Should You Tell a Loved One they have Alzheimer’s?

A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s is not only difficult for the person but affects their spouse, children, other family members and anyone who cares for them. However experts say it is important to remember the person is most affected, and if they ask you what is wrong, you should be honest and simple tell them. It may even give the person a sense of relief to know they are not insane and there is an explanation as to what is happening to them. 

That being said, medical professionals recommend if you can, have the person’s physician tell them but remember, a person afflicted with Alzheimer’s is forgetfulness especially regarding new information. This means they will probably ask again (and again) what is wrong with them and it will be up to you to tell them. Doctors advise you give a brief explanation.

Additionally the rest of the family needs to be told as well as the person’s friends. Doctors say often he or she will appear to be healthy especially in the early stages so it is only fair to let others know so they do not mistake “odd” behaviors for craziness or meanness. 

Another reason it is helpful for people to know about the person’s condition is they can do some research on how to best respond and communicate with their loved one or friend. The National Institute on Aging (NIA) says to:

Give simple, step-by-step instructions.

Repeat instructions and allow more time for a response. Try not to interrupt.

Not talk about the person as if he or she isn't there.

Not talk to the person using “baby talk” or a “baby voice.”    

MorningStar at Silver Lake (formerly known as Garden Court Retirement) is honored to offer the finest independent living and assisting living in Everett, WA. Designed for active seniors 55+ who seek a vibrant, independent lifestyle with conveniences, we offer a selection of floorplans, resort-style amenities, and a range of care and hospitality services. For unparalleled independent senior living in Everett, please visit our website for information regarding availability and pricing. 

Source: 

health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/what-should-you-tell-someone-who-has-alzheimers-disease

nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-caregiving-changes-communication-skills

Alzheimer’s Research is Working to Improve Lives

In a recent article from Medical News Today, experts explain the various areas dementia research is focused on including: “understanding how the condition works, why it develops, and how it might be treated. Importantly, there is also a focus on how we can improve the lives of people with dementia.” 

Dr. Kellyn Lee, a chartered psychologist and research fellow in aging and dementia at the University of Southampton, in the U.K., is one researcher focused on trying to improve the lives of those suffering from dementia. Her program, called the “Material Citizenship Framework Project,” is being used to demonstrate to staff working with dementia patients just how important patients’ possessions and identities are to their wellbeing. Dr. Lee says in one case an Alzheimer’s patient was distressed at not recognizing herself. It turns out before her illness; she dyed her hair and didn’t recognize the woman in the mirror with gray hair. Personal possessions can help people to connect with and help maintain their identity. Dr. Lee explains, “Losing access to frequently used possessions can cause disempowerment and confusion. To observers, this confusion can sometimes seem like dementia progression.”

Another group of researchers are working to improve the lives of people in the advanced stages of Alzheimer’s with the development of HUG comforters. These soft blankets have weighted limbs, a heartbeat and the ability to play the person’s favorite music. Studies show a HUG can help reduce anxiety and agitation, and embrace the person in a soft hug. 

In the on-going race for effective treatments for Alzheimer’s, some researchers are looking at repurposing certain drugs. One example is a drug used to treat type 2 diabetes. Metformin has shown to improve symptoms in Alzheimer’s patients in a small clinical trial but more studies need to be done. Others are studying the connection between cardiac disease and Alzheimer’s and how decreased blood flow adversely impacts our brains.   

At MorningStar of North Ridge, we specialize in serving those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Every aspect of our community is geared toward residents’ care from meaningful activities, trained caregivers, food service, security and more. If your loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s or a dementia-related disease, they deserve the best memory care in Albuquerque. Please visit our website to learn more.

Gift Ideas for a Loved One with Alzheimer’s

If mom or dad or another loved one has Alzheimer’s disease, we have a gift idea sure to bring a smile to their face. Robotic pets are soothing companions to those in the middle and later stages of Alzheimer’s; and a proven resource for providing a means for social interactions as well as stirring memories of when they felt useful. Furthermore a 2016 study published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease reports “robots helped decrease stress and anxiety and also caused a reduction in the use of psychoactive medications and pain medications for patients with dementia.”

A robotic pet allows a person to feel like they are providing care for someone – not always on the receiving end of it. However dementia experts caution the “pet” should be introduced slowly to the person so as not to overwhelm them with feelings of too much responsibility. The Alzheimer’s Association explains it is best to introduce pet or doll therapy in a controlled atmosphere. They add when you let the person take responsibility rather than giving them the doll to play with, it can bring structure to their lives. Experts say people not verbalizing anymore may start to initiate speech as it is natural to murmur comforting words. 

