MedWorm provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest medical blog items that have been tagged with 'activities'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 01:57:16 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5130968&cid=t_167271_133_f&fid=35095&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAutismsEdges%2F%7E3%2FxgguL-RQVg8%2Foctopuss-garden-by-sea.html (Source: Autism's Edges) Autism's Edges blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5130968 Mon, 15 Aug 2011 02:18:00 +0100 5130968 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5086454&cid=t_167271_133_f&fid=35095&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAutismsEdges%2F%7E3%2FlTdyxsGy5AA%2Fat-last-we-are-muggles.html (Source: Autism's Edges) Autism's Edges blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5086454 Sun, 31 Jul 2011 18:57:00 +0100 5086454 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5036486&cid=t_167271_133_f&fid=35095&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAutismsEdges%2F%7E3%2FGtRh1qZyrxI%2Fsummmmertime-and-livin-is.html (Source: Autism's Edges) Autism's Edges blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5036486 Sun, 17 Jul 2011 16:58:00 +0100 5036486 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4968576&cid=t_167271_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F06%2F26%2Fdont-have-enough-time-7-practical-steps-to-try%2F Some mornings Theresa Daytner spends hours hiking. She also goes on trail rides, used to weight-lift twice a week with a trainer, reads nightly, watches her favorite TV show, enjoys massages, gets her hair done and planned a huge surprise birthday party for her husband, with people arriving from all over the country. And she sleeps at least seven hours a night. Oh, and as journalist Laura Vanderkam writes in her book, 168 Hours: You Have More Time Than You Think, Daytner is busier than most. She’s the owner of a seven-figure revenue company and the mother of six children, including twins! She also coaches soccer and regularly attends her kids’ games, is helping her 21-year-old plan a wedding and is expanding her business. I barely have time to clean my room, do one load of laundry, coo... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4968576 Sun, 26 Jun 2011 10:20:10 +0100 4968576 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4945243&cid=t_167271_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FjqLxe9r1q-s%2Freminiscence-therapy-by-karen-everett.html Remembering the past can bring a lot of satisfaction and understanding to anyone. For the elderly, it is a way to affirm who they are, what they’ve accomplished in their lives and a chance to relive happy times. For those who suffer with dementia, it is a way to talk easily about things they do remember. It is also a way for residents of assisted living facilities to become better acquainted with one another. This is helpful for caregivers as well as family members. I began my Reminiscence Therapy classes with a group at a local assisted living facility. The group varies in size from 12 to 20 people. I think a smaller group would probably be more beneficial as it would give each individual a better chance to participate. However, everyone voices positive thoughts on the sessions so we�... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4945243 Wed, 15 Jun 2011 13:43:00 +0100 4945243 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4934341&cid=t_167271_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F06%2F11%2Fcan-a-negative-emotion-like-regret-actually-make-you-happier%2F Assay: Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about the important role of negative emotions in a happy life. Some people seem to believe that the purpose of a happiness project would be to achieve a life in which you were 100% happy, 100% of the time. This isn’t realistic, and in any event, even if it were possible, it wouldn’t be desirable. Negative emotions are a key part of rational thought and effective performance. Also, up to a point, they can be of great service to happiness. They’re loud, flashy signs that something isn’t right. Because they’re so unpleasant, they can sometimes prod us to take action when nothing else can. For instance, envy and deception have helped me to make useful changes in my life. I just finished Neal Roese’s book, If Onl... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4934341 Sat, 11 Jun 2011 15:46:28 +0100 4934341 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4742480&cid=t_167271_112_f&fid=34971&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.drmalpani.com%2F2011%2F04%2Fwhy-doctors-should-refer-patients-to.html When doctors are stumped with a difficult patient, they will often refer the patient to a specialist, in order to help them with the diagnosis and management.However, while specialists can be very skilled at making the right diagnosis, they are often not very interested in helping the patient to learn to live with his disease. This is not an area which is of much interest to them, and not their core competence either.However, after the diagnosis has been made, the patient's life still carries on - and he is often unsure where to turn for help.For example, let's look at a young woman who goes to her family physician with the problem of blurring of vision. The physician dutifully refers her to an ophthalmologist, who then sends her on to a neurologist, who makes the diagnosis of multiple scl... The Patient's Doctor blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4742480 Fri, 22 Apr 2011 03:01:00 +0100 4742480 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4482984&cid=t_167271_165_f&fid=36770&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmetaot.com%2Fblog%2Fmeaningful-activities-and-programmes-do-med-high-age-care-facility I have just been offered a new position as OT at a 5star age care residential facility in an affulent area, to lead the lifestyle and well being programme. Currently there are 3 activity therapists working. My role will be to implement a range of purposeful activities, empower and educate the activity therapists adn ensure all residents are being offered a wide range of occupations and meaningful activities. Can anyone provide some infoif they have knowledge of working in a nursing home setting? Can anyone provide resources to purchase as I have a substantial budget to buy things to improve the service. I also want to ensure all residents have activites from thoses with progressive parkinsons, to less active residents to those physically active with dementia. I look forward to your ideas (... meta-ot blogs blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4482984 Wed, 16 Feb 2011 04:35:12 +0100 4482984 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4313961&cid=t_167271_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F01%2F05%2Fjournal-of-the-american-medical-association-2011-vol-305-no-1%2F This article aims to evaluate the relationship between gait speed and survival in geriatric patients. Pooled analysis of 9 cohort studies (collected between 1986 and 2000) measured the survival rates and life expectancy in geriatric patients. Predicted survival based on age, sex, and gait speed was as accurate as predicted based on age, sex, use of mobility aids, and self-reported function or as age, sex, chronic conditions, smoking history, blood pressure, body mass index, and hospitalisation. The article concludes that in this pooled analysis of individual data from 9 selected cohorts, gait speed was associated with survival in older adults. An NHS Athens password is required to access this article online alternatively contact the Library for a copy of the article. Fi... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4313961 Wed, 05 Jan 2011 09:45:28 +0100 4313961 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4214212&cid=t_167271_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FOzRN5W6g9a8%2F Now that Thanksgiving is over, we’re officially in the thick of the holiday season: Hanukkah is around the corner, Christmas is almost here, and even if you don’t celebrate either of those holidays, it’s hard to escape December without getting the holiday shopping itch. We don’t have anything against buying really good gifts for the people you love, but we do think there are better ways to spread cheer than to buy a bunch of gift sets, holiday specials, and seasonal treats that will end up in the trash or in your storage unit until this time next year. What’s more, if you can resist the impulse to buy a bunch of crap you don’t need, you might just have some money left over to do something fun with your friends and family that will leave you a lot happier... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4214212 Mon, 29 Nov 2010 20:00:00 +0100 4214212 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4200562&cid=t_167271_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fthanksgiving-and-your-priorities%2F2010.11.25 Here is my column in [the November 21st] Greenville News: This Thanksgiving we will have 32 guests at the table. Rather, at the tables we scatter about the dining room…and living room…and kitchen. At our house, food is practically a sacrament. And obviously Thanksgiving is the high holiday of American eating. So we will be honoring the tradition by feeding everyone as much as we can. Because the guests are all beloved to us, we will also have a variety of foods, in a variety of presentations. For instance, there will be fresh cranberries for organic purists, as well as a maroon gelatinous mass of cranberries for those who feel that cranberries indeed spring from aluminum. The turkeys will be divided perfectly among dark and light meat lovers. And for the carb-loving, there will be s... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4200562 Thu, 25 Nov 2010 13:00:38 +0100 4200562 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4164556&cid=t_167271_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F11%2F13%2Fwhat-not-to-say-to-a-depressed-person%2F I’m always on the lookout for articles that touch on ways to communicate to a friend or family member who is depressed because, well, it’s a delicate issue and one that deserves some education. I found this quiz on Everyday Health on what you should and should not say to a loved one struggling with depression. 1. Snap out of it! Your loved one hasn’t left the house in what seems like days. Should you tell him to pull himself up by his bootstraps and just snap out of it? Don’t say it. You may be tempted to tell someone who’s depressed to stop moping around and just shake it off. But depression is not something patients can turn on and off, and they’re not able to respond to such pleas. Instead, tell your loved one that you’re available to help them ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4164556 Sat, 13 Nov 2010 21:16:54 +0100 4164556 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4027161&cid=t_167271_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fbias-in-clinical-research-is-inevitable%2F2010.10.03 DrRich has said many times that clinical science is among the least exact of the sciences, and therefore, the results of clinical research are particularly susceptible to “spinning” by various interested parties, in order to yield the kind of results they would prefer to see. Until recent times in American medicine, the parties who have been most interested in spinning clinical research have been the people who run drug companies and medical device companies (who need clinical research which supports the use of their products), and the medical specialists (who are more likely to be paid for performing medical procedures that are supported by clinical research). In writing about such data-spinning abuses, DrRich has particularly targeted his own Cardiology Guild, but only because he kno... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4027161 Sun, 03 Oct 2010 12:00:16 +0100 4027161 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3938318&cid=t_167271_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Fand-theyre-off-labor-day-posting-schedule%2F Hello, you’ve reached Blisstree. We’re sorry we’re not here right now, but you see, today’s a federal holiday where we’re located (the U.S.), and we have the day off work. (Wait, you thought we did this whole website thing just for fun?) It’s Labor Day, so we’re fully embracing that fact by not working at all. And because we’re taking one last summer fling (but not at a Labor Day sales event at a car dealership), we’ll be posting a lot less today. But we’ll be back tomorrow in full Blisstree force. We really hope you don’t have to work today, either. But since you’re here, feel free to stop and click around for a while. We’re happy to have you, and apologize that we aren’t here to greet you in person. Leave... Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3938318 Mon, 06 Sep 2010 12:00:57 +0100 3938318 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3920808&cid=t_167271_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Fintroducing-corporate-sponsored-state-parks%2F photo: Thinkstock Is it worth sticking corporate logos on signs around state parks in order to keep them open? Several parks in New Hampshire, Maine, Georgia, and Virginia are low on funds and looking into corporate sponsorships to continue to be able to maintain their public land. People visit state parks to feel closer to nature (and to drink beer in campsites), not to be bombarded with corporate sponsorship ads. But then again, funding from the big guys could be the lesser of two evils here. So, is it better to have a state park brought to you by Pepsi, Comcast, or Sony than no park at all? Sound off. via The Huffington Post Post from: BlissTree Introducing: Corporate-Sponsored State Parks? (Source: Breastfeeding 1-2-3) Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3920808 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 18:32:26 +0100 3920808 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3816370&cid=t_167271_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2F192479%2F Obama Administration Wants You to Reconnect With Nature: And they want your ideas on how to encourage your fellow Americans to enjoy the great outdoors. Tomorrow, there will be a listening session with the President in Minneapolis as part of the America’s Great Outdoors Initiative. (via the Environmental Protection Agency) Post from: BlissTree (Source: Breastfeeding 1-2-3) Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3816370 Tue, 03 Aug 2010 19:45:31 +0100 3816370 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3816372&cid=t_167271_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Fwere-forever-blowing-bubbles-photo-of-the-day%2F We never got quite this many bubbles out of that little plastic loop on a stick when we were kids. Maybe because we focused too much on making one big super-bubble. Live and learn. Photo by Flickr user ajari Post from: BlissTree We're Forever Blowing Bubbles: Photo of the Day (Source: Breastfeeding 1-2-3) Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3816372 Tue, 03 Aug 2010 11:30:35 +0100 3816372 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3808660&cid=t_167271_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Fphoto-of-the-day-6%2F Happy first day of August. It’s actually only been summer for a little more than a month now, but the word “August” can still conjure thoughts of autumn. To make matters worse, stores are already filling up with sweaters and school supplies. So in order to ward off any bad feelings about fall, we’ve decided to remain super-summery for as long as possible. Are you in? Then keep up with the swimming, the grilling, the S’mores-making, the beach-going, and all your summer reading. This summery photo from Flickr user pink sherbert photography Post from: BlissTree It's Still Summer, Dammit: Photo of the Day (Source: Breastfeeding 1-2-3) Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3808660 Sun, 01 Aug 2010 15:00:51 +0100 3808660 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3805795&cid=t_167271_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2F2010-worst-year-for-movies-ever%2F Jonah Hill and Russell Brand of Get Him To The Greek. photo: WENN.com Humans like going to the movies — Blisstree staff included. There’s just something magical about watching a blockbuster on the big screen as opposed to your 12-inch fingerprint-smudged laptop. But we just haven’t been to the movies much this summer, or this year, for that matter. The last movie I saw in the theater was Get Him to the Greek. And that experience made me not want to spend $20 at the movies for a very, very long time. The Wall Street Journal thinks that 2010 may be the worst year for movies – ever. Do you agree? Have you seen any movies this year that you loved? via The Wall Street Journal Post from: BlissTree 2010: Worst Year for Movies Ever? (Source: Breastfeeding 1-2-3) Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3805795 Fri, 30 Jul 2010 20:12:19 +0100 3805795 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3746992&cid=t_167271_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fcougar-womens-sexuality%2F As Women Age Their Libido, Fantasies, Sexual Experimentation and Activity Increases As more women wait until their 30s and 40s to have children, they are more willing to engage in a variety of sexual activities to capitalize on their remaining childbearing years, according to new research by psychologists at The University of Texas at Austin. Such "reproduction expediting" includes one-night stands and adventurous bedroom behavior, the research shows. In a paper published in the July 2010 edition of Personality and Individual Differences, psychology researchers found that women age 27-45 have a heightened sex drive in response to their dwindling fertility. In the study the researchers split 827 women into three groups: high fertility (ages18-26), low fertility (ages 27-45), and m... