.

I’m most thankful for those of you who spend your valuable time caring for those who cannot care for themselves. I pray often for you and for those in your care.

Hugs,

Did you realize that coloring books are not just another craze? Coloring has been a helpful tool in communicating with others. Do you know someone who would benefit from my Patches Coloring and Activity Book?

Individualized Music for Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease

Posted on February 21, 2015 by adminOctober 25, 2016

For persons with dementia and its many forms, stress is a very real problem. Concerned family members and caregivers are at a loss to make life better.

What is Individualized Music?

Recent studies using music therapy–particularly individualized music–have proven that music can play a key role in making life easier. Individualized music is music that has been a part of a person’s life and is based on personal preference

Why music works better than conversation.

As memory fades, so does one’s ability to process other sensory stimuli, thus an increase in stress and agitated behavior. Too often we assume the patient is simply overly demanding and should be able to control themselves. Music generally has a calming effect on others by changing the focus of attention If music chosen to play is familiar and associated with positive feelings, the music with have a soothing effect.

I does not take much time or effort to make a difference.

Just thirty minutes a day for two or three days a week has proven to make a significant difference in the anxiety level of the entire household. The family can be involved; children want to be helpful but are confused. Perhaps they can be in charge of playing music at a certain time, or sitting by the elderly person and listening with them.

Some tips in choosing the music:

1 Remember the music is for the patient, not you. If they cannot verbalize their preferences, choose music from their era or something you recall them singing or listening to.

2 Be cautious with volume; loud enough to hear, not so loud it grates on the nerves.

3. Vary the tunes, consider videos and audios. Find some perky children’s tunes that generate smiles and happy feelings.

4. Short periods of time will generally be more effective than too much music at one setting.

5. Not everyone responds to music therapy; be sensitive to the needs of each individual.

Whatever you do, music or other things, always serve with a smile. We all know, a genuine smile is good medicine for the giver as well as the recipient.

Hugs,

For a more detailed study by the World Journal of Psychiatry, click here.

5 Tips on Communicating with Alzheimers or Dementia Patients

Communicating with Alzheimers or Dementia Patients

Whether friend, family or caregiver, communicating with Alzheimers or dementia patients is stressful and often awkward and uncomfortable.

Consider how confusing and frustrating this must be to the individual coping with these changes. Here are some useful tips to ease tension and encourage open communication.

Make eye contact as you enter the room. Look directly into their eyes when you talk. For the best results in establishing any communication, do not look down on the person. If they are seated, sit beside them when possible. Talking at eye level communicates genuine caring.
Address the person by his/her name; the name they are familiar with. Be sure your voice and expressions give clear signs of love and concern. Avoid using “sweetie” or “honey” as they need to hear and recognize their own name.
Be sensitive of the individuals’ personal space. A confused person may feel threatened if you are too close or you insist on hugging them. Observe heir reactions to know what touching is acceptable. A warm handshake and caring smile will help them grow comfortable in your presence and feel less threatened.
Listen for key words or phrases. As you begin to understand what they are trying to talk about, try repeating a sentence or two in your own words. Letting others know you are truly wanting to understand will go a long way in opening dialog.
Proceed with confidence. Remember the person you know and love is still there and most likely wants/needs to share his/her feelings. Do not be afraid to attempt conversation, however limited it may be.

As you find comfortable ways to show love and acceptance of your loved one, you will be rewarded. The reward may come in an unexpected kiss on the cheek, a squeeze of your hand, or a simple gleam in the eye of one hungering for assurance.

Imagine for a moment how you would feel if you could not share your feelings or desires with others. Often a confused person is waiting for affirmation and encouragement and you and I can do that for them.

Blessings on you as you give of your best to a hurting world.

Hugs,

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