A robotic pet can also be a distraction when the person is starting to get agitated or upset and encourages hugs and kisses. Many of the robotic dogs or cats on the market are loaded with realistic actions including barking or purring and tail wagging, and some even respond to the person’s motions, voice and touch. 

At MorningStar of North Ridge, our mission is to support both residents and their families by providing the services, wellness programs and activities essential to quality of life. Our unique philosophy and approach to memory care support is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call Lavender Sky; and we use a broad range of Montessori-based therapy techniques to walk alongside residents during this unexpected, difficult journey. Your loved one deserves the most trusted Alzheimer’s care in Albuquerque; please visit our website for contact information. 

Source: medicalxpress.com/news/2020-05-therapy-pets-alzheimer-patients-nowbut.html

Certain Medications are Associated with an Increased Risk for a Fall

The Center for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) reports 36 million older adults fall each year—resulting in more than 32,000 deaths. Of those falls, 3 million seniors are treated in emergency departments for fall injuries; and one out of every five falls causes an injury, such as broken bones or a head injury. With these alarming statistics, experts say it is important for seniors to know their risk for a fall including whether they are taking medications associated with an increased risk. 

The first step is to talk to your doctor to see if you are taking one of these medications, as medications are the most common reason for falls. Furthermore experts say adjusting or making a change in medication is the easiest thing to do to help prevent a fall. If it is determined you are taking a medication like one known to cause light-headedness, dizziness, sudden drop in blood pressure, or chronically low blood pressure or hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), you and your healthcare team can regularly re-evaluate your need and dosage. 

Another way to mitigate your risk for a fall is to do exercises designed to improve leg strength and balance. In addition be sure to get an annual eye exam and update your glasses as needed. Lastly check your home for trip hazards (keep clutter out of hallways and stairways) and install grab bars and better lighting where needed. 

At MorningStar at Silver Lake, we know your independence is important, and our goal is to make it easier for you to maintain it. We offer seniors in Everett, WA independent living and assisted living with all the comforts of home. Our maintenance-free lifestyle provides a chance to begin new adventures, meet a broader community of like-minded individuals and enjoy your precious retirement years. Visit our website for more information, and if you have further questions, please give us a call and don’t forget to ask about our Move-in Specials.

Source:dailycaring.com/10-medications-that-cause-falls-use-with-caution/

Trusted, Holistic Memory Care in Albuquerque

MorningStar of North Ridge specializes in providing individualized care for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and dementia-related diseases. Our community has 38 suites with studio and one-bedroom floor plans and is equipped to care for residents from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. 

MorningStar’s holistic care is personalized and compassionate supported living under what we call Lavender Sky, which is the way we thoughtfully enter, embrace, and explore to find purpose and encouragement in every aspect of daily routine. As dementia care specialists, we deeply understand the disease and know regardless of the extent of memory loss residents deserves to be treated with kindness, respect and dignity. All team members are trained in MorningStar’s brand standards of Lavender Sky and in the pathology of dementia and brain disease. Caregivers provide 24/7 assistance with eating, bathing, dressing and have the tools to calm or stimulate a resident as needed.  

Our Reflections neighborhood is secure, and includes an enclosed courtyard and suites equipped with emergency call systems and handicap-accessible bathrooms. Along with scheduled outings and other essential care elements, we provide a range of meaningful activities that gives residents a soothing sense of routine. Activities include music and pet therapy to calm; art therapy to slow the progression of memory loss; and reminiscence therapy to exercise memory recollection.

The MorningStar of North Ridge’s entire community is geared toward residents’ care including our purposeful activities, trained caregivers, food service, security and more. Our home has been designed to allow residents the freedom to safely move about and interact with loving team members who are available for friendly company and support. 

If your loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s or a dementia-related disease, we know you want the very best memory care in Albuquerque; and we consider it ourprivilege to walk alongside your family on this challenging path. Please visit our website to learn more our beautiful home, our team and our company’s philosophy to caring for seniors.

In-home Care Services VS Senior Living Communities

If a loved one is requiring more and more daily care to safely and comfortably live at home, you may want to look into a senior living community that offers assisted living. Experts say while it is difficult to compare costs, there are several points you need to consider to determine if community living is the better option.

First off, if mom or dad is still living in their own home, you need to take into account the burden of caring for both the property and the home. As much of this work requires heavy labor, it is probably being performed by paid caretakers. Now add in the cost of home insurance, utilities, cable etc.; and owning a home is not as inexpensive as it appears. 