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3746992 Sun, 11 Jul 2010 11:58:25 +0100 3746992 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3746689&cid=t_167271_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Ffeel%2Fcancer-prevention-stress-is-good-for-once%2F photo: Thinkstock We’re always talking (and writing) about ways to de-stress. We know that constantly being stressed can have seriously bad implications for our body and our mind, but this news got us all worked up: A new study shows that stressed out mice fought tumors way better than mice that were relaxing all the time. (How do mice relax, exactly?) Mice were injected with melanoma. Some mice were in a large cage with other mice, lots of toys, and space. Other mice remained in the normal lab cages. Three weeks into the study, the tumors of the mice who were in the more stimulating cage shrank to half their previous size, and they had shrunk 77% in six weeks. The tumors even disappeared in 17% of the mice. The mice in the normal cages had tumors that continued to grow. So, what&#82... Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3746689 Thu, 08 Jul 2010 21:40:24 +0100 3746689 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3733056&cid=t_167271_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Fyou-know-youre-unwell-if-you-live-in-the-northeast-because-its-really-really-hot%2F In fact, as you probably know, there’s a major heat wave happening in the Northeast. The Mid-Atlantic, too. And parts of the South. It was 103 degrees in New York City yesterday. So we’re allowed to complain about it a little bit. And then we’re going for ice cream. Post from: BlissTree You Know You're Unwell If...You Live In the Northeast, Because It's Really, Really Hot (Source: Breastfeeding 1-2-3) Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3733056 Wed, 07 Jul 2010 14:00:12 +0100 3733056 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3726591&cid=t_167271_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Fphoto-of-the-day-2%2F Happy 4th of July. Even though it’s July 5th. We hope you’re in a pool or on a beach somewhere. photo courtesy of Flickr user: titlap Post from: BlissTree Pool Party: Photo of the Day (Source: Breastfeeding 1-2-3) Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3726591 Mon, 05 Jul 2010 15:00:18 +0100 3726591 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3724439&cid=t_167271_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Fhow-to-make-fireworks-with-marshmallows%2F It’s July 4th (woot), so by now you’ve probably stocked up on marshmallows for some summertime S’mores. And while you’ve got those white puffball confections, you may as well make some fireworks, too. Let GrassRootsDIY show you how. Post from: BlissTree How to Make Fireworks With Marshmallows: Video of the Day (Source: Breastfeeding 1-2-3) Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3724439 Sun, 04 Jul 2010 16:00:58 +0100 3724439 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3721742&cid=t_167271_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Fkids-reenact-the-american-revolution-ridiculously-cute-video-of-the-day%2F Sometimes we get so caught up in all the fireworks, hot dogs, and beer that we forget about the true meaning of the Fourth of July: Absurdly adorable children. Oh, and the American Revolution. Yet somehow, we thought our forefathers would be taller. Post from: BlissTree Kids Reenact the American Revolution: Ridiculously Cute Video of the Day (Source: Breastfeeding 1-2-3) Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3721742 Fri, 02 Jul 2010 18:05:40 +0100 3721742 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3710537&cid=t_167271_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2F3-ways-to-maximize-your-leisure-time%2F photo: Thinkstock We know. It feels weird to unplug and just think about nothing for a few minutes, let alone an hour. But leisure time really is important for our mental and physical health. Women get about a half-hour less of daily leisure time than men – which translates to four weeks every year. Excuse us? We women do more of the domestic chores at home than our partners, so we cannot tolerate this news. Jane Has a Job gave us three big tips for making the most of our free time and being as relaxed and happy as we can (and at least as much as a dude): 1. Sign up for a scheduled group activity: Though it might seem like just another commitment, if you’re a part of a book club or tennis league, you probably won’t blow it off to do some chores. It’ll encourage you to s... Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3710537 Tue, 29 Jun 2010 18:59:03 +0100 3710537 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3702931&cid=t_167271_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Fsurrealistic-bicycle-photo-of-the-day%2F Here’s hoping you don’t start seeing things like this after a few hours in the sun today: Photo via Flickr user linh.ngan Post from: BlissTree Surrealistic Bicycle: Photo of the Day (Source: Breastfeeding 1-2-3) Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3702931 Sun, 27 Jun 2010 14:00:23 +0100 3702931 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3701669&cid=t_167271_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Fwet-dog-photo-of-the-day%2F This pooch looks so happy and summery and athletic, that we can’t help but hope our (and your) Saturday is half as fun. Photo from Flickr user chris hau Post from: BlissTree Adorable Wet Dog: Photo of the Day (Source: Breastfeeding 1-2-3) Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3701669 Sat, 26 Jun 2010 14:00:34 +0100 3701669 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3665944&cid=t_167271_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2F183245%2F Want to take a summer trip? Check out Ontario – you could even win a free trip there for you and your family. Post from: BlissTree (Source: Breastfeeding 1-2-3) Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3665944 Tue, 15 Jun 2010 20:46:28 +0100 3665944 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3648455&cid=t_167271_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Fsponsored-post-escape-to-ontario-%25e2%2580%2593-the-museums-and-mazes-contest%2F WIN the Museums and Mazes Contest! Only in Ottawa can you come face-to-face with a prehistoric creature one day, then name a newborn calf in an urban farm the next. You’ll also try to find your way through a theme park’s collection of outdoor mazes, and then explore a world-class museum’s collection of never-before-seen artifacts. Enter now and yours could be the lucky family to do all this and more on a summer adventure in Canada’s capital. Enter today and your family of four could be the one to enjoy: A three-night stay at the Residence Inn by Marriott in Downtown Ottawa A $2,000 Family Travel Allowance Admission to the Canadian Museum of Nature and a gift shop welcome basket A guided tour through the Canada Science and Technology Museum, including a be... Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3648455 Thu, 10 Jun 2010 15:37:26 +0100 3648455 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3633447&cid=t_167271_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Flet-kids-be-willy-nilly%2F2010.06.05 As a cardiologist and advocate for healthy living through exercise, the bleak news of rising childhood obesity hits me hard. But as an endurance athlete well versed in the inflammatory effects of excessive exercise, and a coach of middle school children, recent news reports on the overtraining of American youth is equally troublesome. The overtraining of the young American athlete has risen to the level of capturing the attention of the American Academy of Pediatrics.  I planned on letting this New York Times piece pass quietly, as yet another documentation of how adults are either explicitly or implicitly drilling out the young athlete — sacrificing fun at the alter of performance. Little League-like overzealousness is old news dating back to my era, I thought. But I just couldn&#... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3633447 Sat, 05 Jun 2010 20:00:00 +0100 3633447 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3625589&cid=t_167271_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F06%2F02%2Fdid-you-think-that-apa-mandatory-fee-was-mandatory%2F You would think psychologists would have a unique understanding and appreciation of the power of human language and the meaning of words. Words shape perception, and psychologists not only study human perception, but also work to help change it when people are in need. So in what world does a “mandatory assessment” fee not actually mean “mandatory” (as in, required)? Apparently, in the world of the American Psychological Association. Since its inception, many, if not most, APA members have thought it was a required payment if you were a practicing clinical psychologist. It’s no wonder — the APA has referred to the fee as a “mandatory assessment” for the majority of that time. For most of us, that means it is required and obligatory. (If you h... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3625589 Wed, 02 Jun 2010 17:40:05 +0100 3625589 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3621627&cid=t_167271_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Ffeel%2Fheadaches-and-hormones-daily-health-quiz%2F How much do you really know about your health? You may think you know all the ins and outs of staying well, but our daily Health Smarts Quiz will test your knowledge on the spot. Answer our question, below, and check back tomorrow for the correct answer and your next pop quiz. photo: Thinkstock Today’s Question: Hormones wield a lot of power when it comes to our bodies. They can affect weight gain, mood, and even headaches. Plus, estrogen levels can impact the severity of our headaches. So do high estrogen levels mean a more painful or less painful headache? #MicroPollDiv_258601 { width: 250px; margin: 0px auto; } Answer to last Friday’s Question: Spending a day at the beach creates a lot of opportunities for fun activities that burn a ton of calories. We asked y... Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3621627 Tue, 01 Jun 2010 16:33:39 +0100 3621627 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3617797&cid=t_167271_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Ffeel%2Ffitness-work-out-in-nature-and-boost-your-self-esteem%2F photo: Thinkstock Working out is easier than ever before with cardio machines, workout videos, weight lifting machines, online tutorials, and podcasts. But ditching the comfort of exercising in a controlled environment like your house or the gym could give you some extra health-related perks. A new study shows that even just five minutes of outdoor activity can improve your mental health by boosting your mood and self esteem. Data from 1,252 people (taken from 10 existing studies) was analyzed – participants were different ages, genders, and had different mental health statuses; and researchers considered outdoor activities including gardening, fishing, and jogging. The greatest increase in well-being occurred in the young and mentally ill, but everyone in the study experienced some bene... Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3617797 Fri, 28 May 2010 22:03:50 +0100 3617797 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3577452&cid=t_167271_109_f&fid=34752&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPsychsplash%2F%7E3%2FfIw1VVg5r-0%2F URL: http://www.cmellc.com/CME LLC promotes the ongoing endeavor to narrow the competency and performance gaps that exist within health care professionals through convenient, high-quality lifelong learning opportunities. Individual activities focus on maintaining, developing, or increasing the knowledge, skills, and professional performance of clinicians to provide effective diagnostic, treatment, and long-term care of patients with the goal of maximizing outcomes and quality of life. For: Clinicians, ResearchersTopics: Clinical Tool Development, Cognitive Training, Common Factors, Design, Psychometrics, Self-help, Treatment PlanningFeatures: CE Activities, Careers, Collaborative News, Information, Links, e-learning CME LLC promotes the ongoing endeavor to narrow the competency and per... PsychSplash blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3577452 Tue, 18 May 2010 17:00:30 +0100 3577452 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3549587&cid=t_167271_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F05%2Fseniors-activitiesmy-photo-hobby.html Photography can be a great hobby for seniors. Below is a video made from photos I took last evening at nearby Sutton Lake by the Sea, Florence, Oregon. I love to view the world while carrying a camera because I notice so much more then. These were taken with a Canon Powershot, then uploaded to Picasa. The colors were enhanced by using editing effects from Picasa to increase color saturation, add light, and enhance the hues. Enjoy! (Source: The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News) The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3549587 Sun, 09 May 2010 16:39:00 +0100 3549587 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3524109&cid=t_167271_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fhealthy-active-kids-come-from-healthy-active-adults%2F2010.05.02 Kids are like dogs — you can train them until they’re too old to train. Then they’re going to do whatever they want. The key to getting kids to exercise is to make it fun for them. But they aren’t going to exercise if it isn’t made a part of their normal routine. It’s up to adults to train them. Mrs. Happy and I had the joyous opportunity of inviting our 10-year-old niece to her first-ever running event. She had never ever run in a race before. We did the two-mile race and she loved it. And amazingly, she finished without stopping — not even once. Our nation is raising a nation of fat and lazy kids because we’re lazy adults. We drive everywhere. We sit at our desks. We get food on the run. We watch a lot of television. We surf the Net a bunch... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3524109 Sun, 02 May 2010 16:00:00 +0100 3524109 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3435253&cid=t_167271_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fcodependent-and-alcoholic-games%2F Codependents and alcoholics/ addicts adopt behaviours and temporary personality traits. These behaviours are not deliberate or premeditated. They are built up very slowly over a period of time, bit-by-bit. Adult children of alcoholism may have started their process in childhood. Other codependents may have begun adapting when they set out on a relationship with an alcoholic/ addict. Alcoholics, addicts, gamblers, workaholics often report they started changing soon after they began their particular addictive behaviour. All of these people only report their actions in retrospect. That is after they have begun recovery and returned to spiritual lives. While they are practicing these abnormal activities they cannot see their own pain and the effects on others. This is sometimes called denial ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3435253 Sat, 03 Apr 2010 15:06:00 +0100 3435253 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3386911&cid=t_167271_109_f&fid=34752&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPsychsplash%2F%7E3%2FqcvW5tRG_zg%2F URL: http://www.asdreams.org/The International Association for the Study of Dreams is a non-profit, international, multidisciplinary organization dedicated to the pure and applied investigation of dreams and dreaming. Its purposes are to promote an awareness and appreciation of dreams in both professional and public arenas; to encourage research into the nature, function, and significance of dreaming; to advance the application of the study of dreams; and to provide a forum for the eclectic and interdisciplinary exchange of ideas and information. For: Anyone, Clinicians, ResearchersTopics: Behaviour Management, Emotional Health, General Psychology, General Science, Insomnia, Life, LifestyleFeatures: Advertising, Articles, Assessment Instruments, CE Activities, Clinical Tools, Collaborative... PsychSplash blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3386911 Sat, 20 Mar 2010 22:24:34 +0100 3386911 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3298629&cid=t_167271_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fsenior-activities-and-hobbies-enjoy.html When you carry a camera or a camcorder you see more as you drive around. Need a hobby? Take up digital photography or camcorder videography. Operating the cameras can be done by using the "Easy Mode" or automatic settings, so you just point and shoot. With digital cameras of course you can save the photos on the internet and avoid expensive film developing. It's cost effective this way! So, let's cross the "digital divide" and start some exciting projects. Here's a video I made last week on a trip to another Oregon coast village with a beautiful bridge and bay. So, join me and enjoy these vistas of water, nature and a sunset. (Source: The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News) The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3298629 Mon, 22 Feb 2010 21:44:00 +0100 3298629 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3294820&cid=t_167271_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fgood-sex-10-brilliant-reasons-to-do-it%2F People in recovery from various addictions and co-dependency often question their reasons and sometimes mother natures reasons for having sex. This list may help people think about or discuss their sexual activities. Decisions can then be made about what is right for each individual or relationship. Remember; In good sex no one gets hurt. 10 Brilliant reasons to do it! helps you live longer regulates the menstrual cycle boosts your self-esteem raises hormone (estrogen/testosterone) levels helps you sleep better gives you a mini workout is stress busting improves your relationship relieves emotional pain makes you look terrific Other aspects of good sex are; Sex for pleasure Maintains a healthy genital and pelvic system Needs sensitive genital manipulation Affected by age, disease, da... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3294820 Sun, 21 Feb 2010 00:20:00 +0100 3294820 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3273106&cid=t_167271_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fweather-watching-activity-for-seniors.html Recently several seniors mentioned to me that one of their hobbies is weather watching on the internet. Sites like http://wunderground.com give interesting facts about the science of weather and long term future forecasts. Watching the weather on the internet can also involve looking at live webcams. In the search box put the city, state and the words "live webcam" and look at real time live shots of weather anywhere from Alaska to Florida to Hawaii. I did my own weather watching here in Florence, Oregon recently, and the video on Storm Watching is the result. Enjoy these camcorder shots of a storm coming in across the Pacific to the Oregon coast. (Source: The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News) The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3273106 Mon, 15 Feb 2010 05:59:00 +0100 3273106 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3216642&cid=t_167271_109_f&fid=34752&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPsychsplash%2F%7E3%2FsOyaJ1tSuzY%2F URL: http://www.behavioralhealthce.com/This Behavioral Health online CE web site focuses on the biopsychosocial aspects of health and illness. For: CliniciansTopics: Abnormal, Academia, Behaviour Management, Clinical Psychology, Educational Psychology, Emotional Health, General Psychology, Lifestyle, Medico-Legal, Mental Health, Psychology and TechnologyFeatures: Articles, CE Activities, Databases, Information, Links, Online Research, Training, e-learning This Behavioral Health online CE web site focuses on the biopsychosocial aspects of health and illness.  Although it provides CE courses, the unique feature is that all of the course can be read for free.  The site was developed not only for CE but also as an educational service to all health care professionals and the general publi... PsychSplash blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3216642 Thu, 28 Jan 2010 17:00:31 +0100 3216642 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3201923&cid=t_167271_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fliving-with-sense-of-mission-vision.html Life's journey as a spiritual being living in a physical world has a sense of mission and a vision for many people. They dedicate themselves to making a difference for others, perhaps for people, animals, or the environment. These missions in life, meaningful and rewarding, continue on in the senior years. It's a way to think outside of our own wants, our own selves.There are so many places where help is needed in the world, where crises have hit, where someone is hungry or ill, where people or animals are suffering. It's easy to lose focus and be overwhelmed by one's own problems. But looking at things from the bigger picture gives everything a different perspective. In the senior years retirement, chronic health issues, and fading hope to achieve lifelong goals are issues and challenges.... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3201923 Sat, 23 Jan 2010 23:47:00 +0100 3201923 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3084997&cid=t_167271_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F12%2Factive-seniors-and-dating-social.html Active single seniors, anyone over 50, can face the challenge of finding compatible companions. Diversity increases with age, and as we enter our 50's and later years we become more individual, with more unique characteristics. Our tastes and preferences have evolved over a lifetime of experiences. How then, does a single senior who wishes to find a life partner, or a compatible friend, get the word out or meet others? After I lost my husband I was not in the mood to consider dating, but with the passage of years I did wish to have more company, someone to share activities with, perhaps someone to share caring and committment. I did meet a wonderful gentleman, and share several years together, but last Feb.he passed away during heart surgery.After spending the year processing the grief, on... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3084997 Sun, 13 Dec 2009 18:33:00 +0100 3084997 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3017230&cid=t_167271_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F11%2Fremember-1969-1st-moonwalk-seniors.html Seniors remember watching the historic 1969 first moonwalk on TV. Update your moon knowledge with this recent video (embedded at the caregiversbeacon.com for you to watch here) "Direct from the Moon" from the Expedition Channel on http://hulu.com, which provides free educational documentaries. Presenting this video is part of an ongoing effort by the CaregiversBeacon.com to encourage and provide mentally stimulating activities for seniors. (Source: The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News) The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3017230 Sun, 22 Nov 2009 03:41:00 +0100 3017230 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3017231&cid=t_167271_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F11%2Fmental-fitness-rx-how-rome-fell-by.html Take a break from television, the "one eyed monster." Try reading. The book "How Rome Fell" - economic crises, plague, war, religious change (sounds like our world today), cultural details and leaders of the Roman Empire - is mentally stimulating reading.If your Mental Fitness Prescription is for exercising your mind I suggest reading "How Rome Fell" by Adrian Goldworthy. Get the "little grey cells" moving, and experience some personal growth and education.I found this book, like the book on Leonardo di Vinci described in previous posts, at the New Nonfiction shelf near the front desk at my local library. The first night I read over 100 pages. What a relief from the relentless boredom of most TV to have something that gets your mind and thoughts really moving.Details of daily Roman life in... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3017231 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 22:35:00 +0100 3017231 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3015476&cid=t_167271_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F11%2Fmental-fitness-rx-how-rome-fell-by.html Take a break from television, the "one eyed monster." Try reading. The book "How Rome Fell" - economic crises, plague, war, religious change (sounds like our world today), cultural details and leaders of the Roman Empire - is mentally stimulating reading.If your Mental Fitness Prescription is for exercising your mind I suggest reading "How Rome Fell" by Adrian Goldworthy. Get the "little grey cells" moving, and experience some personal growth and education.I found this book, like the book on Leonardo di Vinci described in previous posts, at the New Nonfiction shelf near the front desk at my local library. The first night I read over 100 pages. What a relief from the relentless boredom of most TV to have something that gets your mind and thoughts really moving.Details of daily Roman life in... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3015476 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 22:35:00 +0100 3015476 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3012652&cid=t_167271_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F11%2Fleonardo-di-vinci-mental-stimulation.html Leonardo de Vinci and the Renaissance - a subject for seniors to enjoy who are seeking activities for mental stimulation. For those who prefer video material over reading books here is the first part of an 18 part series on Leonardo de Vinci. You can click on the buttons after the video finishes to go to http://youtube.com and see the other 17 videos in the series. (Source: The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News) The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3012652 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:54:00 +0100 3012652 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3012653&cid=t_167271_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F11%2Fleonardo-de-vincis-renaissance-world.html "Iron rusts from disuse, stagnant water loses it's purity and in cold weather becomes frozen; even so does inaction sap the vigor of the mind." Leonardo de Vinci.Inspiration and mental stimulation are challenges for seniors. For those who like to read I recommend the wonderful book "Leonardo's Universe, The Renaissance World of Leonardo de Vinci" copyright 2008, published by the National Geographic Society.Scientist, engineer, writer, mathematician, artist - Leonardo was a blend of multifaceted characteristics and so is endlessly fascinating to read and study. He was not a one sided, one dimensional, "flat" person, but a "round" person with many sides. Thus the saying that someone is a "Renaissance Person" or one with many talents.You can start those mental wheels turning with quotes by Le... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3012653 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 21:51:00 +0100 3012653 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2989422&cid=t_167271_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F11%2Findependence-vs-safety-for-seniors.html Dilemma: A diabetic senior friend of mine is independent, self-reliant, and travels alone in an RV. He faces the dilemma of awakening in the morning with blood sugar too low to function without weakness and confusion. In the late evening he takes his blood sugar. Then he eats something to raise the blood sugar enough so he will wake in the morning without the low blood sugar issue. This is clearly less than an ideal situation. He also has COPD and uses oxygen at night or when needed. Unable to walk far due to back pain from an injury, he uses a scooter when he needs to go more than 20 feet. Professional drivers move the RV when he wishes to go to a new location, often moving up to 1000 miles away at a time.Independent, self-reliant, stoic, a positive thinker, and travel oriented have been ... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2989422 Thu, 12 Nov 2009 18:14:00 +0100 2989422 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2966800&cid=t_167271_77_f&fid=37259&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.horizonpress.com%2Fblogger%2F2009%2F11%2Febna-2.html Epstein-Barr virus nuclear antigen-2 (EBNA-2) plays a key role in B-cell growth transformation by initiating and maintaining the proliferation of infected B-cells upon EBV infection in vitro. EBNA-2 is one of the first viral genes expressed after virus infection. By activating viral as well as cellular target genes EBNA-2 initiates the transcription of a cascade of primary and secondary target genes, which eventually govern the activation of the resting B-cell, cell cycle entry and proliferation of the growth transformed cells. The growth transformed B-cells exhibit a phenotype reminiscent of antigen activated B-cells. In addition, EBNA-2's anti-apoptotic activities protect the infected B-cell. The multiple mechanisms by which EBNA-2 exerts its function are reflected by the association of ... Microbiology Blog: The weblog for microbiologists. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2966800 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 09:21:00 +0100 2966800 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2943731&cid=t_167271_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F10%2F29%2Fdraft-statutory-instrument-relating-to-health-2%2F Draft SI 2009 No. XXXX. National Health Service, England. Social Care, England. Public Health, England. The Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2009 Posted in Legislation, Statutory Instruments Tagged: Grey Literature, Legislation, Regulated Activities, Statutory Instruments (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2943731 Thu, 29 Oct 2009 17:05:38 +0100 2943731 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2916457&cid=t_167271_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F10%2Fpart-1-hobbies-for-seniors-make-your.html Finding a purpose for the day after retiring can mean taking up hobbies. In our high tech world there are easy ways to make your own movie. Get a digital camera, take photos of your favorite places, people, pets, sports, etc. and use the free windows movie maker software to put those photos into a movie. If you have Windows XP or Vista there is a free version of Windows Movie Maker that came with your computer. If you are getting a new computer then download Windows Live which includes yet another free version of movie maker. You don't need to do something complex or learn the whole software package. Just import the photos, drag them to spots on the storyboard, and click "Publish." Below is a movie made by just doing that. (Source: The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News) The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2916457 Wed, 21 Oct 2009 22:16:00 +0100 2916457 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2899218&cid=t_167271_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F10%2Fseniors-trends-from-handcrafts-and-tv.html Handcrafts like knitting and wood carving are being joined by high tech hobbies such as blogging, digital photography and making movies. Seniors still face a "digital divide" challenge but as middle-agers graduate to the senior years things are changing.Traditional hobbies include such activities as wood working, making auto and plane models, knitting, sewing, and playing cards. Seniors centers and senior housing are offering high tech activities now such as computer training, computer games, Wii, and website creation. When health issues limit more physically active hobbies then high tech offers a way to keep learning, exercise the mind, challenge oneself, and pass the time in an interesting manner.Passive activities such as TV are always popular but don't offer the mental challenge that h... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2899218 Thu, 15 Oct 2009 20:53:00 +0100 2899218 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2891009&cid=t_167271_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F10%2Fpart-1-seniors-activities-groups-make.html Sharing coffee or lunch with a group of seniors while they visit, joke, share news and tell stories makes a difference. The mountains in life look different when you view them from a viewpoint with a group of friends who know what it is like. The sting of painful memories and current losses becomes easier to bear when diluted by sharing it with the warmth and caring from others.A knowing glance, an acknowledgement that someone heard what you're going through, a few words that others have been there too - all these can lift you up. Looking down at your troubles from a plateau makes them easier to cope with. If you're at the bottom of a mountain looking up, alone, life's burdens can seem overwhelming.Seniors' activities that include group interaction and sharing have a way of soothing and st... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2891009 Tue, 13 Oct 2009 22:58:00 +0100 2891009 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2872084&cid=t_167271_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F10%2Fgetting-out-of-rut-social-groups-for.html Smooth the rough edges off the frustrations that accompany the senior years by sharing time with a like minded social group. The mountains often look more like molehills, friendship and fellowship remove isolation, and creative ideas from others can provide inspiration.Arthritis exercise groups, health oriented support groups, fellowship groups, volunteer groups, and other clubs and classes are there for active or frail seniors. In the past few days I shared time with an arthritis exercise group in a pool, a fellowship group, and a computer group. The uplift helps me to see my own problems from a different angle. They don't exert as much pressure on me when I share them with a group of friends. The positive energy builds up and the negative energy goes down. If problems or depression are o... