by Priscilla Pittman, MSW, MA Alzheimer’s Arkansas Programs and Services Do we participate in a community group or attend a particular church or temple and enjoy doing for others? Providing time and effort for others whether or not we know them is a rewarding experience. But we really don’t like to have needs or […]
By Priscilla Pittman, MSW, MA Opinionator…Wow! The computer doesn’t like that word. But we all have opinions don’t we. This time of year we only seem to hear political opinions and unless we have the time to do a fact check we may turn a deaf ear to those as well. A number of […]
By Priscilla Pittman, MSW, MA Anger is a warning sign that something is wrong and resolution is needed. When the warning signs are ignored others may not know what has bothered us and we are likely to respond with self-destructive behaviors such as over-eating, spending, etc. Stuffing anger can also be destructive and can […]
ROUTINE will help someone with AD anticipate what to do next and what is expected of them. It sets boundaries that feel secure. RITUALS or lifelong habits should be maintained. Don’t try to break old habits. For example, if the individual never enjoyed crafts, don’t expect to involve him/her in crafts now. REASSESS physical health […]
Follow these steps if a person with Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia drives or wanders away: Try to remain calm Thoroughly search the house and surrounding area (yard, garage, storage buildings) If not found within 5 minutes, Contact your local police or sheriff department. Tell them the person has dementia Ask them about issuing […]
By Carol Bradley Bursack As people age, they tend to sleep more lightly and often awaken during the night from achy joints or the need to go to the bathroom. Many people compensate for this lost sleep by catching a restorative nap during the day. That’s normal. Daytime sleeping becomes a problem when an elder […]
by Dan Kuhn, A.C.S.W (Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Center) Those who care for loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease or a related disorder are most fortunate if they enjoy the sustained support of others through-out the long course of the disease. Even the closest relationships may be tested to the limits in such difficult circumstances. A […]
by: Joseph and Kathleen Bryan Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center (ADRC) Duke University Medical Center “My husband used to get up often at night and was very confused. I finally got him to rest in his recliner in front of the TV and he calmed down and fell asleep. He seems to feel more secure […]
