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 'caregiver'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 01:54:29 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5062516&cid=t_108794_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FAO7ojwxCk_4%2Ffamily-caregiving-is-becoming-more-and.html Family caregiving is becoming a more and more common phenomena with the rise in numbers of American seniors, and a 2011 AARP study says the value of unpaid family caregiving reached $450 billion in 2009. Recent data shows one in eight Americans are 65 or older, with the number of seniors doubling between 2000 and 2030; the number of senior household is expected to increase 35% by 2020 from 2010 figures. Many older Americans embrace their independence and prefer receiving care at home and aging in place rather than going to a nursing facility, says AARP; this has contributed to the rise in caregiving in general, as well as family caregiving and the costs associated with it. To put the costs of caregiving in context, the AARP paper, Valuing the Invaluable: 2011 Update – The Growing Contr... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5062516 Mon, 25 Jul 2011 14:32:00 +0100 5062516 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5008697&cid=t_108794_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FhOIwtOXSUP0%2Fangelamore-than-pretty-name.html The following is a recent article that appeared in Healthcare IT News. Seniors struggling to deal with healthcare concerns while living independently will soon have a new friend to call upon – Angela. “Angela” is an interactive telecare platform launched by Independa, a San Diego-based provider of telehealth solutions for home care-based settings and caregivers. Described as “the next Wii or iPad for the golden generation,” it’s designed to not only provide entertainment and a communications platform for seniors living independently, but also to maintain a vital link to caregivers. “Our vision as a company is to replace ‘I’ve fallen and I can’t get up’ with a social interaction solution,” said Independa’s CEO, Kian Saneii. “The number one issue for the elderl... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5008697 Tue, 05 Jul 2011 20:08:00 +0100 5008697 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5008475&cid=t_108794_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Findependence-day-and-ms%2F I’ll admit a bit of an odd feeling as I post a blog about America’s Independence Day weekend from the wilds of Western Ireland! It seems a fitting topic, however, as the word “independence” means such a different thing to me now that I live with multiple sclerosis than it did before. Independence doesn’t mean doing everything for/by/of myself any longer. Independence is not all Trevis all the time. Independence is a relative state and I cannot think of a better place to be thinking this than the Republic of Ireland which experienced a varying levels and lack of independence (cum tyranny) over the centuries. A cane may seem to be a “dependence” to some but it offers me the independence to walk further than I might without and conserve the excess energy which would have been sp... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5008475 Fri, 01 Jul 2011 13:00:09 +0100 5008475 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4952835&cid=t_108794_87_f&fid=38368&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDisruptiveWomenInHealthCare%2F%7E3%2FNd54fULlfIg%2F The following is a guest post by Kathy N. Johnson, PhD, CMC. Dr Johnson is a Certified Geriatric Care Manager, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Home Care Assistance. She holds a Doctorate in Psychology from the Illinois Institute of Technology.  Kathy co-authored the book, Happy to 102: The Best Kept Secrets to a Long and Happy Life, based on the ground breaking Okinawa Centenarian Study, which spells out precisely what it takes to delay or escape Alzheimer’s and other chronic diseases, as well as how to slow the aging process. By Dr. Kathy Johnson. Family members who provide care for a chronically ill, disabled, or aging parent make up almost 30% of the U.S. population. The majority are women, ages 40-65, and they spend an average of 20 hours per week in hands-on care givin... Disruptive Women in Health Care blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4952835 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 13:30:55 +0100 4952835 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4945098&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=39091&url=http%3A%2F%2Falzheimmers.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F06%2Fnew-blog-meidcal-fiction-writer-and.html Good Day. Long time no blog. I have been busy with some Health Care Issues lately. In fact I have been down to Mayo Clinic twice since I last blogged. (Great Venipuncturists at Mayo, also fairly decent restaurants in Rochester, MN) I won't bore you with the details right now, needless to say it sucks, but then you go on as best you can,  as time keeps marching on.Also I have been busy trying to survive as a Private Practice Physician in the State of Minnesota, despite the best efforts of  many bureaucracies and agencies to annihilate entities like myself: all done of course shouting the Battle Cry and in the name of health care "REFORM".  When it is all said and done, we will still need doctors to take care of patients and patient... Caregiver Survival: I Hate Alzheimers blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4945098 Wed, 15 Jun 2011 03:22:00 +0100 4945098 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4893443&cid=t_108794_87_f&fid=38368&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDisruptiveWomenInHealthCare%2F%7E3%2FK5l3NJPioEk%2F By Jane Sarasohn-Kahn. By 2050, the demand for long-term care (LTC) workers will more than double in the developed world, from Norway and New Zealand to Japan and the U.S. Aging populations with growing incidence of disabilities, looser family ties, and more women in the labor force are driving this reality. This is a multi-dimensional problem which requires looking beyond the issue of the simple aging demographic. Help Wanted? is an apt title for the report from The Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), subtitled, “providing and paying for long-term care.” The report details the complex forces exacerbating the LTC carer shortage, focusing on the fact that current policies to address this future are fragmented and piecemeal. Instead, OECD argues, policymakers m... Disruptive Women in Health Care blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4893443 Wed, 01 Jun 2011 13:34:18 +0100 4893443 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4747749&cid=t_108794_122_f&fid=34755&url=http%3A%2F%2Fneuropsychological.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F04%2Faphasia-caregiver-account.html Available for streaming and as a podcast, from WNYC: "Diane Ackerman's One Hundred Names for Love" Listen22 April 2011 WNYC Leonard Lopate Show "Diane Ackerman talks about her husband, Paul West’s, stroke and long recovery. He was afflicted with aphasia—loss of language—and Diane, frustrated with traditional therapies, relied on her scientific understanding of language and the brain to guide Paul back to the world of words. Her book One Hundred Names for Love: A Stroke, a Marriage, and the Language of Healing is an account of stroke, aphasia, and recovery, as well a love story." (Source: BrainBlog) BrainBlog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4747749 Mon, 25 Apr 2011 15:03:00 +0100 4747749 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4709200&cid=t_108794_87_f&fid=38368&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDisruptiveWomenInHealthCare%2F%7E3%2FD531DHMq3fE%2F In 1997, Sona Mehring, founder and CEO of CaringBridge, started the site to help her friends who, in the midst of a health crisis, needed a way to keep everyone informed about what was happening. Since then 42 million people have connected to someone using CaringBridge. Watch Video CaringBridge is a non-profit and its service is 100% free for anyone who needs it. It gives patients and caregivers a way to receive support, and friends and family a way to provide it. Sona summarizes some of the benefits as: Saving time and emotional energy of communicating with everyone individually Providing personal and private spaces for sharing  Bringing people together when health matters most 80% of patients and caregivers have indicated that connecting with their friends and family on CaringBridge ... Disruptive Women in Health Care blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4709200 Wed, 13 Apr 2011 13:24:50 +0100 4709200 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4643013&cid=t_108794_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FToG6Y-gk47M%2Fworkplace-benefits-are-needed-to-meet.html The collision of the economy, the health care crisis, and a growing number of aging Americans has put many families in or near financial crisis according to a new report from Volunteers of America. “Plurality of caregivers say the economy has made it more difficult to provide care to a family member,” said the report. ”Few—roughly one in 10—are paid for the care they provide.” More than 46 percent report that the economy has made it harder to be able to provide care. Three quarters of caregivers state that the person to whom they provide care is 70 years or older. “We have a potential catastrophe looming with the collision of a significant, and growing, aging population, the economic downturn, and the health care crisis,” said Rosemarie Rae, executive vice president with... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4643013 Mon, 28 Mar 2011 15:08:00 +0100 4643013 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4615447&cid=t_108794_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FXQzQ81gkeP4%2Falzheimers-takes-increasing-toll-on.html Alzheimer's disease will take an increasing toll on the healthcare industry and entitlement programs, report USA Today and Reuters. Altogether, $183 billion is expected to be spent on professional caregivers in 2011, up from $172 billion a year ago, according to a new report by the Alzheimer's Foundation. Those ever-increasing expenditures will take a huge toll on Medicare and Medicaid. By 2050 it is expected that Alzheimer's and dementia-related costs for Medicare will increase six-fold and for Medicaid, four-fold. Elderly individuals with Alzheimer's are about three times more costly to care for than other patients because they often require long and repeated hospitalizations. Meanwhile, nearly 15 million Americans are caring for someone with Alzheimer's or age-related dementia--up more ... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4615447 Mon, 21 Mar 2011 16:36:00 +0100 4615447 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4575255&cid=t_108794_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FaYDX9RqEUrk%2Fcredit-card-debt-that-outlives-mom.html  By SHERISSE PHAM Following a recent post on the rising levels of credit card debt among the elderly, several readers raised an important question: What happens when borrowers die? Do they take their credit card balances to the grave, or are those left behind responsible for the debt? Tom from Vancouver Island, British Columbia, offered an answer: “Excess debt over the value of the estate is considered insolvent and cannot be passed on to heirs.” He’s right, it turns out. Experts say that unlike a mortgage or a car loan, credit card debt is unsecured, meaning that it isn’t tethered to an asset. When someone dies, credit card companies have to wait near the back of the line to receive payment. If what’s left over after settling the estate isn’t enough to pay the bill... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4575255 Fri, 11 Mar 2011 14:54:00 +0100 4575255 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4536510&cid=t_108794_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FcIHcFK7nEOE%2Fstory-time-great-communicator.html Nearly 16 million Americans will be diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or another type of dementia by 2050, according to the Alzheimer's Association. Symptoms include mood and behavior changes, disorientation, memory loss and difficulty walking and speaking. The effects of anti-dementia drugs on patients' emotions and behaviors are inconsistent. Now, University of Missouri researchers have found that participation in TimeSlips, a drug-free, creative storytelling intervention, improves communication skills and positive affect in persons with dementia.TimeSlips is a nationally recognized storytelling program for people with dementia that encourages participants to use their imaginations to create short stories as a group. Rather than relying on factual recall, participants respond verbally t... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4536510 Tue, 01 Mar 2011 20:09:00 +0100 4536510 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4298814&cid=t_108794_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FmR98ixk1Srs%2Fcongress-passes-national-alzheimers.html Congress has voted unanimously to create, for the first time, a national plan to combat Alzheimer’s disease with the same intensity as the attacks on AIDS and cancer.The bill, expected to be signed by President Obama, would establish a National Alzheimer’s Project within the Department of Health and Human Services, to coordinate the country’s approach to research, treatment and caregiving.Its goal, the legislation says, is to “accelerate the development of treatments that would prevent, halt or reverse the course of Alzheimer’s” and “improve the early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease and coordination of the care and treatment of citizens with Alzheimer’s.”The project would include an advisory council of representatives from agencies like the Centers for Disease Control ... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4298814 Wed, 29 Dec 2010 16:27:00 +0100 4298814 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4172060&cid=t_108794_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fcaregivers%2F2010.11.16 It was a straightforward phone message (names changed): “Hey Dr. S., this is Bobbie Jones, April Dixon’s granddaughter. I was calling to inform you that April passed away today at City Hospital. They said she was bleeding in her stomach or something. I’m not quite what sure what happened, but she got real sick. But she’s gone, so, thanks so much. You’ve been a real neat doctor, and it’s been good working with you through the years taking care of my grandmother. Take care. Bye.” Bobbie Jones is a saint. Pure and simple. She took care of her 88-year-old grandmother with tender, loving care. I am certain if left to the vagaries of the “healthcare system” that her grandmother would have died at least three years ago, maybe earlier. Ms. Jone... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4172060 Tue, 16 Nov 2010 17:00:00 +0100 4172060 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4168223&cid=t_108794_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FWVio53qIHx8%2Fone-womans-mission-to-help-elderly.html by Patricia Grace, National Senior Care Examiner, Examiner.comThis Veterans Day, it is important to show up to a parade, applaud our veterans, and to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. However, there is something more you can do to help honor veterans, become informed about Veterans benefits. Too often, veterans go without services they need simply because they are unaware of the benefits they earned through their service. One New Jersey woman took up the mission to help elderly vets access a still little known VA Pension benefit commonly known as “Aid and Attendance.”Since 2001, Rita Files, partner & COO, Aging with Grace, became increasingly frustrated about how low-income elderly veterans were not receiving the assistance that they needed and “deserved.” As a nurs... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4168223 Fri, 12 Nov 2010 01:44:00 +0100 4168223 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4159527&cid=t_108794_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FWVio53qIHx8%2Fone-womans-mission-to-help-elderly.html by Patricia Grace, National Senior Care Examiner, Examiner.comThis Veterans Day, it is important to show up to a parade, applaud our veterans, and to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. However, there is something more you can do to help honor veterans, become informed about Veterans benefits. Too often, veterans go without services they need simply because they are unaware of the benefits they earned through their service. One New Jersey woman took up the mission to help elderly vets access a still little known VA Pension benefit commonly known as “Aid and Attendance.”Since 2001, Rita Files, partner & COO, Aging with Grace, became increasingly frustrated about how low-income elderly veterans were not receiving the assistance that they needed and “deserved.” As a nurs... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4159527 Fri, 12 Nov 2010 01:44:00 +0100 4159527 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3737272&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=39091&url=http%3A%2F%2Falzheimmers.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F07%2Fall-kinds-of-caregivers-very-thankless.html So much of this blog is about the caregiver, that is the family member, caring for a loved one with AD. I try to cover some of the plight of those in this blog, having been one myself at a very unproven age. I also spend a lot of time trying to cover the plight of the physician, having been one myself for all my adult life. Lets face it the odds of building any empathy for the doctor, are about nil, it can't be done, and lets face it with our wonderful sweeping health care reform the odds of seeing the doctor in any sort of possible non0negative light will be even less.   