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2872084 Tue, 06 Oct 2009 23:16:00 +0100 2872084 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2855862&cid=t_167271_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F10%2Fsenior-volunteers-make-difference-for.html Working as a volunteer seniors can make a difference in the lives of others, and make a difference in their own lives too. Being retired doesn't need to mean one is not needed. Life's journey and each individual's mission continue after retirement.Opportunities for volunteers exist at local Seniors' Centers, Churches, Libraries, Clubs, Food Shares, the Red Cross, and other nonprofits that exist to reach out to others. All that life experience that's been accumulated can bear fruit as a mission to make a difference in others' lives. It's a win - win situation because volunteering is also a way to feel worthwhile, to have plans and goals, and to meet the nicest people who are also volunteering. Years ago a friend of mine, named Joy, lived up to her name by spreading love and caring as a volu... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2855862 Fri, 02 Oct 2009 18:01:00 +0100 2855862 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2855863&cid=t_167271_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F10%2Fgroup-activities-for-active-seniors.html Retirement years can become times of depression and isolation unless new activities and personal growth are still a part of life. Health issues, handicaps, and a tight limited budget can make previous interests no longer an option. But life can still be rewarding and interesting. Below is a list of ideas.* Join a health club. Even if you have health issues such as arthritis or joint replacements, there are exercise options. Aquatherapy, for instance, provides gentle exercise for sore joints. Chair exercise to music in a group is a way to do a variety of arm lifts with or without weights, leg lifts, twists and stretches. Some exercise groups I attend also go out to lunch together afterward so it's part of a social life too.* Join your local Seniors' Center for affordable group activities, p... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2855863 Thu, 01 Oct 2009 19:30:00 +0100 2855863 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2824050&cid=t_167271_107_f&fid=35041&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fscienceblogs%2Fdigitalbio%2F%7E3%2FKmX6YT2Y9cw%2Fcommunity_science_at_puget_sou.php We always see interesting creatures whenever we walk on the beach. Now, a new program from the University of Washington and the state department of Fish and Wildlife is seeking to enlist beach walkers in a community science project where they can help monitor biodiversity. Read the rest of this post... | Read the comments on this post... (Source: Discovering Biology in a Digital World) Discovering Biology in a Digital World blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2824050 Wed, 23 Sep 2009 16:11:27 +0100 2824050 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2768796&cid=t_167271_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F09%2Ffamily-time.html Get the code:-Cut and pastefrom this littleboxy thing below Full of activities so my productivity is more or less zilch.Powered by MckLinkyClick here to enter your link and view the entire list of entered links...If you like what you read, send it to someone in 'need.' (Source: Whitterer on Autism) Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2768796 Sat, 05 Sep 2009 06:10:00 +0100 2768796 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2741428&cid=t_167271_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F08%2F27%2Fcan-you-multitask-probably-not-well%2F Everyone multitasks to some degree or another. Whether you watch TV while cooking dinner, or talk on your phone while browsing through a website, we all do it sometimes and feel fairly comfortable with it. I’d hazard to guess that most of us even think we deal with it pretty well. For things that don’t really matter much, we’re probably right. But multitasking has shown to affect our ability to learn new information. And the more we multitask, the more stressed we generally become. New evidence published this week adds more evidence to the downsides of multitasking, especially if you multitask a lot. The researchers conducted a series of three experiments on 100 college students. (Yes, take the study’s results with a grain of salt since college students may not be r... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2741428 Thu, 27 Aug 2009 15:26:30 +0100 2741428 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2730216&cid=t_167271_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FWHlTXhmYm30%2F In a recently published scientific study (see Hall C, et al “Cognitive activities delay onset of memory decline in persons who develop dementia” Neurology 2009; 73: 356-361), Hall and colleagues examined how education and stimulating activities may interact to contribute to cognitive reserve. The study involved 488 initially healthy people, average age 79, who enrolled in the Bronx Aging Study between 1980 and 1983. These individuals were followed for 5 years with assessments every 12 to 18 months (starting in 1980). At the start of the study, all participants were asked how many cognitive activities (reading, writing, crossword puzzles, board or card games, group discussions, or playing music) they participated in and for how many days a week. Researchers were able to evaluate the imp... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2730216 Tue, 25 Aug 2009 11:57:49 +0100 2730216 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2709197&cid=t_167271_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F08%2F17%2Fexercising-your-brain-as-you-age%2F According to a news article we published today, simple everyday activities are all we need to keep our minds sharp as we age, mixed in with a healthy dose of daily physical exercise. The study measured over 4,000 participants’ brain and cognitive functioning over a 6 year period to arrive at these results. Boiled down to the basics, the researchers found the following activities help our brains remain sharp as we age: Mental activities, like reading or doing a crossword puzzle Physical exercise, generally the more the better (but even some, such as simply walking for 30 minutes per day, is better than nothing) Remaining socially engage with your friends or family Maintaining a positive attitude throughout life Learning new activities, hobbies or anything that requires concentrat... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2709197 Mon, 17 Aug 2009 14:33:43 +0100 2709197 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2561498&cid=t_167271_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2FBRO0JTYP7eg%2F Image world-war-2-airplane-model.com The 1/48th Corsair fighter plane was going to be my comeback piece, the plastic model kit (”hobby kit,” now that I’m almost 50 and can afford the good kids) to prove that my eyes were as sharp and my hands as steady as when I was 16 and building the bargain kits. I put it right up on top of the bookshelf, out of the way, with the now-empty boxes of the snap-together airplanes I did with the boys. “Airplane? Airplane?” Alex kept saying. I had some computer work in the afternoon while Ned built a model on his own, and as I’m making dinner now that pretty took us to about 7:30, when the dishes were put away and I decided that Alex was owed some airplane time. He didn’t help so much as watch: I felt a warmth to thin... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2561498 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 15:33:03 +0100 2561498 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2512507&cid=t_167271_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2FpWZlSj0DAi0%2F Early on Father’s Day Alex held up his hand toward the top of the bookcase and kept saying “Airplane? Airplane?” He wanted the plastic model kits I keep up there, since my current apartment is a lifetime removed from the private basement bedroom I had in in high school, with its permanent card table splashed with enamel and covered with plastic parts of models under construction. Image: upload.wikimedia.org I’ve stored boxes up there of models the boys and I have built. Some months ago, I began buying plastic models, mostly planes, for the boys and me to do together. (I’m not the most experienced parent in the world, but I do think that if you’re going to try to ensnare your sons in one of your retrospective hobbies, you’d better get to it before ... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2512507 Tue, 23 Jun 2009 00:02:22 +0100 2512507 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2473159&cid=t_167271_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F06%2F12%2Fageing-society-2009-vol-29-no-5%2F This article looks at whether participation in social activities is associated with higer levels of wellbeing among post-retirement age people in England, and, if so, whether these relationships are explained by the reciprocal nature of these activities. (Print subscription held at Fade Library) Posted in Journals Tagged: Health Status, Older People, Social Activities (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2473159 Fri, 12 Jun 2009 09:12:02 +0100 2473159 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2389929&cid=t_167271_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F05%2F06%2Fcould-getting-your-hands-dirty-make-you-happy%2F Midweek Mental Greening Although I don’t live near it anymore, one of the things I love about my old city’s community mental health center is the center’s greenhouse. The center’s patients, or clients, grow and sell the flowers, ferns, and other plants within the greenhouse and any money raised goes toward the continuing operation of the center’s various programs. I don’t have any firsthand experience with the center’s greenhouse (although I do keep promising myself to stop in the next time I’m in the city), but I’ve heard great things about it. Of course, that’s not surprising. We already know how mentally and emotionally beneficial activities like gardening can be (and if you need a refresher course, check out Thrive’s Carry on Gardening website, including the g... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2389929 Thu, 07 May 2009 01:40:06 +0100 2389929 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2358406&cid=t_167271_133_f&fid=35124&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Faspergerwoman%2F%7E3%2Fsx-PfMXM0Ag%2Fjust-to-let-you-know.html Just to inform you that my weekly Wednesday post on Autism and Work will follow later today. Happy to tell you that my day is that full of activities that you might say I am rather busy. Just got back from an unexpected, but important, appointment. We discussed my voluntary work and she noticed when you have nothing to do there is much more chance to start worrying. I agreed. Sometimes life is best when you are aboard the train of daily stress and routine. At least that is my experience. Being aboard that demanding train can be very pleasant, useful and socializing, as long as you manage your own boundaries there is nothing to be afraid of, or is there?Busy again, next thing is prepare myself and my home to have some guests coming over tonight. Keeping my head high!See you later! (Source: ... The Art of Being Asperger Woman blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2358406 Wed, 22 Apr 2009 14:11:00 +0100 2358406 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2367349&cid=t_167271_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F04%2F15%2Frehabilitation-after-critical-illness%2F Title: Rehabilitation after critical illness Source: NICE The Skinny: NICE guideine on the care of: adults who, as a result of critical illness, have stayed in critical care and need rehabilitation. It doesn’t look at the care of: adults who are having treatment for symptoms and pain in the final stages of a terminal illness adults whose rehabilitation needs are already routinely assessed and delivered as part of their care, for example, patients who have brief stays in critical care units for immediate postoperative care after major elective surgery, and patients with conditions for which published guidelines already exist – such as head injury, heart attack and stroke. Documents For healthcare professionals: CG83 Critical illness rehabilitation: NICE guideline (91p, 496.21 ... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2367349 Wed, 15 Apr 2009 09:40:05 +0100 2367349 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2227493&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FZ6NPPG7CBbI%2F As I was preparing writing lessons for a group of homeschoolers, I pulled out some childhood photos for inspiration.  I’ll have the young writers use photos of events in their lives.  However, as an example, I’ll take photos from my childhood and incorporate them in similar projects. I looked at a photo of my family (Father, Mother, my sister, brothers and me) seated on a rock with the Cape Neddick “Nubble Lighthouse” in the background.  This brought back memories of trips from our home in New York State to visit relatives in Maine and our picnic suppers at the lighthouse view. So, in addition to writing about family trips to Nubble Light for my class, I’m relating some memories for our family legacy.  I marvel how Mother and Father had the patience to ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2227493 Sun, 01 Mar 2009 01:41:07 +0100 2227493 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2232536&cid=t_167271_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthbolt.net%2F2009%2F02%2F27%2Fdoodling-stops-daydreaming%2F Good news for those of us who discover at the end of a meeting or lecture that our notes are hidden by messy doodles, unintelligible to anyone but ourselves. According to recent study carried out by UK researchers those who doodle have better memory recall than those who do not. The study had the participants divided into two groups - one group was encouraged to color in shapes on a piece of paper while listening to a 2.5 minute telephone message and the other group was left to their own devices while listening. Both groups, by the way, were told before the message began that it would be dull. Directly after listening to the message, everyone was asked to write down the eight specific places and names mentioned in the message. The results - doodlers on average recalled 7.5, while the non-d... Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2232536 Sat, 28 Feb 2009 00:22:07 +0100 2232536 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2217627&cid=t_167271_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FgAFeyCIEMYo%2F CONCLUSIONS What those 2 recent studies say and imply • Cognitive training can help healthy adults improve specific cognitive skills, and improvements seem to last longer than the training itself (Willis et al., 2006; Smith et al., 2009). • Cognitive training can help adults in the early stages of cognitive impairment and dementia improve some cognitive skills (Sitzer et al, 2006) • One needs to make informed decisions. SharpBrains' Evaluation Checklist may prove useful. What neither study says or implies • Whether cognitive training can postpone the emergence of dementia: More long-term studies are needed. (We know that mentally stimulating activities can help build a Cognitive Reserve and delay symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease, but that evidence is not based on randomized clini... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2217627 Thu, 26 Feb 2009 18:21:56 +0100 2217627 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2206801&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F8baI-3hOqqA%2F Winter break from school has arrived for the grandkids.  We’re also digging out from a blizzard that left 12-16 inches of snow, depending on whether it drifted or not.  Along with show shoveling tasks, reading is on the agenda today. We are a family of readers in our multi-generational home (grandfather, granny, mom, dad and the two children).  Books abound around the house, the library is a fun place to visit, bookstores (new and used) hold a fascination, and online bookstores are enjoyable to access. Reading in an Alzheimer’s World My mother was a reader, too, and could sit midst clutter in her kitchen and read before the woodstove.  When any of us remarked that there were dishes to be washed, etc., Mother replied, “The chores will always be there.  But I might not... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2206801 Mon, 23 Feb 2009 17:06:06 +0100 2206801 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2206802&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F2yTW7dHVYwQ%2F I discovered that Mother liked to look at pictures in magazines.  Turning the pages and commenting on the photos often kept her occupied for quite some time, both when she was living with me and during her early years at the nursing home.  Often the pictures would stimulate memories. Here’s an interesting article, Art Cuts Through the Fog of Alzheimer’s, about museum programs, particularly one at the Amon Carter Museum gallery in Fort Worth, Texas.  I think you’ll find it interesting and inspiring.  It may give you some ideas for helping your Alzheimer’s patient. Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, art, art and Alzheimer's, art for Alzheimer's patients, Mary Emma Allen, Memories, memory-lossShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2206802 Mon, 23 Feb 2009 03:10:12 +0100 2206802 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2194998&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F_Gjx1nF1NQI%2F Some time ago I wrote the post, Pets for Alzheimer’s Patients.  Today one of my readers shared with me: We have 5 adult cats. Mom enjoys the fact that usually there’s at least one to sit on her lap or to sleep with her nightly or whenever she takes a nap. My mother, who was never overly fond of cats, became quite attached to one as her Alzheimer’s developed.  