Likewise figure out how much it is costing if mom or dad is having someone come into the home as a caregiver on a regular basis. Calculations show paying for as little as 20 hours of in-home care a week can be more expensive than many assisted living communities (remember most offer 24/7 care). In assisted living, if your loved one’s health changes, it is easy to adjust the level of care. 

Along with care services and home maintenance expenses, add up everything else provided by an assisted living community. Keep in mind meals are included in most communities, and many provide scheduled transportation to doctor visits and to run errands. Residents are also treated to amenities such as restaurant-style dining, bistros, onsite theatres, life enrichment activities, fitness centers and more. Another thing that comes complementary in senior living is the opportunity to socialize.  

MorningStar at Silver Lakes is the newest addition to independent living and assisted living in Everett, WA. Formerly known as the Garden Court, MorningStar Senior Living has proudly earned a reputation for family satisfaction second to none and offers residents the care and amenities they need to lead a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and security. In addition we offer respite care (short recuperative stays) and trial stays (from a week to a full month) to see if we are a good fit. To learn more about our community, visit our website, and be sure to ask about our Move-in Specials.

When is the Right Time for Memory Care?

Dementia care specialists say they are often asked when is the best time to place a loved one in memory care. The simple answer is it is different for each person as well as for each family. They add while there is no definitive answer, there may be a downside to waiting too long and typically there is not a problem moving a person into memory care in the early stages. 

Experts recommend families start the search for memory care once the level of daily care needed has surpassed that of what a family can effectively and safely provide. Caring for a loved one with dementia is both physically and emotionally challenging for family caregivers, and caregiver burnout is a real problem that can impact the caregiver’s health and wellbeing. Placing a person in a community specializing in dementia care allows family members to ease their role as caregiver and instead spend quality time with their loved one. 

It is important to keep in mind people in the later stages of Alzheimer’s lose a lot of their mobility. A petite woman trying to help her husband with the activities of daily living such as bathing, toileting, and dressing is difficult and can result in injuries to both of them. A designated Alzheimer’s care home can handle all of these tasks as they have the training, staff, and equipment to safely assist residents and prevent accidents.  

Another common problem Alzheimer’s patients have is a tendency to wander. This is again an example of how Alzheimer’s communities are equipped to handle the problem. They have areas designed for residents to safely move about in but are secure in terms of wandering away from the community and getting lost or hurt.   

At MorningStar of North Ridge, we specialize in serving those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.  Every aspect of our community is geared toward residents’ care from meaningful activities, trained caregivers, food service, security and more. If your loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s or a dementia-related disease, they deserve the best memory care in Albuquerque. Please visit our website to learn more.

The Best Exercises for Older Adults

While we know exercise is good for us, certain ailments can make it more challenging for some seniors. However you may want to be mindful of advice from the Harvard Medical School that says, “Regular exercise promotes an older adult’s ability to walk, bathe, cook, eat, dress, and use the restroom. If self-reliance is a priority, exercise is one of the best ways to maintain independence for older adults.” In fact study after study has found exercise offers older adults a longer, healthier, and happy life; but before you begin, please check with your doctor on the best ones for your level of fitness.   

Low impact exercises such as water aerobics and chair yoga are especially good for seniors as they offer lots of benefits and are easy on the body. With water aerobics, the natural buoyancy of the water puts less stress on the joints and it can improve balance, flexibility and strength. Chair yoga puts less stress on the body than regular yoga and can easily being adjusted to the level of fitness for each person. It too offers many of the same benefits as water aerobics. 

An easy to start exercise that doesn’t require special equipment or skills is walking. While it can be done almost anywhere, studies have found walking on a nature trail offers physical exercise as well as a calming influence to the spirit. Another good exercise for seniors is Tai chi. According to the Harvard Medical School, it is shown to “strengthen the heart, improve balance and flexibility, slow the onset of dementia, reduces stress, lower blood pressure, and relieves the pain of rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia and more.” Other exercises for older adults include using resistance bands or doing Pilates to develop core strength and improve balance and flexibility.  

The new MorningStar at Silver Lake offers adults 55+ a vibrant and carefree lifestyle where they can comfortably and safely age in place. Our community provides independent living and assisted living with private apartments in a choice of studio and one- and two bedroom configurations. Along with independent living and assisted living, Everett’s MorningStar at Silver Lake offers respite care and short-term stays (from one week up to a full month). Visit our website for further information, and to ask about our Move-in Specials.

Source:

health.harvard.edu/promotions/harvard-health-publications/an-introduction-to-tai-chi-ecourse-nov2019-test?utm_source=delivra&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=EL20210522-TaiChi&utm_id=2955272&dlv-emuid=33b2f11b-97ca-447f-ab66-cfb4e7a55fa7&dlv-mlid=2955272