I mean come on, as the oil gushes out after months, as we all dip into our 401ks a little more,  if anyone has anything left in them, has not your health care and access already dramatically improved??? Digressi... Caregiver Survival: I Hate Alzheimers blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3737272 Fri, 09 Jul 2010 07:56:00 +0100 3737272 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3476055&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=39091&url=http%3A%2F%2Falzheimmers.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fthey-say-phsycs-know-what-they-are.html Hello,My name is Joseph Potocny, you see Dr. Joe and I have known each other for sometime now. But let us question his sanity, he is a MD I am an AD (Alhziemers person) and have FTD as well. Now who knows more him on the far left or me on the gentle right.I thank Doc for asking me to blog here, I guess he is ready to be punished for the well shall we say less than upstanding life he has led. Not true, he is a good guy. I have had the disease for over 3 yrs confirmed, by the time you know whose professsion would listen to me. So today like many days has been filled with times of where the hell am i and what am i doing.  I was going to do this as a video, but he told me creatures were not allowed to appear in person.  I read docs' blog daily as he makes posts, some I just do n... Caregiver Survival: I Hate Alzheimers blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3476055 Fri, 16 Apr 2010 02:54:00 +0100 3476055 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3425092&cid=t_108794_136_f&fid=37852&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdonnatrussell.com%2F2010%2F03%2F31%2Fcancer-then-treatment-then-voila%2F New cartoon by Trussell & Trussell on AOL’s Politics Daily. Cancer, Then Treatment, Then Voila! Filed under: Cancer, Politics Daily Tagged: cancer cartoon, cancer humor, caregiver, chaos theory, medical humor, political cartoon (Source: Donna Trussell) Donna Trussell blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3425092 Wed, 31 Mar 2010 15:01:22 +0100 3425092 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3411196&cid=t_108794_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fms-care-partners%2F There is a lot of Politically Correct language out there in the world of multiple sclerosis and disabilities in general. One of the terms bantered about is “Care Partner”.  This replaces caregiver and other terms deemed by some to be demeaning and misunderstood.  I like “care partner” as it gives a sense that people are in the thing together and working in tandem. I’ve thought that Caryn will be a good care partner to me if and when my MS progresses “that far”.  Then, a couple of weeks ago, I had something of an epiphany.  She already is my care partner…even when I don’t think I need care! Those of us who live with this disease at any stage, be it in remission or in the midst of a full-on attack, rely on others in our everyday lives.  Caryn lives with my MS every si... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3411196 Fri, 26 Mar 2010 19:25:13 +0100 3411196 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3302370&cid=t_108794_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F02%2F24%2F7-depression-busters-for-caregivers%2F Nearly one-third of people caring for terminally ill loved ones suffer from depression according to research from Yale University. About one in four family caregivers meet the clinical criteria of anxiety. And a recent study found that 41 percent of former caregivers of a spouse with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia experienced mild to severe depression up to three years after their spouse had died. Caregivers are so vulnerable to depression because they often sacrifice their own needs while tending to their loved one and because of the constant stress involved. Here, then, are 12 tips to help protect you from anxiety and depression and to guide you toward good mental health as you care for a relative. 1. Acknowledge it. If you haven’t already, say this out loud:... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3302370 Wed, 24 Feb 2010 12:57:38 +0100 3302370 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3416283&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=39091&url=http%3A%2F%2Falzheimmers.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fcaregiver-emotions.html Generally they run the gamut. first of all depending on what stage your family member is in, this will dictate some of the feelings. They tend to vary and have a significant range, sometimes for no apparent reason and sometimes for a very good reason. At the two opposite ends of the spectrum are HOPE and UTTER DESPAIR. They are intense and strong, it is unusual to have a mundane day. There is the psychological issue of coming to terms early on after the diagnosis, and knowing and accepting there is no cure-that can be mentally exhausting as is any grief process. Mental overload and exhaustion leads to anger, sadness, anxious feelings and sometimes physical symptoms and problems, more headaches, irritable bowel, aches and pains, back problems, neck problems, lots of signs of mental stress, ... Caregiver Survival: I Hate Alzheimer's blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3416283 Tue, 23 Feb 2010 21:58:00 +0100 3416283 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3280018&cid=t_108794_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F02%2F16%2Fmindapps-releases-ecbt-trauma%2F We’re pleased to announce that our partner MindApps has released a new iPhone/iPod Touch app known as eCBT Trauma. As you can guess, eCBT Trauma is focused on individuals who are coping with posttraumatic stress disorder — PTSD — in their lives. “With eCBT Trauma, we wanted to help people who have experienced a trauma by providing education and interventions to help them cope with the symptoms of PTSD,” said Michael Hufford, Ph.D., Clinical Psychologist and Co-Founder and CEO of MindApps. “eCBT Trauma can serve as an adjunctive tool for therapists to use with their clients, or as a standalone intervention.” eCBT Trauma is an iPhone application that provides users with a way to assess their symptoms after experiencing a trauma, graph their symptoms ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3280018 Tue, 16 Feb 2010 22:53:00 +0100 3280018 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3220648&cid=t_108794_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fdo-we-ever-get-too-old-or-ill-for-dignity%2F “A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” It’s an old quote, and often used but do you think it’s true? Yesterday we received a brief update on Lolly, my husband’s Mom. As many of you know, she is quite elderly and receiving help at home in an effort to allow her to stay in her own comfortable environ with her beloved pets. Her case manager sends us updates from time to time and in each one she refers to Lolly as “Mother” or “Mom.” I confess, this affectation really bothers me. As far as I know Lolly only has one living child and I’m married to him. It reminds me of an incident, many years ago, when my family took my Dad out to dinner for his birthday. We were all stretched out along a large table at our favorite Italian restaurant, classic red and white checked ... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3220648 Fri, 29 Jan 2010 03:13:50 +0100 3220648 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3136706&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2F7vLjBtsSDkE%2Fpreviously-on-alzheimers-reading-room.html “You will never do anything in this world without courage. It is the greatest quality of the mind next to honor.” --Aristotle..... By Bob DeMarco The Metamorphosis of This Alzheimer's Caregiver (Part One) The more I learned the more I wanted to know. I learned a great deal about Alzheimer's disease--including the science. It helped me understand a very mystifying disease. It helped me to put a frame around something that is difficult if not impossible to describe. Alzheimer's World -- Two Circles Trying to Intersect When Alzheimer's strikes communication and behavior change abruptly -- overnight. It is up to the caregiver to adjust since the person suffering from Alzheimer's is incapable of the adjustment. Understanding this need is the first big step. Communication in Alzheimer's... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3136706 Sat, 02 Jan 2010 04:45:23 +0100 3136706 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3122189&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FLWUYeI54q5M%2Fto-gift-or-not-to-gift.html We know as Alzheimer's develops a person losses their ability to remember. Do we know for certain that they lose their ability to feel?By Bob DeMarco I read several stories on the Internet about Alzheimer's caregivers and gifts to Alzheimer's sufferers. It appears some Alzheimer's caregivers decide not to gift. Their reasoning is easy to understand, they believe the person suffering from Alzheimer's won't remember the gift, or won't appreciate the gift like they did in days gone by. So why bother? I believe, as many of you know, that there is more going on in the brain of someone suffering from Alzheimer's than might be apparent on the surface. How do you know for certain that the person suffering from Alzheimer's won't appreciate a gift? How do you know for certain that it doesn't ... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3122189 Sat, 26 Dec 2009 15:33:46 +0100 3122189 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3122219&cid=t_108794_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F12%2Fmy-video-victorian-christmas-musical.html Charles Dickens said about Christmas: "I have always thought of Christmas time, when it has come round, as a good time; a kind, forgiving, charitable time; the only time I know of, in the long calendar of the year, when men and women seem by one consent to open their shut-up hearts freely, and to think of people below them as if they really were fellow passengers to the grave, and not another race of creatures bound on other journeys." The theme is a Charles Dickens Victorian Christmas in Florence, Oregon this year, and you see it everywhere. The outer decorations are one thing. But the important part is that many people have opened their hearts to their fellow passengers in life and reached out to others who are going through hard times. A quiet walk through Old Town Florence on the Siusl... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3122219 Fri, 25 Dec 2009 16:52:00 +0100 3122219 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3115266&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Fstatic.apture.com%2Fmedia%2Fembed.swf You might want to consider sending this article to your family and friends in advance of a holiday gathering. It might be more effective to let them read this; rather than, telling them one-by-one. These are good suggestions.My personal favorite piece of advice: Alzheimer's patients can become frustrated when someone tries to challenge their memories with questions like: "Do you remember me? "Do you remember what we did last summer? Follow the Alzheimer's Reading Room on Twitter Alzheimer's Disease Doesn't Take a Holiday The bright lights, big crowds and bustle that make the holidays fun for most of us often do just the opposite for people with Alzheimer's and those who care for them. Dr. Cindy Carlsson, UW Health geriatrics physician and Alzheimer's disease researcher at the University... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3115266 Tue, 22 Dec 2009 14:20:32 +0100 3115266 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3097036&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FYinXuILkMpw%2Fconcerned-baby-boomer-surveys-our.html We need an attitude shift. We treat people with dementia as if they were potted plants to be infrequently watered until they die.By Kathy Harmon I’m terrified of getting Alzheimer’s. I didn’t used to be--actually, I never thought much about getting sick or old or even dying. I'm like most Baby Boomers: I prefer happy thoughts! Then I hit 55, gained weight, and began to lose my hearing and my car keys. My mother turned 80, we launched http://www.greatplacesinc.com, and the door to aging opened wide for me and welcomed me inside. Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room--via Email Over the past couple of years I've visited more than 300 senior housing facilities and dozens of adult day care centers. I've networked and taught with hundreds of care providers, financial advisors, se... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3097036 Wed, 16 Dec 2009 21:24:54 +0100 3097036 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3089527&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FmWSjOYr7fhY%2Falzheimers-caregiver-love.html "The ordinary arts we practice every day at home are of more importance to the soul than their simplicity might suggest." -- Thomas Moore..... I am receiving more and more email. Over the years, I talk to more and more caregivers. Most of the interactions have to do with common problems experienced by caregivers. Also, potential solutions to the problems. Caregivers often lament. Whether they know it or not, its grief. Often an overwhelming sense of grief that is coming to the surface. Often a subliminal cry for help. Rarely discussed is the most important interaction of them all -- Alzheimer's caregiver love. Lost in this maze of emotions and confusion is love. I wonder how much time caregivers spend thinking about how they are affecting the well being of the person suffering from... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3089527 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 14:54:40 +0100 3089527 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3084960&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2F8MGBBq_uIyc%2Fjournalist-seeking-caregivers-for-in.html Journalist Bessie King is looking to interview caregivers aged 25-55 years of age in the New York area. I talked to Bessie King on the telephone. She intends to do an in-depth article of 5,000 to 8,000 words on Alzheimer's caregiving. After talking to her, I am of the impression that she is committed to doing a great job and will produce an interesting, informative article. Bessie has lived Alzheimer's from the front row. If you are interested in being interviewed, or know someone that is willing to be interviewed please contact us with the information. We will then put you in direct contact with Ms. King. Here is her email to us and the criteria. Thank you for speaking with me today. As I explained I am working on a long, 5,000-8,000 word, article. In it, I want to discuss Alzheimer'... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3084960 Mon, 14 Dec 2009 15:21:17 +0100 3084960 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3075748&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2Fsj2UWLP9scM%2Fquote-of-day-caregiver-role.html “Being a caregiver is the most thankless role in the world. Everybody gives the patient some slack, as they should, but the caregiver has the stress of life and then you put a catastrophic illness on top of it, and the stress goes through the roof.” -- Marcia Wallace Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room--via Email Popular articles on the Alzheimer's Reading Room Worried About Alzheimer's Disease Dementia and the Eight Types of Dementia H1N1 Flu Virus Everything You Need to Know Does the Combination of Aricept and Namenda Help Slow the Rate of Decline in Alzheimer's Patients Test Your Memory (TYM) for Alzheimer's or Dementia in Five Minutes Dimebon Connection Study The Metamorphosis of This Alzheimer's Caregiver (Part One) The Mini-Cog Test for Alzheimer's and Dementia Worried... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3075748 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 13:52:47 +0100 3075748 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3071444&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2F7vLjBtsSDkE%2Fpreviously-on-alzheimers-reading-room.html “You will never do anything in this world without courage. It is the greatest quality of the mind next to honor.” --Aristotle..... Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's Reading Room Editor The Metamorphosis of This Alzheimer's Caregiver (Part One) The more I learned the more I wanted to know. I learned a great deal about Alzheimer's disease--including the science. It helped me understand a very mystifying disease. It helped me to put a frame around something that is difficult if not impossible to describe. The Metamorphosis of This Alzheimer's Caregiver (Part Two) It is difficult to describe the range of emotions a caregiver might feel or experience in a single day. Imagine being happy and then sad, caring then angry, focused then frustrated -- an almost endless stream of feelings and emotions ... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3071444 Wed, 09 Dec 2009 16:24:48 +0100 3071444 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3067282&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FlckPmGRv_VY%2Fchristmas-and-alzheimers-caregiver.html For most Alzheimer's caregivers Christmas means another bout with Yin and Yang.....Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's Reading Room Editor For the typical Alzheimer's caregiver Christmas day can bring on a tidal wave of conflicting feelings. Christmas can be an emotional roller coaster ride. I'm sitting here thinking about Christmas morning and my heart is feeling heavy. I don't mind this feeling so much because at least I know I am still feeling. Nevertheless, it is a bit of a drag on my spirit. I'm envisioning Christmas morning. I'll wake my mother up, give her a kiss and say, Merry Christmas. She won't know its Christmas. Once I get her situated, I'll bring her into the living room and put the big stack of presents in front of her. I wonder will she be happy or confused. I think I know the a... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3067282 Tue, 08 Dec 2009 14:51:11 +0100 3067282 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3063491&cid=t_108794_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F12%2Fgift-of-magi-christmas-inspiration-for.html "The Gift of the Magi" by O. Henry is a story familiar to many of us that tells a tale of giving and receiving when economic times are rough. In the present economy this classic story, written between 1903 and 1910, featuring a young couple struggling to get started, seems even more appropriate this year. The love and wisdom in the story is what Christmas is really all about. The glitz of the holiday marketing and frantic spending that we have today makes it more like a materialistic, greed oriented time for stores to boost sales. But, the real meaning of Christmas and of giving is in the thoughtful, caring, self-sacrificing things, as the characters in the story show us. Here is O. Henry's beautiful short story reprinted in full. "The Gift of the Magi" "One dollar and eighty-... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3063491 Mon, 07 Dec 2009 03:35:00 +0100 3063491 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3056853&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FbMOQyW9oKUw%2Fcannabis-caregiver.html For several years now, I have been envisioning a great new business that I would start when legal marijuana comes to Florida. Let me start by saying, I went to college during the dawning of the Age of Aquarius. If I can stop laughing I'll give you my take on the article below. If you are one of my good buddies you already heard my story. If you read -- The Metamorphosis of This Alzheimer's Caregiver (Part One) -- you know I am a curious person. I am always coming up with wacky ideas for new businesses. Not all of them are as wacky as they seem. For several years now, I have been envisioning a great new business that I would start when legal marijuana comes to Florida. Here is a snapshot. I would employ retirees and start a new business growing medical marijuana. The retiree would onl... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3056853 Fri, 04 Dec 2009 15:30:56 +0100 3056853 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3052363&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FP3AT-HGUchU%2Fone.html One is the loneliest number that you'll ever do Two can be as bad as one It's the loneliest number since the number one No is the saddest experience you'll ever know Yes, it's the saddest experience you'll ever know `Cause one is the loneliest number that you'll ever do One is the loneliest number, worse than two It's just no good anymore since she went away Now I spend my time just making rhymes of yesterday One is the loneliest, number one is the loneliest Number one is the loneliest number that you'll ever do One is the loneliest, one is the loneliest One is the loneliest number that you'll ever do It's just no good anymore since she went away (Number) One is the loneliest (Number) One is the loneliest (Number) One is the loneliest number that you'll ever do (Number) One is the lon... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3052363 Thu, 03 Dec 2009 14:43:18 +0100 3052363 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3048324&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2F8XJBzNjf4g4%2Fdementia-leaves-daughter-feeling-scared.html Caring for her parents requires all of Richlyn Spalding's attention, every minute of each day. She provides the care it would take six professionals to provide in a day, if her parents were in a nursing home. Spalding is conflicted about sending her parents to live in a nursing home because she would feel guilty but in the process she is putting her own health and wellbeing at risk. To Continue reading go here. Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room--via Email Popular articles on the Alzheimer's Reading Room Worried About Alzheimer's Disease Dementia and the Eight Types of Dementia H1N1 Flu Virus Everything You Need to Know Does the Combination of Aricept and Namenda Help Slow the Rate of Decline in Alzheimer's Patients Test Your Memory (TYM) for Alzheimer's or Dementia in Five Min... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3048324 Wed, 02 Dec 2009 16:27:55 +0100 3048324 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3036027&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FKysxByY85Xo%2Fsenator-kirsten-gillibrand-introduces.html We must do more to ensure that patients suffering from this condition [Alzheimer's disease] are receiving the best care possible, and that Alzheimer's caregivers looking after the needs of our loved ones are receiving the highest level of assistance and the best training techniques. -- U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (New York) New Measure Would Improve Treatment Services For Alzheimer’s Patients And Expand Training And Support Services For Their Families And Caregivers....Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's Reading Room Editor If you are interested in contacting Senator Gillibrand with some words of encouragement or thanks -- go here. You might also consider sending the link to this article, or the information contained in this article to your own United States Senator or Representative. You ... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3036027 Sat, 28 Nov 2009 16:24:09 +0100 3036027 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3036028&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FQxGmDh-eshw%2Fchristmas-shopping-tip-woot-me-and.html I wanted to bring Woot.com to your attention. They offer a new special sale everyday and sometimes you can get lucky. Woot customers offer reviews on all the products. Plus, people that already own the products offered frequently weigh in. Over on Wootkids they have this today -- Tyco Terrainiac RC Vehicle. Good deal? Can't answer that for you. Last year, Woot had those fleece wrap around ear muffs on the website. They offered them for 5 bucks. I bought five and used them as an extra stocking stuffer. They were also a good cheap gift to use in a pinch, or to let someone know you care (well, care enough to give em a gift, but not enough to go for the Kindle). Its the thought that counts --right? The fleece ear muffs received excellent reviews. Me? I wouldn't know. Its warm down here in... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3036028 Fri, 27 Nov 2009 21:48:33 +0100 3036028 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3023392&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2F9y5ct3esO7E%2Falzheimers-caregiver-lament-this-is-not.html In order to communicate effectively with a person suffering from Alzheimer's disease you need to come to an understanding that they are now living in a new world -- I often refer to this as Alzheimer's world....When I hear these words -- this is not the person I knew, I am greatly saddened. I hear these words on television, read them on the Internet, and in the newspaper. I hear these words in person. In most cases the person speaking these words is angry, in a constant state of angst, or confused. The look on their face tells the story. The tone of their voice sounds like a cry for help. This is not the person I knew. It is not hard for me to understand how an Alzheimer's caregiver might come to this conclusion. Alzheimer's disease is difficult to understand, hard to accept, and is... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3023392 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:53:31 +0100 3023392 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3017213&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FCfp1qrubiuA%2Falzheimers-caregivers-overlooked-by.html Most Alzheimer's caregivers and advocates are frustrated by the lack of attention and resources being dedicated to Alzheimer's..... A recent Harris Interactive poll indicates that 100 million Americans are touched by Alzheimer's and another 33 million are worried about getting Alzheimer's. These numbers are likely to grow as the population ages. Alzheimer's often results in a slow torturous death. It is not well known that once Alzheimer's strikes it is likely to be a decade or more before the disease results in death. This torture is not limited to the person suffering from Alzheimer's but also overwhelms caregivers and families. The job of caregiver is one of endless struggle, and those who work with Alzheimer's caregivers say it is a struggle that is too often ignored by policy-maker... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3017213 Sun, 22 Nov 2009 14:00:28 +0100 3017213 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2993921&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2F3lFbQzC7VbI%2Fcaregiver-resources.html Six good sources of information, advice, and lots of resources for Alzheimer's caregivers..... Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's Reading Room Editor Family Caregiver Alliance Offers tips on a wide range of topics, including how to hire help, hold a family meeting, balance work and caregiving, find important papers, and decide whether parents should move in with an adult child. National Alliance for Caregiving Reviews of more than 1,000 books, videos, Web sites and links. National Family Caregivers Association Provides statistics, research and policy reports, tip sheets, first-person accounts, a newsletter and an exhaustive resource list. Family Caregiving 101. A separate "how-to" site by the NFCA with advice on time management, asking for help, navigating the health care maze and communica... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2993921 Sat, 14 Nov 2009 19:46:57 +0100 2993921 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2977549&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FSiPb6p8PVnM%2Fmetamorphosis-of-this-alzheimers.html It is difficult to describe the range of emotions a caregiver might feel or experience in a single day. Imagine being happy and then sad, caring then angry, focused then frustrated -- an almost endless stream of feelings and emotions that conflict..... Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's Reading Room Editor The caregiver lives an anxiety filled life day-after-day. I doubt that many people outside "the front row" think about or consider this. My name is Bob DeMarco, I am an Alzheimer's caregiver. My mother Dorothy, now 93 years old, suffers from Alzheimer's disease. We live our life one day at a time. ____________________________________ Imagine a person you know all or most of your life and their behavior changes--suddenly--and for the worse. This person, your loved one, begins to act out beha... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2977549 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 22:09:36 +0100 2977549 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2972036&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FvdIKtn0KuZ0%2Fare-mentally-ill-threat-in-nursing-home.html Ivory Jackson had Alzheimer's, but that wasn't what killed him. At 77, he was smashed in the face with a clock radio as he lay in his nursing home bed. Numbers obtained through the Freedom of Information Act and prepared exclusively for the AP by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services show nearly 125,000 young and middle-aged adults with serious mental illness lived in U.S. nursing homes last year. Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's Reading Room Editor Reading this information gave me a bit of a stomach ache. Fortunately, my mother is still at home with me. But what about families that through choice, or no choice, are placing their loved one's in care facilities? I believe that this shocking news needs to be more widely distributed. This information needs to be considered by all fa... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2972036 Sat, 07 Nov 2009 19:23:25 +0100 2972036 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2931270&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FKalM5Bb2mI4%2Fdoes-ellen-degeneres-know-about-plight.html Wondering about Ellen Degeneres My name is Bob DeMarco, I am an Alzheimer's caregiver. My mother Dorothy, now 93 years old, suffers from Alzheimer's disease. We live our life one day at a time. Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's Reading Room Editor Every day at 11 AM I turn on the Ellen Degeneres Show for my mother to watch. Prior to my life as an Alzheimer's caregiver I had never seen the show. I turn the show on because it makes my mother smile and sometimes laugh. If you are living in the front row of Alzheimer's like I am -- you now how important this is. My mother really perks up when Ellen dances (so do I). She especially likes when Ellen has kids on the show. Unlike other shows that are on during the day, the Ellen Degeneres show is very positive. It is my belief that Alzheimer's caregiv... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2931270 Mon, 26 Oct 2009 20:51:45 +0100 2931270 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2927542&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FiomiKXmk4Ms%2Fi-promised-not-to-put-my-parents-in.html This article will help you as you choose a facility. Guilt is a common emotion when placing a parent or spouse in a long term care facility. This is a wasted emotion when you have chosen placement for the best possible quality of life for your loved one. Every family has a unique set of circumstances and situation. The answer to care is the best solution for your family. Find supportive family members and friends, no matter what the care choice you make. If you feel alone, find a support group to meet others affected by Alzheimer’s. You can find groups in your community or online. Realize you will have good days and bad. Treasure the good, and use your resources on the bad. Last, remember to take care of yourself. Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room--via Email Popular art... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2927542 Mon, 26 Oct 2009 13:15:10 +0100 2927542 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2912507&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2F65Vi_chG2pA%2Ftwinkle-twinkle-little-star.html Twinkle, twinkle, little star, How I wonder what you are! Up above the world so high, Like a diamond in the sky! Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's Reading Room Editor Here in Delray Beach, Florida there is little air pollution. As a result, the sky is crystal clear on a good night. Sometimes, I go out at night and look up at the stars. As my eyes begin to adjust to the darkness, I see hundreds, then thousands, then millions of stars. Everywhere I look, in every direction more and more stars. When I look up at those stars I start to imagine them as Alzheimer's caregivers. If I look way up north maybe I'll see Angil Tarach, or Laurry Harmon, or Judy Berry. I can look straight west and maybe I'll see Carole Larkin in Texas. If I look far far away, maybe I'll see Cass Alexander in New Zealand. ... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2912507 Wed, 21 Oct 2009 04:35:03 +0100 2912507 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2912508&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FcQNepltjD1M%2Fthis-alzheimers-caregiver-had-choice-i.html So you see Tony, I did have a choice. And, like I told you on the phone, someday I'll be making some new choices --just as soon as the sun comes out. My name is Bob DeMarco, I am an Alzheimer's caregiver. My mother Dorothy, now 93 years old, suffers from Alzheimer's disease. We live our life one day at a time. Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's Reading Room Editor On some days our life is nothing short of horrific. On some days our life is nothing short of wonderful. If I had to make the decision I made six years ago over tomorrow, I would make the same choice -- I chose to become an Alzheimer's caregiver. I never regret my decision -- not even for a minute. ____________________________________________ I have a good buddy -- Tony Polk. It might be odd when I say good buddy because Tony and I... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2912508 Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:08:21 +0100 2912508 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2899174&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2Fzqe_ByocnJ8%2Freaders-reach-out-to-alzheimers.html By Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's Reading Room Editor Newsday (the New York Newspaper) has the best coverage, collection of stories, and video on Alzheimer's on the Internet -- hands down. It appears to me that they are doing more to educate the public, and bring an understanding of Alzheimer's into the public awareness than any other publication. This story -- Readers reach out to Alzheimer's patients, caregivers -- like many on their website illustrates my point. They could have titled this story -- Here come the wonderful people. "The most surprising fact about all this is how much people really care," said Karen Henley, who lives in Westbury. "Everyday people, who are struggling themselves, just want to reach out to help. I didn't think that many people cared about Alzheimer's disease, bu... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2899174 Fri, 16 Oct 2009 14:05:55 +0100 2899174 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2894752&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FY6ehzCoKrSI%2Fshield-healthcare-announces-story.html Shield Healthcare announced its 9th annual story contest on "What Makes Caregiving Rewarding?" The contest gives voice to caregivers and health care professionals. A significant number of our customers are family caregivers at home, tending to a loved one with a chronic medical condition. They unselfishly take on the challenge and responsibility of meeting the daily health and emotional needs of the person in their care. This story contest is a positive way to recognizeand reward this important role.The contest runs through November 30, 2009 in celebration of National Family Caregiver's Month. The top three story winners will receive $1000 in American Express Gift Cheques and a 1-year subscription to Today's Caregiver Magazine. The two runner-ups will also be awarded the magazine subscri... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2894752 Thu, 15 Oct 2009 13:43:07 +0100 2894752 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2886776&cid=t_108794_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F10%2Fpart-3-favorite-caregiver-recipes.html Avocado slices, crunchy iceberg lettuce, thin tomato slices, and sprouts can be the basis for a change of pace in the sandwich department. Protein foods in the form of cheese, meat, or "meatless burgers" can be added. While the sandwich is still open sprinkle on it some mixed Italian herbs and perhaps some paprika to wake up the flavor. You can also sprinkle the open sandwich with Mrs. Dash or Spike, both salt-free, to give the flavor some zip.Use a zero calorie buttery spray on the bread to keep the calories and "bad fats" low. Many seniors grew up with a diet that focused on starches and carbohydrates, and less attention was paid to vegetables. A sandwich like this has vegetables, whole grain, and protein so there is a lot of nutrition. The avocado is a "good fat" that has the right fat ... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2886776 Mon, 12 Oct 2009 22:21:00 +0100 2886776 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2883195&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2Fz5bjQn5Zid0%2Fthis-alzheimers-caregiver-yo-uncle-sam.html My name is Bob DeMarco, I am This Alzheimer's Caregiver. My mother Dorothy, now 93 years old, is That Alzheimer's sufferer. By Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's Reading Room Editor Previously, I wrote -- Got Alzheimer's? Uncle Sammy says -- Tough Luck. In that article I made a simple point. I believe this, that, and everyone taking care of an Alzheimer's sufferer full time should receive 24 bucks a day from their Uncle Sam. This amounts to $1 an hour for their service. This would cost our government $8.5 billion a year -- less than what it costs to fight terrorism in Iraq for one month. Now some of you might think this is a nutty idea. Others might say, we can't afford it. There are always people who make conclusions without bothering to look at the evidence. Welcome to Vermont. Vermont pays ca... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2883195 Sun, 11 Oct 2009 23:53:57 +0100 2883195 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2879771&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FFNEJFnreE1Y%2Fgot-alzheimers-tough-luck.html Should Alzheimer's caregivers be paid $1 an hour by the United States Government?By Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's Reading Room Editor Over 65? Need a heart operation? No problem. Diagnosed with cancer need extended treatment? No problem. Medicare is ready to step in and give you an operation, or whatever treatment you need when these diseases strike. Got Alzheimer's? Good luck, good riddance, see ya later. I have to wonder, are people suffering from Alzheimer's disease being discriminated against because they picked the wrong disease?In case you didn't notice, the issue of providing long term care or dealing with the unique medical issues of Alzheimer's is no where to be found in the current national health care debate.This despite the fact that more than 9 million unpaid Alzheimer's car... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2879771 Sat, 10 Oct 2009 14:26:21 +0100 2879771 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2872002&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FMGuYpB7eVSw%2Fwall-streeter-one-day-alzheimers.html Tony Polk is the editor of the Unruly Mob. If you haven't been there, a trip over the Internet to the Unruly Mob website is well worth the effort. The blog is interesting, unique, thought provoking, and sometimes fascinating. Tony called me, interviewed me, and then wrote an article about me. I am confident you will find out some things about me that you never knew. Here is a snippet. But the risk he faced with his mom seemed far more important than risks he had been addressing throughout his life.. “I was under the impression that if I got on the net, and read and read, I could get all the answers. But there were few answers. There wasn’t any real help,” said DeMarco. The first 14 months were horrific, he said. He went through three doctors before finding one who understood A... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2872002 Thu, 08 Oct 2009 04:22:15 +0100 2872002 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2862726&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FfyXxSwdVr1k%2Fin-honor-of-all-those-i-have-known-that.html Bob DeMarco, the founder of the Alzheimer's Reading Room has asked me to share my knowledge, experience, and passion with his readers. This is a great honor, privilege and responsibility, which I take very serious. For a moment, I want to honor those who I've had the privilege of knowing and working with who have suffered from this devastating disease. Although I didn't know many of them prior to being diagnosed with Alzheimer's, I didn't value them any less. I treated them with the highest respect and dignity possible. One of my goals in writing for the Alzheimer's Reading Room is to help people understand the need for patience, dignity, and respect in Alzheimer's care. I have learned so much from their journey, which enables me to help with yours, and in that I honor each of the wonderf... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2862726 Mon, 05 Oct 2009 17:49:50 +0100 2862726 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2855811&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2F0476ajmVajQ%2Fsystem-puts-felons-in-caregiver-jobs.html This story pertains to Florida but could be happening anywhere in the country. The article highlights the need to do good due diligence if you are going to put your loved into the hands of a hired caregiver, or some type of Alzheimer's care facility. My suggestion is that you try to determine not only the reputation but also the "track record" of anyone you decide to hire or pay for caregiving services. More than 8,700 people initially barred from being caregivers due to criminal records have been granted special permission by the state to work with children, the elderly and the infirm, a Sun Sentinel investigation found. About 1,800 — or one in five — were arrested again, some within days of the determination that they were of "good moral character" and could be trusted to care for... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2855811 Fri, 02 Oct 2009 14:53:39 +0100 2855811 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2855863&cid=t_108794_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=2836321&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FYmqc_XFG2JA%2Fi-am-my-mothers-caregiver-ilenes-email.html Recently, I received the email below from Ilene. If you know me well you can understand why it struck me as funny and interesting. In a few quick paragraphs she hit on several issues that Alzheimer's caregivers deal with frequently. If you have an interesting, funny, or informative story on any of these issues, and you would like to publish them on the Alzheimer's Reading Room--send them in. Feel free to use the comments box below the article to add your comments or reactions. By Ilene.. I am my mothers caregiver. I had lived away from her for thirty 33 years. She is in beginning to mid stage AD; depending on which professional you speak with. She is a people person and so in public she is able to fool some with her social skills. She is very convincing when she answers questions with m... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2836321 Sun, 27 Sep 2009 05:02:05 +0100 2836321 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2824285&cid=t_108794_122_f&fid=34755&url=http%3A%2F%2Fneuropsychological.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F09%2Fparkinsons-disease-narrative-from.html From The Times (UK):Case study: ‘It’s hard to recognise the man I married’Judith Magill’s retirement dreams were dashed when her husband, Patrick, had Parkinson's disease diagnosed aged 5721 September 2009[snip]"People die with Parkinson’s disease, not of it,” said the specialist to my husband, Patrick, when he got the diagnosis at the age of 57. He was upbeat, though leaving us in no doubt that the condition would worsen. Parkinson’s would nibble away at Patrick’s physical and, if we were unlucky, his mental reactions. It would fundamentally change our lives after just two years of marriage.[snip]Read the full piece (Source: BrainBlog) BrainBlog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2824285 Wed, 23 Sep 2009 10:11:00 +0100 2824285 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2741495&cid=t_108794_122_f&fid=34755&url=http%3A%2F%2Fneuropsychological.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F08%2Fupcoming-event-minneapolis-13-nov-2009.html Center for Bioethics Fall Seminar SeriesTime: 12:15 to 1:30 pmLocation: 1-451 Moos Tower, University of Minnesota campus (unless noted otherwise)Minneapolis, MNITV to University of Minnesota, Duluth, Room 160 Life ScienceNovember 13“Family Stories: Decision Making in Advanced Dementia”Presented byBarbara Elliott, PhDProfessor, Department of Family Medicine, Medical School, Duluth; Director,Clinical Research, Department of Family Medicine; Adjunct Professor,Department of Behavioral Sciences, University of Minnesota, DuluthSeminars are free and open to the public. Refreshments will be provided.For more information email visit www.bioethics.umn.edu (Source: BrainBlog) BrainBlog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2741495 Thu, 27 Aug 2009 22:00:00 +0100 2741495 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2734236&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FkgfJopUMawI%2F1011-thank-you-notes.html Today the Alzheimer's Reading Room passed 1,000 subscribers for the first time. If I could, I would write each and everyone of you a personal Thank You note. To those of you that have emailed me with your kind words, Thank You. To those of you who share a part of your life as a Caregiver with me, Thank You. To those of you that take the time to comment, and teach me so much, Thank You. Thank You. Bob Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room--via Email Popular articles on theAlzheimer's Reading Room Alzheimer's Wandering Why it Happens and What to Do Does the Combination of Aricept and Namenda Help Slow the Rate of Decline in Alzheimer's Patients10 Good Reasons to Subscribe to the Alzheimer's Reading Room NowTest Your Memory (TYM) for Alzheimer's or Dementia in Five Minutes World Hea... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2734236 Wed, 26 Aug 2009 13:58:05 +0100 2734236 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2727391&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FdFYjU_hzDFk%2Falzheimers-reading-room-testimonials.html TestimonialsAs someone with Alzheimer's who still remains somewhat functional, I find your works informative and right on target.--Ronald M. Reisner, M.D.There are many websites that provide information about Alzheimer’s, but I have been most impressed by the Alzheimer’s Reading Room.No other site provides the varied content, and frequency that the Alzheimer’s Reading Room does.Bob DeMarco does an excellent job of posting the latest medical information, as well as great techniques and resources when caring for a loved one afflicted with Alzheimer’s.Bob’s personal experience, caring for his mother with Alzheimer’s, is the core of his work. He understands the questions, concerns, needs, frustrations, and joy of providing care. He is able to help families through education, inform... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2727391 Sun, 23 Aug 2009 23:19:04 +0100 2727391 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2727389&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FRy8xah8vO-M%2Falzheimers-and-dementia-simple-solution.html Sometimes it is best to find a simple solution to an ongoing problem.Have a simple solution to a problem? Tell us about it in the comments box below this article. Or better yet, write an article for the Alzheimer's Reading Room.Here are a few good examples.A Simple SolutionI've been taking care of my husband, John, who has dementia. John constantly misplaces his wallet and gets upset when he can't find it. I've tried to convince him that he doesn't need to carry a wallet anymore because I'm taking care of the bills and expenses, but this doesn't satisfy him.One day when John was getting quite agitated about his lost wallet and I couldn't find it anywhere, I came across an old wallet that had belonged to our son. I put a couple of dollars in the wallet and gave it to John -- and he was deli... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2727389 Sun, 23 Aug 2009 15:20:10 +0100 2727389 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2725237&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FkoxNih9geb0%2Fis-alzheimers-everywhere.html My name is Bob DeMarco, I am an Alzheimer's caregiver. My mother Dorothy, now 93 years old, suffers from Alzheimer's.Is Alzheimer's everywhere?I don't get out much these days. But, I make an effort to take my mother out every Friday night. We always go to a place where we can easily interact with people. This is part of the effort to keep my mother socialized and in the "world".Last night, we went to Vic and Angelo's in downtown Delray Beach, Florida. A really fantastic venue. If you click on the image to the left, you'll hear a nice rendition of a song you might recognize.Usually I stand and my mother sits. Since I always have a smile on my face, people find it easy to approach and talk with me.Last night, I had a conversation with a woman and a man that were waiting to go inside (we were... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2725237 Sat, 22 Aug 2009 18:40:32 +0100 2725237 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2688882&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FDiCuh3FNjxc%2Falzheimers-is-cruel-disease.html I must be in some kind of mood today--although I don't know how to spell it correclly its called "agita"--stomach ache.I'm trolling around the Internet reading stories.I see this letter written by a reader on the Chicago Daily Herald. It starts with Jim Hinkle describing his recent visit to see his wife who suffers from Alzheimer's disease. I recently visited my wife to celebrate our 39th wedding anniversary, and I was a little overwhelmed with our situation. I know that right now she has a black eye from a fall to the floor, a knot on her head from a second fall, and a broken arm from a third fall; all these occurring recently because her brain just can't tell her body to slow down and be careful when she walks the halls of the nursing home.--Jim Hinkle, loving husbandIf you read the enti... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2688882 Mon, 10 Aug 2009 19:04:25 +0100 2688882 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2683985&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FdFYjU_hzDFk%2Falzheimers-reading-room-testimonials.html As someone with Alzheimer's who still remains somewhat functional, I find your works informative and right on target.--Ronald M. Reisner, M.D.There are many websites that provide information about Alzheimer’s, but I have been most impressed by the Alzheimer’s Reading Room.No other site provides the varied content, and frequency that the Alzheimer’s Reading Room does.Bob DeMarco does an excellent job of posting the latest medical information, as well as great techniques and resources when caring for a loved one afflicted with Alzheimer’s.Bob’s personal experience, caring for his mother with Alzheimer’s, is the core of his work. He understands the questions, concerns, needs, frustrations, and joy of providing care. He is able to help families through education, information, and r... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2683985 Sun, 09 Aug 2009 00:39:49 +0100 2683985 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2683826&cid=t_108794_87_f&fid=34935&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedicine.com.my%2Fwp%2F%3Fp%3D7622 Got a loved one at home sick with H1N1? What should you do? Here’s an advisory in pictorial format from the MOH (Singapore): This is a PDFMeNot embedded presentation. You can use the zoom bar to enlarge or decrease the size of the image and use the arrow keys in the upper right to navigate the slides. Original source (PDF) via Dr. David Quek from the Malaysian Medical Resources Advice for #H1N1 caregivers (Source: Malaysian Medical Resources) Malaysian Medical Resources blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2683826 Fri, 07 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2683826 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2671064&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FF_GBdUOvW5s%2Fmy-alzheimers-mantra.html Each morning when I wake up, and right after I brush my teeth.I look in the mirror and say,I am not Alone.I am the One.I am an ALZHEIMER'S caregiver.Somehow these words always brings a smile to my face. They send me into my day with a positive attitude.Each night before I get into bed, I brush my teeth.When I finish, I look into the mirror and say,I am not Alone.I am the One.I am an ALZHEIMER'S caregiver.These words empower me. They bring into focus my vision and my mission.I will be writing shortly about two days in my life that changed me. The day when I realized--I was not alone.The day when I realized--I was the One.Along with these realizations, I came to the realization that I had accepted Alzheimer's into my life.I decided that acceptance was a good thing, but it was not enough. I f... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2671064 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 18:43:53 +0100 2671064 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2667703&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FdFYjU_hzDFk%2Falzheimers-reading-room-testimonials.html There are many websites that provide information about Alzheimer’s, but I have been most impressed by the Alzheimer’s Reading Room.No other site provides the varied content, and frequency that the Alzheimer’s Reading Room does.Bob DeMarco does an excellent job of posting the latest medical information, as well as great techniques and resources when caring for a loved one afflicted with Alzheimer’s.Bob’s personal experience, caring for his mother with Alzheimer’s, is the core of his work. He understands the questions, concerns, needs, frustrations, and joy of providing care. He is able to help families through education, information, and resources he finds important and helpful.I highly respect his work and would recommend subscribing to the Alzheimer’s Reading Room. Anyone ca... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2667703 Mon, 03 Aug 2009 22:59:46 +0100 2667703 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2664099&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FcfIjgN5eKKQ%2Frevolution-in-alzheimers-dementia-and.html One of my greatest fears is the day I might have to place my mother in an Alzheimer's care facility. I say might because I pray that I'll never have to do it.I receive emails all the time from people that experience the guilt, angst, and remorse of having place their loved one in a Alzheimer's care facility that provides little care, and is a horrid environment for their loved one.Our reader Rose LaMatt, wrote of her own nightmare experience after she placed her loved one into an Alzheimer's care facility. In Just a Word, she writes with real, raw, emotion about the myriad of feelings she experienced when moving her loved one from the first Alzheimer's care facility to a second. Reading her words were eye opening, and gut wrenching.Sadly, its ugly out there.It doesn't have to be that way..... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2664099 Mon, 03 Aug 2009 01:34:37 +0100 2664099 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2662632&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FcfIjgN5eKKQ%2Frevolution-in-alzheimers-dementia-and.html One of my greatest fears is the day I might have to place my mother in an Alzheimer's care facility. I say might because I pray that I'll never have to do it.I receive emails all the time from people that experience the guilt, angst, and remorse of having place their loved one in a Alzheimer's care facility that provides little care, and is a horrid environment for their loved one.Our reader Rose LaMatt, wrote of her own nightmare experience after she placed her loved one into an Alzheimer's care facility. In Just a Word, she writes with real, raw, emotion about the myriad of feelings she experienced when moving her loved one from the first Alzheimer's care facility to a second. Reading her words were eye opening, and gut wrenching.Sadly, its ugly out there.It doesn't have to be that way..... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2662632 Sat, 01 Aug 2009 17:21:18 +0100 2662632 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2660933&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FzYEVAIe6f_4%2Feight-steps-for-family-caregiving.html Dan Tobin -- 8 Steps for Family Caregiving1. Understanding doctor's recommendations and asking productive questions.2. Becoming health literate regarding medical terms and health information.3. Getting information on non-medical topics (home care, insurance, healthcare finances).4. Linking medical and non-medical needs and creating an active problem list.5. Obtaining guidance for solving specific family caregiving problems.6. Dealing with emotions for both parent and caregiver.7. Finding and hiring tangible support and services for your parents.8. Extended planning for your parents foreseeable and long-range future.For more details on how to navigate the complex terrain of family caregiving go here.Source: Psychology TodayMore from the Alzheimer's Reading RoomQuestions About Test Your Memo... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2660933 Fri, 31 Jul 2009 13:23:52 +0100 2660933 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2657887&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2Ft95lMIOSlAo%2Fbrain-stimulation-in-old-age-reduces.html In a study of more than 700 elderly, community-dwelling individuals, a cognitively inactive person was 2.6 times more likely to develop Alzheimer's disease than a cognitively active person. Frequent cognitive activity during old age — such as reading a newspaper, going to see a play, or playing chess or checkers — was also linked with a reduced incidence ofmild cognitive impairment. "The implications are much more from a public health perspective than a clinical perspective," said Dr. Robert Bennett. "As a society, how do we encourage all people, not just seniors, to engage in cognitive activities?"Dr. Bennett noted that cognitive activity is just one aspect of staving off memory loss. Physical activity and social activity play a role. The group published a study last year showing that... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2657887 Thu, 30 Jul 2009 18:44:00 +0100 2657887 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2653986&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.homeinstead.com%2FLists%2Fdoclistlib%2FAttachments%2F300%2FCookingUnderPressureHandbook.pdf After a stressful day of caregiving, cooking an evening meal can really be a chore. I learned how to cook meals that take about ten minutes from start to finish. Today, I ran across interesting information about cooking and caregiving on the Home Instead Senior Care website. The site includes information on topics like:10 Warning Signs of Poor Senior NutritionFeeling the Heat: Caregivers Under Pressure and, a list of interesting recipes. I... This is a content summary. We are interested in your comments and reactions. Please comment in the comments box under the article on the website. (Source: Alzheimer's Reading Room, The) Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2653986 Wed, 29 Jul 2009 15:30:58 +0100 2653986 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2645524&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FWIaXUAjqVRU%2Flong-term-care-costs-and-calculater.html Ever wonder how much long term care might cost you?I found this calculator over on the MetLife website. It is easy to use.Here are some national numbers. The cost could be lower or higher in your area. Numbers are a little dated.Average costs of long-term care in 2006:Private room in a nursing home $206 a day; $75,190 annuallySemi-private room in a nursing home $183 a day; $66,795 annuallyHome health care aide $19 an hourSource: MetLife Mature Market InstituteIn south Florida, you can hire an around the clock, live in, caregiver aide for $120-$150 a day (hired directly by you). Or, you can pay an agency $150-$180 a day for a person with similar experience and credentials.You might be able to find an assisted living facility in this area for as low as $3200 a month. South Florida is overbui... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2645524 Mon, 27 Jul 2009 19:15:09 +0100 2645524 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2641486&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FSB2cHxxJ0-g%2Fno-substitute-for-alzheimers-caregiver.html The most common Alzheimer's caregiver relationship is between a child and parent (57 percent). It might surprise you to know that only 6 percent are between spouses. This can be explained by aging.A new research study found that Alzheimer's sufferers who felt especially close to their caregivers kept more of their cognitive and functional abilities longer compared with patients who did not feel as close to their caregivers. In other words, a close relationship between Alzheimer's sufferer and... This is a content summary. Continue reading on the website. Feel free to make comments in the comments box below the article. (Source: Alzheimer's Reading Room, The) Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2641486 Mon, 27 Jul 2009 01:43:04 +0100 2641486 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2630233&cid=t_108794_122_f&fid=34755&url=http%3A%2F%2Fneuropsychological.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F07%2Fin-wide-world-kings-lynn-england.html Regional branch of the Alzheimer's Society at King's Lynn: webpage (Source: BrainBlog) BrainBlog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2630233 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 21:06:00 +0100 2630233 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2630343&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FGcn6C864itU%2Fwalmart-and-this-alzheimers-caregiver.html My name is Bob DeMarco, I am an Alzheimer's caregiver. My mother Dorothy, now 93 years old, suffers from Alzheimer's disease.I learned in my role as an Alzheimer's caregiver that exercise, bright light, socialization, and simple tasks that allow my mother to use her brain have a positive effect on my mother's quality of life and behavior.I am always searching for new ways to keep her active and in the world.About a year ago, I came up with a new idea and decided to give it a try.I took my mother to Super Walmart for an outing. If you have a super Walmart near you, you already know the parking lot is usually jammed.Join UsSubscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading RoomWhen we arrive at Walmart, I look around for a parking space. We do not use the handicapped spot. Reason? Exercise (mission accomp... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2630343 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 15:16:02 +0100 2630343 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2626240&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FZ2Q-_i8b9Bw%2Fnational-alliance-for-caregiving-and.html This year's award winners are: Services and Advocacy for GLBT Elders (SAGE) of New York, NY for the SAGE Caregiver Program, the only program in the country specifically designed to meet the complete care and support needs of LGBT caregivers, who are often marginalized from mainstream service and support.The Pro Bono Counseling Project of Baltimore, MD for its Caring for Caregivers program, which links low-income, uninsured caregivers with... This is a content summary. Continue reading on the website. (Source: Alzheimer's Reading Room, The) Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2626240 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:33:28 +0100 2626240 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2626241&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FGcn6C864itU%2Fwalmart-and-this-alzheimers-caregiver.html My name is Bob DeMarco, I am an Alzheimer's caregiver. My mother Dorothy, now 93 years old, suffers from Alzheimer's disease. I learned in my role as an Alzheimer's caregiver that exercise, bright light, socialization, and simple tasks that allow my mother to use her brain have a positive effect on my mother's quality of life and behavior. I am always searching for new ways to keep her active and in the world. About a year ago, I came up with... This is a content summary. Continue reading on the website. (Source: Alzheimer's Reading Room, The) Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2626241 Tue, 21 Jul 2009 16:52:00 +0100 2626241 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2622016&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FwG8UGBNYIm0%2Falzheimers-read-twitter-feed.html Join UsSubscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading RoomHere are some examples of articles that recently appeared on our Twitter feed. So far, 1439 articles on Alzheimer's, Dementia, Caregiving, and Health Care have been sent to the Alzheimer's Reading Room Twitter page via our feed.Heart Disease Linked to Alzheimer's"Our data suggest that American adults have limited knowledge and a poor understanding of factors that have been demonstrated to increase risk for Alzheimer's, such as obesity, high blood pressure, and other heart health risk factors," Jackson is quoted as saying. "They also didn't know much about protective factors against Alzheimer's, such as physical exercise . . . .We need more education programs and opportunities, across all demographic groups, focusing on behaviors that modify y... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2622016 Mon, 20 Jul 2009 13:54:53 +0100 2622016 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2615471&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2Fg3aeVrSxwMM%2Fvisiting-angels-angil-tarach-rn.html This article moved one of our readers to email the author, Angil Tarach. Angil in turn, sent the email to me. Her email to me is a good example of how we can share information, feelings, and communicate with others who are being touched by Alzheimer's... This is a content summary. Continue reading on the website. Comment welcome. (Source: Alzheimer's Reading Room, The) Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2615471 Sat, 18 Jul 2009 14:40:37 +0100 2615471 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2614049&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2Fg3aeVrSxwMM%2Fvisiting-angels-angil-tarach-rn.html This article moved one of our readers to email the author, Angil Tarach. Angil in turn, sent the email to me. Her email to me is a good example of how we can share information, feelings, and communicate with others who are being touched by Alzheimer's disease.Join Us Subscribe to The Alzheimer's... This is a content summary. Continue reading on the website. Comment welcome. (Source: Alzheimer's Reading Room, The) Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2614049 Fri, 17 Jul 2009 18:00:27 +0100 2614049 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2606198&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FYau8vNYZSbc%2Fhightlights-of-international-conference.html This week, more than 3,000 leading scientists convened to report and discuss the latest advances in research on treatments, risk factors, diagnosis and causes for the health epidemic of the 21st century – Alzheimer's disease – at the Alzheimer's Association 2009 International Conference on Alzheimer's Disease (ICAD 2009) in Vienna, Austria.“The cost of caring for people who have Alzheimer's, and those who will get it, will bankrupt the healthcare system and devastate Medicare and Medicaid,” said William Thies, PhD, Chief Medical and Scientific Officer at the Alzheimer's Association. “Fortunately, the field is progressing and we may soon see changes in the landscape of Alzheimer's diagnosis, care, treatment, and prevention. How fast we get there depends completely on investment in... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2606198 Thu, 16 Jul 2009 01:07:06 +0100 2606198 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2591680&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FPP7VK_916J8%2Fgreat-places-inc.html When it all started, more than five years ago, I turned to the Internet to try and get educated about Alzheimer's and dementia. There was plenty of scientific information, but honestly, very little information that was hands on useful.Once I had enough hands on experience, after reading thousands of articles, all the books, and talking to hundreds of doctors, specialists,and Caregivers-- I started the Alzheimer's Reading Room in 2007.As time went on, I started to notice more and more people, just like me, who were starting blogs. Some of those people decided to use the information they learned, and their hands on experience, to start businesses.The information that is available to Alzheimer's caregivers and educators is now growing fast on the Internet. This is a good thing.I meet many peo... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2591680 Fri, 10 Jul 2009 14:44:14 +0100 2591680 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2571158&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FR82Ii6i_pn4%2Fcaring-for-caregiver.html Since few of us our inventors we learn best from the experience of others. “I don’t think I know how to handle the situation with dementia,” she said about her husband’s disease, diagnosed 10 years ago. “I lose my temper a lot and I get exasperated. I know I’m not handling things well, not for him and not for myself.” Another woman said she had promised her aunt to keep her at home as long a she possibly could. Because her relatives disagree with her vow, she said, they don’t help her with the care.This is a well written article that appeared on the Alzheimer's Reading Room for the first time back in February, 2007. Time is flying.Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading RoomCaring for the caregiversBy Elizabeth CooneyTELEGRAM & GAZETTE ecooney@telegram.comYou came to the r... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2571158 Sat, 04 Jul 2009 02:13:20 +0100 2571158 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2561531&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FfsWe8_hlCOU%2Fcaregivers-alzheimers-other-victims-on.html Quick notice and reminder. Tonight ABC will be featuring Alzheimer's and caregiving.Watch "Primetime: Family Secrets" TONIGHT at 10 p.m. ETWhen his mother Lawanda was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, Blane Wilson swore he would not put her in a nursing home."It's like adopting another child," Georgia Wilson, Blane's wife, says about Lawanda, 78.44 million Americans provide unpaid care to a loved one, according to a study by the by the National Allegiance for Care Giving and the AARP. Of those, 23 percent are providing care for someone with Alzheimer's, dementia or other forms of mental confusion, according to the same report.Blane Wilson says it's been rough dealing with a parent with a disease without obvious, physical symptoms.Go here to continue reading...Bob DeMarco is an Alzheimer'... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2561531 Tue, 30 Jun 2009 20:59:01 +0100 2561531 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2523684&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FewEIrKUyr_A%2F5-health-tips-for-alzheimers-caretakers.html By Meredith WalkerTaking care of a relative suffering from Alzheimer’s can be trying, stressful and emotional as the disease progresses.Yet many families want to keep their relative close, and provide the best care they can from home. It’s important to remember, however, that you can’t care for someone else if you get too run down yourself.Here are some tips that can help keep caretakers healthy and better able to provide the patience and understanding necessary to the care of their loved one. Share the responsibility. Being the sole person responsible for your loved one’s care can be too much. When you’re run down, stressed out or frustrated you won’t be a good caretaker, nor will you be doing yourself any favors. Going on too long without a break can lead to emotional and phy... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2523684 Thu, 18 Jun 2009 13:00:09 +0100 2523684 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2523690&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2Fofop51ky8ek%2Fdoes-art-therapy-improve-memory-in.html Use it or lose it. I bet you heard that a few times in your life.Dr. Arnold Bresky, who bills himself as a "preventive gerontologist," is using art therapy to help Alzheimer's and dementia patients improve their memory.Dr. Bresky claims a 70 percent success rate in improving their memories.I believe in investigating any and all alternatives when it comes to Alzheimer's.In fact, I tried to get my mother to go to a painting class, but she refuses to do it. So I guess you could say, I am predisposed to alternative therapies like these.I know first hand that exercise in a gym worked for my mother. She was falling down all the time; she even broke her finger on one fall. Another time, I found her laying in the parking lot, shaking like a leaf -- she couldn't get up. I knew I had to do something... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2523690 Tue, 16 Jun 2009 00:52:00 +0100 2523690 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2523692&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FdvxZ3i2jqhA%2Fcaregivers-dilemma-until-you-walk-in-my.html So my dilemma as a caregiver is how can you get these relatives to understand that until they walk in your shoes then they have never walked before? By Deborah Ann TornilloI find myself once again taking care of my husband, who was diagnosed several months ago with Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma, a rare form of cancer. He is currently receiving radiation treatment, which is taking its toll on him. He is unable to eat solid food for it just comes right back up and has only just recently been able to tolerate a liquid diet.He has lost 25 pounds in three weeks.He has lost his hearing in his left ear since it is “ground zero” for the radiation.Two weeks into his treatment he lost his taste buds. For the last seven days he has had a fever over 103 degrees, but yet the radiation oncologist does no... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2523692 Sun, 14 Jun 2009 19:15:01 +0100 2523692 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2441690&cid=t_108794_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F05%2F28%2Fself-esteem-in-recession-six-steps-to-recovery%2F Seven Steps To Accept A Compliment With Grace. Why is a compliment almost as hard to take as criticism? When I was a kid my well-intentioned Mom taught me to discredit compliments. “Oh, no, I’m not pretty, clever, smart, nice…” To do otherwise would be conceited, a cardinal sin to a young Catholic girl. Q: What’s the result of too much compliment denial? A) A starving, shriveled self-esteem dying for some good nurturing, B) A great big gap is left in your self-esteem (where the compliment would go) that is filled with bad, abusive junk, C) You risk annoying your relatives and friends who just want you to see what they see, or, (you guessed it) D) All of the above. If we refuse to let people tell us how fabulous we are where does that leave us? It leaves us wi... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2441690 Thu, 28 May 2009 09:00:12 +0100 2441690 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2415765&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35352&url=http%3A%2F%2Fyellowwallpaper.net%2Fblog1%2F2009%2F05%2F16%2Flast-post%2F I’ll be keeping this blog up indefinitely in the hopes that it may help someone who is caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease, but this will probably be my last post.  (Never say never.)  I’ll check it periodically and maybe update the links, but I’m moving to another blog: Songs from a Spiral Tree I’ve begun the new blog as a writing challenge to myself–I won’t be posting daily but will gather my thoughts on certain topics and compose short essays about them.  I’ve lost count of the many blogs I’ve turned to at least once for counsel and answers and entertainment, and I’m hoping I can contribute to the meta-conversation. My gratitude goes to all who have taken the time to read and comment on this blog. I have made som... The Yellow Wallpaper blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2415765 Sat, 16 May 2009 19:32:07 +0100 2415765 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2406059&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2Fd9FsIfVrKu8%2Fcaregiver-committment-and-clinical_12.html I often receive emails asking me questions about clinical trials. Caregivers are often surprised to learn that enrollment of their loved one into a clinical trial also means a major commitment on their part.Here is a short list of things you should consider before searching for a clinical trial.The amount or number of expected visits you will need to make to the clinic location. This can be weekly, monthly, quarterly, or any combination of these. For sure, you will be making a big investment of your own time if you decide to enroll your loved one in a clinical trial. And, the trial managers won't seriously consider your loved one for enrollment if they are not convinced you can and will make this commitment.A second important consideration is the ability to convince the managers of the cli... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2406059 Tue, 12 May 2009 13:30:44 +0100 2406059 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2399259&cid=t_108794_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F05%2Fcaregiver-burnout-series-inspiration-to.html I made the video below from photos I took, and it was what I do to relax, recharge my batteries, and give myself an uplift. After caring for someone who passed away, I find it's important to invent my own ways of giving myself a lift. The beauty of nature always takes me away from stress, worries, and feeling down. (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=2399259 Fri, 08 May 2009 18:33:00 +0100 2399259 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2365405&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FVrEXInGdMU4%2Fare-alzheimers-caregivers-forgotten.html Forty percent of Alzheimer's caregivers end up suffering from depression. Do you want to see this happen to a loved one or friend?One issue that really frustrates me is the treatment of Alzheimer's caregivers. Most Alzheimer's caregivers hear people tell them how wonderful they are for taking care of their loved one. As a caregiver, I learned to appreciate these compliments. They help, they really do.However, if you have a friend or a loved one that is an Alzheimer's caregiver and that is all you do -- it is not enough. Many Alzheimer's caregivers are forgotten by family and friends. This is a sad truth that is rarely discussed.Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room--via EmailI meet and talk to caregivers all the time. It is not unusual for them to tell me that as time goes on, and as ... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2365405 Fri, 24 Apr 2009 19:59:29 +0100 2365405 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2353903&cid=t_108794_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FeMMdKfyvPds%2F Caring for our loved ones today can be a difficult thing. You hear so much about people that are less than reputable when it comes to caring for our children or even elders. It’s scary. That’s why so many of you entered our Care4Hire giveaway package. The winner of that giveaway is: Courtney! Congrats to Courtney, and if you didn’t win, I came across a good article on what to say when interviewer a caregiver. In addition, it also has tips for how to successfully hire someone, and one of the points that stuck out for me was defining the job description. It isn’t enough just to say you want them to “watch” your kid or parent, you’ve got to define what else that may entail. Do the duties include taking them to the doctor? Doing laundry? Interacting w... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2353903 Tue, 21 Apr 2009 22:32:23 +0100 2353903 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2349587&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FU3x8GIYbNrg%2Falzheimers-growing-in-society.html This is one of the better articles I read on Alzheimer's and Caregiving -- Alzheimer's growing in society. I believe this is the kind of article that can be helpful to Alzheimer's caregivers and give the public a real sense of what we are tackling in our day to day lives. "He would forget passwords on the computer," she said. "He would call people and say strange things, then not remember that he had called them." The quote shows what really starts happening a the beginning. In other words, it is not just memory -- it is behavior that tips you off.The husband of my good friend and neighbor is starting to show clear signs of mild cognitive impairment-- at the minimum. I am not a doctor, and I understand his symptoms might be any of a number illnesses--but I can't convince her to get him che... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2349587 Sun, 19 Apr 2009 16:14:42 +0100 2349587 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2347914&cid=t_108794_87_f&fid=34825&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wesleyjsmith.com%2Fblog%2F2009%2F04%2Ffamily-caregiver-alliance-subtly.html This is subtle, but I think, very alarming. The Family Caregiver Alliance touts itself as a resource for people providing care for family members and others. From its "End of Life Choices" published on the FGA Web site:Family Caregiver Alliance (FCA) seeks to improve the quality of life for caregivers through education, services, research and advocacy... FCA provides direct family support services for caregivers of those with Alzheimer's disease, stroke, head injury, Parkinson's and other debilitating disorders that strike adults.Sounds good, and I am sure it is. But then it gets scary: One of the "resources," indeed the first listed after the group itself (due to alphabetization), is the assisted suicide advocacy group Compassion and Choices.In light of that listing, following statement a... Secondhand Smoke blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2347914 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 17:15:00 +0100 2347914 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2349630&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35352&url=http%3A%2F%2Fyellowwallpaper.net%2Fblog1%2F2009%2F04%2F15%2Fone-year-later%2F Today bears the same date as the day my mother died, but that day will always be a Tuesday to me.  It felt like a Tuesday.  Or maybe Tuesdays will always feel like that day, which was sunny in that extra bright early spring way.  No leaves on the trees yet, exposing the squirrels and birds as they reorganized.  Daffodils all over the place but not yet the lush green of deep spring. I’m still surprised at times to realize that she’s gone.  Seeing her name on the grave marker was probably as close as I’ve come to fully realizing her death. I think I’ve used the phrase “suspension of disbelief” before–Coleridge coined the phrase to refer to a reader’s response to the fantastic in an otherwise credible story.  If a story resonates with the ... The Yellow Wallpaper blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2349630 Wed, 15 Apr 2009 22:01:02 +0100 2349630 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2218639&cid=t_108794_136_f&fid=37852&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdonnatrussell.com%2F2009%2F02%2F26%2Ftwelve-tips-for-friends-family%2F A comment on my Twelve Tips for Cancer Patients entry deserved a more prominent placement. By John Mark Eberhart, husband to the late Sherri Eberhart: Twelve Tips for the Friends & Family of Cancer Patients 1. You are NOT sick. No matter how understanding you think you are, you can’t comprehend this disease till it is IN YOU. 2. You, too, will be tired, sad. Remember: No matter how bad you feel, your spouse/parent/child/friend feels worse. 3. You will find your chores crowd out your old interests. If you truly love the person, you won’t care much. 4. You will hear lots of advice on how to care for someone with cancer. 99.9 percent of it is nonsense. 5. You, too, will lose friends. Especially the ones who look for blessings on your behalf as you watch your loved one suffer or die. C... Donna Trussell blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2218639 Thu, 26 Feb 2009 22:44:54 +0100 2218639 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2141437&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FY_otrlIuw94%2F  Edie Dykeman, at ElderCareCafe, responded to my post,  Keeping Your Cool as an Alzheimer’s Caregiver , with, Great post and reminder to do what we can to stay calm and emotionally in control. Thanks!  She also described a situation in her caregiving life that you might relate to. As I mentoned to Edie, it is difficult living day to day with someone who has Alzheimer’s and can be very stubborn. They’re also often frightened by what’s happening to them, so strike out verbally and physically at those closest.  That often is the caregiver. When I was caring for Mother, I read somewhere that you could end up becoming very angry at that person and had to be careful you didn’t harm them physically. “No never,” I thought. “She’s my mother... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2141437 Thu, 29 Jan 2009 01:57:05 +0100 2141437 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2195223&cid=t_108794_158_f&fid=36024&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Fcaregiver-jeff%2Ffarewell-caregivers%2F I am sad to say, I am hanging up my blogger hat after 18 months to make way for some fresh perspective for another caregiver. I have really enjoyed sharing my views and experiences caring for Pops with the HealthTalk audience during these past months, but it’s time to relinquish the forum to some of the other caregiver voices out there. There is a near-infinite variety of caregiver situations and mine and Pops’s is just one, and frankly I have pretty much exhausted what I have to say. In fact, when I looked back on my 18 months of blog entries, I can’t help notice some of them are remarkably similar. I guess I shouldn’t be surprised. One of the singular aspects of caregiving is you find yourself doing a lot of the same stuff over and over again. From a personal standpoint, I think ... Caregiver Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2195223 Wed, 28 Jan 2009 00:18:48 +0100 2195223 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2027303&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35352&url=http%3A%2F%2Fyellowwallpaper.net%2Fblog1%2F2008%2F12%2F10%2Fepilogue%2F Next Monday will be the seven-month anniversary of my mother’s death.  Strangely enough, it seems to me that even more time has passed since that day, and I have no idea why.  I remember a dear older friend telling me many years ago about her own mother’s recent death–”It doesn’t matter how old you are,” she said, “when your mother dies, you feel like an orphan.”  I was in my late twenties at the time but her words had a lasting effect on me.  The prospect of either of my parents dying was safely in the future, but hearing this from someone considerably older than I was unsettling.  I had expected that I would somehow be armed and ready to face my parents’ deaths by the time I’d reached my friend’s age. My father died n... The Yellow Wallpaper blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2027303 Thu, 11 Dec 2008 01:46:02 +0100 2027303 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2021672&cid=t_108794_134_f&fid=36049&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FDiabetesNotes%2F%7E3%2FwtPCXRlmbF0%2F var iamInit = function() {try{initIamServingHandler(420,628,329028,"http://cdn.pis.picapp.com/IamProd/Resources/Css/css2.css")}catch(ex){}}() It’s something we don’t talk about often here, but our pets can get diabetes just like us. As someone that gives myself multiple shots a day, I can’t imagine having to do that with my dog as well. But it does happen. As this article states, many pet owners are diabetics themselves and understand about the disease when it comes to treating their pet. I think I would probably have much more sympathy for a dog that has diabetes now that I’m diabetic too, wouldn’t you? The same article says, “If left untreated (diabetes) can cause our four-legged friends to lose weight, vomit, become weak and lethargic, or even go b... Diabetes Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2021672 Sun, 07 Dec 2008 16:18:54 +0100 2021672 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2013910&cid=t_108794_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F12%2Fhealthy-caregiving-minute-of-tips.html (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=2013910 Fri, 05 Dec 2008 03:24:00 +0100 2013910 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2013540&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fartbylt.blogs.com%2Fcaregiving%2F2008%2F12%2Fcaregiver-again.html After spending several years being the primary caregiver for my father and ex-mother-in-law, I am now finding myself in a similar position with my husband, who is 83 years old.  Certainly we have always taken care of each other in many ways, but as life gets more and more difficult for Adrian, I am called upon to do more and more. It's been a long time since I've posted here, but I intend to write regularly, and invite readers to join the conversation with their comments.  All of us who are caregivers need all the help and support we can get. I've been very fortunate that my sister Laura moved to my town recently, as she was always willing to listen to my problems.  