When we had to move her to our home, 275 miles from where she was living, my husband suggested we bring her cat.  That did help Mother settle better here and was something familiar for her. However, don’t feel badly if you can’t have pets for your Alzheimer’s patient.  You will be the one to care for them, so it may be more than you can undertake.  Also, the animal may be overwhelming to the pa... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2194998 Wed, 18 Feb 2009 05:00:15 +0100 2194998 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2182753&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FYBh_1Hj8x3Y%2F We’ve often discussed tea drinking and tea parties here at Alzheimer’s Notes.  This is one activity my mom enjoyed, even after she was living in the nursing home.  My grandchildren and I often provided these for her. The word’s out that Obama drinks tea, particularly organic berry tea, rather than coffee.  So, the possibility that tea becomes an even more popular beverage looms before us.  What about tea parties?  More of these, too? (Amazon image) Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, Barack Obama, Mary Emma Allen, Obama, tea, tea partiesShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2182753 Fri, 13 Feb 2009 05:00:07 +0100 2182753 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2182754&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FAluerqEqEP0%2F Even though the snow is still deep here in New Hampshire, the air is warmer, ice is melting and days are getting longer. Spring is on it’s way so thoughts of gardening become frequent. In fact, you can’t find snow shovels and ice melt in most of the stores. They’re stocking their garden supplies. Gardening is a stress reliever for many people and caregivers are no exception. Also, gardens often have a calming effect and bring back memories for Alzheimer’s patients. I grew up on a farm where a large garden was necessary to feed children, hired help and other family members. Throughout the years, Jim and I’ve had gardens in several of the many places where we’ve lived. I even wrote a gardening column for a magazine for awhile. So…I’ve begun a g... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2182754 Thu, 12 Feb 2009 05:00:34 +0100 2182754 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2177597&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FVvG4tgeN2f4%2F If you’re thinking of a Valentine’s Day Tea, do you have everything planned, even the floral decorations?  Take a look at my Tea Time Notes blog for some ideas on party planning. Flowers for Valentine Teas What Are You Planning for Valentine’s Day? In all likelihood, those of your Alzheimer’s parent’s generation enjoyed tea parties.  They’re being revived nowadays.  So this might be a delightful way to entertain as Valentiine’s Day approaches. Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimer's patient, tea party, valentine, Valentine's Day, Valentine's Day teaShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2177597 Wed, 11 Feb 2009 05:00:53 +0100 2177597 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2169861&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FwBLvnI6xRd4%2F As I was substitute teaching the other day and involved in a Valentine’s Day writing activity with the youngsters about a valentine’s journey, I was reminded of my mom and all the activities she did with us children surrounding this day.  She, too, used to talk about the travels a valentine, as well as other letters, encountered as they went from one place to another. It was a way to understand the postal system and the geography of our land where a letter or card might travel.  Even in her early Alzheimer’s years, Mother liked to send valentines to her friends, grandchildren. and great grandchildren. Here’s a writing prompt, A Valentine’s Journey, I’ve posted at my One Book Two Book blog. (Century Novelty image at Amazon) Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Alzh... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2169861 Mon, 09 Feb 2009 03:44:29 +0100 2169861 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2134803&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FxZYcontxhX4%2F The Food Bloggers have some up with some more recipes that may help you create interesting meals.  Alphabet Cake Pan Personalize your birthday cake with an alphabet cake pan. Make their initials, or their age in cake!  Busy Family Meals Vindaloo sauce can be used to flavor meats, but we like it best as a vegetarian delight! Chocolate Covered Buttercrunch Bars                                                                                                       Chocolate and buttercrunch treats made with a surprise ingredient. Cooking Gadgets Space saving genius: collapsible colanders! Horehound Drops A herbal home remedy for a sore throat or cough. Old Woodenware Stirs Memories Mary Em... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2134803 Mon, 26 Jan 2009 16:56:12 +0100 2134803 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2115930&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F0KfwbUYilio%2F I’ve shared occasionally arts and crafts ideas from the Arts Bloggers.  We are a group who put together some of our favorite posts each week to share with others.  Often Alzheimer’s patients like to be involved in crafts.  Also, caregivers find them relaxing and inspirational. The Arts Bloggers are putting together their creative ideas for 2009.  See what you’d like to try.  Drawer Pull & Pants Hanger Project Turn these items into a unique photo display via Craftynest. Gravestone Rubbings for Fabric Art Mary Emma, at Quilting and Patchwork, discovered instructions for turning gravestone rubbings into fabric art and family history. How to Make Soap Petals Soap petals are simply silk flower and leaf petals dipped in melted soap. They are single use and look pretty... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2115930 Tue, 20 Jan 2009 05:00:10 +0100 2115930 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2113847&cid=t_167271_165_f&fid=37959&url=http%3A%2F%2Fhealthskills.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F01%2F19%2Fphoda-findings-chronic-low-back-pain-and-people-with-high-and-low-kinesiophobia%2F I’ve written quite a few times about the PHODA - photographs of activities of daily living - and I’m in the process of developing a New Zealand contextual version of it for use in the Pain Management Centre in which I work.  Today I’m briefly discussing another paper in press about the use of a modified PHODA in people with low and high kinesiophobia (fear of movement with subsequent avoidance behaviour).  Many of the papers on the PHODA are from Maastricht University, so it’s nice to see a paper written by researchers in Ohio, USA conducting this piece of research - the more this model of ongoing disability associated with pain is tested in different populations, the more the model can be said to be representative. Trost, France and Thomas have previously demonst... HealthSkills Weblog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2113847 Mon, 19 Jan 2009 05:40:56 +0100 2113847 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2110611&cid=t_167271_109_f&fid=34752&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPsychsplash%2F%7E3%2F514155796%2F URL: http://psyris.com/Psyris includes links to psychology information, psychology articles, and a referral directory, connecting the public with providers. For: Clinicians, ConsumersTopics: Counselling, Psychotherapy, VariedFeatures: Articles, CE Activities, Careers, Case Studies, Commentary and Blogs, Databases, Links, Referrals, Therapist Directory Psyris includes links to psychology information, psychology articles, and a referral directory, connecting the public with providers. (Source: PsychSplash) PsychSplash blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2110611 Sat, 17 Jan 2009 02:18:11 +0100 2110611 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2107803&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FwsZnpy_Ei-w%2F Become Fit with Wii We’ve begun to get fit with the Wii Fitness program my daughter received for Christmas.  She was recovering from a long illness whereby she spent much time in bed and thus experienced physical fitness loss.  Someone suggested to her husband that a Wii Fitness program might be helpful since this wasn’t the kind of weather (2 to 3 feet of snow on the ground) for outside exercise in New Hampshire. Then once we joined the Wii fitness revolution, I’ve begun reading and hearing about it everywhere.  So many people are enjoying it because you don’t have to go outside the home.  It’s ideal for caregivers who often find it difficult to go out for a walk, much less a session at the gym. Also, the Wii, whether for fitness, coordination, physical... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2107803 Fri, 16 Jan 2009 05:00:38 +0100 2107803 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2097987&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F8iCSfVuZnX8%2F We’ve chatted before about helping your Alzheimer’s patient create memories and the pleasure this can bring the whole family.  I mentioned in that post the use of photos to stimulate memories or give you both something to chat about. You also may want to play around with your photos…making faded ones more visible, correcting mistakes in current ones, cropping them, printing just one or two people from a group, etc. My daughter has been having fun playing with her Christmas gift, Photoshop Elements 7, as she experiments with photos and gets ideas for her quilting and fabric art. It’s amazing what all can be done with photos to improve them, to combine them, and to give them new looks. However, we both see possibilities for our family photos…current ones and ol... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2097987 Tue, 13 Jan 2009 05:00:49 +0100 2097987 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2081178&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FVXDVZ-DSpbQ%2F Today is National Bird Day! My mother always enjoyed birds and taught my brothers, sister and me much about them as we watched the various ones around our farm.  When she developed Alzheimer’s, Mother found great enjoyment watching the birds at the feeder on our deck. Take time to  appreciate your birds (if you have birds for pets) and those in the out-of-doors with your Alzheimer’s family member.  Nursing homes sometimes have birds their patients can watch, either inside in cages or outside at feeders.  They also may play bird’s songs on CDs. Here are some ideas for bird watching activities. Do you have a bird feeder you keep well stocked in winter that you and your patient can watch from the window? Do you read and learn about birds? Can you recognize various bir... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2081178 Mon, 05 Jan 2009 17:25:56 +0100 2081178 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2074451&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FHSSGBTxDMZ0%2F “My mother improved so much after she went to the assisted living home,”"Gloria told me, when I asked a friend about her mom.  I knew her mother had resisted leaving her home, where she lived alone.  However, it had become a danger to her safety for her to be alone all the time. Gloria mentioned that her mother, although reluctant at first, had joined in the activities at the home, made friends, and went on day trips with others.  Her mind seemed more alert as well. Socializing, not isolation, seems to help uplift the spirits of the elderly and may even assist in preventing dementia, a recent study concludes.  Generally, throughout life, if people don’t isolate themselves from association with others, they’re happier and more alert. This isn’t to say, peop... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2074451 Tue, 30 Dec 2008 22:26:32 +0100 2074451 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2065419&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2Fx6RzFTqyWns%2F Alzheimer’s Entertainment - Thursday Thirteen What can you do to keep Alzheimer’s patients occupied at Christmas time?  It depends on where they are in the Alzheimer’s spectrum, how much they realize, can communicate or move around.  However, here are a few suggestions  (posted on Wednesday so you can plan for Thursday, Christmas Day.) Let him/her help prepare the meal with simple tasks, such as tearing bread for dressing, stirring, snipping, reading recipes…and reminiscing while doing it. Set the table for Christmas breakfast/brunch or dinner. Fold napkins for the meal…and other meals during the holidays. Watch tree trimming activities. Sing along with CDs or simply listen to Christmas carols. Watch holiday movies on DVD. Help make Christmas decorations f... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2065419 Wed, 24 Dec 2008 22:00:06 +0100 2065419 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2033347&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2Fy5pWLqrxJ9c%2F Traveling with an Alzheimer’s family member can be challenging.  It also can provide you with enjoyable and memorable experiences.  This type of travel takes a great deal of patience, too. At the Alzheimer’s Team blog, read about a Road Trip with Mom and Dad, as described by blogger Krista’s sister Kathy, who took her parents on a two-week trip throughout the Southwest in October to visit family.  Her mom has diabetes and difficulty walking.  Her dad has moderate Alzheimer’s. Kathy’s patience was rewarded with a memorable trip for her parents and herself, also pleasure for family members they visited.  Perhaps reading Kathy’s journal will give you ideas for traveling with your Alzheimer’s family member. It’s not easy, as I discovered... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2033347 Sat, 13 Dec 2008 05:00:57 +0100 2033347 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2013695&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FQP7P3uOF174%2F Here at Alzheimer’s Notes, we often discuss tea parties and tell about special ones with our family members. What would you think if you were invited to a tea party hosted by Harry Potter author, JK Rowling? This happened to 200 school children to celebrate the launch of her latest book, The Tales of Beedle the Bard.  Check out the details at One Book Two Book.  If you’re a Harry Potter fan, you’ll probably find this particularly interesting. Then think about you can how you can plan special tea parties connected with the quilters and youngsters in your life. (Amazon image) Tags: , Alzheimer's Notes, Harry Potter, JK Rowling, Mary Emma Allen, One Book Two Book, tea partiesShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2013695 Fri, 05 Dec 2008 05:00:10 +0100 2013695 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2011254&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FbxLXoE5JQ-0%2F Tea Parties My grandchildren and I enjoyed tea parties with my mom when she resided in the nursing home.  They became a ritual, even after Mother no longer really knew what it was all about.  She smiled and chattered and seemed to enjoy the children.  From this evolved memories the youngsters and I shall treasure. Why not plan tea parties for your family members in the nursing home?  Victorian tea parties can be such fun. Read about one my friend planned for her mother at Seasoned Citizen Activities.  You may enjoy organizing one for a family member.  Perhaps you can find someone who does this on a regular basis…hosting tea parties. (Image from Art of Appreciation Gourmet Gift Baskets) Related Posts: Tea Parties for Alzheimer’s Patients Tea Time at Alzheimer’s No... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2011254 Thu, 04 Dec 2008 13:47:31 +0100 2011254 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1999172&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FIrZr_WQho_o%2F Eileen, from The Artful Crafter, shared in a comment on my post, Writing a Thankful Poem, about sending “Thankful E-mails” this Thanksgiving.  What a great idea!  For Thanksgiving or any time of the year.  (The Thankful Poem idea also was mentioned in a post, Writing a Thankful Poem for Thanksgiving, at Alzheimer’s Notes, as a fun family activity.) I wrote thankful emails to some special people this year. I know it’s not as personal, but it’s immediate and I thought that would be nice - for them to know I was thinking of them and giving thanks at that very minute, said Eileen. I agree, Eileen.  E-mails are our method of communication (along with text messages, Facebook, Twitter, etc.) nowadays to let friends and family know we’re thinking of them. ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1999172 Sun, 30 Nov 2008 01:56:09 +0100 1999172 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1990978&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FeVgaUjTzO6Q%2F Snowy Day We woke up to 5 inches of snow this morning and wondered if school would be delayed.  However, when the grandchildren checked (we live in a three generation household), it was school as usual for them and substitute teaching for me.  Snow can interest Alzheimer’s patients, too, as long as they don’t have to go out into it.  I can remember ,when Mother lived with Jim and me, having to get her up on a snowy morning and take her to daycare so I could go to my teaching work.  In these cases, snow may look lovely, but can be a challenge when you need to transport an Alzheimer’s patient.  (These were the days before the rest of our family lived with Jim and me.) The youngsters in the classes I taught were excited by this actual snowfall since we’d only ha... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1990978 Tue, 25 Nov 2008 21:00:58 +0100 1990978 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1985028&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2Fhv89eGCNpSI%2F Thankful Poem Why not write a Thankful Poem for Thanksgiving?  This can be an activity you’re involved in with your children, your Alzheimer’s family member, holiday guests or simply yourself.  For details on one way to do this, check out my post, Mary Emma’s Writing Tip - A Thankful Poem, at One Book Two Book. Another way to write the poem is to spell the word THANKSGIVING down the page.  Then write something for each letter, such as Traveling to Grandma’s, Having a festive family meal, etc.  Then decorate the page with  a Thanksgiving motif. Thankful Poems might be a Thanksgiving Day activity or something you do over the weekend. Happy Thanksgiving! Tags: Alzheimer's activity, Alzheimer's Notes, Mary Emma Allen, One Book Two Book, thankful, Thankful Poem, T... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1985028 Tue, 25 Nov 2008 03:22:28 +0100 1985028 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1980867&cid=t_167271_107_f&fid=35041&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2Fscienceblogs%2Fdigitalbio%2F%7E3%2F461216257%2Fusing_the_mrsa_database_to_tea.php There's no question that the ability to work with information is one that will be required and valued for a long time to come. I think it's imperative for teachers to have students practice this skill whenever an opportunity comes about. The problem for many teachers is finding the time to identify good data sets. MRSA stands for Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), a serious problem for hospital patients. Six of out seven people who become infected with MRSA, get it from some kind of health-care facility. In 2007, the CDC issued a report claiming that 18,000 people die every year from invasive MRSA infections, a higher number than US deaths from AIDS. Luckily, the Seattle Times has put together a nice database on MRSA infections that can be freely used by anyone and can ... Discovering Biology in a Digital World blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1980867 Fri, 21 Nov 2008 21:50:38 +0100 1980867 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1969045&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2Fn6tpQlTgTdM%2F Cardmaking If you and your family enjoy making holiday cards, I have some resources at Party Pizzazz to check out.  Here you’ll find ideas for your cards, invitations and thank you notes. I discussed cardmaking in a previous post, something the whole family can enjoy, along with your Alzheimer’s patient.  Why not carry it over into holiday and Christmas card ideas. (Amazon image) Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, cardmaking, Christmas, holiday, holiday cards, Mary Emma AllenShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1969045 Mon, 17 Nov 2008 18:41:48 +0100 1969045 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1964177&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F28IaenLp1Pg%2F Giveaway Cardmaking, whether from fabric, mixed media or solely paper, gains attention as we approach the holidays.  These may be greeting cards, thank you notes, invitations, and place cards for parties. This also is a project Alzheimer’s patients often can participate in.  Even if they can’t manipulate the cardmaking materials, they often can choose colors and pictures.  They may simply like being included in the family activity, even though they cannot verbalize why.   Mother often sat beside me when I wrote, sewed, did craft activities.  She chatted (yes, often asking the same question over and over), played with objects and materials I placed in front of me and enjoyed the feeling she was “helping” me. For those who enjoy giveaways as well as making card... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1964177 Sun, 16 Nov 2008 05:00:15 +0100 1964177 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1964094&cid=t_167271_107_f&fid=35041&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2Fscienceblogs%2Fdigitalbio%2F%7E3%2F454108904%2Fweekend_fun_build_your_own_vir.php If you're going to create a new life form (even if it's only digital), Sunday Saturday seems like the best day to give it a try. Reposted from an earlier year. Read the rest of this post... | Read the comments on this post... (Source: Discovering Biology in a Digital World) Discovering Biology in a Digital World blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1964094 Sat, 15 Nov 2008 16:17:11 +0100 1964094 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1960914&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FmryKvcJZ3AM%2F Quilting & Alzheimer’s After I wrote the post, Sharing Quilting with Your Alzheimer’s Patient and Family, Betty told about her experiences with her mom and quilting.  She told how she includes her mom in her activities. My Mom’s got dementia and she enjoys watching me select the colors for my quilts. She also likes to pick up the fallen scraps off the floor and carry them around. I let her keep them, unless they’re needed for a specific project. Last time I took her to a quiltshow, she wandered off and was lost for awhile. Now I go to the shows alone, but take lots of pictures for us to share together. I related an incident with my mom.  She enjoyed quilts in her Alzheimer’s years although she couldn’t do any quilting. My daughter made Mothe... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1960914 Sat, 15 Nov 2008 05:00:10 +0100 1960914 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1952064&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FXWZYBKibypM%2F Quilting Quilting often is a family project and one that has memories for the Alzheimer’s patient as well.  If they can’t participate, they may reminisce or simply express interest in the colors and activity. I made quilts with my grandmother when I was eight-years old.  My daughter and granddaughter became involved in this art at a young age. My mom told us about sewing and making quilts when she was as young as six-years old.  So, even in her Alzheimer’s years, she showed an interest in quilts even though she could no longer do quilting. I’ve compiled a list of Fascinating Quilting/Fabric Art Books, at my Quilting and Patchwork blog Pages.  These will remain as a resource for my readers’ future use and referral. Do you have favorite quilting and f... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1952064 Wed, 12 Nov 2008 05:00:26 +0100 1952064 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1947349&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FJvk_wa0M5fs%2F Veterans Day Commemorating the sacrifices of veterans over the years to protect and provide for our country brings back memories for many Alzheimer’s patients. Those experiencing the illness often served their country or had family members who did in former wars like World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam. They take seriously the meaning of this day and often enjoy watching parades, on television or in actuality, waving flags, and singing songs.  Even if they’re not so aware of what’s going on, they often like to participate in any celebrations at home or in a nursing home. My mom was especially proud of the flag given her, at my uncle’s death (her brother), in recognition of his service in World War II.  When she began to lose of what it was for, she gave i... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1947349 Tue, 11 Nov 2008 05:00:49 +0100 1947349 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1945355&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2Fye-7kmQb7_I%2F Thanksgiving Ideas As Thanksgiving approaches, your family is thinking of celebrations and special recipes.  The children (and your Alzheimer’s patient) may be looking for books to enjoy. Check out my list of books with fun, facts, activities and recipes at One Book Two Book.  Fun & Fact Books for Thanksgiving & Harvest Season Favorite Thanksgiving Books Do you have any to suggest?  Favorite books, activities and recipes? Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, books, caregivers, family gatherings, Mary Emma Allen, recipes, ThanksgivingShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1945355 Sat, 08 Nov 2008 22:48:09 +0100 1945355 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1917956&cid=t_167271_109_f&fid=34752&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPsychsplash%2F%7E3%2F434898848%2F URL: http://www.bio-chart.com/Do you believe in Biorhythms? While you may or may not, they are interesting to view. For: ConsumersTopics: Behaviour Management, Clinical Psychology, Emotional Health, General Psychology, General Science, Mental HealthFeatures: Assessment Instruments, CE Activities, e-learningDo you believe in Biorhythms? While you may or may not, they are interesting to view. At the beginning of the last century, Dr. Wilhelm Fliess noticed identical rhythms in the case histories of his patients. He observed active and passive phases in the physical, emotional and mental aspects of humans. From these observations he derived the principle of the biorhythms: The physical curve with its cycle of 23 days, the emotional curve with 28 days and the mental curve with 33 days. Bio... PsychSplash blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1917956 Tue, 28 Oct 2008 17:00:25 +0100 1917956 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1906250&cid=t_167271_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F10%2Fguest-post-from-life-coach-scott.html Ever read a legal document and turn a page and all it has on the page is the phrase "This Space Left Intentionally Blank" centered on the page? I think I know why writers of legal documents do that. It got me thinking about caregiving.What if, in the flow of caregiving, we were to designate certain times that are "intentionally blank"? These would be times when we unplug COMPLETELY from the world around us; times when we pull away from the caregiving and purposefully do nothing. If we do this we can greatly increase our capacity for perspective. We can re-energize. We can renew. Then, when the "blank time" is over, we can get back to the business of caregiving with a new sense of vision and excitement.Are you doing this already? Great!If you haven't considered "Intentionally Blank" times l... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1906250 Fri, 24 Oct 2008 17:47:00 +0100 1906250 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1901693&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FZ0NcpSMkGqs%2F Crafts for Alzheimer’s Patients Alzheimer’s patients, at least while they are still mobile, can use their hands, and have some connection with reality, enjoy participating in crafts.  Even those who can no longer participate often enjoy watching. Susan S. wrote me an inquiry about crafts for patients with dementia who live in nursing homes. Our church group gos once a month to a home that has people with dementia. We go there to do crafts with them I have so much fun.  Can you help me with some of the crafts that I can do with them? Tell me what kind of things that they can do. Thank you. Do you have any suggestions to help Susan?  I have worked with assisted living residents and dementia patients in a nursing home in scrapbooking and family history/memory projects.  My ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1901693 Fri, 24 Oct 2008 03:32:53 +0100 1901693 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1902599&cid=t_167271_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F429090832%2F A couple of recent research findings are making the media rounds, bringing much needed attention to the high Alzheimer's rates among Latinos and to preventive approaches based on the Cognitive Reserve - such as, what jobs we choose: More Alzheimer's risk for Hispanics, studies find (International Herald Tribune): - Studies suggest that many Hispanics may have more risk factors for developing dementia than other groups, and a significant number appear to be getting Alzheimer's earlier. And surveys indicate that Latinos, less likely to see doctors because of financial and language barriers, more often mistake dementia symptoms for normal aging, delaying diagnosis. - "This is the tip of the iceberg of a huge public health challenge," said Yanira Cruz, president of the National Hisp... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1902599 Thu, 23 Oct 2008 00:27:46 +0100 1902599 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1879993&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FlnEg4S2dCEc%2F AlzheimersNotes.com As I gaze at the colorful foliage of autumn around my New Hampshire home, I’m reminded of my mother’s love of this time of year.  We were surrounded by pasture and woodlands at the farm where I grew up and where Mother lived for more than 50 years.  She always called our attention to the autumn colors in the woods and field and garden.  Some corn stalks lingered in the field beyond the barn.  Pumpkins and squash, ready for picking, added color to the garden near the house.  As Mother developed Alzheimer’s, she still enjoyed the autumn leaves and harvest.  I recall one autumn of taking her for drives through the colorful countryside near her home.  She talked about that for days afterward, whenever she remembered.  It was an event that still br... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1879993 Wed, 15 Oct 2008 17:18:34 +0100 1879993 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1873146&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F4sCXTPmaeJk%2F AlzheimersNotes.com QuiltingAndPatchwork.com Join the Arts Bloggers for fall creations and other projects.  These may be activities your Alzheimer’s family member may enjoy as well.  If he/she can’t participate, watching you often provides pleasure, too.  My mom enjoyed anything that had to do with the colorful autumn leaves. Celebrate fall colors Tangled Thread is inspired by fall colors to create a new fall flower wall hanging. Change Your Writing Tools Encouragement to use differernt writing tools in your journal Layers Upon Layers Come see some of the work that has arrived at the home of the “Ties That Bind” collaborative art project, raising money for ovarian cancer research.  Make It Pink Challenge at CraftStylish Upload your pink craft project to CraftS... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1873146 Tue, 14 Oct 2008 06:00:32 +0100 1873146 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1870931&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F2snQo4_1e3Y%2F AlzheimersNotes.com “Take pictures of my Alzheimer’s family member!  I’d never want to do that,” you say. However, this can be enjoyable, both for you and your Alzheimer’s patient.  I’m pleased I have now, a series of photos of Mother and Auntie during those years.  Many of Mother’s I’ve placed in  a scrapbook, calling it Legacy of Love. Included are photos of my grandchildren visiting their great grandmother and participating in activities and special events with her at the nursing home.  The photos bring back special memories for them. Also, at the nursing home, the staff took photos of the residents (with the families permission).  When I coordinated a scrapbooking program with some of the residents, we used these photos.  How much ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1870931 Mon, 13 Oct 2008 10:00:44 +0100 1870931 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1871455&cid=t_167271_165_f&fid=37959&url=http%3A%2F%2Fhealthskills.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F10%2F13%2Fpain-management-strategy-worksheet-and-activity%2F It’s been a while since I directly posted on practical pain management strategies that can be used as part of activity.  A while ago I developed an activity to use with our pain management programme that involves identifying the skills you might use during three common activities.  I’ve uploaded it here for you to use. Be aware that the photographs are from Google images, so are both of variable quality and some may be copyright. The way you can use this activity is to ask the person to match the title to the definition of the coping strategy (and yes, there are a lot of debates about the definitions so they are by no means definitive!).  You could ask the person to talk you through the strategies he or she uses, or you could use it during assessment as a means of identifyin... HealthSkills Weblog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1871455 Sun, 12 Oct 2008 18:04:19 +0100 1871455 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1868599&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FUeGcr3_-6mo%2F AlzheimersNotes.com As I consider the activities used with Alzheimer’s patients of my mother’s era, as well as movies shown and music played, I realize these may change as a younger generation, essentially Baby Boomers, reach the Alzheimer’s stage.  They won’t recognize some of the movies and music, will enjoy some of the same activities, but many different ones, too. I recall visiting Mother and finding the residents entranced by World War II era and earlier movie stories.  They sang songs that Mother sang to us as children and from her earlier years.  Languages May Differ Also, languages spoken in nursing homes may vary, too.  There will be more residents from other countries, who have learned English here, but still recognize their native tongues which are di... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1868599 Fri, 10 Oct 2008 18:00:21 +0100 1868599 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1844874&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F5L-lbKaz9K4%2F AlzheimersNotes.com If you or your family members entertain thoughts of writing, either for pure fun, to write stories for school lessons, or to record your thoughts about Alzheimer’s caretaking, you might enjoy the series I’ve begun at One Book Two Book, Mary Emma’s Writing Tips.  Although the weekly tips, prompts and activities are slated for young writers, they will work for anyone. These will appear at One Book Two Book each Sunday. I also will suggest books and web sites where you can find help and inspiration, too. I’ve often written about my journey through Alzheimer’s with my mom and aunt in hopes of giving others encouragement.  Simply writing down your thoughts in a private journal often helps you cope with the frustrations of this time in your l... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1844874 Thu, 02 Oct 2008 05:00:44 +0100 1844874 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1837331&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F3xKbmKitMuo%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Art often is as an activity for Alzheimer’s patients.  This might include acrylic or water color painting, shaping with clay, coloring with crayons or markers, quiltmaking, sketching, and mixed media.  It depends on the stage of the patient whether they can do much or even comprehend. However, many patients in the earlier stages of Alzheimer’s find enjoyment and relaxation in this form of creativity.   Many do amazingly well with assistance. Are you preserving this art? But it’s not good, you think.  It doesn’t have value. However, it has memories and leaves a legacy.    My mother-in-law didn’t have Alzheimer’s but was nearly blind.  We didn’t realize until after her death how many water color paintings she had done d... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1837331 Tue, 30 Sep 2008 05:00:27 +0100 1837331 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1834776&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FOxR7chXjcqk%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Among the movies shown for entertainment at nursing homes (or in your home), have these included any starring Paul Newman?  Will Alzheimer’s residents, if they comprehend the news on television, realize he passed away of cancer? When my mom resided in a nursing home, I often visited to find the residents watching movies.  They might not be entirely cognisant of the story line, but they sometimes did recognize the actors and mention their names.  (Incidentally, in one report about Paul Newman’s retirement from acting in 2007, it said he supposedly mentioned memory difficulty as one of the reasons.  No one has implied he had dementia or Alzheimer’s, but decreasing memory from other causes can result in changes in one’s life.) (Amazon DVD i... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1834776 Sun, 28 Sep 2008 05:00:25 +0100 1834776 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1825931&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FudYquyLOhXk%2F AlzheimersNotes.com BLOGTOBER FEST, a time to celebrate autumn and enjoy great prizes comes to the Lifestyles Channel, as well as Quilting and Patchwork and One Book Two Book , for two weeks, from October 6-17.  There will be celebrating and prizes from b5media Lifestyles bloggers and outside participants. Read all about it and see if you’d like to participate and receive recognition for your business. Information here.  (Amazon image) (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Share This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1825931 Thu, 25 Sep 2008 12:55:35 +0100 1825931 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1817339&cid=t_167271_165_f&fid=37959&url=http%3A%2F%2Fhealthskills.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F09%2F24%2Fgreat-group-activities-resource%2F I stumbled across this great site full of activities for developing group dynamics through experiential activities.  There are loads of free downloadable pdf docs on activities that are fun, require very little in the way of materials, and are pretty simple to carry out (well, as simple as any group activity is!) and can be aimed at various levels of reflection or self discovery. I especially found the section on Exploring the Five Stages of Group Formation helpful, and recommend this for anyone who is working with a group of people over several weeks.  I think so many group programmes are simply 1:1 sessions carried out with a lot of people rather than truly becoming the synergist venues for developing as people and achieving goals that they really can be.      ... HealthSkills Weblog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1817339 Tue, 23 Sep 2008 21:08:50 +0100 1817339 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1802818&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2Fi-r2KnQo6V4%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Autumn - the time of year my mother enjoyed.  She took walks with us children, engaged in activities, cooked foods, and celebrated birthdays (mine in October and hers in November).  She and my dad were married in November, and she always enjoyed the autumn flowers they had for their wedding…crysanthemums. When she developed Alzheimer’s, I tried to engage in autumn activities with her.  So this time of year is one of beauty and nostalgia. Here are some activities you might enjoy with your family.  Perhaps your Alzheimer’s member can join in, too, or at least watch you. Carve pumpkins Pick apples Make apple dishes such as applesauce, pies, and crisp Take short drives midst autumn scenery Rake leaves into piles the children jump into Drink apple cid... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1802818 Thu, 18 Sep 2008 05:00:18 +0100 1802818 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1791689&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FQRoUUSAfXUA%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Your Alzheimer’s patient has been restless all day…and into the night.  You’re tired and feel overwhelmed.  You wonder why you’re the one to whom the care of your family member has fallen. I think it was the tiredness that got to me most because I never slept a whole night through while Mother lived with us.  A friend had warned me, when I found I needed to move Mother to our home, that the sleeplessness would be one of the most difficult aspects. I realized it wasn’t the same as caring for a baby who woke during the night.  The baby might cry but wouldn’t get out of the crib and wander.  Mother might wander and attempt to leave the house.  She might turn on a stove, so we took all the knobs off every night.  She often raided ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1791689 Mon, 15 Sep 2008 03:41:43 +0100 1791689 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1788793&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FCaYJJsOsr2E%2F AlzheimersNotes.com It’s fun to see how excited the youngsters become when it’s Book Fair Time at school.  Yesterday I was substitute teaching and took children to the area in the library where the books were displayed. I didn’t see any books relating to Alzheimer’s or forgetfulness (like The Graduation of Jake Moon, for instance) but I didn’t have time (I was supervising children) to look through all the books.  However, often the picture books your youngsters bring home will entertain your Alzheimer’s family member. Books that remind them of childhood Books about familiar places Books about daily activities Books with colorful pictures Books with simple pictures (Amazon image; click here for details) (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Share This (Source: Alz... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1788793 Fri, 12 Sep 2008 16:49:22 +0100 1788793 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1775614&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FfK2RazzomKE%2F AlzheimersNotes.com We have another round of inspiration for caregivers and Alzheimer’s patients from the crafty Arts Bloggers.  Try these ideas on a crisp autumn day and enjoy. First Day of Spring (or Autumn) Create a visual journal entry about spring or your favourite season. Hannah’s Toadstool Doorstops Get instructions for cute doorstops using gravel-filled plastic food containers. Layers Upon Layers Artist Profile  Pallas Vititoe is a mixed media fabric artist that you’ll want to meet!  Quilters’ Lunch Box Memories Back-to-school time brings lunch box memories. Do quilters make quilts and fabric art with lunch box designs? Here are some suggestions. “Costume” Earrings Do you have any outfits that you just can’t find the right earrings for... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1775614 Tue, 09 Sep 2008 01:02:22 +0100 1775614 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1770651&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F8j9Q6C8sU1E%2F AlzheimersNotes.com I discussed individual memory books for Alzheimer’s patients in my previous post.  There also are group memory projects for nursing home groups. I conducted one of these activities at the nursing home where Mother lived and found it a pleasure for me as well as the patients.  It started out as a scrapbooking project, but I soon realized the residents (most of whom were in the mid stages of Alzheimer’s), enjoyed reminiscing about the photos and sharing with one another. Sometimes this sharing was a monologue that might jog the memory of the person sitting next to them, too.  But the chatting and laughing that went on during these sessions was a joy for me…and it seemed to be for them as well. A staff member and I used photos taken at the nursing home... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1770651 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 04:41:53 +0100 1770651 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1770652&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FV9qzHq-IXww%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Creating memory books for the Alzheimer’s patient in your family is a one way to assist their recall, as well as giving you both something to talk about with them.  Also, when they’re in a nursing home, the memory book helps the staff members in working with the patient.  This is something familiar that often jogs the patient’s memory. When Mother lived in a nursing home, a staff member suggested I put together a simple album with photos of people in Mother’s life.  For some reason, I included photos of Mother’s parents, her siblings and the home where she grew up.  At the stage where Mother was, she related more to them than to my dad, sister, brothers, grandchildren and me.  So this is something to remember when putting together the... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1770652 Sat, 06 Sep 2008 12:12:02 +0100 1770652 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1760020&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FQ2ZtF_5mA7g%2F QuiltingAndPatchwork.com With the beginning of September and the youngsters in our household  back in school, our thoughts turn to autumn.  Often there’s a nip in the air at night which reminds us fall is “around the corner.” The Arts Bloggers share their weekly inspiration which I thought I’d share with you.  My mom used to like to sit and watch me when I worked at crafts or my writing.  Sometimes she’d chat and reminisce.  Other times she simply sat contentedly…at least for a short time. Crocheted baby sweater and cap Caron Yarns commissioned Noreen to design an adorable baby sweater and cap. Here’s the patttern for it.  Congratulations, Noreen! Photo Talk at Layers Upon Layers Give your photos a graphic quality that will make them pop! M... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1760020 Wed, 03 Sep 2008 11:58:47 +0100 1760020 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1720456&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FMB_uh3kya10%2F Theme Day at the b5 media Health & Wellness channel centers around the topic of Summer Fun. Hosted by Lib at Healthbolt, the round-up offers some last minute, end -of-summer suggestions.  Check out what our bloggers have to say: At Healthbolt Lib and Liz believe you should be able to laugh a little about your health, and thus, would like to introduce you to the Laryngospasms. Enjoy. While it’s often difficult for Alzheimer’s caregivers to plan for summer fun, Mary Emma Allen has some ideas at Alzheimer’s Notes. At Mental Health Notes, Alicia tells us how to find free mood boosters to manage depression and shake things up in the bedroom with Sunshine Can Help Your Brain Grow Big And Strong. Kristina at Autism Vox goes on vacation by the ocean for fun in the sun and surf, and so... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1720456 Wed, 20 Aug 2008 18:41:31 +0100 1720456 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1711800&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FgsAKEKyl0_8%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Are you and your children, perhaps even your Alzheimer’s patient in a limited way, Harry Potter fans?  Susan Gunelius, author of Harry Potter, The Story of a Global Business Phenomenon, will visit Home Biz Notes, on Tuesday, August 19, the day her book is launched in the United States. You won’t want to miss this upcoming interview with Susan, also a b5 blogger at Brand Curve.  We learn how and why she wrote the story concerning the phenomenal marketing strategy that made Harry Potter a brand name and fantastic success.  We shall be featuring a giveaway of the book later in the day of August 19.  (Susan’s book also is available for pre-order at the above link.) So…..Keep Tuned! (Amazon image; click on book for details) Also See: Susan Gune... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1711800 Sun, 17 Aug 2008 17:00:07 +0100 1711800 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1696327&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FpIpdN9Dbu1A%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Finding opportunities for summer fun (vacations, days at the beach, barbeques with friends, attending the latest movie) often seem limited for Alzheimer’s caregivers.  They’re tied to the home caring for a person they find it difficult to take out with them.  Or it requires a great deal of work to plan and accomplish, whether you’re arranging for care when you’re away or taking them along. *Plan more backyard and at-home activities that the Alzheimer’s patient can watch (or stay in their room if they desire).  More people are aware of Alzheimer’s disease and are more accepting of someone with Alzheimer’s than when Mother and Auntie were ill. *If you have relatives living nearby, arrange exchanges with them.  Sometimes relat... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1696327 Mon, 11 Aug 2008 18:00:43 +0100 1696327 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1693755&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F2pFlWW5S_vw%2F AlzheimersNotes.com  With the Olympics located in China, panda bears come to mind.  There seems to be a fascination with these black and white bears with the black patches around  their eyes.  They’re native to southwestern and central western China.  Because of their distinctive markings, they’ve been a favorite with artists and photographers, as well as writers. These animals become the focus of story books and find their way into art.  Children enjoy reading about them.  Often you’ll find that pictures and picture books entertain Alzheimer’s patients.  Looking at them may initiate conversations and mind activity.   See some suggested books below to entertain youngsters and Alzheimer’s patients alike: Panda Bear, Panda Bear, What Do You See? Zen... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1693755 Sun, 10 Aug 2008 08:00:06 +0100 1693755 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1686371&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FvvEJC7ZlHaA%2F AlzheimersNotes.com If you and your family are following the Olympics and would like some related activities and information, here’s a list of posts that appear on my blogs so far.  My co-bloggers and I will be sharing more in the coming week. Even your Alzheimer’s patient may enjoy watching some of these events even if they don’t fully comprehend.  I imagine many nursing homes will feature the Olympics and even have some special activities.  They did this around special occasions when my mom lived in a nursing home. Also check out the b5media Olympics blog, Light the Torch, by Sandy Mitchell and Jeanne Dupuis for the latest on this big event. Mary Emma’s Olympics Blog Features OneBookTwoBook - Mary Emma Allen & Marcie Pickelsimer (This is Olympics Week at On... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1686371 Wed, 06 Aug 2008 18:41:19 +0100 1686371 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1683134&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FgYdKTCh-9TM%2F AlzheimersNotes.com When I mentioned previously my idea of starting a Tea Time at Alzheimer’s Notes, where I’d chat with visitors, through their comments or e-mails, I realized this was a tradition typical of my family and one we continued with Mother in the nursing home. Sitting down to a cup of tea (or coffee for my aunts) runs through my memories of visiting my grandmother at her farm.  