Now I can vent to her as we hike in the woods, rather than simply speaking with her over the ph... Caregiving, Aging & Alzheimer's blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2013540 Thu, 04 Dec 2008 22:14:27 +0100 2013540 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1991736&cid=t_108794_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F11%2Fhandirecords-home-medical-records.html Keeping home medical records can save a life in an emergency. Caregiver Agencies require the in-home caregivers to write in a journal daily in order to provide updates on a person's health and symptoms. This is helpful later if a health problem is suspected. Additionally, medication records help elderly people who live alone at home to avoid making medication errors, and they provide a handy place for emergency phone numbers of medical professionals and other contacts. Some people create their own medical records notebook, but others buy one of the convenient premade home medical record systems. Below is information about HandiRecords, a system that has received many endorsements from respected organizations. Clipped from HandiRecords:HandiRecords - http://www.seniorsapprove.com/medic... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1991736 Thu, 27 Nov 2008 00:40:00 +0100 1991736 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1991739&cid=t_108794_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F11%2Fcaregiver-tips-video-vial-of-life.html (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=1991739 Thu, 27 Nov 2008 00:15:00 +0100 1991739 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1977484&cid=t_108794_136_f&fid=37852&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdonnatrussell.com%2F2008%2F11%2F21%2Fcancer-is-a-killer-not-a-lifestyle%2F Does cancer make you uncomfortable? Of course it does! Disfiguring surgery. Treatments that make a patient bald, pale and weak. Teeth turned brown. Missing fingernails. A large elastic bandage worn on the arm forever. Chronic pain. And on top of all that—for way too many—a death sentence. Hey, what’s not to like? Protects against cancer It’s human nature to try to put aside what makes us uncomfortable. One way to do that is to assign blame. Won’t happen to me because I did not perform in smoky nightclubs. Won’t happen to me because I have a four-leaf clover. Or—worse—won’t happen to me because I am [stage whisper] a good person, unlike him. People may not even be aware they are having such thoughts, but behavior provides a clue. Cancer patients usual... Donna Trussell blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1977484 Fri, 21 Nov 2008 17:59:30 +0100 1977484 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1924586&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F3W0vDshE53I%2F Managing Stress November is here.  With this month come thoughts of the holidays ahead.  Although they’re joyous times, often, when you must care for an Alzheimer’s patient along with all the holiday preparations, you become stressed out. For a start on managing your stress, take a look at this previous post I wrote, 10 Ways to Manage Alzheimer’s Caregiver Stress.  Let me know if you have other methods that work for you.  Let’s share them to see if, together, we can help one another enjoy a relatively stress free holiday season. Tags: Alzheimer's caregivrs, Alzheimer's Notes, Caregiver stress, caregivers, Caregiving, holidays, stress, stress freeShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1924586 Sat, 01 Nov 2008 05:00:59 +0100 1924586 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1918084&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FJPn7AYfgAnc%2F Closet Disease Keeping one’s illness, when it involved mental or emotional conditions, “in the closet” was common when I was growing up.  You only whispered about someone’s mental disorders.  Families tried to keep that person at home, while not literally “in a closet,” figuratively so. You tried not to talk about Aunt Mollie who laughed at inappropriate times, wore her clothes backward, took walks in the middle of the night, or held conversations with people of the past.  Perhaps she even had to spend some time in a mental institution and have “shock” treatment, the common way of dealing with mental and emotional conditions then. Is Alzheimer’s in “the closet?” Although we’re able to talk more openly about dementia... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1918084 Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:37:20 +0100 1918084 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1906250&cid=t_108794_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=1897110&cid=t_108794_136_f&fid=37852&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdonnatrussell.com%2F2008%2F10%2F22%2Fbob-barker-is-the-devil%2F Originally published in slightly different form in the Sunday magazine of The Kansas City Star in 2005. By Robert Trussell Bob Barker is the devil. You know it’s true. You’ve watched him on television your entire life. He never goes away. He’s always there, smiling, intoning, seducing, inviting us into a world of naked materialism. Maybe this seems self-evident, but my conclusion was not reached lightly. It began when I drove my wife to the emergency room. There was no way we could know it at the time, but that was the prelude to our passage into cancer world. Hospital waiting rooms and oncology clinics are never very happy places, of course. Patients and their loved ones gathered there devote their psychic energy to a set of basic goals: Don’t bolt from your chair ... Donna Trussell blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1897110 Wed, 22 Oct 2008 20:25:36 +0100 1897110 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1895707&cid=t_108794_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F10%2Fcaregivers-insight-putting-yourself-in.html Caregivers who provide one to one hands-on care know their efforts to help will sometimes be rebuffed and the reasons may be a puzzle. Sometimes the care-receiver is in denial and simply does not want to deal with issues at the moment. Or, accepting assistance may seem to be a threat to one's independence, freedom, privacy, or dominance. Sometimes, believing that one must tackle the challenges of life alone may cause someone to turn away from those who care. Rejection is not the issue, but independence and perceived threats to one's self-image may be the reasons.Some people may feel "suffocated" by a caregiver who is hovering, especially if they are accustomed to privacy and independence. Or, someone may feel he or she is no longer "in charge" of their personal life. When one is dependent ... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1895707 Tue, 21 Oct 2008 17:14:00 +0100 1895707 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1862919&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FmrvzahUiGV0%2F AlzheimersNotes.com How you feel about yourself may have an effect on your feeling overburdened and overwhelmed as you care for your Alzheimer’s family member.  Even caregivers in nursing homes and hospitals can get burnout.  According to an article at qimr.edu.au and Alzheimer’s Daily News, a recent study revealed the factors determining carer burden lay not in the severity of dementia among sufferers, but instead on caregivers’ feelings about themselves. Become involved in activities that will help boost your confidence.  Find ways to relieve your stress.  Read books and listen to music that will raise your spirits. What do you do to feel better about yourself?  Do you need a boost in confidence and moral? (Amazon image) (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Tags: Alzheimer... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1862919 Thu, 09 Oct 2008 01:00:42 +0100 1862919 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1857432&cid=t_108794_136_f&fid=37852&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdonnatrussell.com%2F2008%2F10%2F06%2Fit-sucks-to-be-me%2F I know only too well the interior monologue of the cancer patient, but I wonder how accurately I can depict the mind of the friend or caregiver. I’ll start with the patient’s semi-coherent, conscious or subconscious cry of pain: Noooooooooooooo! Get me out of here! Save me! Don’t let the bad man come in my room! I don’t want to die! I’ll do anything! Give cancer to someone else, anyone but me! I’d rather die than go through this! Easy for you to stay positive — you don’t have cancer! I’m sick of you all! Go away!!!! Hey, where’d you go??!! Help me! I don’t have the strength for this! God, pick on someone else, why doncha? I’m falling apart! Oh so you have a microwave on the blink — try a broken microwave and c... Donna Trussell blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1857432 Tue, 07 Oct 2008 20:41:42 +0100 1857432 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1849030&cid=t_108794_136_f&fid=37852&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdonnatrussell.com%2F2008%2F10%2F03%2Fthinking-positive-think-again%2F If you google positive and cancer, you get over nine million hits. How did the positive-thinking mantra become the default position for cancer prevention? That question has been on my mind ever since my own negative-thinking drumbeat found both an audience (Newsweek, blogosphere) and, naturally, its fair share of criticism. For those who can remain upbeat throughout their diagnosis, treatment and aftermath, I say: Good for them. Some people are blessed with an optimistic outlook, either because of genetic predisposition or a happy childhood, or both. While cancer might give these lucky souls a bad day now and then, for the most part they stay steady even if their cancer progresses. But the above model of coping is of no use to other cancer patients. They’re in shock. The life they k... Donna Trussell blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1849030 Fri, 03 Oct 2008 18:23:40 +0100 1849030 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1848003&cid=t_108794_136_f&fid=35300&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.metastaticlivercancer.org%2F2008-10-03-cancer-treatment%2Fcolon-cancer-spread-to-liver%2F Lisa’s father has had over 130 colon cancer chemotherapy and/or liver cancer treatments in 5 years and still is not in remission. Lisa passes her condolences to Patrick at One caregiver is never enough! Patrick’s father has metastatic liver cancer and feels her father’s body is deteriorating to fast for comfort.   Please add your support or share your metastatic liver cancer story with Lisa and Patrick and all of us.   Go directly to Lisa’s liver cancer story or go directly to how colon cancer spreads to the liver.   At first sight Lisa’s 5 years cancer story seems similar like father’s 6 months condensed metastatic liver cancer story. But it isn’t: Lisa’s father had 130 chemotherapy sessions, our father had none.   Lisa&#821... Metastatic liver cancer blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1848003 Thu, 02 Oct 2008 16:00:59 +0100 1848003 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1709352&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FUmpmuI7Fi68%2F AlzheimersNotes.com So often we don’t know where to turn when Alzheimer’s becomes a reality with a family member.  We’ve heard of the condition, but haven’t paid too much attention until it hits a family member or friend and we’re caught in the caregiver role or supporting a caregiver. More resources are available nowadays than when my mom and aunt developed Alzheimer’s.  I wanted to learn all I could to better understand what they were going through, to help them,  and to cope myself because I ended up the main caregiver for both.  Today, one of the resources you have available is The Alzheimer’s Action Plan by P. Murali Doraiswamy and Lisa P. Gwyther with Tina Adler. Sub titled as “The Experts’ Guide to the Best Diagnosis and Tr... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1709352 Sun, 17 Aug 2008 05:00:25 +0100 1709352 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1709353&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FavAF_JDwq2o%2F AlzheimersNotes.com We have a winner for the Glass Full of Tears Giveaway, associated with the Bloggy Giveaways Carnival.  A copy of the book is on its way to her. Kristen  mentions in her comment: My first job ever was working in a Nursing Home. I saw many different faces of Alzheimer’s and dementia while working there- the good, the bad, and the incredibly sad. But also the very wonderful! Thanks, Kristen, for entering the giveaway and for sharing your experience.  Alzheimer’s is all of what you mention…and if you let yourself look beyond the sad and and not so good, you will see the very wonderful.  This is something I learned when caring for my aunt and mom. (Amazon image; click for details) (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Tags: A Glass Full of Tears, A Glass Full of Te... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1709353 Sat, 16 Aug 2008 17:00:53 +0100 1709353 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1709356&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FSLjo_BV033A%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Are you watching the Olympics?  With Michael Phelps setting Olympic records, swimming will be taking a “front seat” in sports.  More youngsters likely will want to become involved in swimming lessons and events. If you have youngsters in your caregiver’s household, you may find their interest sparked by the Olympics competitions.  Are you all interested in learning more about swimming? Here are a few books about swimming for entertainment and instruction. The Boy Who Wouldn’t Swim Sergio Makes a Splash Learn to Swim Adam Sharp, Swimming with Sharks (a mystery) Freestyle Made Easy Mark Spitz: The Extraordinary Life of an Olympic Champion Golden Girl: How Natalie Coughlin Fought Back (Amazon image;click for details) (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Tags... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1709356 Fri, 15 Aug 2008 00:00:54 +0100 1709356 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1705209&cid=t_108794_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F364451398%2F A dreaded diagnosis, that dimmed and dooming dilemma. Feared, sometimes fought, too often forgotten. It is the grayest, ghastliest elephant in the room: dementia. What is dementia? I, like many others who dedicate their professional efforts to its study and treatment, have no good answer. I believe we are lost in our lexicon, trying to define a brain state so vexing and elusive it drives us out of our minds. I hope we can do better, and I am not alone. In a sensitive and forward-looking editorial entitled Dementia: A Word to be Forgotten, Drs. Trachtenberg and Trojanowski of the University of Pennsylvania argue that alternate terms are more appropriate for research, clinical, and everyday settings. From scientific and biological perspectives, dementia is unspecific and subjective. Within t... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1705209 Thu, 14 Aug 2008 03:27:10 +0100 1705209 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1696327&cid=t_108794_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=1696328&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FkOnzLy8ZXW4%2F AlzheimersNotes.com I was asked, in a recent comment on a post,  what a daughter should do when her elderly father, who had broken a leg and was in a nursing home, acted like a zombie.  That previous post concerned overmedication, with a link from a post by Liz Lewis.  I had related an experience with my mom. Since I’m not trained in the medical field nor know the complete situation with the lady’s dad, I don’t want to give suggestions that will steer her in the wrong direction. So I’ll suggest places one  might go for answers. *Have you talked with his doctor to see why this amount of medication has been prescribed? Is your dad in a great deal of pain without the meds? *Check the policy of the nursing home where you’re considering moving him. [She’s planning... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1696328 Mon, 11 Aug 2008 06:00:53 +0100 1696328 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1693756&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F4HzC4D1lmGw%2F Here’s a two part video presented by The Better Part, a program by and for seniors. Tags: Alzheimer's patients, Alzheimer's Research, Alzheimer's Videos, Alzheimers-disease, caregiversShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1693756 Sun, 10 Aug 2008 01:01:36 +0100 1693756 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1683134&cid=t_108794_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=1646107&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F343214805%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Do you refuse to let siblings and others care for your parent or spouse because you think there will be negative effects? Do you complain about the stress and strain of caring for an Alzheimer’s family member, yet won’t look into respite care and continually find reasons why it won’t work? In other words…Are You a Caregiver Martyr? You may not be aware that you are.  You may think only you can care for this person.  Yes, they may complain if you change their routine, if you aren’t at their “beck and call” or leave them with someone else for awhile.  However, take stock of the situation and realize the change may be good for both of you. Consider whether you really have to do everything yourself (sometimes there is no choice ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1646107 Wed, 23 Jul 2008 05:00:51 +0100 1646107 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1642720&cid=t_108794_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2F341653338%2F So the BBC news reports that I, parent of an autistic child, am an “infection risk,” from a study in the July 1st Brain, Behavior and Immunity on Parental caregivers of children with developmental disabilities mount a poor antibody response to pneumococcal vaccination.” (Does that mean autism parents are parasites?) 30 parents of children with developmental disabilities and 29 parents of typically developing children completed “standard measures of depression, perceived stress, social support, caregiver burden, and child problem behaviours,” as well as providing a blood sample and being vaccinated with a pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine. Blood samples were also taken at 1- and 6-month follow-ups and parents of children with developmental disabilities &#8220... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1642720 Mon, 21 Jul 2008 15:59:38 +0100 1642720 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1637860&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F338895887%2F If you liked yesterday’s guest post by Dr. Christina Lasich’s on Three Tips for Avoiding Caregiver Injuries, then you’re going to love this book giveaway. Dr. Lasich is offering one lucky Alzheimer’s Notes reader a free copy of High Heels to Hormones: A Woman’s Guide to Spine Care. All you have to do is leave a comment by end of day Friday 25th June and the great random number selector will choose the winner.  And while you’re waiting for the winner to be selected, head over to Healthbolt and read my book review about this useful little book. And while you’re there, leave comment for a second chance at winning a copy of High Heels to Hormones. Tags: a woman's guide to spinal care, book giveaway, caregiver health, christine lasich, high heels to hormones... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1637860 Fri, 18 Jul 2008 10:50:15 +0100 1637860 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1635268&cid=t_108794_158_f&fid=36024&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.healthtalk.com%2Fcaregiver%2Fjeff%2Ffarewell-caregivers%2F I am sad to say, I am hanging up my blogger hat after 18 months to make way for some fresh perspective for another caregiver. I have really enjoyed sharing my views and experiences caring for Pops with the HealthTalk audience during these past months, but it’s time to relinquish the forum to some of the other caregiver voices out there. There is a near-infinite variety of caregiver situations and mine and Pops’s is just one, and frankly I have pretty much exhausted what I have to say. In fact, when I looked back on my 18 months of blog entries, I can’t help notice some of them are remarkably similar. I guess I shouldn’t be surprised. One of the singular aspects of caregiving is you find yourself doing a lot of the same stuff over and over again. From a personal standpoint, I think ... Caregiver Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1635268 Fri, 18 Jul 2008 05:06:48 +0100 1635268 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1622279&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35371&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthecaregiver.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F07%2Fwith-alzheimers-caregiver-is-patient.html This is an interesting and thought provoking article."What we're seeing is that Alzheimer's is not a typical disease model," she says, "precisely because the health and well-being of the caretaker is affected as well as the patient. I know when I assume the care of an Alzheimer's patient, I am also caring for the caregiver."With Alzheimer's, the Caregiver Is a Patient, TooAlzheimer's Disease and other forms of dementia do not affect just the patient. These diseases gradually rob patients of memory and other intellectual abilities, leaving them unable to perform routine tasks. As the disease continues to destroy brain cells, patients increasingly depend on family members or others to carry out simple tasks like shopping and getting dressed. Ultimately, most patients will need complete care,... CareGiver, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1622279 Sun, 13 Jul 2008 16:42:00 +0100 1622279 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1622280&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35371&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthecaregiver.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F07%2Fassisted-living-costs-for-alzheimers.html clipped from www.usatoday.comQ: My mother just went into an assisted living facility due to Alzheimer's. It costs over $4500 per month. Are any portion of these expenses tax deductible?Answer from AICPA member Kenneth J. Strauss: Sorry about your mother but the good news is that the entire $4,500 is fully tax deductible as a medical expense.The rules can get pretty complicated but it is clear that Alzheimer's disease is a severe cognitive impairment which is the threshold for determining if the taxpayer is entitled to a full medical deduction. Like all medical deductions the total amount of medical deductions is an itemized deduction. The medical expenses in excess of 7.5% of her adjusted gross income are deductible.Depending on how high her income is will determine the full tax benefit. T... CareGiver, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1622280 Sun, 13 Jul 2008 16:39:00 +0100 1622280 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1605886&cid=t_108794_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2008%2F07%2F10%2Fdebate-over-nbc%25e2%2580%2599s-%25e2%2580%259cthe-baby-borrowers%25e2%2580%259d-rages-on%2F A new NBC reality show is proving to be as controversial as its British counterpart, with criticism from psychologists, child developmentalists, and related organizations pouring in long before the first episode aired two weeks ago. The main premise of “The Baby Borrowers”, which airs Wednesdays at 8:00 PM, is simple: showing inexperienced teenagers the realities of raising children through, well, reality. NBC’s website for the “intriguing new social experiment” describes the process like this: “The Baby Borrowers”…[is] based on the hit British program that asks five diverse teenage couples — ages 18-20 — to fast-track to adulthood by setting up a home, getting a job and becoming caring parents first to babies, toddlers, pre-teens and their pets, t... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1605886 Fri, 11 Jul 2008 03:29:19 +0100 1605886 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1594066&cid=t_108794_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D100 Since a reverse mortgage is essentially a loan against the money a home owner age 62 and older has already paid into the equity of the home, the income a senior receives from a reverse mortgage loan is tax free. The income (equity buyout) paid to a senior home owner can be received at almost any frequency the borrower prefers. The income payments can be received in installments on a monthly basis, lump sum payments upfront or on regular scheduled intervals, or a combination of payment arrangements. How you receive your income payments from a reverse mortgage can be affected by many factors. These factors include: 1. Why you need the money. Depending on Why You Think You Need a Reverse Mortgage the urgency of your need may influence the way you receive your money. However, if your home is ... CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1594066 Mon, 07 Jul 2008 21:01:24 +0100 1594066 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1575527&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F326219506%2F Last year, Alzheimer’s Notes wrote about ‘Cruises for Alzheimer’s Caregivers’. Sounds like a great way to get away, so here’s update on cruises for 2009… February 9-14, 2009 Caribbean Cruise on Celebrity Century Miami to Miami September 4-11, 2009 Alaskan Royal Caribbean Rhapsody of the Seas Seattle to Seattle The cruises for 2010 are not yet scheduled but will be during same months as 2009: February and September. You can find out more at www.CAREGIVERCRUISES.com Tags: Alzheimers-disease, caregiver cruises, caregivers, cruises, respite for caregiversShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1575527 Fri, 04 Jul 2008 00:12:51 +0100 1575527 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1575677&cid=t_108794_158_f&fid=36024&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.healthtalk.com%2Fcaregiver%2Fjeff%2Fwhat-happens-when-a-caregiver-wants-to-retire%2F In June, my wife Deb and I rented a cottage in Maine and enjoyed a short vacation. We took early morning walks on the beach with the dog, ate our fill of steamed clams and lobster, caught up on our reading under the beach umbrella and shopped at LL Bean. I also did a bit of kayaking in the estuaries and along the rocky coast. As always, we came away with faint suntans (thanks to SPF 30) and our familiar fantasy about moving up to Maine in retirement. Over dinner at the Oarweed restaurant, we even talked about it like it was a real prospect. But the vacation ended, and as always, reality set in, and we knew Maine would remain a fantasy for a while longer. One of the aspects of caring for an elderly parent, as I do for my father, is that when you consider a big life change, such as a move, y... Caregiver Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1575677 Thu, 03 Jul 2008 18:52:01 +0100 1575677 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1622289&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35371&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthecaregiver.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F07%2Fmeasurement-of-everyday-cognition-ecog.html This looks like a very useful tool."Results suggest the Everyday Cognition [questionnaire] shows promise as a useful tool for the measurement of general and domain-specific everyday functions in the elderly" Questionnaire Evaluates Everyday Cognition in ElderlyA caregiver-rated questionnaire to evaluate everyday cognitive function in the elderly is effective and can differentiate between cognitively normal and impaired individuals, according to a report in the July issue of Neuropsychology.Sarah Tomaszewski Farias, Ph.D., from the University of California Davis in Sacramento, Calif., and colleagues developed a caregiver-rated questionnaire, Everyday Cognition, comprised of multiple subscales to assess cognitively mediated functional abilities in older adults. The instrument was validated i... CareGiver, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1622289 Thu, 03 Jul 2008 13:53:00 +0100 1622289 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1556428&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F323274992%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Check out Carol Bradley Bursack’s blog and learn how to enter a drawing for her book, Minding Our Elders: Caregivers Share Their Personal Stories.  You’ll need to take a survey about caregiving, but it’s easy and quick.  Then your name will be entered into the random drawing for one of ten copies of Carol’s book. (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Tags: Alzheimer's blogs, Alzheimer's book, Alzheimer's caregiver, Alzheimer's Notes, Alzhemers, caregivers, Caregiving, Carol Bradley Bursack, dementia, health, healthcare, Mary Allen, Mary Emma, Mary Emma Allen, men's health, Minding Our Elders, random drawing, women's healthShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1556428 Mon, 30 Jun 2008 14:00:34 +0100 1556428 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1554600&cid=t_108794_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F06%2Fguest-post-from-scott-couchenour.html THE PSYCHOLOGY OF BAD NEWSI am amazed at how much media airtime real estate is consumed by bad things that have happened. Recently I was listening to the radio in my car. Within a 30-second spot, I learned a baby was left on a doorstep (umbilical cord still wrapped around its neck), a man was sentenced to death for killing someone, the body of a woman was found in a lake - apparently raped and strangled, and two retired policemen were killed by a man as they worked for an armored car company while servicing an ATM.What kind of impact is that having on us as we care for others? What is the psychological impact of bad news?An article in the Harvard Business Review (October 2007) entitled "Manage Your Energy, Not Your Time" points to the importance of the emotions and quality of energy. The a... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1554600 Sat, 28 Jun 2008 03:50:00 +0100 1554600 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1552024&cid=t_108794_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F06%2Fguest-post-from-scott-couchenour.html THE PSYCHOLOGY OF BAD NEWS I am amazed at how much media airtime real estate is consumed by bad things that have happened. Recently I was listening to the radio in my car. Within a 30-second spot, I learned a baby was left on a doorstep (umbilical cord still wrapped around its neck), a man was sentenced to death for killing someone, the body of a woman was found in a lake - apparently raped and strangled, and two retired policemen were killed by a man as they worked for an armored car company while servicing an ATM. What kind of impact is that having on us as we care for others? What is the psychological impact of bad news? An article in the Harvard Business Review (October 2007) entitled "Manage Your Energy, Not Your Time" points to the importance of the emotions and quality of energy.... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1552024 Sat, 28 Jun 2008 03:50:00 +0100 1552024 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1543508&cid=t_108794_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=1522309&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F312477338%2F AlzheimersNotes.com  HAPPY FATHER’S DAY Whether you’re a caregiver dad, an Alzheimer’s dad,  a supportive dad, anyone’s dad in the Alzheimer’s world and elsewhere…I wish you a Happy Father’s Day! This is a time to celebrate dads and remember our dad. Even though my dad is no longer living, this day brings memories of him. It’s a time for memories, for getting together, for making phone calls and sending cards, and even for forgiveness. (Amazon image: click on picture for details) (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Tags: Alzheimer's dad, Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, caregiver dad, caregivers, Caregiving, dad, Emma, father, Father's Day, fathers, Mary Allen, Mary Emma Allen, memories of Dad, memories of FatherShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1522309 Sun, 15 Jun 2008 17:10:26 +0100 1522309 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1522310&cid=t_108794_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F312197800%2F AlzheimersNotes.com  Throughout the week, the Health and Wellness Channel has been focusing on Celebrities and Health.  Some are Hollywood celebrities; others come from other walks of life.  By going public with their illness, they often make the world more aware and more willing to talk about a health situation that families keep”hidden in the closet.” You, the caregiver,  and your Alzheimer’s patient also are celebrities and heroes in this challenge with a devastating disease. Liz and I have written a number of posts on this topic this week.  In case you’ve missed any and would like to check them out, here is a roundup: Celebrities Health This Week’s Theme at the Health & Wellness Channel, Alzheimer’s Notes Included Did Ronald Reagan Have Alz... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1522310 Sun, 15 Jun 2008 05:00:47 +0100 1522310 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1516915&cid=t_108794_158_f&fid=36024&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.healthtalk.com%2Fcaregiver%2Fjeff%2Fan-early-fathers-day%2F Because of a scheduled trip out of town next Sunday, we decided to celebrate Father’s Day a week early. So last Sunday my wife Deb and I took Pops down to Ulster Landing Park on the Hudson River where we barbecued spareribs and watched the boats go by. Pops always enjoys an afternoon at the river because that’s where he grew up, and it brings up a lot of old memories. For Father’s Day, I gave Pops the token gift of a couple of books I bought at a local library fair. One was a paperback of Master and Commander, a famous sea story by Patrick O’Brian, which I took Pops to see when it was in movie theaters a few years back. Pops likes sea stories, so I think he will like this. He also likes tales of 19th Century arctic exploration, and that’s what the other book is about. The title i... Caregiver Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1516915 Fri, 13 Jun 2008 17:14:46 +0100 1516915 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1594067&cid=t_108794_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D99 A reverse mortgage is an avenue for additional income for seniors age 62 and older. While the income is far from “free money,” a reverse mortgage does not require any work on the senior’s part. The biggest responsibility for a would-be reverse mortgage borrower is researching the reverse mortgage beforehand and ensure they do not default on the loan. The income from a reverse mortgage can be used by a senior borrower for any purpose. The mortgage income can help with daily living needs, health and medical care expenses, legal expenses, home management, and paying for other life needs. Key to maximizing the use and purpose of a reverse mortgage is to develop a senior budget to make reverse mortgage income last. One major talking point in reverse mortgage commercials is paying for th... CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1594067 Mon, 09 Jun 2008 15:40:45 +0100 1594067 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1501513&cid=t_108794_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F06%2Fguest-post-servingstrongcom-s-scott.html I remember it like it was yesterday. I was a young teenager. I was on my way home from my girlfriend's house. She lived about an hour away. I had seen the oil light come on at the dashboard days before. I just figured I would get more oil when I got the chance. Besides, the light would go out occasionally. So I thought I had more time.But on my way home from my girlfriend's house that day, the light came on and stayed on. I was still 20 minutes from home. "I'll take care of it when I get home," I reasoned with myself (and unfortunately, self agreed.)Then this terrible banging started. It was loud. It wouldn't stop. I drove home with the sound. It seemed to get worse as I accelerated. Long story short -- I blew the entire engine of my Honda Civic. The loud banging sound I heard was the engi... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1501513 Sun, 08 Jun 2008 02:30:00 +0100 1501513