Every afternoon at 3:00, we stopped what we were doing, took a break and had a chat over tea and snacks.  Mother was ready to offer visitors a cup of tea when they stopped by our farm home, too. Tea Time During Alzheimer’s Years When I began helping Mother during her beginning Alzheimer’s years, first on the ajenda when I arrived from my home 275 miles away, was sitting down ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1683134 Tue, 05 Aug 2008 19:59:53 +0100 1683134 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1679487&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FrFHga8a5bPk%2F AlzheimersNotes.com I’m very appreciative of everyone who stops by Alzheimer’s Notes for the Glass Full of Tears Bloggy Giveaway (you have through Aug. 5 to enter the random drawing) and to check out other posts.  You also have been sharing your individual situations, almost as though you’re chatting with me over a cup of tea.  I’m going to start “Tea Time at Alzheimer’s Notes” and feature comments, as well as my thoughts, that I think others would enjoy and might relate to.  Let’s sit down around my kitchen table and chat, find solace and perhaps some solutions, too…not necessarily to Alzheimer’s, but how we can cope or have coped with the situation we find ourselves in. (Amazon image) (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Tags: Alzheimer... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1679487 Mon, 04 Aug 2008 18:17:50 +0100 1679487 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1664385&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F350152344%2F AlzheimersNotes.com  I find the warmer days of summer a time when it’s often difficult to come up with tempting recipes. If this is a problem for you, too, as you search for recipes for your Alzheimer’s patient, your other family members and yourself, take some suggestions from the Food Bloggers. Busy Family Meals - Slow down and try a delicious specialty drink from Venice!  Cyndi traveled there recently and came home with many recipes for her family and her blogs. Grilled Veggie Tostadas - A great way to use the bounty from late summer gardens. Mediterranean-Style Recipes: Jean’s Tuna Tamarindo - As you become accustomed to cooking in the Mediterranean (or Sonoma) way, you may find yourself creating your own recipes, as Jean has. Try Jean’s original Mediterran... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1664385 Wed, 30 Jul 2008 05:00:06 +0100 1664385 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1660858&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F348148767%2F It might sound a little strange, but the Alzheimer’s Association is calling on people to ‘host an Alzheimer’s Party’ to watch The Forgetting is an Emmy Award-winning documentary based on David Shenk’s best-selling book. This documentary will air nationally Sunday, August 3, 2008 at 9:00 pm ET on PBS (local broadcasts may vary). The idea is that you sign up with the Alzheimer’s Association to host a party and they’ll send you party set up tips and tools, local PBS broadcast information and party activity materials via email. Sounds like a great way to increase awareness of Alzheimer’s and have some fun at the same time… Tags: Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Awareness, david shenk, the forgettingShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1660858 Mon, 28 Jul 2008 15:32:54 +0100 1660858 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1652425&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F345323659%2F AlzheimersNotes.com  Stimulating the memory and conversational abilities of Alzheimer’s patients may help them remain cognizant longer.  There are various ways to do this and one consists of showing them familiar objects and participating in familiar activities. What about using neckties that they’ve worn (if a man) or used by one’s spouse (if a woman)?  Sometimes just the pattern and colors will bring back memories.  (And the patient may surprise you by relating unpleasant memories as well.) Generally the memories will be of that person and various occasions when the neckties were worn.  You  also might consider combining the neckties into memory quilts, pillows, throws, and wall hangings.  Have you tried this? Check Out These Posts About Neckties & Quilts: M... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1652425 Fri, 25 Jul 2008 05:00:32 +0100 1652425 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1642748&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F341748652%2F AlzheimersNotes.com  Sometimes phrases will spark memories and enthrall the Alzheimer’s patient.  See if you can remember any they may have been mentioned about your patient’s childhood.  These may be outdated words and phrases, but they reflect the world where your patient currently resides. The Dog Days of Summer….this was an expression of my childhood during the lazy, hazy days of languid, humid heat and still seems to be a saying or description of this time of year from about July 3 to August 11.  I recall my mom mentioning this when we were in the midst of haying and canning and the weather was hottest in the Hudson River Valley of New York State. The term seems to go way back to mythology  and the conjunction of Sirus (called the “dog star”) a... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1642748 Mon, 21 Jul 2008 17:58:59 +0100 1642748 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1637859&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F339619059%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Since Alzheimer’s patients, at a certain stage of the illness, often live in the past, why not incorporate this family legacy into time travel for the youngsters in your household this summer?  Take advantage of the Alzheimer’s member’s memories…record and scrapbook them for your family legacy. However, youngsters are familiar with time travel books so popular nowadays.  Why not do some time travel as you delve into these memories? Find places on a map that Grandma tells about. Research how she lived when she was a little girl See how far back you can follow your family tree Find out about those eras and what people did Pretend you’re living in those days…and travel back in time for “pretent” adventures For instance, I... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1637859 Sat, 19 Jul 2008 05:00:28 +0100 1637859 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1625712&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F336768395%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Preserving our memories and those of Alzheimer’s patients can lead to scrapbooking fun.  I led a scrapbooking activity for Alzheimer’s patients at a nursing home and think they had as much fun as I did. With the help of an activity aide, we selected pictures taken of the residents as they engaged in various events at the home.  The patients exclaimed, “That’s me!” If they were able, they cut out the pictures and selected the colors of the background.  We pasted the photos and embellishments to the pages, one or two for each resident.  Then they shared with one another before we put the pages in a community scrapbook. This is something you also can do with your Alzheimer’s patient in your home, and with children if they’re... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1625712 Wed, 16 Jul 2008 05:00:31 +0100 1625712 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1616214&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F332784719%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Christmas in July has become a popular event, whether you’re doing crafts, desiring an outing to a holiday shop (they’ve become very popular and often carry many other craft items), or simply want to start preparing early so your life doesn’t become too frantic in December with balancing caregiving responsibilities with family activities. At my Quilting and Patchwork blog, I’ve been participating in a Christmas in July series with other bloggers, posting something about the holiday season every few days.  Here are some of the posts if you’d like to check them out for ideas and information. 13 Holiday Recipes for Quilters to Enjoy 7 Quilted Christmas Gift Projects for Youngsters Quilters, What Colors for Christmas? 5 Christmas in July Ideas... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1616214 Fri, 11 Jul 2008 15:49:28 +0100 1616214 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1606024&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F332089137%2F AlzheimersNotes.com What recreational activities or hobbies are you involved in  this summer with your Alzheimer’s patient (parent, spouse, or relative)?  Do you have special projects you do together?  If you have children in the home, too,  you’ll be looking for activities they can be involved in with you.  These also will help build great family memories and carry you over the frustrating times. Some of these the Alzheimer’s patient may not be able to do too well and may lose interest, but it will help keep them occupied for awhile. Others will be activities for younger children which may be all the patient can handle, too. Wrting down family memories Scrapbooking Making mini quilts Birdwatching around the yard and at bird feeders Cooking foods from the Alzhe... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1606024 Thu, 10 Jul 2008 21:29:36 +0100 1606024 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1543508&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F319768126%2F AlzheimersNotes.com  Ever wish you could take a nap during the day, when lack of sleep overwhelms you? Yet you feel guilty if you do.  Or your Alzheimer’s patient doesn’t remain napping if you try to catch forty winks at the same time? Today, if someone else watches your patient or they nap, too,  you also can take a “power nap” with a clear conscience, according to Yvonne Russell’s post at Home Biz Notes, Happy National Siesta Day. There she lists the benefits of a 10-120 minute nap. So Happy Napping!! Maybe you’ll find it so beneficial you’ll squeeze in power naps other days as well. (Amazon image; click image for details) (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, Alzheimers-disease, caregiver health, caregivers, Caregivi... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1543508 Wed, 25 Jun 2008 15:00:58 +0100 1543508 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1526103&cid=t_167271_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthbolt.net%2F2008%2F06%2F17%2Fits-theme-day-at-the-hw-channel-schools-out-yall%2F Image details: Sunbed served by picapp.com For lots of us, June means one thing: School’s Out. Which could be a good thing…or not so much. Doesn’t matter how we feel, this time of year seems to come whether we want it to or not. And thus, it is the center of this month’s Theme Day here across the b5media Health & Wellness Channel. Gloria of Cancer Commentary has been so kind as to host this month’s round-up, full of tips and tricks to get you through the months ahead. You know the bloggers here at this channel always have plenty to say - and this month is no exception. Hope on over and give Gloria a hearty Howdoyado, and check out what we’re all flapping our gums about this month. Enjoy…and Happy Summer! Tags: Healthbolt, Summer ActivitiesShar... Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1526103 Tue, 17 Jun 2008 20:19:17 +0100 1526103 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1501480&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F307011519%2F AlzheimersNotes.com  Unusual celebrations often have appeal for Alzheimer’s patients.  They need not make sense or even be ones they know about.  I discovered that Mother enjoyed parties, even if they were just for the two of us. At the nursing home, the residents also enjoyed gatherings.  They might be confused about the day or the era, but it often brought back reflections of some kind.  This broke the monotony of their day and was fun for the staff, too. Today, June 7, was Daniel Boone Day, I discovered, when I visited Sandra Mitchell’s All Holiday Cafe.  Even though it might be too late to arrange a pioneer celebration for your Alzheimer’s family member (and any children in your home) today, you could use this idea as a springboard for future fun times. What... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1501480 Sat, 07 Jun 2008 22:28:28 +0100 1501480 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1497855&cid=t_167271_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F06%2Ften-mentally-stimulating-activities-for.html How can caregivers find activities day after day for people who have Alzheimer's? These ten tips provide activities that offer mental stimulation.1. PREVIOUS INTERESTS. Research the historical eras of the person's life on the internet to find items that trigger memories and interests. For instance, new hobbies may result from researching vintage items from the 1930's or 40's. At the website hyperhistory.com you can research people, events, arts, history, culture and more.2. PERSONAL HISTORY - Relate personal history items to major historical events. Draw a timeline for the personal history. As memories become difficult to remember seeing events on a timeline makes it less confusing.3. COMPUTER ACTIVITIES. If a person with Alzheimer's is not familiar with computer skills he or she may still... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1497855 Thu, 05 Jun 2008 19:16:00 +0100 1497855 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1482107&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F302040767%2F Once the excitement of the first days of summer vacation from school are over, the caregivers who are mom and daughters/sons, often are bombarded with the comments, “I’m bored.  I don’t know what to do.”  Check out the post, Activities for Your Youngsters This Summer - Reading & Others, over at my new blog One Book Two Book.  There you’ll also find links to Karen’s post at our blog and Char’s at Weary Parent, with many, many ideas. Depending on the activity, you often can involve your Alzheimer’s patient in the games and crafts with the youngsters.  If they can’t participate, simply watching may entertain. What are your plans for summer activities to keep the various generations in your home busy? (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Ta... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1482107 Sat, 31 May 2008 21:30:25 +0100 1482107 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1467912&cid=t_167271_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F298226177%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Are there any caregivers or Alzheimer’s patients who are quilters?  I’m sponsoring a drawing over at my Quilting and Patchwork blog for a quilting booklet, Bonnie Leman’s How to Make a Quilt - 25 Easy Lessons for Beginners. Click on the title above for guidelines for the drawing. Also, if you are a quilter, you might like to let us know in the comments below.  Share with us your projects. Then other caregivers can find a common bond.  Quilting and fabric art can be very relaxing in times of stress.  Sharing with others encourages us in our projects. (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimer's patients, Alzheimers, Alzheimers-disease, caregivers, contest, contest guidelines, Mary Emma Allen, quilter, Quilting and Patchwork, Quilt... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1467912 Mon, 26 May 2008 08:00:26 +0100 1467912 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1440212&cid=t_167271_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D85 For some, this is the worst idea you’ve ever heard! You may be asking yourself “Why in the world would I EVER do that?” Frankly, because it could be a win-win situation. Granted, if absence from your family makes the heart grow fonder by all means, let love rule. But, if you have an open and amorous relationship with your parents, even when you see them regularly, moving in might be a good thing. Let me tell you why. Having a parent move in or vice versa can be best if you are a long-distance caregiver or if one or both of you are struggling to manage the cost of living alone. For caregivers who live long-distance from their aging loved one the cost of travel can be prohibitive. With fuel, food, and care costs rising significantly, having multiple generations in a home has significa... CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1440212 Tue, 13 May 2008 16:06:24 +0100 1440212 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1433738&cid=t_167271_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2008%2F05%2F10%2Fbeing-crazy-in-a-sane-world%2F The New York Times brings us one of those insightful pieces that I wish were commonplace at all newspapers — the everyday story of people living with mental illness and fighting for their rights. It details the stories of a number of people living with mental illness, including Liz Spikol who blogs regularly over at Philadelphia Weekly. Ms. Spikol is a 39-year-old writer who grapples with bipolar disorder and has undergone electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). The article also tells the story of Elyn Saks, a University of Southern California law professor, associate dean, and author of The Center Cannot Hold: My Journey Through Madness, who was afraid to talk about her mental illness until she got tenure, for fear of the stigma that might deny her professional opportunities. The arti... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1433738 Sat, 10 May 2008 12:06:37 +0100 1433738